The ETH Summer Research Fellowship 2027 offers undergraduate and Master’s students from around the world an opportunity to conduct research at ETH Zurich in Switzerland. Organized by the university’s Department of Computer Science, the programme allows selected students to work with experienced researchers during the summer.
The fellowship lasts approximately two months, covering July and August. Participants join research groups and work on projects in areas such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, robotics, information security and software engineering.
Selected fellows receive a CHF 4,000 stipend for the entire programme to help cover accommodation and living expenses. ETH Zurich also covers eligible travel and visa expenses.
The programme welcomes students of all nationalities who meet its academic requirements. However, students already enrolled at ETH Zurich cannot apply.
The next application window is expected to open in early November 2026 for the 2027 fellowship. ETH Zurich has not yet confirmed the final application deadline.
Interested students can review the requirements through the official ETH Student Summer Research Fellowship website.
ETH Summer Research Fellowship Overview
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Programme | ETH Student Summer Research Fellowship (ETH SSRF) |
| Host Institution | ETH Zurich |
| Department | Department of Computer Science |
| Country | Switzerland |
| Location | Zurich |
| Programme Type | Funded summer research fellowship |
| Duration | Approximately two months |
| Expected Period | July–August 2027 |
| Stipend | CHF 4,000 for the entire fellowship |
| Travel Expenses | Covered under programme conditions |
| Visa Expenses | Covered under programme conditions |
| Accommodation | Arranged by ETH Zurich; costs supported through the stipend |
| Eligible Applicants | Bachelor’s and Master’s students |
| Academic Fields | Computer science and closely related disciplines |
| Nationality | All nationalities |
| ETH Zurich Students | Not eligible |
| Language | English |
| IELTS/TOEFL | No formal certificate required |
| Application Opening | Beginning of November 2026, according to ETH Zurich |
| Application Deadline | Not yet officially confirmed for 2027 |
| Application Method | Online through SiROP |
What Is the ETH Summer Research Fellowship?
The ETH Student Summer Research Fellowship is an international research programme offered by the Department of Computer Science at ETH Zurich.
It allows students from other universities to gain practical research experience while working with established academic research groups.
The fellowship is especially suitable for students who are interested in exploring research before deciding whether to pursue a Master’s degree, PhD or research-focused career.
During the programme, participants work on projects related to their academic interests.
They collaborate with researchers, learn new methods and develop their understanding of scientific investigation.
In addition, ETH Zurich organizes social activities that help fellows meet other participants and experience life in Switzerland.
The fellowship is competitive, and selection depends on academic performance, motivation and suitability for available research areas.
About ETH Zurich
ETH Zurich is a public research university in Switzerland.
The institution is internationally recognized for its work in science, technology, engineering, mathematics and related disciplines.
Its Department of Computer Science conducts research across several areas, including artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, computer systems, robotics and theoretical computer science.
The department brings together researchers working on both fundamental scientific questions and practical technological challenges.
The Summer Research Fellowship allows students from other universities to experience this academic environment.
For more information, visit the official ETH Zurich website.
Where Will the Fellowship Take Place?
The programme takes place at ETH Zurich in Zurich, Switzerland.
Selected participants join research groups within the Department of Computer Science.
They conduct their projects under the supervision of researchers and interact with other members of their host laboratory.
The fellowship requires physical attendance.
It is not designed as a remote research programme.
Applicants must be available for the full two-month period.
ETH Summer Research Fellowship 2027 Dates
ETH Zurich has confirmed that the next application window will open at the beginning of November 2026.
However, the detailed 2027 calendar has not yet been published on the official application page.
| Activity | Current Information |
|---|---|
| Applications Open | Beginning of November 2026 |
| Application Deadline | Awaiting official confirmation |
| Selection Decisions | Expected around February 2027, based on previous cycles |
| Fellowship Begins | Expected July 2027 |
| Fellowship Ends | Expected August 2027 |
| Duration | Two months |
The previous fellowship ran from July 1 to August 28, 2026.
