Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships 2025–2026 – Fully Funded Opportunities in Switzerland
Postgraduate researchers holding a Master’s or PhD degree seeking doctoral or postdoctoral studies
Foreign artists with a Bachelor’s degree planning a Master’s program in Switzerland
The program aims to develop global leaders, researchers, and creative artists while strengthening Switzerland’s international academic and cultural ties.
Types of Scholarships
Research Fellowship
Undertake research in your PhD domain at one of Switzerland’s 10 cantonal universities
Eligibility: Master’s degree or equivalent, research proposal, letter from a host professor
Duration: 12 months
PhD Scholarship
Pursue a full doctoral program in Switzerland
Eligibility: Master’s degree or equivalent
Duration: Up to 36 months
Postdoctoral Scholarship
For early career scientists seeking advanced research opportunities
Eligibility: PhD degree achieved
Duration: 12 months
Art Scholarship
For highly qualified young artists pursuing a first Master’s in arts at a Swiss conservatory or university of the arts
Eligibility: Bachelor’s degree or equivalent (no Master’s required)
Availability: Limited countries
Scholarship Benefits
Round-trip airfare to and from Switzerland
Monthly stipend for living expenses and accommodation
Housing allowance
One-year half-fare public transportation card
Tuition fee coverage at the host university
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet program-specific requirements based on the type of scholarship applied for:
Research Fellowships, PhD, Postdoc: Academic degree requirements and research proposal
Art Scholarships: Highly qualified, motivated artists with a Bachelor’s degree
Open to students and researchers from eligible countries only
Why Apply?
The Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships provide international students and researchers with the opportunity to study or conduct research in a world-class academic environment with full financial support. Students benefit from:
Advanced research and artistic training
Cultural immersion in Switzerland
Networking with global leaders and researchers
Full coverage of tuition, living expenses, travel, and accommodation
Application Process
Applications open early August 2024
Applicants should prepare:
Academic transcripts and degrees
Research proposal (for research-focused scholarships)
Letter of motivation and recommendation letters
Letter of invitation from a Swiss host professor (for research scholarships)
Submit applications through the official Swiss Government Excellence Scholarship portal before the deadline