Study in the Heart of Europe: Apply now for the fully funded Swiss Government Excellence Scholarship 2026
Are you a young researcher or artist looking to elevate your career in a hub of innovation? If so, the Swiss Government Excellence Scholarship 2026 is a prestigious opportunity that should be explored. Each year, the Swiss Confederation awards these Government Excellence Scholarships to promote international exchange and research cooperation between Switzerland and over 180 other countries.
The scholarship is designed for foreign scholars and artists who wish to pursue their studies at any of the ten Swiss Public Universities, the two Swiss Federal Institutes of Technology, or various public teaching and research institutes. Furthermore, this initiative is aimed at young researchers from abroad who have completed a master’s degree or PhD, as well as foreign artists holding a bachelor’s degree. Consequently, if you are looking for a fully funded pathway to academic excellence in Europe, this program is the perfect fit.
Scholarship Details at a Glance
- Host Country: Switzerland
- Sponsored by: Swiss Confederation
- Institutions: Swiss Public Universities, Federal Institutes of Technology, Universities of Applied Sciences
- Target Audience: Researchers (PhD/Postdoc) & Artists
- Financial Benefits: Fully Funded (CHF 3,500 Stipend)
- Deadline: Varies by Country
Types of Scholarships Available
The program is divided into two distinct categories to cater to different academic needs. Therefore, candidates can apply for the one that best suits their profile.
- Research Scholarships: These are awarded for research or study at all Swiss cantonal universities, universities of applied sciences, and the two federal institutes of technology. This track is available to post-graduate researchers in any discipline (who hold a master’s degree as a minimum) who are planning to come to Switzerland to pursue research at the doctoral or post-doctoral level.
- Art Scholarships: These are awarded for study at any Swiss conservatory or university of the arts. However, this scholarship is available to students from a limited number of countries only and is intended for those wishing to pursue an initial master’s degree in the arts.
Comprehensive Financial Benefits
The Swiss Government Excellence Scholarship is renowned for its generous financial support. Specifically, the benefits are provided to ensure that scholars can focus entirely on their work without financial distractions.
- Monthly Stipend: A substantial stipend of CHF 3,500 is provided monthly.
- Tuition Fees: Full tuition fees are covered by the scholarship.
- Accommodation: Assistance with accommodation is also included.
Eligibility Requirements
To be considered for the Swiss Government Scholarship 2026, specific criteria must be met by the applicants.
- Academic Qualification: You must hold a university degree (Bachelor’s/Master’s) upon the commencement of the scholarship.
- Age Limit: Applicants must be under the age of 35 (born on or after 1 January 1990).
- Language Proficiency: You must be suitably proficient in the language of instruction (French, German, Italian, or English).
- Research Goal: Applicants are required to demonstrate their academic abilities and clarify what they aim to achieve during their stay.
Selection Criteria
Applications are subject to preliminary selection by the relevant national authorities or Swiss diplomatic representation. Subsequently, shortlisted applications are assessed by the Federal Commission for Scholarships for Foreign Students (FCS). The final decision is based on:
- Candidate profile.
- Quality of the research project or artistic work.
- Synergies and potential for future research cooperation.
How to Apply (Step-by-Step)
The application process varies slightly depending on your location.
- Select Region: First, interested applicants are expected to visit the official website and select the continent and country of origin according to their passport.
- Check Details: Next, check the specific application deadline and the types of scholarships on offer for your country.
- Contact Authorities: You will find details on where to get the application documents and answers to your questions.
- Submit: Finally, start the application process and submit your documents to the relevant authority before the deadline.