ETH Zurich ESOP Scholarship 2026: Requirements, Stipend & Deadlines
Securing funding for graduate studies at one of the world's leading science and technology institutions is a major milestone for ambitious scholars. The Excellence Scholarship & Opportunity Programme (ESOP) at ETH Zurich provides an elite financial package designed for top-tier students. This initiative supports exceptional individuals who wish to pursue a Master’s degree without the burden of financial stress, offering both a substantial living stipend and a complete tuition waiver.
What Is the ETH Zurich ESOP Scholarship?
The Excellence Scholarship and Opportunity Programme serves as the flagship funding mechanism for high-achieving graduate candidates at ETH Zurich. Managed by the university alongside the ETH Foundation, the programme supports approximately 60 exceptional students each academic year, subject to fund availability.
The grant offers a comprehensive financial package that covers both educational and living expenses throughout the standard duration of a 3-semester or 4-semester Master’s degree. Beyond monetary support, recipients gain entry into a professional network through the ETH Foundation, featuring exclusive mentorship opportunities with leading academics and industry professionals.
| Scholarship Feature | Detail / Amount |
|---|---|
| Stipend Amount | CHF 13,500 per semester (starting HS27) |
| Tuition Coverage | Full waiver of tuition fees for the entire Master's duration |
| Annual Recipients | Approximately 60 awards available |
| Mentorship | Access to the ETH Foundation network and faculty mentors |
| Eligible Programs | Most consecutive Master's degrees at ETH Zurich (MAS excluded) |
Review the official website to check program-specific inclusions and recent updates regarding the financial framework.
ESOP Scholarship Eligibility Requirements
Competition for this grant is fierce, and the admissions committee enforces strict selection criteria. To be considered for the ETH Zurich ESOP scholarship, candidates must meet several academic and administrative prerequisites.
Academic Excellence
Applicants must demonstrate outstanding performance during their undergraduate studies. Specifically, you must rank in the top 10% of your Bachelor's degree cohort, which generally translates to a Grade A on a self-assessment scale.
Degree Status
The programme targets incoming Master's candidates. You are eligible if you are applying for a consecutive Master’s degree at ETH Zurich. However, individuals who are already enrolled in a Master's program at the university or those who already hold a Master's degree do not qualify. Furthermore, Master of Advanced Studies (MAS) programs are excluded from this funding scheme.
Application Timing
Timing is critical. Candidates must submit their application during the initial application window for their intended start term. Missing this primary intake forfeits your eligibility for the scholarship cycle.
Important Deadlines and Timeline for HS27
Planning your application schedule ensures you do not miss critical milestones. For students targeting a start in the Master's programme for HS27 (Academic Year 2027/28), the administrative timeline follows a structured progression.
- Application Window: November 1 to November 30, 2026 (closing strictly at 11:59h / 12:59 MEZ).
- Evaluation Phase: December 2026 through February 2027. Selected candidates may be invited for phone or video interviews during February.
- Selection Notification: Official results are communicated by the end of March.
To review the precise submission portal guidelines and countdown timers, visit the detailed notification hosted by the university.
Step-by-Step Guide to Applying via eApply
The application process is integrated directly into the university's central admissions platform. Whether you are an external applicant or a current ETH Bachelor’s student, the procedure requires careful preparation of specific documents.
1. Prepare Standard Admission Documents
Before applying for funding, you must compile all standard requirements for your chosen Master's degree. This includes academic transcripts, language certificates, a CV, and a statement of purpose.
2. Draft the Master’s Thesis Pre-Proposal
A unique requirement of the ETH Zurich Master scholarship application is the creation of a self-developed pre-proposal for your Master's thesis. This document must outline your intended research focus, methodology, and scientific justification, following proper academic citation practices. You will collaborate or align this proposal with a professor from the relevant department who is willing to act as your project supervisor.
3. Secure Academic References
If your chosen study programme does not inherently require references for admission, you must explicitly name two professor references within your application. These referees will receive automated prompts to upload reference letters supporting your candidacy.
4. Submit via the Portal
Log into eApply, the official online Master application portal. Complete the general admissions section and explicitly check the box indicating your desire to apply for the Excellence Scholarship & Opportunity Programme. Ensure all supporting documents, including the thesis pre-proposal, are uploaded before the November 30 deadline. You can access the portal directly via the apply here link.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the exact stipend amount for the ESOP scholarship?
Starting from the HS27 term, the living and study stipend increases to CHF 13,500 per semester. In addition to this cash disbursement, recipients receive a complete waiver of tuition fees for the standard duration of their Master’s degree.
Can current ETH Zurich Master’s students apply for ESOP?
No. The scholarship is strictly reserved for incoming students who are starting a new Master's degree programme at ETH Zurich. Students already enrolled in a Master's cycle at the institution are ineligible.
Is the thesis pre-proposal mandatory for all applicants?
Yes. Every candidate applying for the Excellence Scholarship and Opportunity Programme must submit a self-developed pre-proposal for their Master's thesis as part of the application package.
How many scholarships are awarded each year?
The university typically awards approximately 60 ESOP scholarships annually, though the exact number depends on available funding from the ETH Foundation and other benefactors.
What happens if my chosen Master's program does not require letters of recommendation?
If your target study programme does not require references for standard admission, you must still provide the names of two professor references in your application. These individuals will be contacted to submit letters specifically for your scholarship evaluation.
Where can I find official updates and contact details for the Financial Aid Office?
For authoritative updates, policy clarifications, and contact details for Dr. Barbara E. Hellermann and the Financial Aid Office, consult the official website.