Elevate Research and Art: Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships 2025–26
Who Can Apply
For research scholarships: postgraduate researchers with a master’s degree (or equivalent) achieved before 31 July 2025; applicants born after 31 December 1989; must not have lived in Switzerland for over a year by the scholarship start date; and must hold an academic host letter from a Swiss university professor.
For arts scholarships: emerging artists without a master’s degree accepted into a Swiss conservatory or university of the arts; eligibility restricted to select countries with reciprocity agreements.
What You Receive
A monthly stipend of CHF 1,920 for research or arts scholars; CHF 3,500 per month for postdoctoral fellows. Additional support includes mandatory Swiss health insurance for non‑EU/EFTA applicants, a one‑time CHF 300 housing allowance, a return flight grant, one‑year half‑fare public transportation card, and access to cultural and orientation activities organized for scholarship holders.
Note: Tuition fees may not be covered and vary by institution, typically CHF 600–2,000 per semester
Duration & Terms
Research and art scholarships begin 1 September 2025 for an initial 12‑month period. PhD scholarships may be extended up to 36 months, and arts scholarships up to 21 months depending on required credits. Postdoctoral awards typically cover one academic year (no extension).
Selection Criteria
Applications are assessed on academic and artistic excellence, research or artistic vision, candidate profile and host institute synergy. Selection is made through a two-stage process: national screening via the Swiss diplomatic mission, followed by final evaluation by the FCS
Why This Matters
This highly competitive scholarship offers not just funding but full immersion into Switzerland’s top-tier research and artistic institutions. You’ll join a global network of scholars and creatives and build international collaborations in a multicultural setting. While the monthly stipend may only cover basic living costs in Switzerland, it is enough to support your academic focus and personal growth.
How to Apply
Determine your eligibility based on your passport country and download the application package once the call opens in early August. Prepare your documents—including academic transcripts or portfolio, motivation letter, research proposal, host support letter, recommendation letters—and submit two paper copies to your Swiss diplomatic mission before the deadline (which varies by country between September and December). Final decisions are announced by end of May 2025.