Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships 2026-2027: A Gateway to Studying in Switzerland

The Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships for the 2026-2027 academic year offer a fully-funded opportunity for international students and researchers to pursue advanced studies in Switzerland. Managed by the Federal Commission for Scholarships for Foreign Students (FCS), these scholarships aim to promote academic exchange and research collaboration at Swiss universities and institutions. The program supports Master's degrees, PhDs, postdoctoral research, and arts education.

Eligibility and Application Process

Each year, the Swiss government awards scholarships to individuals from over 180 countries. However, the availability of specific scholarship types and application deadlines are contingent upon the applicant's country of origin. Prospective applicants must consult the official Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships website for a comprehensive A-Z list of participating countries and related requirements.

A Prestigious Opportunity

Switzerland has long been recognized as a hub for academic excellence, boasting world-class universities, cutting-edge research facilities, and a high quality of life. These scholarships provide a pathway for talented individuals to access this vibrant educational ecosystem. However, applicants should be aware of the overall cost of living and studying in Switzerland, and plan their finances accordingly.

Scholarship Details

Host Country: Switzerland

Awarded By: Federal Commission for Scholarships for Foreign Students (FCS)

Course Levels:

Master's Degree PhD Postdoc Research Degree

Available Scholarship Types:

Swiss Government Excellence Master’s Scholarships Swiss Government Excellence PhD Scholarships Swiss Government Excellence Postdoctoral Scholarships Swiss Government Excellence Research Scholarships Swiss Government Arts Scholarships

Eligible Host Universities in Switzerland

For Research, PhD & Postdoc Scholarships:

University of Basel University of Bern University of Fribourg University of Geneva University of Lausanne University of Lucerne University of Neuchâtel University of St. Gallen University of Zurich Università della Svizzera italiana EPFL (Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Lausanne) ETH Zurich (Swiss Federal Institute of Technology) Research Institutes of the ETH Domain: PSI, WSL, EMPA, EAWAG Graduate Institute Geneva (IHEID) Applied Sciences Universities (e.g. ZHAW, HSLU, FHNW, BFH, OST) Swiss Federal Institute of Sport Magglingen (SFISM)

For Art Scholarships:

Zurich University of the Arts (ZHDK) Bern University of the Arts (HKB-BFH) Conservatorio della Svizzera italiana Lucerne University of Applied Sciences and Arts (HSLU) University of Applied Sciences and Arts Western Switzerland (HES-SO) SUPSI

Scholarship Benefits

CHF 1,920/month for Research, PhD & Art Scholarships CHF 3,500/month for Postdoctoral Scholarships Free health insurance (for non-EU/EFTA countries) CHF 300 one-time rent deposit Swiss Half-Fare Travelcard Return flight (for non-EU/EFTA countries) Cultural trips and networking activities

Types of Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships

Research Fellowships Objective: To enable early-career researchers to conduct a one-year research project as part of their PhD. Eligibility: Master’s degree completed by 31 July 2026 (ETH Zurich: 30 June 2026); born after 31 December 1990; detailed research plan with milestones; letter of support from a Swiss academic supervisor. Duration: 12 months (non-renewable) Start Date: 1 September 2026 Amount: CHF 1,920/month PhD Scholarships Objective: To support students beginning a PhD in Switzerland. Eligibility: Master’s degree completed by 31 July 2026 (ETH Zurich: 30 June 2026); born after 31 December 1990; research plan and academic support letter; confirmation of PhD admission from the university. Duration: 12 months, renewable up to 36 months Start Date: 1 September 2026 Amount: CHF 1,920/month Postdoctoral Scholarships Objective: To support researchers who have completed a PhD and wish to conduct postdoctoral work in Switzerland. Eligibility: PhD completed between 1 January 2023 and 31 July 2026 (ETH Zurich: 30 June 2026); research plan and academic support letter. Duration: 12 months (non-renewable) Start Date: 1 September 2026 Amount: CHF 3,500/month Art Scholarships Objective: To support students applying to their first Master’s in arts (music, fine arts, design, etc.). Eligibility: Bachelor’s degree completed by 31 July 2026; born after 31 December 1990; no previous Master’s degree; admission process to Swiss art school must be in progress. Duration: 12 months, renewable up to 21 months Start Date: 1 September 2026 Amount: CHF 1,920/month

The Importance of Academic Supervision

Securing an academic supervisor in Switzerland is a crucial step for research, PhD, and postdoctoral scholarship applicants. According to Dr. Annelise Meier, a professor of international education at the University of Zurich, "The academic supervisor not only provides guidance and support throughout the research project but also serves as a key indicator to the FCS that the proposed research aligns with the strategic priorities of Swiss academic institutions. A strong supervisor-student fit significantly increases the chances of a successful application."

Finding a Supervisor

Identifying and contacting a suitable academic supervisor requires proactive effort. Applicants should thoroughly research Swiss university websites, identify professors whose research interests align with their own, and initiate contact with a concise and compelling email including their CV, research idea, and a motivation letter. This process can take several weeks, so starting early is essential.

Echoing this sentiment, Dr. Stefan Huber, a research fellow at ETH Zurich, emphasizes the importance of a well-defined research proposal. "The proposal should clearly articulate the research question, methodology, and expected outcomes. It demonstrates the applicant's understanding of the field and their ability to contribute meaningfully to existing knowledge. A well-crafted proposal is often the deciding factor for professors considering taking on a new student."

Application Requirements

The specific documents required for application vary depending on the scholarship type. However, common requirements include:

Updated CV Motivation letter Research proposal (for research, PhD, and postdoctoral scholarships) Support letter from a Swiss academic supervisor (and their short CV) Proof of admission to a Swiss PhD program (for PhD scholarships) Two reference letters Educational documents (transcripts and degree certificates) Medical certificate Passport copy Samples of artistic work (for art scholarships)

Applicants should carefully review the official guidelines for their specific scholarship type to ensure they submit a complete and compliant application. The Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships offer a unique opportunity to pursue advanced studies in a world-renowned academic environment. By preparing diligently and meeting all requirements, prospective applicants can increase their chances of securing this prestigious award.