Fully Funded ESOP Master’s Scholarship at ETH Zurich
ETH Zurich stands as one of the most prestigious institutions for science and technology globally. With a commitment to nurturing academic talent and fostering innovative research, ETH Zurich offers the Excellence Scholarship & Opportunity Programme (ESOP) to highly qualified international and domestic students aspiring to pursue a Master’s degree.
This competitive and fully funded scholarship provides extensive financial support to selected candidates, covering both tuition fees and living costs. The ESOP aims to create an enabling environment that allows exceptional students to engage in intensive study and transformative research without financial constraints.
Designed for academically outstanding students across the globe, the scholarship reflects ETH Zurich’s mission to support the next generation of researchers, innovators, and industry leaders. Through this opportunity, candidates gain access to world-class infrastructure, interdisciplinary mentorship, and a culturally diverse academic environment [1].
This comprehensive guide offers essential information on eligibility, the application process, required documentation, scholarship benefits, and timelines associated with the 2025–2026 ESOP cycle.
About the Excellence Scholarship & Opportunity Programme (ESOP)
Program Overview
- Program Name: Excellence Scholarship & Opportunity Programme (ESOP)
- Host Institution: ETH Zurich, Switzerland
- Funding Body: ETH Zurich Foundation
- Program Duration: Duration of the regular ETH Master’s program (usually 3 to 4 semesters)
- Study Mode: Full-time, On-campus in Zurich
- Eligible Fields: All Master’s programs offered at ETH Zurich
Objectives
The primary aim of the ESOP is to support individuals with exceptional academic achievements and leadership potential. Beyond financial assistance, the program offers mentorship opportunities and access to ETH Zurich’s expansive professional and research networks. This initiative is a critical step in strengthening global talent pipelines and promoting excellence across scientific and technological domains.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the ESOP 2025–2026, applicants must satisfy the following criteria:
Academic Performance
Applicants must hold a Bachelor’s degree with outstanding academic results. Typically, successful candidates are within the top 10% of their graduating class.
Nationality
The program accepts applications from candidates of all nationalities, with no regional or country-based restrictions.
Admission Requirements
Only applicants who have applied (or will apply) for ETH Zurich’s Master’s programs are eligible. Meeting all the academic and administrative admission criteria is mandatory.
Language Proficiency
The language of instruction at ETH Zurich is typically English or German. Applicants must demonstrate proficiency through recognized certifications such as TOEFL, IELTS, or other equivalent credentials.
Communication Requirement
Applicants must provide a valid phone number in their CV, as shortlisted candidates may be contacted for a telephone or video interview during the selection phase.
Application Process
Timeline
- Opening Date: November 1, 2025
- Closing Date: November 30, 2025, at 11:59 AM CET
Application Steps
- Master’s Program Application
Candidates must first apply for an eligible ETH Zurich Master’s degree via the official admissions portal. - ESOP Indication
During the online application, applicants should clearly indicate their intent to apply for ESOP within the relevant section of the form. - Submission of Documents
Upload the required ESOP-specific documents along with the Master’s program application by the deadline.
- Master’s Program Application
Required Documents
Each applicant must submit a complete package of the following documents:
- Curriculum Vitae (CV): Must reflect detailed academic history, projects, and any work or internship experience.
- Motivation Letter: A well-articulated letter explaining academic goals, reasons for selecting ETH Zurich, and the expected impact of receiving ESOP support.
- Master’s Thesis Pre-Proposal: A preliminary outline highlighting the research interests and intended thesis topic.
- Recommendation Letters: Two strong letters of academic recommendation from professors or thesis supervisors.
- Official Academic Transcripts: Certified copies of university transcripts and Bachelor’s degree certificate.
- Proof of Language Proficiency: TOEFL, IELTS, or equivalent, if required by the program.
Eligible Fields of Study
The ESOP is open to all Master’s-level academic programs offered at ETH Zurich. A few prominent disciplines include:
- Mechanical and Process Engineering
- Physics and Mathematics
- Chemistry and Applied Biosciences
- Architecture and Civil Engineering
- Environmental Sciences and Sustainability
- Electrical Engineering and Information Technology
- Computer Science
- Geomatics and Planning
- Energy Science and Technology
These programs reflect ETH Zurich’s interdisciplinary strengths and its commitment to innovation and sustainability across technical domains.
