Founded: 1855.
Location: Zurich, Switzerland.
Motto: "Freedom and Responsibility" ("Die Freiheit und ihre Verantwortung" in German).
Language of Instruction: Primarily German at the undergraduate level; many graduate programs are in English.
Reputation: Consistently ranked among the top universities globally, particularly known for engineering, technology, natural sciences, and mathematics.
Nobel Laureates: ETH Zurich has produced over 20 Nobel Laureates, including famous physicist Albert Einstein.
ETH Zurich is divided into several departments (D-BAUG, D-CHAB, D-INFK, etc.) across different fields:
Architecture and Civil Engineering.
Engineering Sciences.
Natural Sciences and Mathematics.
System-oriented Natural Sciences.
Management and Social Sciences.
Research Focus: ETH Zurich is renowned for its cutting-edge research in areas like robotics, materials science, quantum computing, environmental science, and biomedical engineering.
Collaborations: Strong ties with industry and other academic institutions globally, fostering an environment of innovation and practical application.
Main Campus: The main campus is located in the heart of Zurich with modern facilities and a vibrant academic community.
Science City: Also known as the Hönggerberg campus, it's another key location featuring state-of-the-art research facilities and student accommodations.
Diversity: Hosts a diverse student body with over 20,000 students from more than 120 countries.
Student Organizations: Numerous student associations, clubs, and sports facilities.
Support Services: Extensive support for students including career services, counseling, and academic advising.
Admission Requirements: Highly competitive, with specific requirements depending on the program and level of study.
Scholarships: Various scholarships available for both domestic and international students, based on merit and need.
Albert Einstein: One of the most famous alumni, who graduated with a diploma in mathematics and physics.
Contributions: ETH Zurich graduates and researchers have made significant contributions to science, technology, and industry globally.
ETH Zurich offers bachelor's degree programs primarily taught in German. Some of the main undergraduate programs include:
Architecture (D-ARCH)
Civil Engineering (D-BAUG)
Environmental Engineering (D-BAUG)
Geospatial Engineering (D-BAUG)
Mechanical Engineering (D-MAVT)
Electrical Engineering and Information Technology (D-ITET)
Computer Science (D-INFK)
Biology (D-BIOL)
Chemistry (D-CHAB)
Chemical Engineering (D-CHAB)
Mathematics (D-MATH)
Physics (D-PHYS)
Earth Sciences (D-ERDW)
Environmental Sciences (D-USYS)
Materials Science (D-MATL)
Master’s programs at ETH Zurich are often taught in English and attract international students. Some of the prominent master’s programs include:
Master of Advanced Studies in Architecture (MAS ETH ARCH)
Master in Civil Engineering (MSc ETH BAUG)
Master in Environmental Engineering (MSc ETH BAUG)
Master in Geomatics (MSc ETH BAUG)
Master in Mechanical Engineering (MSc ETH MAVT)
Master in Robotics, Systems and Control (MSc ETH MAVT)
Master in Biomedical Engineering (MSc ETH BIOMED)
Master in Electrical Engineering and Information Technology (MSc ETH EEIT)
Master in Computer Science (MSc ETH CS)
Master in Data Science (MSc ETH DS)
Master in Cyber Security (MSc ETH CYSEC)
Master in Chemical and Bioengineering (MSc ETH CHBI)
Master in Chemistry (MSc ETH CH)
Master in Mathematics (MSc ETH MATH)
Master in Physics (MSc ETH PHYS)
Master in Quantum Engineering (MSc ETH QED)
Master in Earth Sciences (MSc ETH ERDW)
Master in Environmental Sciences (MSc ETH ENV)
Master in Agricultural Sciences (MSc ETH AGR)
Master in Food Science (MSc ETH FS)
Master in Health Sciences and Technology (MSc ETH HST)
