√Scholarships in Switzerland for Master’s and PhD Students

Switzerland is one of the top destinations in the world for higher education — famous for its academic excellence, cutting-edge research, and multicultural environment. Whether you dream of pursuing a Master’s degree or conducting advanced PhD research, Swiss universities offer some of the most competitive and fully funded scholarships for international students.

From government-funded programs to university-specific awards, there are plenty of opportunities to study in Switzerland without worrying about tuition or living costs. In this article, we’ll explore the best scholarships in Switzerland for Master’s and PhD students, including eligibility, benefits, and how to apply.

Why Study in Switzerland?

Before we dive into the scholarships, it’s worth understanding why Switzerland is such a magnet for global scholars.

• World-class universities: Institutions like ETH Zurich, EPFL Lausanne, University of Geneva, and University of Zurich rank among the best in Europe.

• Innovative research environment: Switzerland is home to leading research facilities, international organizations, and innovation-driven industries.

• Multilingual and multicultural society: Students can study in English, French, or German and experience a diverse cultural mix.

• High employability: Swiss degrees are recognized globally, and graduates often find work in top international sectors.

The only downside? Switzerland can be expensive. That’s why scholarships play a crucial role in making this academic dream achievable.

1. Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships

The Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships are among the most prestigious funding opportunities for international students. Managed by the Federal Commission for Scholarships for Foreign Students (FCS), these scholarships aim to promote research cooperation and cultural exchange between Switzerland and other countries.

Who Can Apply?

• Postgraduate researchers, PhD candidates, and postdoctoral fellows

• Artists pursuing a Master’s degree in arts (depending on nationality)

What It Covers

• Monthly stipend (around CHF 1,920)

• Health insurance coverage (for non-EU students)

• Exemption from tuition fees

• One-time housing allowance

• Travel allowance (in some cases)

• Public transportation discount

Duration

• PhD scholarships: up to 3 years

• Research scholarships: 12 months

• Art scholarships: duration of the master’s program

How to Apply

Applications must be submitted through the Swiss Embassy or Consulate in your country. You’ll need to provide:

• CV and academic transcripts

• Research proposal

• Motivation letter

• Letters of recommendation

• Letter of acceptance from a Swiss professor or institution

Application Deadline: Varies by country (usually between September and December each year).

2. ETH Zurich Excellence Scholarship and Opportunity Program (ESOP)

ETH Zurich — one of the top-ranked universities in the world — offers the Excellence Scholarship and Opportunity Program (ESOP) for outstanding Master’s students.

Eligibility

• Applicants must have excellent academic results (top 10% of their class).

• Must be admitted to an ETH Zurich Master’s program.

• Open to both Swiss and international students.

Benefits

• Full tuition fee waiver

• Living and study expenses (CHF 12,000 per semester)

• Mentorship and academic support

Duration

Covers the entire duration of the Master’s program (typically 1.5–2 years).

Application Process

You can apply when submitting your online Master’s application via the ETH Zurich admissions portal. The scholarship is highly competitive, so make sure your motivation letter and academic record stand out.

3. EPFL Excellence Fellowships

The École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL) offers excellence fellowships to international students enrolling in Master’s programs.

Eligibility

• Must apply for a Master’s degree at EPFL.

• Open to students with outstanding academic backgrounds.

Benefits

• CHF 10,000 per semester

• Reservation of student accommodation

• Mentorship and networking opportunities

Duration

For the entire duration of the Master’s program (maximum of 4 semesters).

Application

Students are automatically considered when they apply for admission; no separate application is needed.

4. University of Geneva Excellence Master’s Fellowship

The University of Geneva Faculty of Science offers the Excellence Master’s Fellowships to outstanding international students who wish to pursue a Master’s degree in science.

Eligibility

• Open to all students (including non-Swiss citizens).

• Applicants must be accepted into a Master’s program at the Faculty of Science.

Benefits

• Financial support from CHF 10,000 to CHF 15,000 per year

Duration

Covers one year, with possible extension depending on academic performance.

Application

Applications are submitted online along with the Master’s admission form. Supporting documents include:

• Academic transcripts

• Motivation letter

• CV

• Reference letters

5. University of Lausanne (UNIL) Master’s Grants

The University of Lausanne (UNIL) offers around 10 scholarships each year for international students starting a Master’s degree.

Eligibility

• Must hold a foreign Bachelor’s degree equivalent to a Swiss degree.

• Academic excellence and strong motivation are required.

• Must apply for an eligible Master’s program (some are excluded, such as medicine and law).

Benefits

• CHF 1,600 per month from September to July (10 months per year).

Duration

For the regular duration of the Master’s program (maximum 2 years).

Application Deadline

Usually around November 1st for the following academic year.

6. IMD MBA Scholarships

For business students, the International Institute for Management Development (IMD) in Lausanne offers several scholarships for their prestigious MBA program.

Examples of IMD Scholarships

• IMD MBA Women Leaders Scholarship

• IMD Developing Countries Scholarship

• IMD Merit and Need-Based Scholarships

Benefits

• Partial to full tuition coverage (up to CHF 85,000 depending on the scholarship).

Eligibility

• Excellent academic and professional profile

• Strong leadership potential

• Demonstrated financial need (for some awards)

7. Graduate Institute Geneva Scholarships

The Graduate Institute of International and Development Studies (IHEID) provides financial aid and scholarships for Master’s and PhD students in international relations, development studies, and law.

Types of Funding

• Full scholarships: Cover tuition and living expenses

• Partial scholarships: Cover tuition fees only

• Paid assistantships: Offer a monthly salary in exchange for research or teaching assistance

Eligibility

• Based on academic merit and financial need

• Open to all nationalities

8. Erasmus+ Program

Switzerland also participates indirectly in Erasmus+, a European Union initiative that funds student exchanges. Through specific agreements between Swiss and EU universities, students can spend a semester or year studying or researching in Switzerland with financial support for living expenses.

Tips for a Successful Scholarship Application

1. Start early: Begin researching at least 6–8 months before deadlines.

2. Customize your documents: Tailor your motivation letter and proposal to match the scholarship’s goals.

3. Contact professors: If required, secure a Swiss supervisor before applying.

4. Highlight achievements: Include academic awards, publications, or leadership experience.

5. Proofread carefully: Clear, error-free writing creates a professional impression.

Conclusion

Switzerland offers incredible opportunities for Master’s and PhD students through a range of scholarships that support both academic excellence and innovative research. Whether you’re applying to ETH Zurich, EPFL, or through the Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships, there’s an option to fit your goals and background.

By preparing early, focusing on your academic strengths, and following each program’s requirements carefully, you can secure funding and experience one of the most rewarding education systems in the world.

So, if you’ve been dreaming of advancing your studies in a country known for innovation, quality, and beauty — Switzerland is waiting for you.