FAQ

1. Requirement Profile

Admission decisions are based on the student’s curriculum, GPA, GRE general test scores, reference letters, university reputation and others. Moreover, a strong background in Mathematics and Theory is required. Please find further information on the website of the rector’s office, where you can choose your individual Master’s program. 

Is a minimum GPA required for admission?
ETH does not have established minimum GPAs, but excellent grades are a good starting point.

2. GRE - Test

The GRE general test is strongly recommended for the application to the M.Sc. program in Computer Science. Applications without GRE scores will be evaluated, but in case of uncertainty an excellent GRE will make the difference.

Are there minimum requirements for GRE scores?
ETH does not have an established minimum GRE score, but excellent grades are a good starting point.

Where can I find the nearest GRE test center?
GRE test center locator.

3. Language Certificate

Do I have to provide a language certificate?
A language certificate is only required for enrollment. Please find a list of all recognized English certificates and exceptions on the website of the rector’s office.

When do I have to submit my language certificate?
The language certificate has to be handed in at the latest when you enroll; i.e., before beginning your studies at ETH Zurich. It does not necessarily need to be part of your application dossier.

4. Language of Program

Do I need to know German?
The M.Sc. curriculum in Computer Science is taught in English.

5. Working and Studying

How can I apply for a work permit?
Please visit the webpage of the rector's office for general information about work permit regulations in Switzerland.

Is it possible to work during the M.Sc.?
The M.Sc. in Computer Science is a full-time program, but it is possible to work part-time during the first two semesters.  Nevertheless, working alongside your studies will most probably prolong their duration. Writing your Master's thesis is a full-time project of 6 months. During this time we strongly recommend you only work on the thesis.

May I apply for a position as teaching assistant or research assistant at the Department of Computer Science?
You may apply for a position as teaching assistant or research assistant directly by contacting one of our faculty members once you are enrolled at ETH.

6. Application with Non-Computer Science Degree

May I apply for admission to the M.Sc. program with a Non-Computer Science Bachelor's degree?
Excellent graduates from related fields such as Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Physics or Mathematics are welcome to apply for the M.Sc. in Computer Science. Please find the requirement profile on the website of the rector’s office, where you can choose your individual Master’s program.

7. Scholarships & Financial Matters

Two scholarship programs offer full financial support:
•    Excellence Scholarship and Opportunity Program
•    Swiss Government Scholarships

For further information, please visit the website of the rector’s office on financial matters.

8. Study Duration

The M.Sc. in Computer Science is a full-time program, designed to take 1.5 years. The program must be completed within 3 years.

9. Courses

For detailed information on our courses see the course catalog.

10. International Application Period & Bologna Application Period?

Which application period is suitable for me?
Please find the corresponding information in the application schedule.

11. Can I be admitted to the M.Sc. program in Computer Science in the spring semester?

No, application/admission to the M.Sc. in Computer Science is only possible in the autumn semester.

12. For holders of a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science issued by a Swiss University of Applied Sciences (FH):

Am I eligible for admission to the M.Sc. program in Computer Science?
Students holding a Bachelor’s degree issued by a University of Applied Sciences (FH) with a grade average of at least 5 or equivalent may be admitted to the M.Sc. program in Computer Science at ETH.

Which additional requirements do I have to fulfill to be admitted to the M.Sc. in Computer Science?
For detailed information on additional requirements, please visit the website of the rector’s office and choose the corresponding M.Sc. program.

13. For holders of a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science in Economics (Wirtschaftsinformatik):

Am I eligible for admission to the M.Sc. in Computer Science?
For admission to the M.Sc. program in Computer Science a strong mathematical and theoretical background is required. For detailed information on the requirement profile please visit the website of the rector’s office and choose the corresponding M.Sc. program.