Are you looking for a fully funded scholarship to study in Switzerland at the postgraduate level?
The Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships offer international students and researchers the chance to pursue advanced studies or research at top Swiss institutions. These competitive awards support academic excellence and cross-cultural collaboration.
This prestigious scholarship program is funded by the Swiss Confederation. It supports international postgraduate students, researchers, and artists across more than 180 countries.
Covers master’s, PhD, and postdoctoral levels
Open to all academic fields and research disciplines
Offers full tuition coverage
Provides a monthly stipend
Includes health insurance (for non-EU scholars)
Offers travel allowance
Enables access to world-class Swiss institutions
Requires a host professor at a Swiss university
Highly competitive and merit-based
Promotes international academic exchange
Who Can Apply for the Swiss Government Scholarship?
Eligibility criteria vary depending on the scholarship type but generally target high-achieving graduates.
Must hold at least a bachelor’s degree
Postgraduate applicants need a master’s qualification
Age limit: usually under 35
Excellent academic track record
Strong motivation letter and research proposal
Acceptance from a Swiss host professor or institution
Good language skills (depending on the program)
Nationality matters: open to specific countries annually
Not currently residing in Switzerland
No previous Swiss Government Scholarship
Types of Swiss Government Scholarships
There are two main scholarship categories, tailored to various academic levels and goals.
Research Scholarships
Ideal for doctoral or postdoctoral researchers affiliated with Swiss institutions.
Doctoral candidates or postdoctoral fellows
Must submit a detailed research plan
Requires Swiss university support
12-month funding, renewable up to 36 months
Access to research labs and mentors
Includes monthly stipend
Encourages publication and innovation
Must contribute to academic community
Acceptance by a professor is mandatory
Supports global academic collaboration
Art Scholarships
Designed for international artists pursuing master’s degrees at Swiss arts universities.
Timely preparation is critical, as deadlines vary by country.
Application opening: August-September annually
Country-specific deadlines: September–December
Review phase: January–March
Results announcement: April
Scholarship starts: Following September
One-year renewal (if applicable)
Ensure early contact with Swiss host professor
Follow official deadlines strictly
Late applications not accepted
Allow time for embassy processing
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Who funds the Swiss Government Scholarships?
The Swiss Federal Commission for Scholarships (FCS), under the Swiss Confederation, funds and manages the program.
Can I apply if I’m already studying in Switzerland?
No, applicants must not be residing in Switzerland at the time of application.
Is there an age limit for applicants?
Yes, applicants must generally be under 35 years old at the time of application.
Do I need to know a Swiss national language?
Not necessarily. Most research programs are in English, but language requirements vary by university and field.
Can I bring my family during the scholarship period?
The scholarship does not include family allowances. Bringing family is possible but must be self-funded.
Is work allowed during the scholarship?
Part-time work is restricted and must be approved by the host institution and immigration authorities.
What are my chances of getting selected?
The selection rate is low due to high competition. Only the most qualified applicants with strong proposals are chosen.
Can I reapply if rejected once?
Yes, reapplication is allowed, but a significantly improved application is expected.
Can I choose any Swiss university?
Yes, but the university must be recognized and the host professor must endorse your project.
How long does the scholarship last?
Scholarships typically last one academic year, with extensions available depending on the program type.
Conclusion
The Swiss Government Scholarship opens doors to world-class research and cultural exchange. It’s a life-changing opportunity for talented minds worldwide.
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