Switzerland Applications

Motivation Letter and References for Swiss Universities

Swiss universities ask for a letter that explains why you chose the programme, and often for references from professors. Here is what ETH Zurich (Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Zurich) and EPFL (Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Lausanne) ask.

Switzerland Application

Motivation letter or statement of purpose (SOP)EPFL: up to 1,000 words

Letter of recommendation (LOR)Uploaded by your referee (the professor who writes it)

What Swiss universities ask for

Each programme sets its own rules. These are the main ones.

Statement of Purpose (SOP)

EPFL: statement of purpose up to 1,000 words.
ETH Zurich: rules shown in the application form for your programme.
Write it yourself.

Letter of Recommendation (LOR)

EPFL: contact details of 3 academic referees.
Referees upload confidential letters themselves.
ETH Zurich: only some programmes ask for letters.

How the letters are used

Programme fit

ETH Zurich wants to see how well you know the programme and why it fits you.

Scholarships

ETH Zurich's Excellence Scholarship and Opportunity Programme (ESOP) asks for 2 professor references if your programme asks for none.

For students from India and Pakistan

Your letters may be checked. ETH Zurich can reject or cancel an application with false or misleading information.

Writing your motivation letter

Explain your background, your interest in the programme and your plans.

Essential Components of a Strong SOP

Why this programme

Show you know the programme and why it fits your interests.

Your background

Your studies, skills and relevant experience.

Your plans

Your career plan and what you want to reach with the degree.

Format

Length & Format

EPFL: up to 1,000 words.
ETH Zurich: follow the rules shown for your programme.
Write your CV in the programme's teaching language (ETH Zurich).

Writing Style

Be specific about your goals.
Use your own words.

Get Expert SOP Writing Assistance

Letters of recommendation

References come from professors who know your work.

Choosing referees

Professors who know your work

EPFL asks for professors who are aware of your work and achievements.

Working with your referees

Asking for Recommendations

1
Ask early
EPFL emails your referees when you confirm and send your application, so do it early to give them time.
2
Check their details
ETH Zurich: you can fix referee details after you submit, but you cannot add new referees.