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Switzerland Government Excellence Scholarships 2026 – Fully Funded Opportunities for International Students |
Are you dreaming of studying in Europe on a fully funded scholarship? The Switzerland Government Excellence Scholarships 2026-2027 offer an incredible opportunity for highly qualified international students from over 180 countries. Funded by the Swiss Federal Government, this prestigious program supports exceptional students at the Master’s, PhD, and Postdoctoral levels to pursue their academic and research goals in world-renowned Swiss institutions.
Study in Switzerland on a Fully Funded Scholarship
Switzerland is a global hub for cutting-edge research, innovation, and academic excellence. Home to 113 Nobel laureates, its universities are consistently ranked among the world’s best. With a blend of modern infrastructure, scenic beauty, and cultural diversity, Switzerland provides the ideal environment for academic growth and personal development.
The Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships 2026 not only cover all essential expenses but also create long-lasting academic networks and cultural exchange opportunities for scholars.
Host Country | Switzerland |
University | Switzerland Universities |
Degree Program | Master's & Ph.D |
Financial Coverage | Fully Funded |
Published Date | 02 July 2025 |
What Are Switzerland Government Excellence Scholarships?
The Swiss Confederation awards this scholarship annually to promote international collaboration and research excellence. Two main types of scholarships are available:
1. Research Scholarships
- Open to postgraduate researchers in any field.
- Applicants can study at public Swiss universities, the Federal Institutes of Technology, or designated research institutions.
2. Art Scholarships
- Specifically for students from select countries pursuing a Master’s degree in the arts.
- Accepted at Swiss conservatories and universities of the arts.
What Does the Scholarship Cover?
These are fully funded scholarships, and recipients enjoy a comprehensive range of financial and academic benefits:
- Monthly stipend to cover living expenses.
- Swiss health insurance during the study period.
- No application or tuition fees.
- Return airfare for non-EU/EFTA students.
- CHF 300 housing allowance at the start of the program.
- 50% discount on public transport.
- Access to support services, networking events, sightseeing trips, and cultural excursions.
Eligibility Criteria for Swiss Excellence Scholarships 2026
To apply, candidates must meet the following requirements:
- A valid offer or acceptance letter from a Swiss university professor.
- Master’s degree (for PhD or Postdoc) or Bachelor’s degree (for Master’s applicants), equivalent to Swiss qualifications.
- Must be a citizen of a country with diplomatic relations with Switzerland.
- Applicants must not have lived in Switzerland for more than one year prior to applying.
- Previous recipients of Swiss Government Scholarships are not eligible.
- Must relocate to Switzerland for the duration of the scholarship.
- Arts scholarships are limited to select nationalities (check with your Swiss Embassy).
Required Documents for Application
Prepare and submit the following documents:
- A well-structured CV (Curriculum Vitae).
- A strong motivation letter.
- A detailed research proposal (max 5 pages).
- Two sets of application documents (one original, one copy).
- Two academic recommendation letters (in original set).
- A completed and signed FCS application form, with a passport-size photo.
- All documents must be in English, French, German, or Italian (or translated).
Key Dates and Deadlines
Here’s a timeline for the Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships 2026:
- Call for Applications: Early August 2025
- Application Deadline: Varies by country (usually Sept – Dec 2025)
- Final Selection & Notification: By May 2026
- Scholarship Start Date: September 2026
How to Apply for the Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships?
Follow this step-by-step process to apply:
- Choose your program (Master’s, PhD, Postdoc) and university.
- Identify a supervisor or professor in your field at a Swiss institution.
- Draft a compelling research or artistic proposal.
- Contact your local Swiss Embassy to request the official application package.
- Submit your application to both the Swiss university and the Federal Commission for Scholarships for Foreign Students (FCS).
Why Apply for the Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships?
- Access to top-tier universities and faculty.
- Be part of groundbreaking research projects.
- Receive generous financial support.
- Gain international experience and build a global academic network.
- Explore Switzerland’s vibrant culture, multilingual society, and spectacular landscapes.
Apply Now to Secure Your Future in Switzerland!
The Switzerland Government Excellence Scholarships 2026 provide a life-changing opportunity to advance your academic career in one of Europe’s most prestigious education systems. Begin your application process today and take the first step toward becoming part of Switzerland’s global academic community.