ETH Zurich, as the name speaks on its own stands for its brilliant research work, cutting edge-minds, top-tier academic environment, and is nestled in the heart of Switzerland. The students who aspire to be the part of STEM fields (science, technology, engineering and mathematics), Zurich is the dream destination for them. And the most crucial piece of their application form is “THE GRE SCORE.”

It is important to understand the specific requirements of the top tier international universities, which is no less than deciphering a complex code. Here’s a key to all the details that you need to know about GRE, in order to apply for master’s programs at ETH Zurich.

Do we need GRE everywhere? What’s the KEY DISTINCTION

One important note, The GRE General Test, is essential for the master’s applicants who have not pursued their Bachelor’s degree in one of the EU/EFTA countries.

The ones who have pursued their Bachelor’s degree within the European Union or from the European Free Trade Association member states, do not need to go through the general GRE Test. However, ETH Zurich strongly recommends the students to submit their GRE scores. This is important, as a strong GRE score can certainly increase the weightage of your application, and even if you fall outside the mandate category, you can still be a part of this top tier university.

How much scores are required?

ETH Zurich does not publish any official score range for its various programs, but it certainly provides an expected score range, particularly for the Master’s in Biomedical Engineering. This can help to understand the benchmark for other STEM fields as well:

• GRE Quantitative reasoning is crucial section for the STEM programs at highly quantitative institution like ETH Zurich, so aim for 165 or higher to that (which means 90^th percentile)
• For the GRE verbal section, an expected score of 155 or higher to that (70^th percentile) is required. Though this section is emphasized less in case of many STEM fields, but certainly a solid verbal score would showcase strong analytical and communication skills.
• Expected score of 3.5 or higher (50^th percentile) in GRE Analytical writing section is required which states clear and concise writing skills of the graduate students.

Key notes to remember:

• It’s important to check the specific admission requirements for the master’s program you are applying to. Thee are chances that some departments or the programs associated might have stricter recommendations or minimum scores set as the admission criteria. Do not forget to go through the dedicated, “Admission” or “Application” section as mentioned on program’s website.
• ETH Zurich, has considerable factors set for its admission criteria. It encourages holistic review of its candidates, considering their academic background, GPA, SOP, LOR, CV/ resume and sometimes even the interview. A strong application in various areas can potentially compensate for slightly lower GRE score, especially if you hold a degree from an EU/EFTA institution.
• During registration for GRE, make sure that you use ETH Zurich institution code: 3331, through which you can send the official scores by ETS. Correctly enter your details, the test date, registration number in the online application form.
• Take your GRE in advance so that you have sufficient time for score processing and delivery. Make sure that your official GRE scores reach ETH Zurich by the application deadline for your chosen program.

Conclusion:

The applicants who have done their bachelors from EU/EFTA countries, for them the GRE is waived off, while for all the other international students applying for master’s program at ETH Zurich; GRE is highly recommended for them. Aim for scores, around 165+ in quantitative, 155+ in verbal, 3.5+ in analytical; can certainly make your application form more competitive, particularly for STEM fields.

However, its important to prioritise checking the specific admission requirements of your target program. A sound application, which lists your academic excellence, research potential and strong motivation will surely be the ultimate key of unlocking your dreams of studying at ETH Zurich.

Good luck with your application form!!