These dates should not be treated as confirmed dates for 2027.
Students should check the official programme website for the updated schedule once applications open.
Is the ETH Summer Research Fellowship Fully Funded?
ETH Zurich provides substantial financial support to selected fellows.
The programme includes a stipend, travel expense coverage and visa expense coverage.
However, applicants should understand how the financial arrangements work.
The stipend is intended to help participants pay for accommodation and living expenses during their stay in Zurich.
It is not an additional salary on top of free housing and living costs.
CHF 4,000 Stipend
Selected fellows receive CHF 4,000 for the entire two-month fellowship.
This funding helps cover accommodation and daily living expenses.
It should not be confused with a CHF 4,000 monthly stipend.
Travel Expenses
ETH Zurich covers eligible travel expenses.
According to the official application guidance, students can claim travel costs against receipts at the beginning of the programme.
Participants should follow the current reimbursement instructions.
Visa Expenses
The programme covers applicable visa expenses.
However, selected applicants must still complete the necessary immigration procedures and provide the required documents.
Accommodation
ETH Zurich arranges accommodation for fellows.
The accommodation and living expenses are supported through the CHF 4,000 stipend.
Participants should confirm the specific housing arrangements and costs after selection.
Research Facilities
Fellows gain access to the research environment and facilities relevant to their projects.
Academic Mentorship
Participants work with researchers who provide guidance throughout the fellowship.
Networking and Social Activities
ETH Zurich organizes activities that allow fellows to interact with other students and experience Switzerland.
Overall, the programme provides strong financial support, but participants should still prepare for personal expenses and any costs that are not reimbursable.
Research Areas Available
The Department of Computer Science offers projects across several research fields.
Applicants can indicate one or two preferred research areas during the application process.
The available areas include the following.
1. Machine Learning
Machine learning research focuses on methods that allow computer systems to learn from data.
Projects may involve algorithms, predictive models, data analysis or artificial intelligence applications.
Students with programming, mathematics and statistics backgrounds may find this area suitable.
2. Information Security
Information security research explores how to protect computer systems, software and data.
Topics may include cybersecurity, privacy, secure computing and cryptography.
3. Computer Systems
Computer systems research examines the design and performance of computing infrastructure.
Projects may involve operating systems, distributed computing, computer architecture or networked systems.
4. Robotics
Robotics combines computing, control systems and engineering.
Research may involve autonomous systems, perception, motion planning or intelligent machines.
5. Programming Languages and Software Engineering
This field focuses on the design, development and reliability of software.
Projects may involve programming languages, software testing, formal methods or development tools.
6. Bio/Medical Informatics
Bio/medical informatics uses computational methods to study biological and medical information.
Research may involve data analysis, computational biology or medical information systems.
7. Human-Computer Interaction
Human-computer interaction examines how people use and interact with digital technologies.
Projects may focus on interface design, user experience or interactive systems.
8. Theory
Theoretical computer science explores the mathematical foundations of computing.
Topics may include algorithms, complexity, optimization and computational models.
9. Visual Computing
Visual computing covers computer graphics, computer vision and related technologies.
Projects may involve image analysis, visualization or computer-generated imagery.
The availability of individual research projects depends on participating laboratories.
Applicants should explore the current ETH Zurich research areas before choosing their preferences.
Who Can Apply for the ETH Summer Research Fellowship?
The programme is open to eligible Bachelor’s and Master’s students studying computer science or closely related fields.
Applicants must meet several academic conditions.
1. Enrollment in a Relevant Degree
Candidates must be enrolled in a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree programme.
Eligible fields include computer science and closely related subjects such as electrical engineering, mathematics and physics.
2. Minimum Study Requirement
Undergraduate applicants must have completed at least two years of university study by the beginning of the fellowship.
Master’s students normally satisfy this condition.
