√Hidden Scholarship Opportunities in Switzerland You Should Know About

Switzerland is known for its world-class education, cutting-edge research, and high living standards. Many international students dream of studying here — but the high cost of living and tuition fees can make it seem impossible.

The good news? There are many scholarships in Switzerland, and not all of them are widely known. Beyond the famous programs like the Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships, there are hidden scholarship opportunities in Switzerland that can help you study or do research for free.

This guide will help you discover these underrated funding options — from university-based scholarships to foundation grants and research fellowships — and show you how to apply for them successfully.

Why Hidden Scholarships Matter for International Students

Most international students only apply for big-name scholarships such as:

• Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships

• ETH Zurich Excellence Scholarship

• EPFL Excellence Fellowship

While these are great options, they are also extremely competitive. Hidden scholarships, on the other hand, are less publicized but often easier to win.

These opportunities are ideal for:

• Students focusing on research or niche academic fields

• Applicants from developing countries

• Students applying to smaller Swiss universities or applied sciences schools

By targeting hidden scholarships, you can increase your chances of securing full or partial funding for your studies in Switzerland.

1. ThinkSwiss Research Scholarships

The ThinkSwiss Research Scholarship is a little-known gem for students who want to experience Swiss academic life. Funded by the Swiss State Secretariat for Education, Research, and Innovation (SERI), this scholarship connects Switzerland with the U.S., Canada, and India.

Eligibility:

• Open to undergraduate and master’s students from the U.S., Canada, and India

• Must secure a research position at a Swiss university or lab

• Duration: 2–3 months

Benefits:

• CHF 1,800 per month

• Support for housing and research coordination

Tip: Many students think it’s only for STEM — but it’s also open to fields like economics, arts, and social sciences.

2. CERN Internships and Fellowships

CERN, located near Geneva, offers fully funded internships and fellowships for international students — not just physicists! Programs are available for students in engineering, computer science, communications, and administration.

Available Programs:

• CERN Summer Student Programme (8–13 weeks)

• Administrative Student Programme

• Doctoral and Postdoctoral Fellowships

Benefits:

• Stipend between CHF 3,500–5,000

• Free travel and health insurance

• Research access to one of the world’s top laboratories

Why It’s Hidden:
Because CERN is an international organization, it’s not listed under Swiss university scholarships — so most students miss it!

3. University-Based Hidden Scholarships in Switzerland

Many Swiss universities quietly offer faculty or department-specific scholarships that aren’t widely promoted.

a. University of Basel Research Grants

Supports international master’s and PhD students for fieldwork or research.
Funding: CHF 1,000–5,000

b. University of Fribourg Faculty Awards

Provides partial scholarships in theology, philosophy, and arts — often funded by local church foundations.

c. HES-SO (University of Applied Sciences Western Switzerland)

Offers regional grants for applied research, design, and innovation projects.

Pro Tip: Always visit your university’s “Mobility,” “Research Funding,” or “International Office” page — many scholarships are listed there but not on main scholarship portals.

4. Swiss Benevolent Society (SBS) Scholarships

The Swiss Benevolent Society of New York supports students of Swiss descent or those studying Swiss-related subjects in Switzerland or the U.S.

Eligibility:

• U.S. citizens or permanent residents

• Strong academic background

• Demonstrated financial need

Benefits:

• Awards between USD 2,000–10,000 annually

Why It’s Hidden:
The program is promoted mainly within Swiss-American communities, so it’s often overlooked by international applicants.

5. Zonta International Amelia Earhart Fellowship

A global scholarship available for women pursuing PhD studies in aerospace or engineering. You can use it for study or research at top Swiss universities like ETH Zurich or EPFL.

Eligibility:

• Female PhD students in aerospace or aeronautical engineering

• Open to all nationalities

Benefits:

• USD 10,000 per academic year

Hidden Advantage:
Although it’s international, few students in Switzerland realize they can use this award while studying there.

6. Swiss Private Foundations and Research Grants

Switzerland is home to many private foundations that fund innovative projects in science, sustainability, and social studies.

Examples:

• Gebert Rüf Stiftung: Supports early-stage research and innovation.

• Mercator Foundation Switzerland: Focuses on social innovation and migration studies.

• Novartis Foundation: Provides funding for biomedical research.

Funding Range:

Between CHF 2,000–20,000 depending on project scope.

Search Tip: Use fundraiso.ch to find Swiss-based private foundations that offer academic or research grants.

7. Cantonal and Regional Scholarships

Each Swiss canton (like Geneva, Vaud, or Zurich) may have local funding for international students.

Examples:

• Canton of Vaud Mobility Grant: For students studying in Lausanne.

• Geneva Cultural Fund: For arts and environmental studies.

• Zurich Education Support: For innovation and technology research.

These scholarships are smaller in value but less competitive — ideal for covering living or travel expenses.

8. Corporate and Industry Scholarships

Switzerland’s global companies also offer scholarships that combine education with career opportunities.

Examples:

• Nestlé Scholarship for Women (IMD): For MBA students.

• ABB Global Scholarship: For sustainability and engineering fields.

• Roche & Novartis Research Awards: For life sciences and medical students.

Why It’s Valuable:
These programs often include mentorship or internship placements — perfect for building your career while studying.

How to Find Hidden Scholarships in Switzerland

Here’s a step-by-step approach to uncover scholarships that others miss:

1. Visit University Department Pages – Search “funding,” “mobility,” or “student exchange” sections.

2. Email Professors or Coordinators – Many departments have their own internal grants.

3. Use Swiss Grant Databases – Websites like grants.ch and fundraiso.ch are goldmines.

4. Join Swiss Academic Groups – Follow LinkedIn or Reddit groups like Study in Switzerland.

5. Combine Small Awards – Even small CHF 1,000–2,000 grants can add up to major savings.

Conclusion

There’s no doubt — Switzerland offers far more scholarship opportunities than most people realize. From ThinkSwiss Research Scholarships and CERN Fellowships to foundation grants and cantonal programs, hidden scholarships can make studying in Switzerland truly affordable.

The key is research and persistence. Don’t just apply for the famous ones — explore smaller, lesser-known opportunities. With the right approach, you can fund your education, build global connections, and experience life in one of the world’s most innovative countries.