The ETH Zurich Excellence Scholarship & Opportunity Programme (ESOP) is a prestigious scholarship awarded by the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Zurich (ETH Zurich). It is designed to support outstanding students from all over the world who wish to pursue a master’s degree at ETH Zurich. This scholarship provides full financial support, including tuition fees and living expenses, and is aimed at students who demonstrate exceptional academic performance and leadership potential.
If you are interested in applying for the ETH Zurich Excellence Scholarship, this guide will help you navigate the application process, eligibility requirements, and provide tips for a successful application.
What is the ETH Zurich Excellence Scholarship?
The ETH Zurich Excellence Scholarship is awarded to top-performing students who wish to pursue a master’s degree at ETH Zurich. It consists of:
- Excellence Scholarship & Opportunity Programme (ESOP):
- Provides full tuition and living expenses for the duration of the master’s program (typically two years).
- The scholarship covers CHF 12,000 per semester, which includes CHF 7,000 per semester for living expenses, and a waiver of all tuition fees.
- ETH-D Scholarship:
- This option includes partial funding from ETH Zurich and the Department (D-Scholarship), including a mentor, with CHF 7,500 per semester and additional assistance for living expenses.
Both scholarships offer a mentorship program to help scholars integrate into their academic environment and make the most of their time at ETH Zurich.
Step-by-Step Guide on How to Apply for the ETH Zurich Excellence Scholarship
Step 1: Confirm Your Eligibility
Before you begin the application process, ensure you meet the eligibility criteria for the Excellence Scholarship.
Eligibility Requirements:
- Academic Qualifications:
- You must have an outstanding academic record, typically within the top 10% of your bachelor’s degree cohort.
- The scholarship is open to both international students and Swiss citizens.
- Acceptance into ETH Zurich:
- You must apply and be accepted into an ETH Zurich master’s program. The scholarship application is linked to the master’s application, so you must apply for both simultaneously.
- Bachelor’s Degree:
- You must hold (or be in the process of completing) a bachelor’s degree in a field relevant to the master’s program you are applying for at ETH Zurich.
- Timing:
- The scholarship is available only to students applying for a first-time master’s degree at ETH Zurich.
Step 2: Select Your Desired Master’s Program at ETH Zurich
To apply for the ETH Zurich Excellence Scholarship, you must first decide which master’s program you want to pursue. ETH Zurich offers a wide range of master’s programs across various fields, including engineering, science, architecture, management, and social sciences.
Steps to Select a Master’s Program:
- Explore the Programs: Visit the ETH Zurich website to review the master’s programs available.
- Check the Entry Requirements: Each program has its specific entry requirements, so make sure you meet these criteria.
- Research the Curriculum: Review the program structure and content to ensure it aligns with your academic and career goals.
- Language Proficiency: Some programs are taught in German, while others are in English. Make sure you meet the required language proficiency for the chosen program (e.g., TOEFL, IELTS, or equivalent for English-taught programs).
Step 3: Prepare the Required Documents
Your application for the ETH Zurich Excellence Scholarship must include several essential documents. The same documents are required for your master’s program application, so you will need to prepare them simultaneously.
Required Documents for the Scholarship Application:
- Personal Statement (Motivation Letter):
- Write a strong motivation letter (about 1-2 pages) explaining why you are applying for the scholarship and why you wish to pursue a master’s degree at ETH Zurich.
- Highlight your academic achievements, career goals, leadership experience, and how the scholarship will help you achieve your ambitions.
- Pre-Proposal for Master’s Thesis:
- A preliminary research proposal outlining the topic you are interested in for your master’s thesis.
- The proposal should demonstrate your understanding of the subject area and your research capabilities. It is not binding, but it should showcase your intellectual curiosity and motivation.
- CV (Curriculum Vitae):
- A detailed CV listing your academic achievements, relevant work experience, leadership roles, extracurricular activities, and publications (if applicable).
- Emphasize any experiences that demonstrate your leadership skills, problem-solving abilities, and academic excellence.
