The Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships 2026–2027 are one of the most prestigious scholarship opportunities in Europe. Funded by the Swiss Confederation, this program aims to promote international exchange and research collaboration between Switzerland and over 180 countries worldwide. The scholarship supports outstanding Master’s, Ph.D., and Post-Doctoral students who aspire to pursue advanced studies and research at top-ranked Swiss universities.

🌍 Host Country

Switzerland

🏫 Host Universities

All accredited Swiss Universities, Federal Institutes of Technology, and Universities of Applied Sciences.

🎓 Degree Levels

  • Master’s

  • Ph.D.

  • Post-Doctoral

💰 Scholarship Coverage

Fully Funded by the Swiss Government

🌟 About the Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships

Every year, the Swiss Confederation offers Government Excellence Scholarships to encourage global cooperation in education, research, and the arts. This scholarship program strengthens Switzerland’s reputation as a global leader in innovation and higher education.

With 113 Nobel Laureates connected to Swiss universities, Switzerland is globally recognized for academic excellence, creativity, and innovation. Through this program, the country invites the world’s brightest minds to conduct cutting-edge research while promoting cross-cultural understanding and global collaboration.

🎨 Types of Swiss Government Scholarships

1️⃣ Research Scholarship Program

This category is open to students from all academic disciplines. Applicants can pursue their research at any:

  • Swiss Cantonal University

  • University of Applied Sciences

  • Federal Institute of Technology

  • Swiss Public Research Institute

2️⃣ Art Scholarship Program

These scholarships are available for Master’s degree students in the field of Arts.
(Only available for students from specific countries.)

💸 Financial Benefits

The Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships 2026 will cover the following expenses:

✅ Monthly stipend for living costs
✅ Full tuition fees (where applicable)
✅ Free Swiss health insurance
✅ Travel allowance (for non-EU/non-EFTA students)
✅ One-time housing allowance of CHF 300
✅ 50% discount on public transportation
✅ Access to academic support, excursions, and cultural events
✅ No application fee required

🧾 Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for the Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships 2026, applicants must:

  • Hold a Master’s degree equivalent to a Swiss Master’s for Ph.D. and Post-Doctoral positions.

  • Hold a Bachelor’s degree equivalent to a Swiss Bachelor’s for Master’s programs.

  • Obtain an acceptance letter from a Swiss university professor or supervisor.

  • Be a citizen of a country with diplomatic relations with Switzerland.

  • Not have lived in Switzerland for more than one year prior to applying.

  • Not have previously received a Swiss Government Scholarship.

  • Be able to relocate to Switzerland for the study duration.

📑 Required Documents

  • Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV)

  • Motivation Letter

  • Research Proposal (max 5 pages, signed, using FCS form)

  • Two Letters of Recommendation

  • Copies of Academic Transcripts and Certificates

  • FCS Application Form (photo included)

  • Two sets of the complete application package (one original and one copy)

📅 Application Deadline

The deadline for submitting applications varies by country.
📢 Results will be announced by May 2026.

📝 How to Apply

  1. Apply directly to your chosen Swiss University for admission.

  2. Contact a professor or supervisor in your field and request an acceptance letter.

  3. Prepare all required documents (research proposal, CV, motivation letter, etc.).

  4. Submit your complete application to the Swiss Embassy in your country.

  5. Ensure that your proposal and all forms are written in English.

💡 Tip: When contacting professors, express genuine interest in their research area and explain how your project aligns with their work.

🌐 Official Application Source

Applications and details are available through the Swiss Embassy in your country or via the official Federal Commission for Scholarships for Foreign Students (FCS) website.

🚀 Why Apply for This Scholarship?

Studying in Switzerland under the Swiss Government Excellence Scholarship means more than just funding—it’s a gateway to:

  • Cutting-edge research opportunities

  • Networking with top academics

  • Exposure to Switzerland’s innovative education system

  • Cultural and professional development