3. Graduation Date Requirement
Applicants must have an expected graduation date in the year following the fellowship or later.
For the 2027 fellowship, this generally means that the applicant’s current degree programme should have an expected graduation date in 2028 or later, subject to ETH Zurich’s final cycle-specific interpretation.
This condition is particularly important for final-year students.
4. Full Programme Availability
Applicants must be available for the entire fellowship.
The programme takes place during July and August, and the dates are not flexible.
5. Interest in Research
Candidates should demonstrate genuine interest in research.
They should also have relevant academic knowledge of their preferred research area.
6. Strong Academic Background
The programme is competitive.
A strong academic record and relevant coursework can improve an applicant’s chances.
Can International Students Apply?
Yes.
The ETH Summer Research Fellowship is open to students of all nationalities.
Applicants do not need to be Swiss citizens or European Union residents.
Students studying at universities outside Switzerland may apply if they meet the programme’s academic conditions.
However, participants must satisfy the immigration requirements applicable to their nationality and residence.
ETH Zurich provides guidance to selected candidates regarding relevant arrangements.
The fellowship covers applicable visa expenses under its published conditions.
Can ETH Zurich Students Apply?
No.
The fellowship is specifically designed for students enrolled at institutions other than ETH Zurich.
Current ETH Zurich students are not eligible for this programme.
They should explore other research opportunities offered through their university.
Can Bachelor’s Students Apply?
Yes.
Bachelor’s students can apply if they have completed at least two years of study by the beginning of the fellowship.
They must also meet the graduation-date requirement.
For example, a student who will still be enrolled in the same Bachelor’s programme during 2028 may qualify for the 2027 fellowship, provided all other conditions are met.
Can Master’s Students Apply?
Yes.
Students enrolled in relevant Master’s degree programmes are eligible.
However, their expected graduation date must satisfy the programme’s conditions.
Applicants who expect to finish their current Master’s degree before the required date should not assume they qualify.
Are Final-Year Students Eligible?
Eligibility depends on the expected graduation date.
ETH Zurich requires applicants to remain enrolled in their current degree programme until the year following the fellowship or later.
Therefore, students who expect to graduate before the fellowship or during the same calendar year may not qualify.
This rule also applies when a student plans to move directly from a Bachelor’s degree into a Master’s programme.
The official FAQ explains that starting a new degree immediately after graduation does not automatically make such an applicant eligible.
Is Previous Research Experience Required?
Previous research experience can strengthen an application, but it is not the only factor considered.
ETH Zurich evaluates candidates individually.
Students may demonstrate relevant preparation through:
- University coursework
- Programming projects
- Laboratory assignments
- Research activities
- Academic competitions
- Technical projects
- Independent study
- Software development experience
Applicants should explain how these experiences relate to their preferred research areas.
The programme is also intended to help students gain early research experience.
Therefore, students should not assume that published research papers are mandatory.
Is IELTS or TOEFL Required?
No formal English language certificate is required under the published programme rules.
The fellowship is conducted entirely in English.
Applicants must have sufficient English skills to communicate with researchers and participate in academic activities.
ETH Zurich may assess language ability during an interview.
Therefore, students should be comfortable discussing technical subjects in English.
Required Documents
The application process requires candidates to submit documents through the official online system.
ETH Zurich specifies the following main requirements.
1. Curriculum Vitae
Applicants must prepare a CV in English.
The university requests the Europass CV format.
The CV should include education, relevant skills, academic projects and experience.
2. Official Academic Transcript
Candidates must provide an official transcript from their university.
ETH Zurich accepts transcripts in:
- English
- German
- French
- Italian
Transcripts in other languages must be translated by the issuing university or an authorized professional translator.
Self-made translations and screenshots of student portals are not accepted.
3. Motivation Letter
Applicants must submit a motivation letter or personal statement in English.
The statement must not exceed one A4 page.
It should explain the applicant’s research interests, reasons for choosing the proposed field and expected academic or professional benefits.