ETH Zurich offers a wide range of doctoral programs (PhD) in various disciplines. PhD candidates engage in high-level research projects, often in collaboration with international research institutions and industry. Key areas include:
Architecture and Civil Engineering
Engineering Sciences
Natural Sciences and Mathematics
System-oriented Natural Sciences
Management and Social Sciences
Course Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Architecture (D-ARCH) |
3 years |
$1,600 |
|
Civil Engineering (D-BAUG) |
3 years |
$1,600 |
|
Environmental Engineering (D-BAUG) |
3 years |
$1,600 |
|
Geospatial Engineering (D-BAUG) |
3 years |
$1,600 |
|
Mechanical Engineering (D-MAVT) |
3 years |
$1,600 |
|
Electrical Engineering and Information Technology (D-ITET) |
3 years |
$1,600 |
|
Computer Science (D-INFK) |
3 years |
$1,600 |
|
Biology (D-BIOL) |
3 years |
$1,600 |
|
Chemistry (D-CHAB) |
3 years |
$1,600 |
|
Chemical Engineering (D-CHAB) |
3 years |
$1,600 |
|
Mathematics (D-MATH) |
3 years |
$1,600 |
|
Physics (D-PHYS) |
3 years |
$1,600 |
|
Earth Sciences (D-ERDW) |
3 years |
$1,600 |
|
Environmental Sciences (D-USYS) |
3 years |
$1,600 |
|
Materials Science (D-MATL) |
3 years |
$1,600 |
Course Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Master of Advanced Studies in Architecture (MAS ETH ARCH) |
2 years |
$1,600 |
|
Master in Civil Engineering (MSc ETH BAUG) |
2 years |
$1,600 |
|
Master in Environmental Engineering (MSc ETH BAUG) |
2 years |
$1,600 |
|
Master in Geomatics (MSc ETH BAUG) |
2 years |
$1,600 |
|
Master in Mechanical Engineering (MSc ETH MAVT) |
2 years |
$1,600 |
|
Master in Robotics, Systems and Control (MSc ETH MAVT) |
2 years |
$1,600 |
|
Master in Biomedical Engineering (MSc ETH BIOMED) |
2 years |
$1,600 |
|
Master in Electrical Engineering and Information Technology (MSc ETH EEIT) |
2 years |
$1,600 |
|
Master in Computer Science (MSc ETH CS) |
2 years |
$1,600 |
|
Master in Data Science (MSc ETH DS) |
2 years |
$1,600 |
|
Master in Cyber Security (MSc ETH CYSEC) |
2 years |
$1,600 |
|
Master in Chemical and Bioengineering (MSc ETH CHBI) |
2 years |
$1,600 |
|
Master in Chemistry (MSc ETH CH) |
2 years |
$1,600 |
|
Master in Mathematics (MSc ETH MATH) |
2 years |
$1,600 |
|
Master in Physics (MSc ETH PHYS) |
2 years |
$1,600 |
|
Master in Quantum Engineering (MSc ETH QED) |
2 years |
$1,600 |
|
Master in Earth Sciences (MSc ETH ERDW) |
2 years |
$1,600 |
|
Master in Environmental Sciences (MSc ETH ENV) |
2 years |
$1,600 |
|
Master in Agricultural Sciences (MSc ETH AGR) |
2 years |
$1,600 |
|
Master in Food Science (MSc ETH FS) |
2 years |
$1,600 |
|
Master in Health Sciences and Technology (MSc ETH HST) |
2 years |
$1,600 |
|
Management, Technology, and Economics (MTEC) |
2 years |
$1,600 |
|
Integrated Building Systems |
2 years |
$1,600 |
|
Sustainable Energy Use |
2 years |
$1,600 |
Course Program Name |
Typical Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
PhD in Architecture |
3-4 years |
$1,600 |
|
PhD in Civil Engineering |
3-4 years |
$1,600 |
|
PhD in Environmental Engineering |
3-4 years |
$1,600 |
|
PhD in Geomatics |
3-4 years |
$1,600 |
|
PhD in Mechanical Engineering |
3-4 years |
$1,600 |
|
PhD in Robotics, Systems and Control |
3-4 years |
$1,600 |
|
PhD in Biomedical Engineering |
3-4 years |
$1,600 |
|
PhD in Electrical Engineering and Information Technology |
3-4 years |
$1,600 |
|
PhD in Computer Science |
3-4 years |
$1,600 |
|
PhD in Data Science |
3-4 years |
$1,600 |
|
PhD in Cyber Security |
3-4 years |
$1,600 |
|
PhD in Chemical and Bioengineering |
3-4 years |
$1,600 |
|
PhD in Chemistry |
3-4 years |
$1,600 |
|
PhD in Mathematics |
3-4 years |
$1,600 |
|
PhD in Physics |
3-4 years |
$1,600 |
|
PhD in Quantum Engineering |
3-4 years |
$1,600 |
|
PhD in Earth Sciences |
3-4 years |
$1,600 |
|
PhD in Environmental Sciences |
3-4 years |
