Best Scholarships For International Students At ETH Zurich In Switzerland

ETH Zurich, or the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology, stands tall as one of the world’s leading science and technology universities. Ranked consistently among the global top 10 universities, ETH Zurich is renowned for its cutting-edge research, innovation, and academic excellence. For international students aspiring to pursue a degree here, understanding the available scholarship opportunities is vital — especially when navigating the costs of living and studying in Switzerland.

This detailed guide explores the best scholarships available for international students at ETH Zurich, covering eligibility criteria, application processes, benefits, and tips for maximizing chances of success.

About ETH Zurich: A Global Academic Leader

Located in Zurich, Switzerland’s financial and innovation hub, ETH Zurich is a public research university specializing in engineering, natural sciences, architecture, and mathematics. The institution boasts more than 24,000 students, of which over 40% are international, hailing from more than 120 countries.

Some of ETH Zurich’s standout features include:

• Association with 21 Nobel Prize winners, including Albert Einstein

• Cutting-edge research in robotics, AI, quantum computing, environmental science, and more

• Close industry partnerships and startup incubators

• Low or affordable tuition compared to other elite universities

Despite the relatively affordable tuition (CHF 730 per semester), the cost of living in Zurich is high, averaging CHF 1,800–2,500/month, making scholarships crucial for many students.

Why Scholarships Matter for International Students

Scholarships do more than just ease financial burdens — they also:

• Validate academic excellence

• Increase access to opportunities

• Encourage cultural and educational exchange

• Help cover not just tuition, but also living expenses, travel, and health insurance

ETH Zurich and several Swiss government, private, and international organizations offer scholarships targeted at foreign students based on merit, financial need, or research excellence.

Top Scholarships at ETH Zurich for International Students

Here are the most prominent scholarships that international students can apply for when considering ETH Zurich:

1. ETH Zurich Excellence Scholarship & Opportunity Programme (ESOP)

🔍 Overview:

This is the most prestigious scholarship offered directly by ETH Zurich for outstanding international Master’s students. ESOP provides full coverage of study and living costs.

📌 Eligibility:

• Outstanding academic record (top 10% of Bachelor’s class)

• Applying for a Master’s degree at ETH Zurich

• Must apply during the ETH Zurich online Master’s application period

🎁 Benefits:

• Full tuition fee waiver

• Monthly stipend covering living and study expenses (CHF 12,000 per semester)

• Network and mentoring opportunities

🗓️ Application Deadline:

• December 15 annually for the following academic year

• Apply concurrently with Master’s application

📄 Required Documents:

• Pre-proposal for Master’s thesis (2-page limit)

• Motivation letter

• Curriculum Vitae (CV)

• Two letters of recommendation

Note: Admission to a Master’s program does not guarantee a scholarship.

2. ETH-D Scholarship

🔍 Overview:

The ETH-D Scholarship provides partial financial support to international Master’s students and complements other funding sources.

📌 Eligibility:

• International applicants with excellent academic backgrounds

• Must be applying for an eligible ETH Zurich Master’s program

🎁 Benefits:

• Partial stipend of CHF 7,500–CHF 10,000 per semester

• Tuition fee waiver

• Additional funding may be offered by the department or external sponsors

📄 Application Requirements:

• Same as ESOP (submit during Master’s application)

3. Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships (SGES)

🔍 Overview:

Offered by the Swiss Confederation, SGES targets postgraduate researchers from over 180 countries looking to study or conduct research at Swiss universities, including ETH Zurich.

📌 Eligibility:

• Available to Ph.D., post-doctoral researchers, and visiting scholars

• Must have a research proposal and supervisor at ETH Zurich

• Applicants must not be older than 35 (for most categories)

🎁 Benefits:

• Monthly allowance (~CHF 1,920)

• Tuition exemption

• Health insurance

• Travel expenses

• Housing allowance (one-time)

🗓️ Application Timeline:

• Country-specific deadlines between September and December

• Study start date in September of the following year

More info is available via the Swiss embassy or consulate in the applicant’s home country.

4. Erasmus+ and Swiss-European Mobility Programme (SEMP)

🔍 Overview:

For students coming to ETH Zurich as exchange students from partner universities. While Switzerland is not in the EU, it participates in Erasmus-like programs under SEMP.

📌 Eligibility:

• Enrolled in a university that partners with ETH Zurich

• Accepted to study at ETH for 1–2 semesters

• Must meet course prerequisites

🎁 Benefits:

• Monthly stipend of CHF 440–CHF 490

• Travel grant (depending on country of origin)

• Support services from ETH’s international office

🗓️ When to Apply:

• Deadlines depend on the home institution and ETH exchange office

• Apply via the international office at the home university

Other Funding Options

While ETH Zurich does not provide Bachelor’s-level scholarships, students may also consider:

A. E4D Continuing Education Scholarship

• Sponsored by the Sawiris Foundation for Social Development

• For professionals from developing countries (including African nations)

• Covers travel, living, and tuition costs for ETH continuing education programs

B. UNESCO, DAAD, and Other International Scholarships

• ETH Zurich students can use external scholarships such as:

  • DAAD (Germany): For German nationals and residents applying abroad

  • UNESCO Fellowship Programs

  • World Bank and IMF scholarships

Scholarships for African and Asian Students

ETH Zurich encourages diversity and inclusivity through collaboration with global foundations. Here are a few targeted initiatives:

1. Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program

Though ETH Zurich itself isn’t part of the Mastercard Foundation network, partner schools in Switzerland (e.g., University of Lausanne) provide full scholarships for African students, which can include joint-research initiatives with ETH.

2. Swiss-African Research Cooperation (SARECO)

Focused on early-career researchers in science and engineering from sub-Saharan Africa collaborating with Swiss institutions.

Cost of Living in Zurich

While tuition is low, the overall cost of living is high. International students should budget:

Scholarships like ESOP help fully cover these expenses, but it’s essential to plan ahead.

Tips for a Successful Scholarship Application

1. Start Early: Some programs require up to 12 months’ advance planning.

2. Tailor Each Application: Avoid generic documents. Personalize your proposal and motivation letter.

3. Highlight Achievements: Awards, leadership, research work, or volunteering should be documented.

4. Strong Recommendations: Choose referees who know your academic and personal strengths.

5. Clear Research Goals: Especially for postgrad applicants, a clear and feasible research plan is key.

6. Proofread: Spelling or grammar errors can weaken your application’s impact.

Summary Table of Scholarships

Conclusion: ETH Zurich Scholarship Landscape

ETH Zurich remains a dream destination for talented international students. With its reputation for excellence, access to groundbreaking research, and vibrant international community, ETH Zurich opens doors to global careers in academia, science, and industry. While the cost of living in Switzerland is high, generous scholarships like ESOP and ETH-D make the dream more accessible.

Aspiring students should stay proactive, research early, and apply strategically. With the right documentation, planning, and ambition, ETH Zurich can be an affordable gateway to an elite education.