ETH Zurich : Programs , Fees, Admission, Placement

About the ETH Zurich University

Established in 1854 ETH Zurich is a public research university based in Zurich, Switzerland, with educational programs commencing in 1855. It has two campuses, Zentrum in Zurich and Hönggerberg outside of Zurich, that spread over more than 320,000 square meters. It provides programs in science and technology through 16 departments, with excellent programs offered in areas such as Computer Science, Mechanical Engineering, Data Science, Cyber Security, and Robotics. 

ETH Zurich University Popular Programs, Duration & Fees

Some of the popular courses in ETH Zurich, which attract international and Indian students, are Bachelor and Master in Computer Science, Mechanical Engineering, Data Science, Cyber Security, and Robotics. The average length of the Bachelor’s degree program is 3 years, while the Master’s program typically lasts from 1.5 to 2 years. The current tuition fee in ETH Zurich is CHF 730 per semester, but from autumn 2025, the fee for international students is expected to be around CHF 2,190 per semester, which is still reasonable in comparison to other top universities, but the cost of living in Switzerland is relatively high.

ETH Zurich University Rankings and Global Reputation

ETH Zurich is rated as one of the leading universities globally and is perceived as the premier technological university in continental Europe. It is ranked 7th in the QS World University Rankings 2026 and occupies the 1st position in the QS Europe Rankings 2025. It can be seen from the Times Higher Education ranking that it is rated around 11th in the world and is often ranked in the top 10-20 globally in the fields of Engineering and Computer Science.

ETH Zurich University Placements & Career Options

Career opportunities for Zurich ETH graduates are excellent in both Switzerland and Europe, and in particular for software developers, finance professionals, robotics engineers, and advanced engineers. An average salary for Zurich ETH graduates is approximately ?25-26 lakh, and for top performers, it can be above ?50 lakh. These remarkable job stats can be attributed to various reasons like projects in industries, research assistantships, start-ups, and multinational companies in Zurich.

ETH Zurich University Eligibility Criteria

Eligibility Criteria

Undergraduate

• Very high academic scores (usually around 90% or above) from recognised boards 

• Strong background in Mathematics and Science subjects

• Proof of English or German language proficiency (IELTS around 7.0 or equivalent, depending on program)

• Program-specific subject requirements may apply

• Application submitted directly to ETH Zurich within official deadlines

Postgraduate (PG)

• Relevant bachelor’s degree (3–4 years) in engineering, computer science, mathematics, or related fields

• Minimum 65–75% or equivalent GPA from a recognised university (higher scores improve chances)

• Strong foundation in core technical subjects

• IELTS 7.0 or higher (or equivalent English/German test score)

• Required documents: CV, academic transcripts, statement of purpose

• Recommendation letters (usually 1–2 academic)

• Research, project, or work experience preferred for some technical programs

• GRE usually not mandatory