$1,600 |
|
PhD in Agricultural Sciences |
3-4 years |
$1,600 |
|
PhD in Food Science |
3-4 years |
$1,600 |
|
PhD in Health Sciences and Technology |
3-4 years |
$1,600 |
|
PhD in Management, Technology, and Economics |
3-4 years |
$1,600 |
|
PhD in Integrated Building Systems |
3-4 years |
$1,600 |
|
PhD in Sustainable Energy Use |
3-4 years |
$1,600 |
Reputation: Consistently ranked among the top universities globally, particularly in engineering, technology, and the natural sciences.
Programs: Offers a wide range of bachelor's, master's, and doctoral programs with many master's and doctoral programs taught in English.
Bachelor's Programs: Requires a recognized secondary school diploma and proficiency in German, as most undergraduate programs are taught in German.
Master's Programs: Requires a relevant bachelor's degree and proficiency in English for programs taught in English.
PhD Programs: Requires a relevant master's degree and a strong research proposal. English proficiency is essential.
Tuition Fees: Relatively low compared to other top global universities, with annual tuition fees around $1,600 USD.
Scholarships: Various scholarships are available for international students, including the ETH Excellence Scholarship and Opportunity Programme (ESOP).
Cost of Living: Zurich is known for its high cost of living. Monthly expenses (including accommodation, food, transportation, and insurance) can range from $1,500 to $2,500 USD.
Accommodation: University housing is limited, so many students live in private apartments or shared housing.
German: Proficiency in German is required for most bachelor's programs.
English: Proficiency in English (e.g., TOEFL, IELTS) is required for many master's and doctoral programs.
International Student Services: Offers support in visa application, accommodation, and integration into Swiss life.
Language Courses: German language courses are available to help international students improve their language skills.
Career Services: Provides assistance with internships, job placements, and career counseling.
Cutting-Edge Research: Opportunities to participate in pioneering research projects across various fields.
Collaborations: Strong ties with industry and other research institutions globally, providing a rich environment for innovation.
Diverse Community: Hosts students from over 120 countries, fostering a multicultural environment.
Student Organizations: Numerous student associations, sports clubs, and cultural groups.
Events and Activities: Regular academic, cultural, and social events.
Visa: Non-EU/EEA students need a student visa to study in Switzerland. The application process should start well in advance.
Residence Permit: Upon arrival, students must register with the local authorities and obtain a residence permit.
Mandatory Insurance: All students must have health insurance. International students can choose Swiss health insurance or an approved foreign insurance plan.
Buddy System: Programs like the buddy system help new students adjust to life in Zurich.
Orientation Week: Offers an introduction to the university, city, and Swiss culture.
Bachelor's Programs: ETH Zurich offers various bachelor's programs in fields like engineering, natural sciences, architecture, and more.
Master's Programs: Numerous specialized master's programs are available for students who have completed their undergraduate degree.
Doctoral Programs: ETH Zurich also offers doctoral programs for advanced research opportunities.
Before applying, ensure you meet the general and specific requirements for the program you are interested in. Although eligibility criteria are not detailed here, typically they include:
Educational Background: A recognized secondary school diploma for bachelor's programs or a relevant bachelor's degree for master's programs.
