Information for prospective students on studying as a parent

Study programme selection

Provided the requirements for admission are met, prospective students with childcare obligations are free to choose and pursue any study programme. However, it should be noted that the study programme at ETH is structured as a full-time course. The time required is approximately 30 teaching hours per week plus self-study. Flexible time arrangements are possible to a limited extent. Depending on your personal situation, it is important to carefully consider which degree programmes are suitable and which university is ideal for you.   

Personal counselling

Please contact us for personal counselling. We can advise you on questions about selecting and planning your study programme with childcare obligations.

Specific information

Flexibility measures

The possibility of flexibility measures to combine family commitments and full-time study applies to performance assessments and deadlines to complete studies. Content-related study facilitations are excluded.

Performance assessments

Examination blocks can be divided and taken in two examination sessions up to a maximum of one year after the birth of your child.

Extension of the deadline to complete your studies

The study time available to you consists of a minimum study time - also called "normal study time" - and additional (or "tolerance") semesters. The tolerance semesters are intended for offsetting contingencies, such as assessment repetitions, illness, accident, or parental leave. Should the duration of studies be insufficient for you to balance your family obligations you can apply for an extension.

ETH support services

On the following websites you will find information on further support services offered by ETH for parents who are studying.

Further information

Contact points for doctoral candidates: Doctorate's Administration, Welcome Center