Review the programme's subject prerequisites, language requirements and required admission documents.
Open step linkMaximum 500 words, excluding references. Include a research question, proposed methodology and realistic milestones.
Open step linkFollow the selected programme's requirements. Where references are not otherwise required, nominate two professors for ESOP.
Apply during the first application window, before 30 November 2026 at noon CET.
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ETH Zurich is accepting applications for its Excellence Scholarship & Opportunity Programme (ESOP) for Master's studies beginning in autumn 2027.
The programme supports academically outstanding students through financial assistance, mentorship and access to the ETH Foundation network.
Application period: 1–30 November 2026.
Deadline: 30 November 2026, 12:00 noon CET, according to the official eApply Master's admission portal.
Applicants already enrolled in an ETH Zurich Master's programme or who already hold a Master's degree are ineligible for ESOP.
Admission requirements, including language qualifications and subject prerequisites, vary by Master's programme.
ESOP offers financial support for living and study expenses, a tuition-fee waiver, mentorship and access to the ETH Foundation network.
Funding clarification: The official scholarship webpage consulted during verification states CHF 12,000 per semester. The previously reported CHF 13,500 requires confirmation before publication.
The award covers the normal three- or four-semester Master's duration.
Approximately 60 scholarships are expected for the 2027/28 academic year, subject to available funding.
Applicants must prepare:
Applicants whose selected Master's programme does not require references must nominate two professors for the ESOP recommendation process.
Applications are evaluated by the respective Master's admission committees.
The final scholarship award decision rests with the Rector of ETH Zurich.
Applicants may be contacted for an interview in February 2027. Scholarship decisions are expected by the end of March 2027.
Admission to a Master's programme does not automatically guarantee ESOP funding.
The thesis pre-proposal must be independently developed and properly referenced. Plagiarism or misleading information can result in exclusion or revocation.
International students may apply, subject to admission requirements. Admission and scholarship selection do not guarantee Swiss visa or residence-permit approval.
Applicants should independently verify the immigration requirements applicable to their nationality.
