ETH Zurich Scholarship for Master's Degrees 2027 | Fully Funded

Dreaming of pursuing a master’s degree at a world-renowned institution? Switzerland, known for its innovation and high quality of life, offers an exceptional academic environment. For ambitious students aiming for the pinnacle of science and technology education, ETH Zurich stands out as a global leader.

Securing a place at such a prestigious university can be challenging, especially with the associated costs. Fortunately, opportunities exist to make this dream a reality. The ETH Zurich Scholarship program is designed to support outstanding students, providing them with the financial backing needed to focus on their studies and research.

This article will guide you through everything you need to know about the ETH Zurich Scholarship, from its benefits and eligibility to the detailed application process. If you aspire to study in Switzerland and contribute to groundbreaking advancements, this scholarship could be your key.

What is the ETH Zurich Scholarship?

The ETH Zurich Scholarship is a prestigious award offered to exceptional international and national students seeking to pursue a master’s degree at ETH Zurich. This scholarship aims to attract top talent by providing significant financial support, allowing students to concentrate on their academic pursuits without financial worry. ETH Zurich itself is consistently ranked among the world’s leading universities for science and technology, making this scholarship a gateway to an elite educational experience.

Two primary scholarship programs are available: the Excellence Scholarship & Opportunity Program (ESOP) and the ETH-D Scholarship. Both are highly competitive and recognize students who have demonstrated outstanding academic achievement during their bachelor’s studies. The university’s commitment to fostering innovation and adapting to new challenges makes it a dynamic place to study and conduct research.

Scholarship Coverage and Benefits

The ETH Zurich Scholarship offers substantial support to its recipients, ensuring a comfortable and focused academic journey. The primary scholarship, the Excellence Scholarship (ESOP), provides a generous stipend to cover living and study expenses. This amount is CHF 12,000 per semester, which helps manage daily costs and academic materials.

In addition to the financial stipend, recipients also benefit from a tuition fee waiver. This means that the cost of tuition for the master’s program is fully covered, significantly reducing the overall financial burden of studying abroad. The program period for master’s degrees at ETH Zurich is typically three or four semesters, depending on the chosen field of study.

Eligibility Criteria for the Scholarship

To be considered for the ETH Zurich Scholarship, applicants must meet specific academic and personal requirements. The most critical prerequisite is a very good bachelor’s degree result, placing you in the top 10% of your graduating class, which is equivalent to a Grade A. This high academic standard is fundamental to the selection process.

The scholarship is open to students of all nationalities, meaning international applicants are strongly encouraged to apply. The required language of instruction for master’s programs at ETH Zurich is English, so proficiency in English is essential. Applicants should also ensure they are reachable by telephone or video conference, as the selection process may include an interview in February.

Required Documents for Application

A successful scholarship application requires careful preparation of all necessary documents. For the ETH Zurich Scholarship, you will need to submit standard documents for master’s program admission, along with specific scholarship application materials. These typically include:

Academic Transcripts: Official records of your bachelor’s degree coursework and grades.
Bachelor’s Degree Certificate: Proof of completion of your undergraduate studies.
Curriculum Vitae (CV): A detailed resume outlining your academic background, work experience, and any relevant achievements.
Motivation Letter: A statement explaining your reasons for applying to the specific master’s program and the scholarship.
Pre-Proposal for Master’s Thesis: A detailed outline of your proposed master’s thesis research, adhering to scientific citation practices.
Reference Letters: If your chosen study program does not require references for admission, you must provide two reference individuals for your ESOP application.
Proof of English Proficiency: Such as TOEFL or IELTS scores, if applicable.

It is crucial to ensure all documents are accurate, complete, and submitted in the correct format.

Step-by-Step Application Process

Applying for the ETH Zurich Scholarship involves a structured process, primarily managed through the university’s online application portal. The application for both the ESOP and the ETH-D scholarship is submitted via eApply, the online master’s application system.

Access eApply: Visit the eApply portal and create an account if you do not already have one.
Select Master’s Program: Choose the specific master’s program you wish to enroll in. If you are applying for multiple programs, you must submit a separate application form for each.
Complete Application Form: Fill out all sections of the online application form accurately.
Upload Required Documents: Upload all necessary documents, including academic transcripts, CV, motivation letter, and the pre-proposal for your master’s thesis. Ensure your pre-proposal follows established scientific citation practices.
Submit References: If required, ensure your referees submit their letters of recommendation through the designated system.
Review and Submit: Carefully review your entire application before submitting it by the deadline.

Remember that plagiarism or providing false information can lead to exclusion from the admission and scholarship process.

Application Deadlines

The application period for the ETH Zurich Scholarship is a critical factor for prospective students. Applications for the scholarship typically open on November 1st each year. The firm deadline for submitting all application materials is November 30th of the same year for admission in the following academic year.

For example, to be considered for the 2027 intake, applications will open on November 1, 2026, and must be submitted by November 30, 2026. It is essential to mark these dates in your calendar and begin preparing your application well in advance to avoid any last-minute issues. Missing the deadline means missing the opportunity for that academic year.

Tips for a Strong Application

Crafting a compelling application is key to standing out among highly qualified candidates. Start by ensuring your academic record is exceptional, as this is a primary selection criterion. Your pre-proposal for the master’s thesis should be well-researched, demonstrating your understanding of the field and your potential for original research.

Clearly articulate your motivations and goals in your motivation letter, connecting them to ETH Zurich’s strengths and your future aspirations. If providing references, choose individuals who know your academic work well and can speak to your capabilities. For those seeking opportunities abroad, consider exploring scholarships like the Chevening Masters Scholarship in UK 2026 or the France Excellence Eiffel Scholarship for International Students 2027. Thoroughly review all application requirements and submit your application before the deadline.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the ETH Zurich Scholarship?

The ETH Zurich Scholarship is an award for outstanding international and national students pursuing a master’s degree at ETH Zurich, offering financial support to cover living and study expenses.