The Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships offer a fantastic opportunity for international students to pursue advanced studies in Switzerland. These fully funded scholarships are available for Masters, PhD, and Postdoctoral studies, covering a wide range of academic disciplines. Sponsored by the Federal Commission of Scholarships (FCS) in collaboration with the Swiss government, these scholarships aim to support highly qualified postgraduate researchers from around the globe.

Scholarship Overview

This scholarship is designed for postgraduate researchers holding a master’s degree or equivalent, who wish to conduct research or further their studies at the doctoral or post-doctoral level in Switzerland. The scholarship supports research at all Swiss cantonal universities, universities of applied sciences, the two federal institutes of technology, and four research institutes. Nomination by an academic mentor at one of these institutions is a prerequisite for consideration.

There are also Art scholarships available for art students aiming for an initial master’s degree at a Swiss conservatory or university of the arts. However, these are limited to students from specific countries. The program period depends on the degree being pursued.

The deadline for application is country-specific, so applicants should check the relevant details for their country of origin. This scholarship is a great opportunity to study in Switzerland.

Financial Benefits

The Swiss Government Excellence Scholarship provides substantial financial support to its recipients. The scholarship includes a monthly payment of CHF 1,920 to cover living expenses. For grantees from non-EU and non-EFTA countries, the FCS covers mandatory Swiss health insurance.

Additionally, scholarship holders from non-EU and non-EFTA countries receive a flight allowance (lump sum) for a return ticket to their home country upon completion of the scholarship. A special CHF 300 housing allowance is provided once at the beginning of the scholarship to assist with initial accommodation costs.

Recipients also benefit from a one-year half-fare public transportation card, making it easier to explore Switzerland. Furthermore, support services, trips, dinners, and sightseeing tours are organized specifically for Swiss Government Excellence Scholarship holders.

Eligibility Requirements

To be eligible for the Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships, applicants must meet specific criteria. Applicants must possess a Master’s degree or equivalent university degree achieved before 31 July 2024, recognized by the Swiss university. The degree certificate must be submitted to the Federal Commission for Scholarships as proof.

Applicants must be born after 31 December 1989. Those who have resided in Switzerland for more than one year before the scholarship's start in September are not eligible. A letter from an academic host professor at the chosen Swiss university is mandatory, confirming their willingness to supervise and support the research.

Applicants must also provide a detailed research proposal, including a clear time frame. Command of the necessary language skills for the research/studies is essential. Previous beneficiaries of a Swiss Government Excellence Scholarship are not eligible for a second scholarship.

• Required Language: English.

• Eligible Countries: All world countries.

Application Process

The application process involves several key steps to ensure a complete and compliant submission. First, applicants must prepare all required documents, including the signed FCS application form, a comprehensive CV, and a detailed motivation letter. A complete research proposal is crucial, outlining the intended research and its timeline.

A letter from an academic host professor at the chosen Swiss university is essential, confirming their willingness to supervise and support the research. Two confidential letters of recommendation from professors in the applicant’s field are also required, using the FCS reference form. Photocopies of certificates, grade sheets, and diplomas from previously attended universities must be provided, along with attested certified translations if not in English, French, Italian, or German.

The application package can be obtained from the Swiss representation in the applicant's country. Applicants must submit two sets of application documents in the specified order: one original set with signed documents and confidential letters, and one copy of the first set (excluding the confidential letters). It is important not to put the documents into plastic folders or binders.