Does the cost of a world-class Master’s degree feel overwhelming? What if a top university not only covered your tuition but also paid you a living allowance to focus entirely on your studies?
The ETH Zurich Excellence Scholarship for 2026 is a fully-funded opportunity for talented students worldwide. It’s designed to remove financial barriers so you can pursue your Master’s at one of the world’s leading science and technology universities, stress-free. If you have a strong academic record, this could be your chance. Let’s walk through everything you need to know to apply.
You can also apply for the Ghent University Doctoral Scholarships 2026 in Belgium
What is the ETH Zurich Excellence Scholarship?
The Excellence Scholarship and Opportunity Programme (ESOP) is a fully funded scholarship for international students who want to pursue a Master’s degree at ETH Zurich. It’s funded by the ETH Foundation and aims to attract the most talented students from around the globe.
The goal isn’t just to pay for your studies; it’s to build a community of future leaders in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. The scholarship removes financial barriers so you can focus entirely on your studies and research.
ETH Zurich Excellence Scholarship Short Detail
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Host Country | Switzerland |
| University | ETH Zurich |
| Degree Level | Master’s Degree |
| Scholarship Type | Fully Funded |
| Funded By | ETH Foundation |
| Program Duration | 3 to 4 semesters (standard Master’s length) |
| Eligible Nationalities | All nationalities (international students) |
What Does the Scholarship Cover? (The Benefits)
This is where it gets really good. The ESOP is incredibly comprehensive. Here’s what you get:
Full Tuition Fees: Your entire tuition is covered for the normal duration of your Master’s program.
Living Stipend: You receive CHF 12,000 per semester to cover your rent, food, books, and personal expenses. This is a comfortable amount to live on in Zurich.
Personal Mentorship: You’re paired with a professor from your department who provides guidance and support.
Incredible Network: You become part of an exclusive network of top students and alumni, which is invaluable for your future career.
What Can You Study?
The scholarship is available for almost all Master’s degree programs offered at ETH Zurich. The university is broadly divided into several departments, and you can find a program in fields like:
Engineering, Science & Technology
This is ETH’s largest and most famous domain. It includes programs like:
Computer Science
Data Science
Robotics, Systems and Control
Electrical Engineering
Mechanical Engineering
Civil Engineering
Environmental Engineering
Biotechnology
Natural Sciences & Mathematics
For students passionate about pure and applied sciences, options include:
Physics
Chemistry
Mathematics
Computational Science
Statistics
Pharmaceutical Sciences
Health, Environment & Agriculture
Interdisciplinary fields that address global challenges:
Health Sciences and Technology
Environmental Sciences
Agricultural Sciences
Food Science
Atmospheric and Climate Science
Management & Social Sciences
Programs that connect technology with society and economy:
Management, Technology, and Economics
Science, Technology, and Policy
Comparative and International Studies
Also Check: Swedish Institute Scholarship 2026 in Sweden
Who is Eligible to Apply?
The ETH Zurich Excellence Scholarship is very competitive, so they are looking for students who truly excel. Here’s the checklist:
Academic Excellence: You need an outstanding Bachelor’s degree, typically placing you in the top 10% of your class.
First-Time Applicant: You must be applying for your first full-time Master’s at ETH Zurich.
Meet Program Requirements: You have to fulfil all the specific prerequisites for your chosen Master’s course.
Demonstrate Potential: Beyond grades, they want to see your motivation, innovative thinking, and leadership qualities.
The Application Procedure: A Step-by-Step Walkthrough
The process is clear, but attention to detail is key. Remember this crucial point: You apply for the ETH Zurich Excellence Scholarship at the same time you apply for your Master’s degree.
Here’s your action plan:
Choose Your Program: Find the Master’s course that excites you most on the ETH website.
Start Your Application: Go to the ETH Zurich online application portal and begin your Master’s application.
Select the Scholarship: Inside the application, you’ll find a section on funding. This is where you must select the “Excellence Scholarship / Opportunity Programme (ESOP)”.
- Prepare Your Documents: This is your chance to stand out. You’ll need:
- Your CV.
- Your Bachelor’s transcript.
A motivation letter for the Master’s program (1 page).
A separate letter for the scholarship (1 page).
Two recommendation letters from professors.
Review and Submit: Carefully check everything and submit your application before the deadline.
Apply Now
Important Dates and Deadline
For studies starting in Autumn 2026, the application period usually opens in November. The final deadline for both your Master’s application and the ESOP is December 15, 2025.
Also Check: Australia CQUniversity International Merit Scholarship 2026
Final Thoughts
Taking the step to apply for the ETH Zurich Excellence Scholarship is a big deal, but it’s one of those chances that could truly define your future. If you have the drive and the grades, you should absolutely go for it. Don’t let the competition intimidate you—every successful applicant was once in your shoes, wondering if they should try.
Official Site: ETH Zurich Excellence Scholarship 2026
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Is there an age limit to apply for the ESOP?
A: No, there is no specific age limit. The selection is based purely on academic excellence and merit.
Q2: Do I need to know German to apply?
A: Most Master’s programs at ETH Zurich are taught in English. You will need to provide proof of English proficiency (like IELTS or TOEFL) if your Bachelor’s was not in English. German is not a requirement for the scholarship or for most programs.
Q3: How competitive is the ESOP?
A: It is extremely competitive. ETH Zurich is a world-top university, and this is its premier scholarship. They receive thousands of applications for a limited number of awards.
Q4: Can I apply for more than one Master’s program?
A: No, you can only apply for one Master’s degree programme per semester at ETH Zurich.
Q5: What is the difference between the ESOP and the Master Scholarship Programme (MSP)?
A: The ESOP is the more comprehensive of the two, offering a full stipend. The MSP offers a partial scholarship. When you apply for the ESOP, you are automatically considered for the MSP if you are not selected for the ESOP.
