MMongoScholar

Academic Scholarship

ETH Zurich

ETH Zurich Excellence Scholarship

SwitzerlandMaster'sEntry ID: SC-02198

The Excellence Scholarship & Opportunity Programme (ESOP) supports outstanding Master's students at ETH Zurich with comprehensive financial aid, mentorship, and access to the ETH Foundation network. The programme enables recipients to fully focus on their studies and research without financial concerns. It is awarded through a highly competitive process, with approximately 60 scholarships granted annually depending on available funds. Applications are integrated into the Master's admission process via the eApply platform and evaluated by departmental admissions committees, with final approval by the Rector. Decisions are typically communicated by the end of March following the application window.

The scholarship provides CHF 12,000 per semester to cover living and study expenses, along with a full tuition fee waiver. It is granted for the standard duration of the Master's programme, which is three or four semesters. ETH Bachelor students may begin the scholarship during a leave of absence. In addition to financial support, scholars benefit from mentorship and networking opportunities that enhance their academic and professional development.

For the HS27 intake (Autumn Semester 2027), applications open on November 1, 2026, and close on November 30, 2026, at 11:59 PM MEZ. This fixed annual window is mandatory for ESOP eligibility and aligns with the first Master's application period for international students. Selection may involve phone or video interviews in February.

Eligibility Requirements

  • Outstanding results in Bachelor's degree programme (top 10% = grade A, based on self-assessment).
  • Applicants must be about to complete or have recently completed their Bachelor's; not eligible if already enrolled in a Master's at ETH Zurich or holding a Master's degree.
  • Apply within the first Master's application window (November).
  • Available by phone number listed in CV for potential February phone/VC interview (inform coordinator if unavailable).
  • Submit a self-developed pre-proposal for Master's thesis following scientific citation guidelines (plagiarism leads to exclusion).
  • If programme does not require references, provide two professors as referees for ESOP.

For thorough eligibility and selection information, visit the official website or contact the organizers directly.