- Two Letters of Recommendation:
- Secure two strong letters of recommendation from professors or other academic mentors who can speak to your academic potential, leadership qualities, and suitability for the scholarship.
- Make sure your recommenders submit the letters by the application deadline.
- Academic Transcripts and Degree Certificates:
- Provide certified copies of your bachelor’s degree transcripts and degree certificates.
- Ensure that these documents reflect your academic excellence (top 10% of your class is highly recommended).
- Language Proficiency Proof (if applicable):
- Submit your English or German language proficiency scores (TOEFL, IELTS, or equivalent) if required by your chosen master’s program.
- Application Form:
- Complete the online master’s degree application form, as the scholarship application is integrated into this form. During the application process, you will be asked to indicate your interest in the Excellence Scholarship.
Step 4: Submit Your Application
Once you have gathered all the required documents, you will submit both your master’s program application and the Excellence Scholarship application simultaneously.
Application Submission Process:
- Create an Account: Visit the ETH Zurich admissions page and create an account in the ETH Zurich online application portal.
- Fill in the Master’s Program Application: Complete the online application for your chosen master’s program, providing all personal details, academic history, and required documents.
- Indicate Your Interest in the Scholarship: When prompted during the application process, indicate that you wish to apply for the Excellence Scholarship & Opportunity Programme (ESOP).
- Upload Required Documents: Upload your personal statement, master’s thesis pre-proposal, CV, letters of recommendation, academic transcripts, and any other required documents.
- Submit the Application: Review your application carefully to ensure that all required fields and documents are complete. Once ready, submit your application before the deadline.
Application Deadlines:
- The application window typically opens in November and closes in mid-December for admission in the following academic year.
- Make sure to check the official ETH Zurich website for the exact dates.
Step 5: Interview (If Applicable)
In some cases, shortlisted applicants may be invited to participate in an interview as part of the scholarship selection process. The interview may take place in person or online, depending on your location.
How to Prepare for the Interview:
- Review Your Application: Be ready to discuss your motivation letter, academic achievements, and master’s thesis pre-proposal in detail.
- Research ETH Zurich: Demonstrate a thorough understanding of the university and the program you are applying for.
- Showcase Leadership Skills: Be prepared to talk about your leadership experiences, teamwork, and how you plan to contribute to the academic community at ETH Zurich.
Step 6: Await the Final Decision
After the application deadline, your application will undergo a thorough review process. The ETH Zurich admissions team and scholarship committee will evaluate your academic record, leadership potential, and research proposal.
Decision Timeline:
- Scholarship recipients are typically notified of the results in March or April.
- If you are awarded the Excellence Scholarship, you will receive detailed information on the scholarship benefits, next steps, and arrival preparations.
Tips for a Successful ETH Zurich Excellence Scholarship Application
- Focus on Academic Excellence: ETH Zurich is looking for applicants who have demonstrated outstanding academic performance. Your transcripts, recommendation letters, and personal statement should all emphasize your academic achievements.
- Write a Compelling Personal Statement: Your motivation letter should explain why you are passionate about your chosen field and how the scholarship will help you achieve your academic and career goals. Be specific and show enthusiasm for ETH Zurich.
- Craft a Strong Master’s Thesis Proposal: The thesis pre-proposal is a key element of your application. It should demonstrate your research skills, intellectual curiosity, and commitment to making a significant contribution to your field of study.
- Choose Recommenders Wisely: Ensure your recommenders know you well and can speak to your academic potential, leadership qualities, and suitability for the scholarship. Provide them with sufficient time to write a strong, personalized letter.
- Apply Early: Don’t wait until the last minute to start your application. Give yourself enough time to gather documents, write essays, and request recommendation letters.
Conclusion
The ETH Zurich Excellence Scholarship offers an incredible opportunity for high-achieving students to pursue their master’s degree at one of the world’s leading universities. By following the steps outlined in this guide and preparing a strong, thoughtful application, you can increase your chances of securing this prestigious scholarship.