4. Academic Information
Applicants must provide accurate details about their current degree and university.
5. Research Preferences
Candidates must indicate one or two preferred research areas.
These preferences help ETH Zurich identify suitable research groups.
6. PDF Documents
The application system accepts PDF files.
Applicants should not upload password-protected PDFs.
The official instructions should be checked for any additional requirements introduced for the 2027 cycle.
How to Write a Strong Motivation Letter
The motivation letter is an important part of the application.
ETH Zurich asks candidates to explain their interest in the chosen scientific area and how the fellowship supports their future goals.
A strong letter should be specific and focused.
Introduce Your Academic Background
Briefly explain your current degree and main academic interests.
Describe Your Research Interests
Identify the research questions or technical areas that interest you.
For example, an applicant interested in machine learning could discuss a relevant university project or a specific research challenge.
Explain Your Preparation
Describe coursework, technical skills or academic projects that have prepared you for research.
Explain Why ETH Zurich
Connect your interests with the research areas available through the Department of Computer Science.
Avoid generic statements that could apply to any university.
Describe Your Future Goals
Explain how the fellowship could support your academic development or research career.
Keep It Concise
ETH Zurich allows a maximum of one A4 page.
A clear, well-organized statement is more useful than an unnecessarily long document.
How to Apply for the ETH Summer Research Fellowship 2027
Applications are submitted online through SiROP, the research opportunities platform used for the programme.
Step 1: Visit the Official Fellowship Website
Open the ETH Student Summer Research Fellowship page.
Read the programme overview and current application instructions.
Step 2: Check Your Eligibility
Confirm that your degree, academic progress and expected graduation date meet the requirements.
Students already enrolled at ETH Zurich cannot apply.
Step 3: Explore the Research Areas
Review the participating research groups and their scientific topics.
Choose areas that match your background and interests.
Step 4: Prepare Your CV
Create an English CV using the required Europass format.
Include relevant academic and technical experience.
Step 5: Obtain Your Official Transcript
Request an official academic transcript from your university.
If necessary, arrange an acceptable translation.
Step 6: Write Your Motivation Letter
Prepare a concise personal statement explaining your research interests and goals.
Keep the letter within the one-page limit.
Step 7: Open the Online Application
When the 2027 application window opens, use the official application link provided by ETH Zurich.
Do not rely on application links from previous cycles.
Step 8: Complete the Application Form
Enter your personal information, academic details and other requested information.
Step 9: Choose Research Preferences
Select one or two preferred research areas.
Choose fields where you already have some relevant knowledge.
Step 10: Upload Your Documents
Upload the required PDF files.
Check that the documents are complete, readable and not password-protected.
Step 11: Review and Submit
Check the entire application before submitting.
ETH Zurich states that only complete applications submitted through SiROP can be considered.
Step 12: Monitor Your Email
Shortlisted applicants may be invited to an interview.
The university communicates admission decisions by email.
Do Applicants Need to Contact Professors?
No.
ETH Zurich explicitly instructs applicants not to contact faculty members directly about the fellowship.
Instead, candidates should explore the participating laboratories and indicate their preferred research areas in the application.
The programme administrators coordinate placements.
Therefore, students should focus on submitting a strong application rather than sending unsolicited emails to professors.
ETH Summer Research Fellowship Application Deadline
As of October 22, 2026, ETH Zurich has not yet published the confirmed deadline for the 2027 application cycle.
The university states that applications will reopen at the beginning of November 2026.
For reference, the previous cycle accepted applications from November 1 to December 16, 2025.
However, those dates belong to the 2026 fellowship.
Applicants should wait for the updated 2027 announcement before relying on a closing date.
The official application page is available at:
ETH Summer Research Fellowship – How to Apply
How Are Fellows Selected?
The programme is competitive.
ETH Zurich evaluates applications based on the submitted documents and the applicant’s suitability for research.
