Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships Open Applications for 2026-2027 The Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships for the academic year 2026-2027 are now accepting applications from international students and researchers. Offered by the Swiss Confederation, these scholarships aim to foster academic exchange and research collaboration at Switzerland's leading universities and institutions.

Managed by the Federal Commission for Scholarships The Federal Commission for Scholarships for Foreign Students (FCS) manages the program, which supports full-time research, PhD studies, postdoctoral research, and arts education. The scholarships are available to students from over 180 countries, although the specific types of scholarships offered vary depending on the applicant's country of origin. Detailed information on eligibility and application deadlines can be found on the official Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships website.

Switzerland: A Hub for Academic Excellence Switzerland is a coveted destination for students seeking high-quality education and research opportunities. Its top-ranked universities, advanced research facilities, and stable environment attract talent from around the globe. The Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships provide a pathway for international students to access this dynamic academic landscape.

Scholarship Details The Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships are available for the following levels of study:

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 The scholarships cover studies at various prestigious institutions across Switzerland. The list includes: 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 Successful applicants will receive a comprehensive package of benefits, designed to support their studies and living expenses:

CHF 1,920/month for Research, PhD & Art Scholarships CHF 3,500/month for Postdoctoral Scholarship 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 Scholarships and Eligibility Criteria The Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships are divided into four main categories, each with specific eligibility requirements:

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; letter of support from a Swiss academic supervisor. Duration: 12 months (non-renewable) Amount: CHF 1,920/month

PhD Scholarships

Objective: To support students commencing 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. Duration: 12 months, renewable up to 36 months Amount: CHF 1,920/month

Postdoctoral Scholarships

Objective: To enable researchers who have completed a PhD 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) Amount: CHF 3,500/month

Art Scholarships

Objective: To support students applying for 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 in progress. Duration: 12 months, renewable up to 21 months Amount: CHF 1,920/month

The Importance of Academic Supervision A critical component of the application process for research, PhD, and postdoctoral scholarships is securing an academic supervisor in Switzerland. According to Dr. Anna Meier, a professor at the University of Zurich specializing in international student support, "The academic supervisor not only provides guidance and mentorship but also validates the feasibility and relevance of the applicant's research within the Swiss academic context. This relationship is essential for a successful scholarship application."

Applications lacking a Swiss supervisor will be automatically rejected. The supervisor, typically a professor or research group leader, must agree to support the applicant's research project and provide a letter of support, along with their short CV.

Expert Insight on Funding and Cost of Living Financial advisor, Mr. Stefan Huber, specializing in international student budgeting, cautions prospective applicants: "While the scholarship provides substantial financial support, students should be prepared for potential additional costs. Expenses such as specialized course materials, social activities, and unforeseen medical expenses can add up. Thorough budgeting and exploring additional funding options are highly recommended."

Essential Application Documents Applicants must prepare a comprehensive set of documents, including:

Updated CV Motivation letter Research proposal (for research, PhD, and postdoctoral applicants) Support letter from a Swiss academic supervisor Short CV of the Swiss professor Proof of admission (for PhD scholarships) Two reference letters Educational documents (transcripts and degree certificates) Medical certificate Copy of passport Work samples (for art applicants)

Prospective applicants are advised to thoroughly review the application guidelines and requirements on the official Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships website to ensure a complete and competitive application.