The Excellence Scholarship and Opportunity Programme (ESOP) at the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Zurich (ETH Zurich) supports outstanding students who want to pursue a Master’s degree at one of the world’s leading science and technology universities. For the autumn semester 2027 (HS27) start, the programme covers full study and living costs, includes mentorship, and connects scholars with the ETH Foundation network.
Quick facts
- Host: ETH Zurich, Switzerland
- Programme: Excellence Scholarship and Opportunity Programme (ESOP)
- Study level: Master’s degree (not Master of Advanced Studies)
- Funding: Living and study stipend plus tuition fee waiver
- Stipend (from HS27): CHF 13,500 per semester
- Duration: Regular length of the Master’s programme (three or four semesters)
- Awards: Approximately 60 ESOP scholarships for academic year 2027/28
- Application window: 1 November to 30 November 2026, 11:59 MEZ (Central European Time)
- Programme start: Autumn semester 2027 (HS27)
- Results: Communicated by the end of March
What the scholarship covers
According to ETH Zurich, ESOP covers full study and living costs during the Master’s degree course. From HS27 onwards, the living and study expenses scholarship is CHF 13,500 per semester (previously CHF 12,000 per semester). Recipients also receive a tuition fee waiver for the regular duration of the Master’s programme (three or four semesters).
Scholars also receive mentorship and access to a network through the ETH Foundation. The programme is designed so outstanding Master’s students can focus on their studies and research.
Eligibility
- You must apply for an eligible Master’s degree programme at ETH Zurich (Master of Advanced Studies programmes are not eligible).
- Very good Bachelor’s results are expected: typically within the top 10% of your Bachelor’s degree programme (grade A), based on self-assessment.
- You must not already be enrolled in a Master’s degree programme at ETH Zurich, and you must not already hold a Master’s degree.
- ETH Zurich Bachelor students applying for a consecutive Master’s may also apply via eApply.
- The official pages describe support for outstanding students from Switzerland and around the world; there is no separate nationality quota stated on the ESOP information pages.
- You must be reachable on the phone number listed in your CV, because selection may include a phone or video interview in February.
Key dates
- Application opens: 1 November 2026
- Application closes: 30 November 2026 at 11:59 MEZ
- Possible interview period: February
- Award decisions: End of March
- Study start: Autumn semester 2027 (HS27)
You must apply within the first application window. Applications for the spring semester are reserved for ETH Zurich students only.
How to apply
- Prepare and submit your Master’s admission application through ETH Zurich’s eApply online application system during the international window (1-30 November 2026).
- In the same eApply process, submit your ESOP scholarship materials. ETH Bachelor students applying for a consecutive Master’s also use eApply.
- Upload a pre-proposal for your Master’s thesis (maximum 500 words, excluding references). Write it yourself and use established scientific citation practice. Plagiarism or misinformation can lead to exclusion or later revocation of admission and scholarship.
- If your study programme does not ask for references, name two professors as reference persons for ESOP; they upload reference letters after an email from the system. If you work in industry, one professor and one employer reference may be acceptable per ETH FAQ guidance.
- Include a motivation letter that explains why you deserve an Excellence scholarship and highlights extracurricular achievements (this differs from a general programme motivation letter).
- Submit everything before the 30 November 2026 deadline. Late applications are not accepted.
Applications are evaluated by the Admissions Committees of the respective Master’s programmes. The final decision rests with the Rector of ETH Zurich. The exact number of awards depends on available funds.
FAQ
Is ESOP fully funded?
Yes for study and living costs as described by ETH Zurich: a semester stipend (CHF 13,500 from HS27) plus a tuition fee waiver for the regular Master’s duration, along with mentorship and ETH Foundation network access.
Can current Master’s students at ETH Zurich apply?
No. If you are already enrolled in a Master’s programme at ETH Zurich, or you already hold a Master’s degree, you are not eligible for ESOP.
When do I apply for autumn 2027 entry?
Only during the first application window: 1 November to 30 November 2026, 11:59 MEZ, via eApply.
What is the Master’s thesis pre-proposal?
It is a short outline (max. 500 words) of a possible Master’s thesis topic. Committees use it to assess your ability to develop a research idea independently. The final thesis topic is usually defined later with your supervisor.
How many scholarships are awarded?
ETH Zurich plans approximately 60 ESOP scholarships for the 2027/28 academic year start, subject to funding.
Does the grant continue during exchange or internships?
Rules vary. On exchange, the grant is typically suspended while tuition remains waived. For compulsory internships of at least 10 weeks, the grant is generally not paid during that period. Check the official ESOP FAQ for your situation and inform the Financial Aid Office about exchange or internship plans.
