EU · Master's
ETH Zurich
MSc in Computer Science
ETH Zurich
Course Overview
ETH Zurich's MSc in Computer Science is a two-year, research-driven program in one of continental Europe's top-ranked CS departments (consistently top-10 globally). Sri Lankan applicants pick a specialisation track — Machine Intelligence, Information Security, Visual & Interactive Computing, Theoretical Computer Science, or Software Engineering — and the curriculum is taught entirely in English.
Tuition at ETH is unusually low for a top-tier global university: CHF 730 per semester regardless of nationality. The trade-off is selectivity — admissions look hard at your bachelor's GPA, the rigour of your CS coursework, and a strong statement of purpose. Zurich is expensive to live in, so budget realistically.
Entry Requirements
Academic
- check_circle Bachelor's degree in Computer Science (or closely related field) from a recognised university with strong grades (typically equivalent to a Swiss 5.0/6.0 / first-class).
- check_circle Solid foundation in algorithms, data structures, programming, discrete maths, and theoretical CS — transcripts are reviewed in detail.
- check_circle Statement of motivation, CV, and 2 academic references.
- check_circle GRE not required for most CS applicants. // VERIFY
English Proficiency
- check_circle IELTS Academic: 7.0 Overall.
- check_circle TOEFL iBT: 100 Overall.
- check_circle Waived if your bachelor's degree was taught entirely in English.
Estimated Cost of Study
| Expense Category | Amount (CHF) | Approx. LKR |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition Fee (per year) | CHF 1,460 | Rs. 503,700 |
| Living Expenses in Zurich (12 months) | CHF 24,000 | Rs. 8,280,000 |
| Health Insurance & Mandatory Fees | CHF 1,800 | Rs. 621,000 |
| Estimated Annual Investment | CHF 27,260 | Rs. 9,404,700 |
*LKR conversion based on current bank rates. Subject to change.
Career Outcomes & PR
ETH CS graduates have strong placement into Zurich's tech corridor (Google Zurich, Meta Zurich, Microsoft Research, Disney Research) and the wider European Blue Card track. Switzerland allows non-EU graduates 6 months post-degree to find work; once hired, the Blue Card route opens up. Median starting salary in Zurich tech is CHF 95k–110k.
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