ETH Zurich
About the university
ETH Zurich (Swiss Federal Institute of Technology), founded in 1854 in Zurich, Switzerland, is one of the world’s leading universities for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics with global reputation and high ranking among STEM institutions. It emphasizes rigorous research and innovation, particularly in disciplines such as computer science, engineering, mathematics, physics, and environmental sciences. ETH Zurich operates across two main campuses in Zentrum and Hönggerberg and fosters interdisciplinary collaboration, applied research, and strong ties with industry and global partners. Its graduates are known for critical thinking, technical skills, and contributions to scientific breakthroughs.
Key information
- Location: Zurich, CH
- Ranking #1
- Institution type: public
Popular faculties
- Engineering (D‑BAUG
- D‑ITET
- D‑MAVT)
- Natural Sciences (D‑PHY
- D‑MATH
- D‑CHAB)
- Computer Science (D‑INFK)
- Environmental Sciences (D‑USYS)
- Architecture and Civil Engineering
Programs (14)
- Computer Science
- Psychology
- Civil Engineering
- Electrical Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Architecture
- Industrial Engineering
- Economics
- Sociology
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Environmental Science
- Physics
- Artificial Intelligence
Campus life
TH Zurich campus life blends rigorous academics with student engagement in research, clubs, and sport. Students participate in technical societies, cultural and international students organizations, and sports through university sports associations. The two main campuses — Zentrum in the city centre and Hönggerberg on a hill — provide modern facilities, libraries, labs, and recreation spaces, while the vibrant city of Zurich offers cultural events, cafes, museums, and outdoor activities. Students balance challenging coursework with social and athletic opportunities
Housing & accommodation
Housing cost: €900 - €2,200 / per month
Housing options
- On‑campus dormitories ( Studentenwohnheime)
- private student apartments
- shared flats in Zurich
Student clubs and organizations
- academic societies
- culture & arts groups
- tech & engineering clubs
- volunteering & international clubs
Sports
- football
- basketball
- volleyball
- swimming
- climbing
- running
- university sports groups and competitions
Career & internships
Partner companies
- Swisscom
- Schneider Electric
- EY (Ernst & Young)
- Julius Bär
- SIX Group
- Bain & Company
Internships: ETH Zurich research departments sometimes offer summer research internships or fellowships for students (e.g., summer research programs), but regular internships before admission are generally not available unless through official programmes. Participation in summer or research initiatives can provide valuable experience.
Admission requirements
Required documents
- Completed application
- High school diploma/undergraduate degree
- Academic transcripts
- Passport/ID
- English proficiency (if required)
- Motivation letter
- CV (for postgraduate)
- Reference letters
Minimum GPA: 3.5
Tuition costs
- €730 - €2,200 / per year
- Scholarships available: ETH Zurich offers need‑based social scholarships and some merit‑based excellence scholarships for Bachelor and Master students, but these usually do not fully cover living costs and tuition; external scholarships from Swiss foundations are also a common source of funding
- Additional costs: In addition to tuition (around CHF 730–2 190 per semester depending on nationality/permit status), students must consider high living costs in Zurich, including accommodation, food, transportation, insurance, books, and personal expenses
Quick facts
- Founded: 1854
- Teaching languages: english, german
- Study formats: offline
Contact
- Website: https://ethz.ch/students/en.html