Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships 2026/27 (Fully Funded) – Research, PhD, Postdoc, and Master Scholarships
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| Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships 2026/27 (Fully Funded) |
The Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships 2026/27 program is now open for international students, offering fully funded opportunities to pursue Master’s, PhD, Postdoctoral, and Research programs at some of the world’s top universities in Switzerland. This prestigious initiative is part of the Swiss Confederation’s efforts to promote global academic exchange and research collaboration.
Whether you’re aiming to advance your academic career, collaborate with leading researchers, or explore cutting-edge innovation, this scholarship offers one of the most competitive academic funding opportunities worldwide.
Overview of the Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships
The Swiss Government, through the Federal Commission for Scholarships for Foreign Students (FCS), awards these scholarships annually to outstanding students and researchers from over 180 countries. The goal is to strengthen international cooperation in research and innovation while giving talented individuals the opportunity to study at globally recognized Swiss institutions.
Visit the Official Scholarship Page
Scholarship Benefits
Recipients of the Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships enjoy comprehensive financial coverage, which includes:
- Full Tuition Fee Waiver – 100% of tuition covered.
- Monthly Stipend – Approximately CHF 1,920 (subject to program type).
- Health Insurance – Fully covered for the entire study period.
- Accommodation Allowance – CHF 300 paid at the start of the scholarship.
- Airfare – Return ticket to your home country (in some cases).
- Research Support – Access to Swiss research labs, libraries, and resources.
These benefits ensure that scholars can focus entirely on their academic work without financial worries.
Available Scholarship Categories
The 2026/27 Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships are available in the following categories:
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Research Scholarships – For highly qualified postgraduates conducting research at doctoral or postdoctoral level at any Swiss public-funded university or recognized institution.
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PhD Scholarships – For students planning to pursue a full doctoral degree in Switzerland.
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Postdoctoral Scholarships – For early-career researchers who have recently completed their PhD.
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Fine Arts Scholarships – For students wishing to pursue a master’s degree in fine arts at a Swiss conservatory or art school.
Participating Universities in Switzerland
Scholarship recipients can study at all publicly funded universities in Switzerland, including:
- ETH Zurich – Swiss Federal Institute of Technology
- EPFL – École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne
- University of Zurich
- University of Geneva
- University of Basel
- University of Bern
- University of Lausanne
- University of St. Gallen
Each university offers a wide range of programs in science, engineering, social sciences, arts, and humanities.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Be a citizen of a country with which Switzerland has diplomatic relations.
- Hold at least a Master’s degree (for PhD and research scholarships) or equivalent.
- For Postdoc applicants – hold a PhD degree achieved within the last 5 years.
- Provide a research proposal or study plan approved by a Swiss academic supervisor.
- Demonstrate academic excellence and a strong publication/research record.
- Have language proficiency in the required language of instruction (English, French, German, or Italian, depending on the institution).
Required Documents
Applicants must prepare and submit the following documents:
- Completed application form (available on the official site).
- A CV with a list of publications (for researchers).
- Research proposal (max. 5 pages).
- Letter of invitation from a Swiss professor or academic host.
- Copies of academic degrees and transcripts.
- Two academic reference letters.
- Medical certificate.
- Passport copy.
Application Process
- Research and Identify Host Institution – Choose a Swiss university or research institute and find a professor willing to supervise your project.
- Prepare Proposal & Documents – Align your research plan with Switzerland’s academic strengths.
- Submit to Swiss Embassy – Applications must be sent to the Swiss Embassy in your home country.
- Selection Process – The Federal Commission for Scholarships (FCS) evaluates applications based on academic merit, research quality, and potential impact.
Check Application Guidelines Here
Application Deadline
Deadlines vary by country, usually between September to December 2025 for the 2026/27 academic year. Early preparation is highly advised since the process is competitive and requires securing a Swiss academic supervisor beforehand.
Final Thoughts
The Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships offer an unparalleled opportunity for researchers and students worldwide to join Switzerland’s elite academic network. With full financial support, access to world-class research facilities, and a vibrant cultural environment, this program is ideal for those aiming to make a significant academic and research impact.
Tip: Start reaching out to potential supervisors in Switzerland as early as possible to secure a strong letter of support.
Apply now via the Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships official website and begin your journey toward academic excellence in Switzerland.
