The ETH Zurich Excellence Masters Scholarship & Opportunity Programme (ESOP) is a prestigious, fully funded scholarship designed to attract exceptional Master’s students globally. It provides financial support, mentorship, and access to ETH Zurich’s academic and professional networks, enabling scholars to focus entirely on their studies and research.
Both local and foreign students pursuing master’s degrees are eligible to apply for the ETH Zurich Excellence Masters Scholarship. This fully paid fellowship is given to those who have demonstrated exceptional academic achievement. The stipend covers three or four semesters of the Master’s degree. According to the QS ranking 2024, ETH Zurich is ranked seventh globally, making it one of the best institutions in the world.
The Federal Government of Switzerland founded the institution in 1854 with the goal of promoting scientists, engineers, and research academics. The outstanding Master’s scholarship offers you a fantastic chance to reduce your study costs if you want to enroll in this esteemed university’s Master’s program.
ETH Zurich Excellence Masters Scholarship at a Glance
- University: ETH Zurich (Eidgenössische Technische Hochschule Zürich)
- Location: Zurich, Switzerland.
- Degree Level: Master’s (all eligible programs).
- Coverage:
- CHF 12,000 per semester for living/study costs.
- Full tuition fee waiver.
- Eligible Nationality: All nationalities.
- Award Country: Switzerland
- Duration: 3–4 semesters (standard Master’s duration).
- Last Date: November 30, 2024.
Purpose of ETH Zurich Excellence Masters Scholarship
The ESOP aims to:
- Support academic excellence by funding top-tier students.
- Foster innovation and leadership in science, technology, and engineering.
- Strengthen ETH Zurich’s global reputation by attracting talent that contributes to Swiss society and industry.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must:
- Hold a Bachelor’s degree with top 10% academic performance (equivalent to grade A).
- Not be enrolled in an ETH Zurich Master’s program or hold a prior Master’s degree.
- Submit a Master’s thesis pre-proposal adhering to scientific citation standards (no plagiarism).
- Provide two academic references if their program does not require them.
- Be reachable via phone/VC for potential interviews in February.
Benefits of ETH Zurich Excellence Masters Scholarship
- Full financial coverage: CHF 12,000/semester stipend + tuition waiver.
- Mentorship: Guidance from ETH faculty and industry leaders.
- Networking: Access to ETH Foundation’s alumni and professional networks.
Application Process
- Apply for a Master’s Program: Submit your Master’s application via eApply (ETH’s online portal).
- Indicate Interest in ESOP: Select the ESOP option during the Master’s application process.
- Upload Required Documents:
- Bachelor’s transcripts (proving top 10% ranking).
- Thesis pre-proposal (original work with proper citations).
- CV with a valid contact number.
- Two reference letters (if required).
Documents Required
- Master’s admission documents (transcripts, CV, etc.).
- Pre-proposal for Master’s thesis (PDF, 70–86 KB).
- Proof of English proficiency (if applicable; no IELTS explicitly required).
- References from professors (if not part of the Master’s application).
Application Tips
- Start early to refine your thesis pre-proposal and secure references.
- Highlight academic achievements, leadership, and research potential.
- Avoid plagiarism: ETH Zurich strictly enforces academic integrity.
- Ensure contact details are correct for interview invitations.
How to Apply
- Visit the ETH Zurich ESOP Official Page: ETH ESOP Portal.
- Complete the Master’s application via eApply by November 30, 2024.
- Submit all ESOP-specific documents alongside your Master’s application.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is ESOP fully funded?
Yes—covers tuition and living expenses (CHF 12,000/semester). - Can current ETH Bachelor students apply?
Yes, but they must apply for a consecutive Master’s program. - Is there a separate application for ESOP?
No—ESOP is integrated into the Master’s application. - When are results announced?
By end of March 2025. - Do I need a thesis proposal?
Yes—original pre-proposal is mandatory.
For more details, visit the official ESOP website here
