funding: CHF 2,450/month plus health insurance, relocation and travel allowances
location: Switzerland
host: Swiss Confederation (SBFI)
duration: 12 months, extendable to 21 months
source-url: https://www.scholars4dev.com/3543/swiss-government-scholarships-for-foreign-students
apply-url: https://www.sbfi.admin.ch/en/swiss-government-excellence-scholarships-at-a-glance
The Swiss Confederation awards Government Excellence Scholarships to promote international exchange and research cooperation. This scholarship is available to post-graduate researchers from over 180 countries, with 12 months of funding and a possible extension up to 21 months. The Swiss Government supports 10 cantonal universities and two federal institutes of technology.
Overview
The research scholarship is available to post-graduate researchers in any discipline, planning to come to Switzerland to pursue research or further studies at doctoral or post-doctoral level.
- Host institutions include 10 Swiss cantonal universities, two Swiss federal institutes of technology, or public teaching and research institutes.
- Scholarship inclusions: CHF 2,450 per month, health insurance, one-time grant of CHF 600 for rental deposit, half-fare travel card, and return flight allowance.
Eligibility
Applicants must not yet hold a Master’s degree at the start of the scholarship and must meet specific criteria, including a Bachelor’s degree or equivalent completed by 31 July 2027.
- Bachelor’s degree or equivalent completed by 31 July 2027.
- Date of birth after 31 December 1991.
- Admission letter or proof of application of a Swiss University of the Arts or Music.
Funding & Benefits
- CHF 2,450 per month to cover basic living expenses.
- Health insurance.
- One-time grant of CHF 600 for rental deposit.
- Half-fare travel card.
- Return flight allowance (from non-EU/EFTA countries).
How to Apply
Applications open on 20 August 2026. Eligible candidates must contact the Swiss diplomatic representation in their country of origin for application forms and a list of required documentation.
- Contact the Swiss diplomatic representation in your country of origin.
- Submit application forms and required documentation.
- Application deadline falls between September-December 2026, depending on the Swiss Embassy.
Why This Matters
The Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships provide a unique opportunity for international students to pursue research or further studies in Switzerland. With a monthly stipend of CHF 2,450 and additional benefits, this scholarship supports post-graduate researchers in achieving their academic goals.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships?
The Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships promote international exchange and research cooperation between Switzerland and over 180 other countries.
Who is eligible to apply for the Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships?
Applicants must not yet hold a Master’s degree at the start of the scholarship and must meet specific criteria, including a Bachelor’s degree or equivalent completed by 31 July 2027.
What are the benefits of the Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships?
The scholarship covers CHF 2,450 per month, health insurance, one-time grant of CHF 600 for rental deposit, half-fare travel card, and return flight allowance.
How long does the scholarship last?
The scholarship duration is 12 months with a possible extension up to 21 months, depending on the chosen Master’s degree programme and the required ECTS credits.
What is the application process for the Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships?
Applications open on 20 August 2026, and eligible candidates must contact the Swiss diplomatic representation in their country of origin for application forms and a list of required documentation.
What is the deadline for applying to the Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships?
The application deadline falls between September-December 2026, depending on the Swiss Embassy.