Language Proficiency: Proficiency in the language of instruction (usually German or English, depending on the program).
Specific Requirements: Some programs may have additional prerequisites such as specific coursework or professional experience.
Gather all necessary documents. These often include:
Transcripts: Official records of your academic performance.
Diplomas: Copies of your degree certificates.
Curriculum Vitae (CV): A detailed resume of your academic and professional experience.
Motivation Letter: A personal statement explaining your interest in the program and why you want to study at ETH Zurich.
Letters of Recommendation: Usually required for graduate programs.
Language Certificates: Proof of language proficiency, if required.
Online Application Portal: Applications are typically submitted through ETH Zurich’s online application system.
Application Fee: There might be a non-refundable application fee that you need to pay.
For some programs, particularly at the bachelor's level, there may be entrance exams or additional assessments. Make sure to check if your program requires this and prepare accordingly.
Once submitted, your application will be reviewed by the admissions committee. This process can take several weeks.
You will receive an official admission decision via email or the application portal. If accepted, you will receive further instructions on how to proceed with enrollment.
If you are an international student, you will need to apply for a student visa and residence permit. This process involves:
Acceptance Letter: Use your acceptance letter from ETH Zurich to apply for a visa.
Financial Proof: Demonstrate that you have sufficient funds to support yourself during your studies.
Health Insurance: Ensure you have adequate health insurance coverage.
Once you arrive in Switzerland, you will need to complete the enrollment process. This includes:
Registering at ETH Zurich: Finalizing your enrollment and getting your student ID.
Residence Registration: Registering with the local authorities in Zurich.
Attend the orientation sessions offered by ETH Zurich to get familiar with the campus, resources, and academic expectations.
ETH Zurich has specific intake periods for different programs:
Main Intake: Typically in the fall semester (mid-September).
There may not be a spring intake for most bachelor's programs.
Main Intake: Fall semester (mid-September).
Secondary Intake: Some programs may also offer a spring intake (mid-February).
Doctoral Programs:
Applications for doctoral programs can often be submitted throughout the year, but specific deadlines may vary depending on the department.
The eligibility criteria for ETH Zurich vary by program level and specific program requirements. Here is a general overview:
Educational Background:
A recognized secondary school diploma equivalent to the Swiss Matura.
Specific subject requirements might be necessary depending on the program (e.g., mathematics and natural sciences for engineering programs).
Language Proficiency:
German: Most bachelor's programs are taught in German. Applicants must demonstrate proficiency in German, typically through recognized language tests like TestDaF, DSH, or Goethe-Zertifikat C2.
English: A few bachelor's programs may require proficiency in English, demonstrated through tests like TOEFL or IELTS.
Entrance Exam:
Depending on your educational background and nationality, you may need to pass an entrance exam.
Educational Background:
A recognized bachelor's degree or equivalent in a relevant field.
Some programs may have specific prerequisites in terms of coursework or subjects studied during the bachelor's degree.
Language Proficiency:
English: Many master’s programs are taught in English. Required tests typically include TOEFL, IELTS, or Cambridge English exams.
German: Some programs may require German proficiency. Requirements will be specified on the program’s webpage.
Additional Requirements:
Letters of Recommendation: Usually two letters from academic or professional referees.
Statement of Purpose/Motivation Letter: Explaining your interest in the program and your career goals.
CV/Resume: Detailing your academic and professional background.
Portfolio: For programs like architecture, a portfolio of previous work may be required.
Educational Background:
A master’s degree or equivalent in a relevant field.
Outstanding academic performance and a strong research background.
Language Proficiency:
Requirements vary depending on the department and the nature of the research. Proficiency in English is often essential, and sometimes German is required as well.
Research Proposal:
A detailed research proposal outlining your intended research topic, objectives, methodology, and potential impact.
Supervisor Agreement:
You typically need to find a professor at ETH Zurich who agrees to supervise your doctoral research.
