Pursue your studies in Switzerland. Good news! The Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships for 2025-2026 is now open for applications. In this article, we’ll explore the details of this prestigious scholarship, highlight its benefits, and offer a comprehensive step-by-step guide for the application process.
Overview of the Scholarship
The Swiss Government Excellence Scholarship is a fully funded opportunity available for international students pursuing Masters, PhD, and Postdoctoral studies in Switzerland. Administered by the Federal Commission for Scholarships (FCS) in collaboration with the Swiss government, this scholarship aims to attract highly qualified researchers and young medical doctors from across the globe.
Scholarship Summary
- Level of Study: Masters, PhD, Postdoctoral
- Institution(s): Swiss Government / Swiss Universities
- Study in: Switzerland
- Opportunity Focus Areas: Various fields
- Program Period: Depends on the chosen degree
- Deadline: Country specific (check your country’s specific deadline)
Types of Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships
The Swiss Government offers different types of scholarships tailored to various academic pursuits:
- Research Scholarship: Available to post-graduate researchers planning to conduct research or pursue further studies at the doctoral or post-doctoral level in any discipline at Swiss universities and research institutes.
- Art Scholarship: Open to art students aiming to pursue an initial master’s degree at Swiss conservatories or universities of the arts. This scholarship is available to students from select countries.
Scholarship Coverage
Successful applicants will receive comprehensive benefits including:
- A monthly stipend of CHF 1,920
- Exemption from tuition fees
- Health insurance (for non-EU and non-EFTA grantees)
- Airfare allowance
- CHF 300 housing allowance
- One-year half-fare public transportation card
- Support services and cultural events organized for scholarship holders
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships, candidates must meet the following criteria:
- Hold a Master’s degree or equivalent before 31 July 2024, recognized by a Swiss university.
- Be born after 31 December 1989.
- Not have resided in Switzerland for more than one year at the beginning of the scholarship.
- Obtain a letter of support from an academic host professor at a Swiss university.
- Submit a detailed research proposal and demonstrate proficiency in the required language skills.
Note: Specific eligibility criteria may vary by country. Please refer to the country-specific fact sheets for detailed information.
How to Apply
Follow these steps to apply:
- Prepare Your Documents:
- Signed FCS application form
- Curriculum Vitae (CV) with academic publications and awards
- Motivation letter (max. 2 pages)
- Research proposal (max. 5 pages)
- Letter from an academic host professor
- Academic mentor’s CV
- Two confidential letters of recommendation
- Copies of academic certificates and diplomas
- Signed medical certificate
- Copies of passport(s)
- Obtain Application Package: Obtain the application package from the Swiss representation in your country.
- Submit Your Application: Prepare two sets of application documents (one original and one copy) and submit them as per the guidelines provided.
Note: Do not use plastic folders or binders for your application documents.
Conclusion
The Swiss Government Excellence Scholarship offers a prestigious opportunity for international students to pursue advanced studies in Switzerland with full financial support. Make sure to review the eligibility criteria and application process carefully before applying. For more details, visit the official Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships website.