Selection may consider:
- Academic performance
- Relevant coursework
- Technical skills
- Research interests
- Motivation
- Previous projects or experience
- Suitability for available research groups
Shortlisted candidates may be invited to an interview.
The university then selects participants for available research placements.
Because the programme has limited capacity, meeting the minimum eligibility requirements does not guarantee admission.
What Will Fellows Do During the Programme?
The main activity is research.
Participants join a research group and work on a project related to their selected area.
Conduct Research
Fellows investigate scientific or technical problems under academic supervision.
Collaborate With Researchers
Participants interact with members of their host research group.
Develop Technical Skills
Projects may involve programming, mathematical analysis, experiments or computational tools.
Explore Academic Research
Students learn how research questions are developed and investigated.
Participate in Research Discussions
Fellows may attend meetings and discussions connected with their projects.
Join Social Activities
ETH Zurich organizes activities that help fellows meet one another and explore Switzerland.
Accommodation and Living in Zurich
ETH Zurich arranges accommodation for selected fellows.
The CHF 4,000 stipend is intended to cover housing and living expenses during the two-month programme.
Zurich can be an expensive city.
Therefore, participants should plan their budgets carefully.
Costs may include meals, local transportation, personal expenses and other daily needs.
Selected candidates should review the accommodation information provided by ETH Zurich before traveling.
They should also confirm how and when the stipend will be paid.
Benefits of the ETH Summer Research Fellowship
Research Experience at ETH Zurich
Participants gain practical experience in a university research environment.
Financial Support
The programme provides a CHF 4,000 stipend and covers eligible travel and visa expenses.
Academic Mentorship
Fellows work with experienced researchers and members of their host laboratories.
Technical Skill Development
Students can improve skills related to their research projects.
International Networking
Participants meet researchers and fellow students from different backgrounds.
Experience in Switzerland
The programme allows students to experience academic and everyday life in Zurich.
Preparation for Future Research
The fellowship may help students decide whether to pursue further study or a research career.
However, participation does not guarantee admission to an ETH Zurich degree programme.
Tips for a Successful Application
Check Your Graduation Date
The graduation-date rule is particularly important.
Make sure your current degree programme meets the eligibility requirement.
Choose Familiar Research Areas
ETH Zurich advises applicants to select research fields where they already have some academic knowledge.
Do not choose an unfamiliar field simply because it appears popular.
Prepare an Effective CV
Highlight relevant projects, coursework and technical skills.
Write a Focused Motivation Letter
Explain your scientific interests and reasons for applying.
Request Your Transcript Early
Official transcripts and translations may take time.
Demonstrate Research Motivation
Describe what you want to learn and why research interests you.
Do Not Contact Professors Directly
Follow the official application process.
Apply Before the Confirmed Deadline
Once the 2027 application window opens, submit your application early.
ETH Summer Research Fellowship vs ETH Zurich ESOP Scholarship
Students should understand that these are two different programmes.
| Feature | Summer Research Fellowship | ETH Zurich ESOP Scholarship |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Short-term research experience | Support for a Master’s degree |
| Duration | Approximately two months | Normal duration of the Master’s programme |
| Main Audience | Eligible Bachelor’s and Master’s students | Outstanding applicants to eligible ETH Master’s programmes |
| Funding | CHF 4,000 plus travel and visa coverage | Scholarship support under ESOP conditions |
| Academic Focus | Computer science and related research | Eligible ETH Master’s degree programmes |
| Application Process | Separate fellowship application | ETH Master’s admission and ESOP application |
Students seeking a complete Master’s degree can explore our guide to the ETH Zurich ESOP Scholarship.
However, students interested in short-term computer science research should review the Summer Research Fellowship requirements.
Other International Research Opportunities to Explore
Students interested in international research experience can also explore the KAUST Visiting Student Research Program, which offers research opportunities in Saudi Arabia.
