Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships
The Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships provide funding for early-career researchers and artists from over 180 countries to pursue PhD research or Master's degrees in Switzerland. The program is administered by the Federal Commission for Scholarships for Foreign Students (FCS).
Quick Facts
Status
Opening SoonFunding
Partial FundingDeadline
Varies by country of origin; check official listings published in August
Country
SwitzerlandAbout the Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships
The Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships are awarded annually by the Swiss Confederation to encourage international exchange and research cooperation. The program targets highly qualified early-career researchers and artists who wish to conduct research or pursue a first Master's degree at Swiss higher education institutions.
The program offers three primary types of support: Research Fellowships for one-year research projects, PhD Scholarships for doctoral studies, and Art Scholarships for students pursuing an initial Master's degree in artistic fields. These scholarships are valid only for full-time study or research within Switzerland.
Applicants must secure an academic supervisor at a Swiss university or research institute before applying. This supervisor must provide a letter of support, as applications without a confirmed host supervisor are ineligible for consideration.
The selection process is competitive and based on the candidate's profile, the quality of the research or artistic project, and the potential for future research cooperation. The Federal Commission for Scholarships for Foreign Students (FCS) manages the selection and announces decisions by the end of May each year.
The scholarship provides a monthly stipend of CHF 2,450 to cover basic living expenses. Additional benefits include health insurance for non-EU/EFTA citizens, a rental deposit grant, and a public transport travelcard, though tuition fees are generally not covered.
Eligible Levels
Eligible Fields
Why Choose This Scholarship?
Access to world-class research facilities at Swiss federal institutes and universities.
Opportunity to collaborate with leading professors and research groups in Switzerland.
Financial support covering essential living costs and health insurance.
Integration into a network of international scholars and researchers.
Exposure to Switzerland's high-standard education and research environment.
What the Scholarship Covers
Eligibility Requirements
6 requirements
Documents Checklist
9 documents required
How to Apply - Step by Step
Check the specific scholarship types and deadlines for your country of origin on the official website.
Identify and contact a potential academic supervisor at a Swiss higher education institution to secure a letter of support.
Prepare the required documents, including the research proposal and CV.
Submit the application online through the official portal once it opens on August 20.
Wait for the selection process conducted by the FCS and the Swiss diplomatic representation in your home country.
Receive notification of the decision by the end of May.
Application Timeline
August 2026
Publication of country-specific info
20 August 2026
Application portal opens
End of May 2027
Selection decisions announced
1 September 2027
Scholarship start date
Insider Tips & Pro Tips
Start your search for an academic supervisor months in advance, as professors receive many inquiries.
Ensure your research proposal is specific, original, and includes a clear timeline of milestones.
Check if your chosen university requires additional funding or has specific admission requirements for doctoral programs.
Do not send money to anyone claiming to be from the Swiss government; the application process is free.
If applying for an Art Scholarship, ensure your portfolio meets the specific format requirements for your artistic domain.
Verify if you are eligible for the health insurance coverage based on your citizenship status.
Frequently Asked Questions
4 questions - click any to expand
No, applicants are responsible for finding their own academic supervisor. You should research university websites and contact professors in your field directly.
No, the scholarship does not cover tuition or semester fees. Scholarship holders are responsible for paying these fees themselves.
You may apply for the same type of scholarship a maximum of three times.
If you have been living, studying, or working in Switzerland for more than 13 months before the start of the scholarship, you are generally not eligible.
Accuracy notice: Information on this page was verified as of May 2026. Scholarship details - including deadlines, eligibility criteria, and required documents - can change without notice. Always confirm the latest requirements on the official website before submitting your application.
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