Source |
Global Rank |
Subject Rank (Engineering & Technology) |
Subject Rank (Natural Sciences) |
|---|---|---|---|
|
QS World University Rankings |
6 |
4 |
6 |
|
U.S. News & World Report |
9 |
7 |
10 |
Scholarship Name |
Eligibility Criteria |
Benefits |
Application Deadline |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Excellence Scholarship & Opportunity Programme (ESOP) |
Outstanding international and domestic master's students |
Full study and living costs, mentorship |
Mid-December |
|
ETH-D Scholarship |
High-achieving master's students |
Partial funding, assistantship |
Mid-December |
|
E4D Continuing Education Scholarship |
Professionals from low-income countries |
Tuition fee waiver, living allowance |
Typically March and September |
|
Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships |
International postgraduates and researchers |
Full funding, monthly stipend, health insurance, airfare |
Typically November |
|
Sawiris Scholarships |
Students from developing countries |
Full or partial funding |
N/A |
|
Merit-Based Scholarships |
High-achieving bachelor's and master's students |
N/A |
N/A |
|
Industry-Sponsored Scholarships |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
Facility |
Details |
Price Range (CHF/month) |
|---|---|---|
|
Student Dormitories |
Shared rooms, single rooms |
300 - 800 |
|
Student Apartments |
Shared apartments, studio apartments |
500 - 1,200 |
|
Private Accommodation |
Off-campus apartments and shared flats |
600 - 1,500 |
|
ETH Housing Office |
Assistance with finding accommodation |
N/A |
|
Guesthouses |
Short-term accommodation for visitors |
50 - 150 (per night) |
|
Family Apartments |
Accommodation for students with families |
1,000 - 1,800 |
High Standards: ETH Zurich is known for its challenging academic programs, particularly in engineering, science, and technology. The workload can be intense, and students are expected to maintain a high level of dedication and performance.
Research Opportunities: Students have access to state-of-the-art facilities and are encouraged to participate in research projects. This provides a chance to work alongside leading experts and contribute to groundbreaking discoveries.
International Reputation: The university attracts students from all over the world, creating a diverse and multicultural environment. This diversity enriches the academic experience and broadens perspectives.
Student Associations: There are numerous student organizations and clubs catering to a wide range of interests, from academic and professional development to sports, arts, and culture. The VSETH (Student Union of ETH Zurich) plays a significant role in organizing events and representing student interests.
Events and Activities: The campus hosts a variety of events, including lectures, workshops, social gatherings, and cultural festivals. These activities help students relax, network, and integrate into the community.
Sports and Recreation: ETH Zurich has excellent sports facilities, including gyms, swimming pools, and courts for various sports. There are also organized sports clubs and activities that students can join.
City Life: Zurich is a vibrant city with a rich cultural scene, including museums, theaters, music venues, and festivals. Students can enjoy the city's amenities and explore its many attractions.
Cost of Living: Zurich is known for its high cost of living. Students often need to budget carefully, especially for accommodation and dining. Many opt to live in student housing or shared apartments to reduce expenses.
Public Transportation: Zurich has an efficient public transportation system, making it easy to commute to and from the university. Students often use trams, buses, and trains to get around the city and beyond.
Academic Support: ETH Zurich provides various support services to help students succeed academically, including tutoring, writing assistance, and study workshops.
Career Services: The university offers career counseling, job fairs, and internship opportunities to help students transition from academia to the professional world.
Health and Well-being: There are health services available on campus, including counseling and mental health support, to ensure students' well-being.
High Expectations: The rigorous academic environment can be challenging, and students need to be resilient and well-organized to manage their studies effectively.
Networking Opportunities: ETH Zurich's strong connections with industry and academia provide students with valuable networking opportunities, enhancing their career prospects.
Personal Growth: The combination of academic rigor, diverse social interactions, and living in a dynamic city fosters personal growth and development.
ETH Career Center: The Career Center at ETH Zurich offers a range of services to support students in their job search. This includes career counseling, resume workshops, interview preparation, and job application assistance.
Job Portal: ETH Zurich operates an online job portal where students and graduates can find job postings, internships, and research positions tailored to their fields of study.
