ETH Zurich Excellence Scholarship 2026 in Switzerland | Fully Funded Master’s Scholarship

Are you planning to pursue your Master’s degree at one of the most prestigious universities in Europe? The ETH Zurich Excellence Scholarship 2026 in Switzerland is an extraordinary opportunity for ambitious and high-achieving international students sto study in a top university of Switzerland.

This scholarship is offered under the Excellence Scholarship & Opportunity Programme (ESOP) allowing talented individuals from around the globe to study at ETH Zurich which is a university consistently ranked among the top worldwide for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).

This fully funded scholarship covers not only tuition fees but also living expenses also which ensure students can dedicate their time to academic growth and research without financial stress.

This scholarship is not only give financial aid but it also provides mentorship from ETH faculty and access to an influential professional network through the ETH Foundation. Each year, around 60 of the most promising students are selected for this prestigious award, making it one of the most competitive scholarships in Europe.

For students who want to build a strong academic foundation, enhance their career prospects, and gain international exposure in a world-class environment, the ETH Zurich Excellence Scholarship is an opportunity not to be missed.

Interested candidates can apply for this scholarship before the deadline 30 November 2025.

In this article, we have explored every possible details regarding this scholarship.

About ETH Zurich

ETH Zurich is known as the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Zurich, is globally recognized for its excellence in teaching and research. The university has produced numerous Nobel Prize winners, groundbreaking researchers, and industry leaders.

It stands as a hub for innovation, particularly in the fields of engineering, computer science, natural sciences, architecture, and mathematics.

Studying at ETH Zurich means being part of a diverse international community while benefiting from cutting-edge facilities, a culture of academic excellence, and strong ties to industry and research organizations worldwide.

Details of ETH Zurich Excellence Scholarship 2026

Financial Benefits

The ETH Zurich Excellence Scholarship provides comprehensive support so students can focus entirely on their academic and professional development:

• CHF 12,000 per semester to cover accommodation, food, transportation, study materials, and other expenses.
• Full tuition fee waiver for the complete duration of the Master’s program so that candidate can pursue the course without financial stress.
• Scholarship duration matches the official length of the program (generally 3–4 semesters). It will cover the full duration of the master’s program.
• Mentorship and networking opportunities provided by ETH professors and the ETH Foundation.
• Leave of absence option for ETH Bachelor students transitioning into Master’s studies.

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Eligibility Criteria

To apply for the ETH Zurich Excellence Scholarship 2026, candidates must meet the following requirements:

1. Outstanding Academic Background – Applicants must be among the top 10% of their undergraduate class (equivalent to a grade A). Candidates must have strong academic records.
2. New Master’s Applicants Only – Students already enrolled in a Master’s degree at ETH Zurich or those who already hold a Master’s degree are not eligible.
3. Interview Requirement – Shortlisted candidates must be available for a phone or video interview, generally conducted in February 2026.

Required Documents

Applicants must provide the following documents when applying:

• All documents required for ETH Zurich Master’s admission (including transcripts, CV, and statement of purpose).
• A self-written pre-proposal for the Master’s thesis (must follow scientific citation standards; plagiarism will lead to disqualification).
• Reference letters:
  • If not already required by the chosen Master’s program, applicants must provide contact details of two academic referees.
  • Referees will be contacted automatically by ETH Zurich to upload their recommendation letters.

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Selection Process

• Approximately 60 top performing Master’s students are selected each year.
• The selection process is based on academic excellence and research potential.
• Applications are reviewed by the admissions committees of each Master’s program.
• Final decisions are made by the ETH Zurich Rector.
• Scholarship results are announced by March 2026.

Application Process

Students interested in applying for the ETH Zurich Excellence Scholarship 2026 should follow these steps:

1. Select your proffered Master’s Program offered at ETH Zurich.
2. Apply online through the ETH Zurich portal (application period: November 1 – November 30, 2025).
3. Upload all required ESOP documents (*mentioned above), including the thesis pre-proposal and referee details.
4. Submit the application before 11:59 PM (MEZ) on 30 November 2025.
5. Await the selection results, which will be announced in March 2026.

Frequently asked questions

1. Who can apply for the ETH Zurich Excellence Scholarship?
International students from any country with an excellent academic record and applying for a Master’s degree at ETH Zurich are eligible.

2. What does the scholarship cover?
It provides CHF 12,000 per semester for living expenses and a full tuition fee waiver for the duration of the Master’s program.

3. Can current ETH Master’s students apply?
No. The scholarship is only for new Master’s applicants.

4. How many scholarships are awarded each year?
Around 60 scholarships are awarded annually.

5. What is the application deadline?
The deadline is 30 November 2025.

6. When will results be announced?
Results will be released in March 2026.