ETH Zurich Excellence Scholarship & Opportunity Programme (ESOP)
The Excellence Scholarship & Opportunity Programme (ESOP) provides full funding for outstanding students pursuing a Master's degree at ETH Zurich. It includes a tuition fee waiver and a living stipend for the duration of the degree.
Quick Facts
Status
Opening SoonFunding
Fully FundedDeadline
November 30, 2026
Country
SwitzerlandAbout the ETH Zurich Excellence Scholarship & Opportunity Programme
The Excellence Scholarship & Opportunity Programme (ESOP) is a merit-based scholarship offered by ETH Zurich to support excellent students during their Master's degree studies. The program provides financial support, mentorship, and access to the ETH Foundation network.
The scholarship covers the full cost of study and living expenses for the regular duration of the Master's programme, which is typically three or four semesters. It includes a tuition fee waiver and a financial grant of CHF 12,000 per semester.
Applicants must be top-tier students, specifically those who ranked in the top 10% of their Bachelor's degree programme. This is based on a self-assessment of their academic performance, equivalent to a grade A.
The selection process is rigorous and managed by the Admissions Committees of the respective Master's programmes. The final decision rests with the Rector of ETH Zurich, and approximately 60 scholarships are awarded annually, subject to the availability of funds.
Students already enrolled in a Master's degree at ETH Zurich or those who already hold a Master's degree are not eligible for this programme. Applications must be submitted during the first application window for the Master's programme.
Eligible Levels
Eligible Fields
Why Choose This Scholarship?
Provides comprehensive financial coverage for both tuition and living costs
Offers professional mentorship from the academic community
Connects students to the exclusive ETH Foundation network
Recognizes academic excellence from the top 10% of global graduates
What the Scholarship Covers
Eligibility Requirements
6 requirements
Documents Checklist
3 documents required
How to Apply - Step by Step
Submit the application via the eApply online Master application portal
Upload the required pre-proposal for the Master's thesis
Ensure two reference persons are prepared to upload letters if requested by the system
Participate in a phone or video conference interview in February if contacted
Receive notification of the final decision by the end of March
Application Timeline
November 1 to November 30, 2026
Application Window
Applications must be submitted via eApply
February
Interview Period
Potential phone or video conference interviews
End of March
Decision Notification
Final results communicated to applicants
Insider Tips & Pro Tips
Ensure your self-assessment of being in the top 10% is accurate and supported by your transcripts
Follow established scientific citation practices strictly in your pre-proposal to avoid plagiarism
Keep your phone number updated in your CV as you may be called for an interview in February
Inform your study programme coordinator if you will be unavailable during the February interview period
Apply as early as possible within the November window to ensure all documents are processed
Double-check that your reference persons are aware of the email notification they will receive from the system
Important Links & Contacts
Frequently Asked Questions
3 questions - click any to expand
No, the ESOP is only for students who do not yet hold a Master's degree.
It covers a tuition fee waiver and a grant of CHF 12,000 per semester for living and study expenses.
Approximately 60 scholarships are assigned annually, depending on the availability of funds.
Ready to Apply?
Applications open November - get your documents ready now.
Apply on Official Website →Accuracy notice: Information on this page was verified as of May 2026. Scholarship details - including deadlines, eligibility criteria, and required documents - can change without notice. Always confirm the latest requirements on the official website before submitting your application.
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