Switzerland Fully Funded Scholarship – 2026
Study in Switzerland offering international students world-class education, especially in the fields of science, engineering, and business fields. The country is home to top-ranked universities like ETH Zurich and provides access to cutting-edge research opportunities. Students can also enjoy a high quality of life, cultural diversity, and the chance to explore Europe with ease. Plus, many programs are available in English, making it an accessible choice for global learners.
Excellence Scholarship & Opportunity Program (ESOP) – ETH Zurich
ETH Zurich, one of the world’s leading science and technology universities, offers an amazing opportunity for bright students aiming to pursue their Master’s degree. This program is designed to support students financially and academically.
It includes:
- A full scholarship covering tuition and living expenses
- Mentorship support
- Access to a valuable network through the ETH Foundation
This support gives students the freedom to focus fully on their studies and research without financial stress.
What Does the Scholarship Cover?
The ESOP scholarship offers:
- CHF 12,000 per semester for living and study costs
- Tuition fee waiver for the entire Master’s program
This scholarship is granted for the standard duration of the Master’s program, which can be either three or four semesters, depending on the course.
ETH Zurich Scholarship Summary
- Level of Study: Master’s
- Institution(s): ETH Zurich
- Study in: Switzerland
- Opportunity Focus Areas: Check the official list of eligible Master’s programs at ETH Zurich
- Program Duration: Three or four semesters (depending on the chosen Master’s program)
- Application Deadline: November 30, 2025 (Applications open from November 1, 2025)
Eligibility Criteria:
To be eligible for the ETH Zurich Excellence Scholarship & Opportunity Program, applicants must:
- Be applying for a Master’s program at ETH Zurich (not already enrolled in one).
- Hold a Bachelor’s degree with outstanding academic results – top 10% of the class or equivalent to grade A.
- Be reachable via the telephone number specified in their CV, as the selection process may include a phone or video interview in February.
- Have not already completed a Master’s degree.
- Be applying from any country worldwide (all nationalities are welcome).
- Have the required proficiency in English.
Note that ETH Bachelor students continuing into a Master’s program must also apply during the first application window. Candidates who are already enrolled in a Master’s program at ETH Zurich, or who already hold a Master’s degree, are not eligible for ESOP.
How to Apply for the ESOP?
Applications must be submitted via ETH Zurich’s online Master application platform (eApply – https://surl.lu/gssxax).
The ESOP application is part of the Master’s application, but requires additional documents:
Pre-proposal for your Master’s thesis (Guidelines – https://surl.lu/ivdipi)
- You must write this proposal yourself
- It must follow proper academic citation practices
- Plagiarism or false information can lead to disqualification
Two academic references (if your program does not already ask for them)
- Include the names of two professors
- They will receive a system email to upload recommendation letters
Application Deadline
- Application Window: November 1 to November 30, 2025, by 11:59 PM (MEZ)
- Only applications submitted during this period will be considered.
Selection and Results
The Admissions Committees of each Master’s program carefully review all applications. The Rector of ETH Zurich makes the final decisions.
- ETH Zurich will award around 60 scholarships for the academic year 2025/26.
- ETH Zurich will announce the results by the end of March 2026.
Final Thoughts
The Excellence Scholarship & Opportunity Program is a golden opportunity for students aiming for excellence in science, engineering, and technology. ETH Zurich not only offers world-class education but also invests in the potential of future leaders through this generous scholarship.
If you meet the requirements and have a strong academic background, don’t miss your chance to apply in November 2025. A scholarship like this could shape your entire career!
