Applications open on 20 August 2026 for the Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships 2027–2028, a prestigious funding opportunity for international students, researchers, and artists who want to study or conduct research in Switzerland.
Each year, the Swiss Government awards these scholarships to promote international exchange and research collaboration with over 180 countries worldwide.
The program is managed by the Federal Commission for Scholarships for Foreign Students (FCS/ESKAS).
Scholarship Overview
- Country: Switzerland
- Level: Postgraduate (Research, PhD, and Arts)
- Funded by: Swiss Government
- Application Opens: 20 August 2026
- Start Date: 1 September 2027
- Gender: Male & Female
- Selection Body: FCS / ESKAS
Types of Scholarships
1. Research Scholarships
For Master’s, PhD, or postdoctoral researchers conducting academic research in Switzerland.
2. Arts Scholarships
For students pursuing a first Master’s degree in arts (music, visual arts, and other creative fields).
Scholarship Benefits
Recipients receive a monthly stipend of CHF 2,450 to cover living expenses.
Additional benefits include:
- Health insurance (for non-EU/EFTA students)
- CHF 600 one-time housing deposit grant
- Half-fare public transport travel card
- Return flight allowance (non-EU/EFTA countries only)
- Access to academic and networking events
Important Notes
- Tuition and semester fees are not covered
- Conference participation costs are not funded
- Field research costs are not funded
- Scholarship is not a salary
Eligibility Criteria
General Requirements
- Must meet degree requirements before 31 July 2027
- Must be born after 31 December 1991
- Must not already hold a PhD (for most categories)
Research Scholarships
Applicants must:
- Hold a Master’s degree (or equivalent)
- Submit a detailed research proposal with timeline
- Secure a Swiss academic supervisor (mandatory)
- Provide a strong academic CV and motivation letter
Applications without a Swiss supervisor will not be considered.
Arts Scholarships
Applicants must:
- Hold a Bachelor’s degree completed by 31 July 2027
- Not already hold a Master’s degree at scholarship start
- Secure admission or proof of application to a Swiss arts university
- Submit an artistic portfolio (music, visual arts, dance, etc.)
Required Documents
Research Applicants
- CV (academic background, publications, experience)
- Motivation letter (max 2 pages)
- Research proposal (max 5 pages on official form)
- Letter of support from Swiss supervisor
- Supervisor CV
- Academic transcripts and certificates
- Passport copy
- Contact details of two referees
Arts Applicants
- CV (artistic and academic experience)
- Motivation letter (max 2 pages)
- Portfolio (videos, images, or recordings depending on field)
- Proof of admission or application to Swiss arts university
- Academic transcripts and certificates
- Passport copy
- Referee contact details
Selection Criteria
Applications are assessed based on:
Research Applicants
- Academic excellence and motivation
- Quality and originality of research project
- Strength of academic supervision
- Future research potential
Arts Applicants
- Artistic talent and portfolio quality
- Career potential in the arts
- Academic and creative achievements
Application Process
- Applications are submitted through Swiss diplomatic representations
- Shortlisted candidates may be contacted for further assessment or interviews
- Selection is highly competitive
Application Deadline
Not specified (varies by country and embassy instructions)
How to Apply
Interested applicants should apply through the official Swiss Government scholarship portal or contact the Swiss embassy in their country for country-specific instructions.
VISIT SWISS GOVERNMENT OFFICIAL WEBSITE TO APPLY
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GovAI Winter Fellowship 2027 in the United Kingdom (Fully Funded with £12,000 Stipend)
Council of Europe Traineeship Program 2026/27 in Europe (Paid Internship – €1,320 Monthly Stipend)
