Timeline
Four dates that shape your year
Applications open
Jun 1, 2026
Applications close
Nov 30, 2026
Results announced
Feb 15, 2027
Period begins
Sep 1, 2027
* Popular Scholarship pathway. Verified deadlines and details.
02 — Eligibility
Who can apply
Ensure you qualify on core disciplines, citizenship status, and credential requirements.
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Academic Excellence
A prerequisite for consideration is an outstanding academic record from your Bachelor's degree program. Typically, applicants should be in the top 1–10% of their graduating class, with a grade point average (GPA) equivalent to an excellent score in the Swiss grading system (e.g., a grade A / very good).
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Bachelor's Degree
Applicants must hold a Bachelor's degree from a recognized university. The degree should be in a relevant field that qualifies them for admission to their chosen Master's program at ETH Zurich.
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Admission to a Master's Program
Candidates must either be already admitted or simultaneously apply for admission to a Master's degree program at ETH Zurich. The scholarship application is often integrated with the Master's program application process.
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English Language Proficiency
While specific requirements depend on the Master's program, most programs taught in English require proof of English language proficiency. Standardized tests like IELTS or TOEFL are commonly accepted. Some courses may have German language requirements as well.
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Motivation and Potential
Applicants must demonstrate strong motivation for their intended Master's studies, clear academic and career goals, and the potential to excel in a demanding research environment.
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No Age Limit
Generally, there is no strict age limit for applicants, but the scholarship targets promising students early in their academic or professional careers.
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Field of Study
The scholarship can be applied to almost all Master's degree programs offered at ETH Zurich, provided the applicant meets the specific program's admission criteria.
Who this is NOT for
- Short-term residency seekers: Candidates looking for conference or travel support rather than active degree enrollment.
- Remote learners: Students planning to attend online degree modules from Pakistan.
- U.S. Dual Citizens: Dual nationals holding U.S. citizenship (for U.S. study grants).
- Late planners: Those unable to commit 9–12 months of early preparation for visa and document assembly.
03 — Documents
Required credentials
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Curriculum Vitae (CV)
A detailed CV outlining your academic history, relevant work experience, research projects, publications, awards, extracurricular activities, and skills.
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Official Academic Transcripts
Certified copies of all university transcripts (Bachelor's and any previous Master's studies) showing courses taken and grades obtained.
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Bachelor's Degree Certificate
A certified copy of your Bachelor's degree certificate or a statement from your university confirming expected completion date if you are still studying.
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Letters of Recommendation (2-3)
Strong letters from professors or academic supervisors who know your academic abilities and potential well. These should be submitted directly by the referees.
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Statement of Motivation/Letter of Intent
A compelling essay explaining your interest in your chosen Master's program, your research interests, career aspirations, and why you are an ideal candidate for the ETH Zurich Excellence Scholarship.
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Pre-proposal for Master's Thesis
For the Excellence Scholarship (ESOP), a brief pre-proposal (approx. 2-3 pages) outlining a potential Master's thesis topic, including preliminary research questions, methodology, and a timeline. This demonstrates your research capabilities and understanding of your field.
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English Language Proficiency Certificate
Official scores from IELTS, TOEFL iBT, or other accepted tests, if English is not your native language and your Bachelor's degree was not taught entirely in English.
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Proof of German Language Proficiency (if applicable)
Some Master's programs or living situations may benefit from German language skills.
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Relevant Certificates/Awards
Copies of any academic awards, scholarships, or certificates of distinction.
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Passport Copy
A clear scan of your valid passport's biographical page.
04 — The pipeline
Narrative steps, four acts
Most candidates underestimate how much prep work is done before the online form opens. Follow this structured chronological timeline to plan deliberately.
Research and Choose Your Master's Program:
Before applying for the scholarship, identify the specific Master's degree program at ETH Zurich that aligns with your academic background and career goals. Ensure you meet its admission requirements.
Verify Scholarship Eligibility:
Carefully review the specific eligibility criteria for the ETH Zurich Excellence Scholarship on the official website. Confirm that you meet all academic and personal prerequisites.
Prepare Required Documents:
Gather all necessary application materials well in advance. This includes academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, a motivation letter, and your CV. (See 'Required Documents' section for a detailed list).
Complete the Master's Application:
Submit a complete application for your desired Master's degree program through the ETH Zurich online application portal. This is a critical step, as scholarship consideration is contingent upon admission to a Master's program.
Indicate Scholarship Interest:
During the Master's application process, you will typically be prompted to indicate your interest in the ETH Zurich Excellence Scholarship (ESOP/MSP). Make sure to select this option.
Submit Scholarship-Specific Materials:
Within the Master's application portal, there will be a section to upload additional documents specifically for the scholarship application, such as your pre-proposal for your Master's thesis.
Ensure Recommendation Letters are Submitted:
Your referees must submit their letters of recommendation directly through the ETH Zurich portal by the deadline. It is your responsibility to follow up with them.
Meet the Application Deadline:
All application materials, including your Master's program application and scholarship-specific documents, must be submitted by the stated deadline, typically in mid-November for entry the following autumn. Late applications are generally not considered.
Await Selection and Interview (if applicable):
Shortlisted candidates for the Excellence Scholarship (ESOP) may be invited for an interview, either in person or via video conference, with a selection committee or their potential mentor. The Master Scholarship Program (MSP) usually does not involve an interview.
Receive Decision:
ETH Zurich will notify applicants of scholarship decisions, usually around late March or early April, for programs commencing in the autumn semester.
Get the free application checklist (PDF)
A comprehensive, printable spreadsheet checklist mapping milestones, required essays, references, and deadline checks.
05 — Answered
Frequently asked questions
Is the eth zurich scholarship fully funded?
Yes, the ETH Zurich Excellence Scholarship is considered a fully funded opportunity, as it provides a generous stipend for living and study costs, along with a waiver of the tuition fees.
How competitive is the ETH Zurich Excellence Scholarship?
The ETH Zurich Excellence Scholarship is highly competitive, attracting top students globally. Successful candidates typically demonstrate outstanding academic records, strong letters of recommendation, and compelling motivation.
Can international students apply for the ETH Zurich Excellence Scholarship?
Yes, the ETH Zurich Excellence Scholarship is open to both Swiss and international students who have achieved excellent results in their Bachelor's degree and wish to pursue a Master's at ETH Zurich.
What does the ETH Zurich Excellence Scholarship cover?
The scholarship typically covers tuition fees and provides a substantial living and study stipend, which may help cover housing, food, and other personal expenses. Specific amounts are detailed on the official program website.
Do I need to apply for admission to ETH Zurich separately from the scholarship?
Yes, applicants must apply for their chosen Master's degree program at ETH Zurich concurrently with their scholarship application. Acceptance into the Master's program is a prerequisite for scholarship consideration.
What is the typical application window for the ETH Zurich Excellence Scholarship?
Applications for the ETH Zurich Excellence Scholarship usually open in the early autumn semester and close around mid-November each year for programs starting the following autumn. Exact dates are published on the official ETH Zurich scholarships page.
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