Another option is the EPFL Summer Research Program, which provides opportunities for eligible students interested in scientific research in Switzerland.
Students interested in planetary science may also consider the LPI Summer Internship, a funded research programme in Houston, United States.
Students interested in artificial intelligence, machine learning and neuroscience can also explore the CaCTüS Internship in Germany. This paid summer research programme offers approximately €1,350 per month, travel compensation and research experience at participating Max Planck Institutes. The programme particularly encourages applications from students who face barriers to accessing advanced research opportunities.
Each programme has different academic requirements, financial benefits and application dates.
Applicants should compare the official conditions before applying.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the ETH Summer Research Fellowship?
It is a two-month research programme organized by ETH Zurich’s Department of Computer Science.
Where does the fellowship take place?
Zurich, Switzerland.
When will the 2027 fellowship take place?
The programme is expected to run during July and August 2027. Exact dates await official confirmation.
When will applications open?
ETH Zurich states that the next application window will open at the beginning of November 2026.
What is the application deadline?
The confirmed deadline for the 2027 cycle has not yet been published.
Is the fellowship funded?
Yes. ETH Zurich provides a stipend and covers eligible travel and visa expenses.
How much is the stipend?
CHF 4,000 for the entire two-month programme.
Is CHF 4,000 paid every month?
No. It is the total stipend for the fellowship.
Is accommodation provided?
ETH Zurich arranges accommodation, while the stipend helps cover housing and living expenses.
Are travel expenses covered?
Yes, under the programme’s published conditions.
Are visa expenses covered?
Yes, under the programme’s published conditions.
Can international students apply?
Yes. The programme is open to students of all nationalities.
Can Bachelor’s students apply?
Yes, provided they meet the academic progress and graduation-date requirements.
Can Master’s students apply?
Yes.
Can ETH Zurich students apply?
No.
Can final-year students apply?
Only if their expected graduation date meets the programme’s requirements.
Is IELTS required?
No formal English proficiency certificate is required.
Is previous research experience compulsory?
No. Applications are evaluated individually, although relevant academic and technical experience can help.
Are recommendation letters required?
The current published application checklist emphasizes a CV, official transcript and motivation letter. Applicants should check the updated 2027 instructions for any changes.
How long should the motivation letter be?
No more than one A4 page.
Can applicants choose their research topic?
Applicants indicate one or two preferred research areas. Host researchers generally suggest available projects.
Should applicants contact professors?
No. ETH Zurich asks applicants not to contact professors directly about fellowship placement.
Is the fellowship available remotely?
No. Participants must attend in person.
Does participation guarantee admission to ETH Zurich?
No.
Where can I apply?
Through the official ETH Zurich fellowship website and its authorized online application system.
Final Thoughts
The ETH Summer Research Fellowship 2027 offers eligible undergraduate and Master’s students an opportunity to gain research experience in Switzerland.
Organized by ETH Zurich’s Department of Computer Science, the programme allows selected participants to work with researchers in fields such as machine learning, robotics, information security and software engineering.
The fellowship lasts approximately two months and takes place during July and August.
Selected students receive CHF 4,000 to help cover accommodation and living expenses. ETH Zurich also covers eligible travel and visa expenses.
The programme welcomes students from all nationalities, although applicants must meet the academic and graduation-date requirements.
Students already enrolled at ETH Zurich are not eligible.
Applications for the next cycle are expected to open at the beginning of November 2026.
However, the university has not yet confirmed the 2027 application deadline.
Interested candidates should prepare their academic documents, explore the available research areas and follow the official application instructions once the new cycle opens.
Official programme: ETH Student Summer Research Fellowship
Application instructions: How to Apply
Programme structure: Research and Fellowship Details
Last verified: October 22, 2026
Pathfinderly is an independent educational opportunities website. We are not affiliated with ETH Zurich or its Department of Computer Science. Programme dates, funding arrangements and eligibility requirements may change. Always consult the official university website before applying.