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: Durationof 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
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.
- RecommendationLetters: 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
