Study in Switzerland - Apply now for the fully funded Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships 2026/27 .
If studying in the heart of Europe is your dream, then Switzerland may be calling your name. The Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships for the 2026/27 academic year are now officially open. These prestigious, fully funded awards are designed to support international students from over 180 nations, helping to build global research ties and creative collaboration—right in the picturesque setting of Switzerland.
Each year, the Swiss Confederation invites aspiring researchers and artists to further their academic journey, while also fostering stronger intercultural exchange. This opportunity is not only generous in its financial support, but also incredibly diverse in its scope, catering to a wide variety of disciplines and academic levels.
Whether you’re an early-career researcher, a PhD hopeful, a postdoctoral candidate, or a budding artist dreaming of your Master's degree, this scholarship could be your golden ticket.
What Makes This Scholarship Stand Out?
Now, you might be wondering what exactly makes this opportunity so special. Aside from the international prestige associated with Swiss academia, the financial package is incredibly comprehensive, which significantly eases the cost of studying abroad.
Here’s a breakdown of what’s covered:
Round-trip airfare to and from Switzerland.
A monthly stipend to take care of your living expenses and housing needs.
A housing allowance, helping offset accommodation costs.
A public transportation pass at half-price for one year.
Full health insurance coverage.
And depending on the university, in some cases your tuition fees may also be waived.
This considerable level of support means scholars can focus entirely on their research or artistic work without being burdened by financial concerns.
Scholarships Tailored to Your Path
There isn’t just one type of scholarship under this program; rather, it’s been smartly categorized to suit various academic and artistic goals.
1. Research Scholarships
These scholarships are primarily aimed at academically strong individuals who are looking to conduct research at the doctoral or postdoctoral level.
Research Fellowships: For individuals engaged in a one-year full-time research project before beginning a PhD.
PhD Scholarships: Ideal for those intending to pursue a full doctoral program at a Swiss university.
Postdoctoral Scholarships: Offered to scholars who have recently completed their PhDs and are ready to tackle advanced research activities.
2. Arts Scholarships
Switzerland isn’t solely focused on science and research—it also values culture and creativity. These scholarships are designed for international students striving to earn their first Master’s degree in the arts, from disciplines like design, music, or fine arts.
Eligibility and Application Prerequisites
Not everyone can apply for these scholarships—but if you meet the criteria, it’s well worth the effort. To start, the program is open to nationals of 183 approved countries. Selection is heavily influenced by factors such as:
The academic or artistic profile of the applicant.
The quality and feasibility of the proposed project.
The applicant’s motivation for long-term collaboration and impact.
Note: The scholarship period begins on September 1, 2026, so your timeline must align accordingly.
Let’s now take a closer look at the specific requirements based on the type of scholarship.
Requirements for Research Fellowships
Intended for early-career researchers or medical graduates.
You must have completed your Master’s degree (or equivalent) by July 31, 2026 (June 30 for some institutions like ETH Zurich).
Applicants must be born after December 31, 1990.
A detailed research proposal along with a timeline is essential.
A support letter from a Swiss academic supervisor (including their CV) must be included.
You must not be residing in Switzerland before August 1, 2025.
Requirements for PhD Scholarships
Same age and Master's degree completion requirements apply.
Research plans and supervisor support are crucial.
Candidates already in Switzerland before August 2025 are not eligible.
Preference is given to those who have not previously studied or researched in Switzerland.
Requirements for Postdoctoral Scholarships
Open to postdocs whose PhD was awarded between January 1, 2023, and July 31, 2026.
A comprehensive research project with clearly defined milestones is required.
A support letter and the supervisor’s brief CV are mandatory.
You must not have entered Switzerland before August 1, 2025.
Requirements for Arts Scholarships
Designed for exceptional art students aiming to earn their first full-time Master’s degree in Switzerland.
Applicants must have completed their Bachelor’s degree (or its equivalent) by July 31, 2026.
Must be born after December 31, 1990.
Applicants holding a Master’s degree are not eligible.
You must have already begun the admissions process to a Swiss arts or music institution.
Again, if you are already present in Switzerland, your entry date must fall after August 1, 2025.
Keep in mind that this particular category is available only to select countries—so make sure to verify whether your nationality qualifies.
How to Apply
If you’re ready to take the leap, the next step is to prepare your application thoughtfully and thoroughly. Though each country may have slight differences in the process, application guidelines and contact information can be found on the official Swiss Government Scholarship website specific to your home country.
Because competition is stiff, take your time to build a compelling proposal, craft a realistic timeline, and secure strong academic references. Whether you’re submitting a research plan or an artistic portfolio, clarity and originality will make all the difference.
Pursuing higher education abroad can feel like a distant dream—but with the right scholarship, it’s absolutely within reach. The Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships offer more than just financial support; they open doors to academic excellence, cultural integration, and an enriching life experience. So if you see yourself conducting groundbreaking research on Swiss soil or exploring your artistic depths in the Alps, this could be your chance.
Your journey to Switzerland starts now—don’t let it pass you by.