Financial Benefits
Successful recipients of the ESOP receive a comprehensive funding package that includes:
- Living Allowance: CHF 12,000 per semester, which covers accommodation, food, transport, and study-related expenses.
- Tuition Fee Waiver: Full exemption from ETH Zurich’s tuition fees for the entire duration of the Master’s program.
- Additional Support: Access to a personalized mentoring program, ETH Foundation networking events, and academic integration activities.
The scholarship amount is disbursed at the start of each semester and is intended to eliminate financial burdens for the duration of study.
Selection Process
The ESOP employs a multi-stage selection process:
- Initial Review: Academic departments and program-specific admissions committees assess all applications, focusing on merit and research alignment.
- Interview Stage: Shortlisted applicants are contacted in February 2026 for a phone or online interview. This step may involve academic discussions or assessments of motivation and fit.
- Final Decision: The ETH Zurich Rector finalizes selections. All applicants are informed of the decision by end of March 2026.
Candidates are advised to ensure availability and responsiveness throughout February to facilitate communication during this critical evaluation phase.
Key Dates and Deadlines
Event | Date |
Application Opens | November 1, 2025 |
Application Deadline | November 30, 2025 (11:59 AM CET) |
Interview Period | February 2026 |
Final Results Announcement | End of March 2026 |
Program Commencement | September 2026 |
Adhering to these deadlines is essential. Late submissions or incomplete applications will not be considered.
Tips to Strengthen Your Application
Crafting a competitive ESOP application requires strategic planning. Here are a few recommendations:
- Plan Ahead: Begin compiling and drafting your materials several weeks before the deadline.
- Customize Your Motivation Letter: Connect your academic interests directly to ETH Zurich’s program strengths.
- Select Strong Recommenders: Choose faculty who can vouch for your academic abilities and potential for research.
- Prepare a Coherent Pre-Proposal: Even though it is preliminary, your thesis plan should align with ETH Zurich’s expertise.
- Check Formatting and Language: Ensure documents are grammatically correct, clearly formatted, and professionally presented.
ETH Zurich values clarity, coherence, and originality in application materials.
Contact Information
Applicants with questions or needing clarification may reach out to the program contact:
- Program Coordinator: Dr. Barbara E. Hellermann
- Email: Contact via ESOP Website
- Phone: +41 44 632 20 23 / +41 44 632 20 88
- Address: ETH Zurich, Rämistrasse 101, HG F22.1, 8092 Zurich, Switzerland
Conclusion
The Excellence Scholarship & Opportunity Programme (ESOP) at ETH Zurich represents a unique and prestigious opportunity for high-achieving students seeking to advance their education at one of Europe’s foremost institutions. The combination of full financial support, academic mentorship, and research opportunities makes the ESOP a gateway to long-term success in academia, industry, or public service.
Prospective applicants are strongly encouraged to carefully review the program details and begin preparing early to maximize their chances of selection [2].
Apply now through the official ETH Zurich application portal and take the first step in shaping your global academic future.
Summary Table
Feature | Details |
Program Name | Excellence Scholarship & Opportunity Programme (ESOP) |
Host Institution | ETH Zurich, Switzerland |
Funded By | ETH Zurich Foundation |
Duration | 3–4 Semesters |
Study Mode | Full-time, On-Campus |
Eligibility | Outstanding global applicants to ETH Zurich Master’s programs |
Financial Support | CHF 12,000/semester + full tuition waiver |
Fields of Study | All Master’s programs |
Application Deadline | November 30, 2025 |
Program Start Date | September 2026 |
References
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
The ESOP is a fully funded scholarship for outstanding Master’s students at ETH Zurich, covering tuition and living expenses.
Applicants must have a top 10% Bachelor’s degree, not hold a Master’s, and meet ETH Zurich’s admission requirements.
The ESOP offers CHF 12,000 per semester for living and study expenses, plus a full tuition fee waiver.
All Master’s programs offered at ETH Zurich are eligible under the ESOP.
Applications open on November 1 and close on November 30 each year.
Apply for a Master’s program via ETH Zurich’s eApply portal and indicate your interest in the ESOP during the process.
Required documents include a CV, motivation letter, pre-proposal for Master’s thesis, academic transcripts, language proficiency proof, and two reference letters.
Yes, the ESOP is open to students of all nationalities.
Approximately 60 ESOP scholarships are awarded each academic year.
Final decisions are communicated by the end of March following the application period.