Career Events: The university organizes career fairs, company presentations, and networking events where students can meet potential employers, learn about different industries, and make valuable connections.
Strong Industry Ties: ETH Zurich has partnerships with numerous companies, ranging from startups to multinational corporations. These relationships often lead to internship opportunities, collaborative research projects, and job placements for students.
Alumni Network: The university’s extensive alumni network can be a valuable resource for current students, offering mentorship, networking opportunities, and insights into various career paths.
Internships: Internships are highly encouraged and often integrated into the curriculum. Many programs require students to complete internships, providing practical experience and a foothold in the industry.
Research Positions: Given ETH Zurich’s research focus, students have ample opportunities to work on cutting-edge projects, which can lead to positions in research and development sectors after graduation.
Entrepreneurship Support: For students interested in starting their own ventures, ETH Zurich offers support through initiatives like ETH Zurich’s Innovation and Entrepreneurship Lab (ieLab) and the Student Project House. These programs provide resources, mentorship, and funding to budding entrepreneurs.
High Employment Rates: Graduates of ETH Zurich generally enjoy high employment rates, with many securing jobs within a few months of graduation. The university’s strong reputation and rigorous academic training make its graduates highly sought after in the job market.
Global Opportunities: ETH Zurich’s international reputation means that its graduates are competitive candidates not just in Switzerland, but globally. Many students find employment opportunities in Europe, North America, and Asia.
Selective Admissions: ETH Zurich's undergraduate programs are highly selective. While the university does not publicly disclose specific acceptance rates, it is known that the standards are high, especially for international students. Applicants must have excellent academic records and meet the university's specific prerequisites for their chosen field of study.
Swiss Matura Requirements: For Swiss students, a Swiss Matura certificate with strong grades is required. International students must have an equivalent secondary school leaving certificate with outstanding grades.
Entrance Examinations: In some cases, particularly for international students, entrance examinations may be required to assess the applicant’s academic preparedness.
Competitive Selection: Graduate programs at ETH Zurich are also highly competitive. Acceptance rates for master's and doctoral programs vary by department and research area.
Academic Excellence: Applicants to graduate programs must demonstrate academic excellence, often requiring a strong bachelor's degree with high grades in a related field. Research experience and publications can significantly enhance an applicant’s profile.
Language Proficiency: Proficiency in English or German, depending on the program's language of instruction, is essential. Applicants may need to provide proof of language proficiency through standardized tests like TOEFL or IELTS.
Program Demand: Certain programs, especially those in engineering, computer science, and natural sciences, are more competitive due to high demand.
Research Interests: For doctoral programs, alignment of the applicant’s research interests with the faculty’s expertise is crucial.
International Applications: ETH Zurich attracts a large number of international applicants, which can make the competition more intense for these students.
ETH Zurich has two main campuses: the Zentrum campus and the Hönggerberg campus. Each campus serves different faculties and has distinct features and facilities.
Location: The Zentrum campus is located in the heart of Zurich, near the city's historical center. It is easily accessible by public transportation, including trams and buses.
Features: This campus houses many of the university's older buildings and is where ETH Zurich was originally established. It hosts a variety of faculties, including architecture, civil engineering, and mathematics.
Facilities: The Zentrum campus includes lecture halls, libraries, laboratories, administrative offices, and student services. It also features the main building of ETH Zurich, which is an iconic structure designed by renowned architect Gottfried Semper.
Location: The Hönggerberg campus is situated on the outskirts of Zurich, about 20 minutes from the city center by public transportation. It is located in a more suburban area, providing a spacious and modern environment for research and study.
Features: This campus is primarily dedicated to the natural sciences and engineering disciplines. It has seen significant expansion and modernization in recent years, becoming a hub for scientific research and innovation.
Facilities: The Hönggerberg campus boasts state-of-the-art research facilities, modern lecture halls, libraries, student housing, and recreational areas. It also has several restaurants and cafes, as well as sports facilities for students and staff.
