ETH Zurich
“Der Wahrheit dienen”
Overview & History of ETH Zurich
ETH Zürich, founded in 1855, is continental Europe’s top university and one of the world’s leading institutions for science and technology.
With 24,500+ students from 130+ countries, ETH has produced 21 Nobel laureates including Albert Einstein.
Tuition fees are remarkably low compared to US/UK universities, making ETH an excellent value.
Details at a Glance â ETH Zurich
| 1. University Name | ETH Zurich |
|---|---|
| 2. Founded | 1855 |
| 3. Location | Zürich, Switzerland |
| 4. Type | Public Research University · Federal Institute |
| 5. Total Students | 24,500+ |
| 6. International | 40%+ |
| 7. Programs | 120+ courses |
| 8. World Ranking | #7 QS | #11 THE | #20 ARWU |
| 9. Acceptance Rate | ~27% |
| 10. Official Website | www.ethz.ch ↗ |
Rankings of ETH Zurich
Subject-wise Rankings
| Subject | QS Rank | THE Rank | Strength |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engineering & Technology | #5 | #6 | Civil, mechanical, electrical |
| Computer Science | #4 | #7 | AI, systems, cybersecurity |
| Natural Sciences | #8 | #5 | Physics, chemistry, maths |
| Architecture | #4 | #3 | Design, urban planning |
| Earth Sciences | #3 | #2 | Climate, geology |
| Mathematics | #6 | #4 | Pure and applied math |
Total Programs & Available Subjects
Harvard offers bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral programs across virtually every academic discipline:
Admission Timeline — When to Apply
Applications Open
ETH application portal opens.
Bachelor Deadline
For international bachelor’s applicants.
Master Deadlines
Varies by program.
Admission Decisions
Rolling decisions released.
Student Visa Process
Non-EU students apply for Swiss visa.
Fall Semester Begins
Scholarships for International Students
Harvard practices need-blind admission for all applicants — including international students — and meets 100% of demonstrated financial need. Families earning under $100,000/year typically pay nothing.
ETH Excellence Scholarship (ESOP)
Fully funded master’s scholarship covering living + tuition.
Successful Alumni from ETH Zurich
Tuition & Monthly Living Costs
| Tuition & Fees (per year) | CHF 730/semester |
|---|---|
| Housing & Meals (per year) | CHF 600-900/month |
| Books, Personal & Travel | ~$4,500 |
| Total Cost of Attendance | CHF 20,000-28,000 / year |
FAQs â ETH Zurich
Can internationals apply?
Yes. ETH actively recruits international students. ~40% are from abroad.
Affordable tuition?
Yes. Only CHF 730/semester (~$820). Much cheaper than US/UK.
Language requirements?
Bachelor’s in German (B2+), Master’s mostly in English (TOEFL 100+ / IELTS 7.0).
When to apply?
Bachelor’s: Dec 15. Master’s: varies by program, typically Dec-Feb.
Scholarships available?
ESOP and MSP scholarships fully fund master’s students.
Ready to apply to ETH Zurich?
Need-blind admission · Full financial support · Deadline Dec 15, 2026
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