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Applications are now open for 2025/26 Excellence Scholarship & Opportunity Programme (ESOP): Fully Funded Master’s Funding at ETH Zurich

Ednah Carrick November 5, 2025

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Closing Date: 30 November 2025

Applications are now open for 2025/26 Excellence Scholarship & Opportunity Programme (ESOP): Fully Funded Master’s Funding at ETH Zurich

If you’re aiming to pursue a Master’s degree at one of Europe’s top technical universities and want complete financial support plus a network of global mentors, the Excellence Scholarship & Opportunity Programme (ESOP) at ETH Zurich is a standout opportunity. This programme is designed for top-performing Bachelor’s graduates who want to join ETH Zurich for a Master’s degree and receive both funding and support to excel.

What ESOP Offers

The ESOP provides students with:

A tuition fee waiver for the full duration of the Master’s programme (typically 3-4 semesters).
A scholarship covering living and study expenses of CHF 12,000 per semester, enabling you to focus fully on your academic and research goals.
Access to a mentorship scheme and networking through the ETH Foundation, connecting you with leading professionals, alumni and research opportunities.
Eligibility across a wide range of Master’s programmes at ETH Zurich, giving flexibility in subject-area choice—from engineering and the sciences to architecture, management and emerging technologies.

Why This Scholarship Matters

It eliminates the major financial barrier for studying in Switzerland at a high-calibre institution.
It allows excellent students to focus on research, innovation and leadership rather than financial constraints.
By joining ETH’s global network and participating in its ecosystem, you build credentials and connections valued by academia and industry.
The programme supports long-term impact: fellows are positioned to hold key roles in science, industry or policy—giving back to society and enhancing global talent flows.

Who Should Apply & Eligibility

To be eligible for ESOP:

Hold or be about to complete a Bachelor’s degree with excellent results (top 10% of cohort or equivalent).
Not already enrolled in a Master’s at ETH Zurich or hold a Master’s degree.
Apply for admission to a qualifying Master’s programme at ETH Zurich and indicate your interest in ESOP during the online application process.
Be reachable via the phone number listed in your CV (selection may involve phone or video interview).
Prepare a pre-proposal for the Master’s thesis if required by the programme; plagiarism or inadequate preparation may lead to disqualification.
Be ready to submit all required documents including transcripts, CV, motivation letter, and references.

Applicants from all nationalities and subject areas are welcome provided they meet the high academic standard and commit to study full-time at ETH Zurich.

How to Apply

Choose your preferred Master’s programme at ETH Zurich and submit your application through the online portal.
During application, tick the ESOP scholarship option and upload the additional documents required (pre-proposal, references, etc.).
Ensure submission within the application window (usually 1–30 November). Late or incomplete applications will not be considered.
If shortlisted, participate in the selection process (which may include a phone/virtual interview in February).
Receive final decision by end of March and prepare to commence your Master’s studies in Switzerland.

Tips for a Strong Application

Show outstanding academic performance and a clear track record of excellence.
Craft a strong motivation letter that highlights your goals, fit with the Master’s programme and how ESOP will enable your future impact.
Develop a thoughtful pre-proposal for your Master’s thesis topic that demonstrates research readiness and alignment with ETH’s strengths.
Provide credible references from professors or supervisors who can speak to your academic potential and suitability for a high-impact programme.
Make sure your online application is error-free and submitted well before the deadline; use the phone number on your CV so you’re contactable.

The Excellence Scholarship & Opportunity Programme (ESOP) at ETH Zurich is an exceptional chance for high-achieving students to access world-class education, full financial support and a powerful academic network. If you’re ready to advance your career, engage in cutting-edge research and become part of a global community of change-makers, this scholarship could be your gateway.