ETH Zurich offers outstanding Master’s students the Excellence Scholarship & Opportunity Programme (ESOP), providing financial support, mentorship, and access to the ETH Foundation network. This scholarship covers both living and study costs throughout the Master’s program.
Application Process
Applications for the ESOP must be submitted via eApply, the online portal for Master’s applications. It includes ETH Bachelor students transitioning to a consecutive Master’s program.
Eligibility Criteria
Exceptional academic performance in the Bachelor’s degree program (top 10%, equivalent to grade A).
Ensure your CV includes an up-to-date phone number, as the selection process may involve a phone or video interview in February.
Applicants already enrolled in a Master’s program at ETH Zurich or holding a Master’s degree are ineligible.
Application Timeline
The ESOP application must be submitted during the first application window.
Required Documents
In addition to standard Master’s application documents, applicants must provide:
A self-written pre-proposal for their Master’s thesis (using established scientific citation practices).
Name two reference persons (professors) if the program doesn’t require reference letters. These referees will receive a system email to upload their letters.
Plagiarism or misinformation will result in exclusion or scholarship revocation.
Scholarship Details
The ESOP provides:
A scholarship of CHF 12,000 per semester for living and study expenses.
Waiver of tuition fees for the standard duration of the Master’s program (three to four semesters).
Only ETH Bachelor students may begin the ESOP during a leave of absence.
Selection and Awarding Process
Around 60 ESOP scholarships will be awarded for the 2024/25 academic year. Applications are reviewed by the Admissions Committees of the respective Master’s programs, with the final decision made by the Rector of ETH Zurich. The number of scholarships varies based on funding availability. Applicants will be informed of decisions by the end of March.
Frequently Asked Questions
When can I apply?
Applications for the following academic year (autumn semester) are accepted during the international application window (November to mid-December). Applications for the spring semester are limited to ETH Zurich students.
How long does the ESOP last?
The scholarship covers the regular duration of your Master’s program.
When and how is the grant paid?
The grant is disbursed in three or four installments at the start of each semester, provided semester enrollment is complete. Payments are made to a personal Swiss bank or postal account.
Can the ESOP be transferred to another study program?
No, the scholarship is specific to the initially chosen program.
What happens during an exchange semester?
The scholarship is suspended during exchange semesters, but tuition fee waivers remain. Grant eligibility is, at most, the standard program length if the exchange extends your study duration. Notify the ESOP office (Financial Aid Office) about any exchange plans.
Will the grant continue during a Master’s thesis at another university?
Yes, the grant will be provided during this period if it falls within the standard program duration.
What about internships?
Compulsory internships (10+ weeks): Grants are typically suspended during the internship period.
Voluntary internships: You may choose to continue or suspend the grant but can only receive additional payments up to the standard study duration. Inform the ESOP office of your plans.
Can I hold an assistantship while on ESOP?
ESOP is compatible with assistantships, provided they do not interfere with your studies. If your studies are extended due to the assistantship, you must self-finance additional semesters.
