The Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships 2025-2026 offer an incredible opportunity for international students to study in Switzerland with full financial support. This prestigious scholarship is now open for applications, we’ll walk you through all the details, including the benefits and step-by-step application process.
This fully funded program covers master’s, PhD, and postdoctoral studies and provides financial assistance such as monthly stipends, tuition fee exemptions, health insurance, airfare, and housing allowances.
Sponsored by the Federal Commission of Scholarships (FCS) in partnership with the Swiss government, the Swiss Government Excellence Scholarship is available to students from over 180 countries. It is open to highly qualified postgraduate researchers across all academic disciplines and young medical doctors, offering them the chance to pursue advanced studies or research in Switzerland.
The Research Scholarship is designed for postgraduate researchers with at least a master’s degree who wish to come to Switzerland for doctoral or post-doctoral research. This scholarship is valid for study at any of Switzerland’s cantonal universities, universities of applied sciences, or federal institutes of technology.
Swiss Universities Scholarship Overview
- Study Levels: Master’s, PhD, Postdoctoral
- Institutions: Swiss Government / Swiss Universities
- Location: Switzerland
- Program Duration: Varies based on the degree chosen
- Application Deadline: Varies by country
Types of Swiss Universities Scholarships
Research Scholarships: Available for postgraduate researchers in all disciplines. These scholarships are valid at Swiss universities, universities of applied sciences, and federal institutes of technology. Applicants must be nominated by an academic mentor from one of these institutions.
Art Scholarships: Open to students pursuing a master’s degree in the arts, offered to a limited number of countries, and available at Swiss conservatories and universities of the arts.
Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships Benefits
Recipients of the Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships enjoy numerous benefits, including:
- A monthly stipend of CHF 1,920.
- Swiss health insurance (for non-EU/EFTA grantees).
- No family allowances.
- A flight allowance (for non-EU/EFTA grantees) at the end of the scholarship.
- A CHF 300 housing allowance (paid once at the start of the scholarship).
- A half-fare public transportation card for one year.
- Access to support services, networking opportunities, and cultural trips.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the Swiss Government Excellence Scholarship, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Proficiency in English.
- Hold a master’s degree or equivalent before July 31, 2024.
- Born after December 31, 1989.
- Not have resided in Switzerland for over a year before the start of the scholarship.
- Provide a letter from a Swiss academic mentor willing to supervise the applicant’s research.
- Submit a research proposal, which is the core of the application.
- Possess the language skills required for the research or studies.
- Not have previously received a Swiss Government Excellence Scholarship.
How to Apply For Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships?
Prepare the following documents:
- Signed FCS application form.
- Full CV including academic publications and awards.
- Motivation letter (maximum 2 pages).
- Research proposal (maximum 5 pages).
- Letter from a Swiss academic mentor.
- Confidential letters of recommendation from two professors.
- Certified copies of degrees and transcripts (with translations, if necessary).
- Signed medical certificate.
- Two copies of the applicant’s passport.
- Obtain the application package from the Swiss representation in your country.
Submit two sets of your documents: one original set with confidential letters and, if necessary, certified translations, and one copy set. Do not use plastic folders or binders.
- Apply Here
| Official Website |
- Also Check: DAAD Scholarship in Germany 2025
Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships Winning Tips
1. Create a Strong Research Proposal
Your research proposal is the heart of your application. Make sure it’s clear, well-organized, and highlights the impact of your research. Show how it aligns with Swiss research institutions and how it benefits both your field and the host country.
2. Secure an Academic Host
Reaching out to a Swiss professor early and securing their support is crucial. Build a professional connection by discussing your research interests, and make sure they are enthusiastic about mentoring you. A strong endorsement from your academic host can make a significant difference.
3. Tailor Your Motivation Letter
Your motivation letter should clearly explain why you chose Switzerland and how the scholarship will help you achieve your career and academic goals. Be sincere and show how you will contribute to the Swiss academic community.
4. Focus on Academic Excellence
Since this is a highly competitive scholarship, your academic achievements are essential. Highlight your past research, publications, awards, and any relevant experience that demonstrates you are a top candidate.
5. Follow the Guidelines Exactly
Make sure to follow the application instructions precisely. Submit all required documents in the correct format, ensure translations are certified, and double-check for any mistakes before submission.
6. Get Strong Recommendations
Choose professors who know you and your work well for recommendation letters. Ask them to focus on your research skills, academic abilities, and potential for success in Switzerland.
7. Highlight Language Skills
Demonstrate proficiency in the language required for your research or studies. If you need to improve your skills, take additional courses before applying to boost your chances.
8. Stay Organized
Keep track of deadlines and maintain an organized file of all your documents. Missing a deadline or document can disqualify your application.
9. Show Passion and Purpose
Throughout your application, show a genuine passion for your field of study and a clear sense of purpose for your future career. The selection committee is looking for individuals who will make a meaningful impact.
Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships FAQs
What is the Swiss Government Excellence Scholarship?
The Swiss Government Excellence Scholarship is a fully funded program for international students pursuing master’s, PhD, and postdoctoral studies. It covers tuition fees, a monthly stipend, health insurance, airfare, and housing allowance.
How do I apply for the Swiss Government Excellence Scholarship?
You need to submit a completed application form, a CV, a motivation letter, a research proposal, academic transcripts, and letters of recommendation. Applications are submitted through the Swiss embassy in your country.
What documents are required for the Swiss Government Excellence Scholarship?
You must provide a signed application form, a full CV, a research proposal, a motivation letter, academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, a health certificate, and passport copies.
What benefits does the Swiss Government Excellence Scholarship provide?
The scholarship includes a monthly stipend of CHF 1,920, health insurance, airfare, a housing allowance, and a one-year half-fare public transportation card.
Is the Swiss Government Excellence Scholarship renewable?
No, this scholarship cannot be renewed. It is offered for the specified duration of your chosen study program, which varies based on the degree.
Conclusion
The Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships provide an incredible opportunity for talented international students to further their academic and research careers in one of the world’s most renowned educational systems. With generous funding, access to top universities, and the chance to live in Switzerland, this scholarship opens doors to a transformative experience.
Whether you are pursuing a master’s, PhD, or postdoctoral research, this program supports your growth and development on a global stage. Take the first step and apply, as this could be the pathway to realizing your academic dreams!