Excellence Scholarship & Opportunity Programme (ESOP)

Critères d'éligibilité

Very good result in Bachelor’s degree programme (top 10% of Bachelor’s degree programme = grade A; this is based on self-assessment). Please make sure to be reachable under the telephone number specified in your CV as the selection process might include a phone/VC interview in February. If you are already enrolled in a Master's degree programme at ETH Zurich, or hold a Master degree, you are not eligible for ESOP.

Présentation du programme

## Overview The Excellence Scholarship & Opportunity Programme (ESOP) at ETH Zurich is a prestigious scholarship designed to attract and support outstanding Master’s students from around the world. This program goes beyond financial assistance, offering a comprehensive package that includes mentorship and networking opportunities through the ETH Foundation. The ESOP aims to foster academic excellence and provide an enriching environment for future leaders in various fields of study. Approximately 60 ESOP scholarships are awarded annually, depending on the availability of funds. ## Benefits The ESOP provides a generous financial package to cover the full study and living costs associated with a Master’s degree at ETH Zurich. Key benefits include: * **Scholarship Amount:** CHF 12,000 per semester to cover living and study expenses. * **Tuition Fee Waiver:** Full waiver of tuition fees for the duration of the Master’s program. * **Duration:** The scholarship is awarded for the regular duration of the Master’s program, typically three or four semesters. * **Mentorship:** Scholars receive mentorship, providing guidance and support throughout their studies. * **Networking:** Access to a valuable network of academics and professionals through the ETH Foundation. ## Eligibility To be considered for the Excellence Scholarship & Opportunity Programme, applicants must meet the following criteria: * **Academic Excellence:** Applicants must have achieved a very strong result in their Bachelor’s degree program, placing them in the top 10% of their graduating class (equivalent to a grade A). * **Application Timing:** Must apply within the first application window for the Master’s program. * **Program Status:** Not currently enrolled in a Master’s degree program at ETH Zurich. * **Prior Degree:** Must not hold a Master’s degree. * **Contactability:** Ensure that the provided telephone number in the CV is accurate and that the applicant is reachable, as the selection process may include a phone or video conference interview in February. ## Required Documents In addition to the standard documents required for Master’s admission at ETH Zurich, ESOP applicants must submit specific supplementary materials: * **Pre-proposal for Master’s Thesis:** A self-developed pre-proposal for the Master’s thesis is mandatory. This document should demonstrate established scientific citation practices. Plagiarism or misinformation will lead to immediate exclusion. * **Reference Persons/Letters:** If your chosen study program does not typically require references, you must name two reference persons (professors) for your ESOP application. These individuals will then be prompted by the system to upload a reference letter on your behalf. ## How to Apply The application process for the ESOP is integrated with the standard Master’s application to ETH Zurich: 1. **Online Application:** All ESOP applications are submitted via eApply, ETH Zurich’s online Master’s application portal. 2. **First Application Window:** It is crucial to apply within the first application window for the Master’s program to be considered for the ESOP. 3. **Upload Documents:** Ensure all required documents, including the specific ESOP application documents like the pre-proposal, are uploaded correctly. 4. **Reference Letters:** If applicable, ensure your designated reference persons are aware and prepared to submit their letters after receiving an email from the system. ## Key Dates * **Application Window:** November 1 to November 30, 2026, 11:59 AM MEZ. * **Start of Program:** Master program in HS27. * **Interview Period:** February (potential phone/VC interview). * **Decision Notification:** End of March. ## Selection Criteria The selection process for the ESOP is highly competitive and rigorous: * **Academic Performance:** A very strong Bachelor’s degree result (top 10%) is a primary criterion. * **Pre-proposal Quality:** The quality and originality of the Master’s thesis pre-proposal are crucial. * **References:** Strong reference letters (if applicable) can significantly enhance an application. * **Interview Performance:** Performance in any potential phone or video conference interviews will be considered. * **Admissions Committees:** Applications are evaluated by the Admissions Committees of the respective Master’s programs. * **Final Decision:** The Rector of ETH Zurich makes the final decision on awarding the scholarships, with approximately 60 scholarships assigned annually based on available funds. ## Tips * **Start Early:** Begin preparing your application and, especially, your Master’s thesis pre-proposal well in advance of the deadline. * **Pre-proposal:** Carefully craft your pre-proposal, ensuring it demonstrates independent thought, a clear research question, and adherence to scientific citation practices. * **References:** Choose your reference persons carefully and ensure they are aware of the requirements and deadlines for submitting their letters. * **Availability:** Be reachable by phone/VC in February for potential interviews. * **Accuracy:** Double-check all information and documents for accuracy and completeness before submission. ## Official Source For the most up-to-date and complete information regarding the Excellence Scholarship & Opportunity Programme, please refer to the official ETH Zurich website: [https://ethz.ch/en/studies/financial/scholarships/excellencescholarship.html](https://ethz.ch/en/studies/financial/scholarships/excellencescholarship.html)

Le descriptif détaillé du bailleur reste en anglais, car c'est la langue du dossier de candidature.

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