Switzerland Opens Its Doors to International Researchers: Government-Funded Scholarships for 2027–2028

Switzerland Opens Its Doors to International Researchers: Government-Funded Scholarships for 2027–2028

  • Country: Switzerland
  • Level: PhD
  • Funding: Fully funded
Deadline
2026-11-29

Overview

The Swiss Confederation annually offers prestigious Government Excellence Scholarships for the academic year 2027-2028 fostering international collaboration with Switzerland. These highly sought-after scholarships, overseen by the Federal Commission of Scholarships (FCS), are designed for young researchers and artists from over 180 countries.

Applications for the 2027-2028 academic year will open in early August . The program targets young researchers who have completed a Master's or PhD degree in any discipline and wish to pursue doctoral or post-doctoral studies. Additionally, foreign artists holding a Bachelor's degree who plan to pursue a Master's degree in Switzerland are also eligible, though for a limited number of countries. Detailed information on the types of scholarships and eligibility criteria is provided below.

Research Scholarships Available to postgraduate researchers in all academic fields (holding a Master's degree) to pursue a research fellowship, PhD, or Post-doctoral studies. These scholarships facilitate research at one of Switzerland's ten cantonal universities.

• Research Fellowship: This opportunity allows applicants to conduct research in their field of specialization for a PhD at a Swiss cantonal university.

Are you eligible?

Check the main criteria before you apply.

Detailed conditions have not been published yet.

What the scholarship covers

Tuition fees

Included

Living stipend

⁦1,920 CHF⁩

Accommodation

Included

Travel

Included

Required documents

CV / résumé

Motivation letter

Diplomas & transcripts

Passport

Language certificate(Optional)

How to apply

  1. 1

    Identify your country of origin as stated in your passport.

  2. 2

    Review the types of scholarships available for your country.

  3. 3

    Familiarize yourself with the specific eligibility criteria and application deadlines for your country.

  4. 4

    Prepare all required documents, including your research proposal (for research scholarships) and the letter from your host professor.

  5. 5

    Submit your application through the official channels as instructed by the Federal Commission of Scholarships (FCS) for your specific country.

Important dates

  1. 1

    2026-11-29

    Deadline

Frequently asked questions

Q: Can I apply if I don't have a Master's degree?

A: If you are an artist with a Bachelor's degree, you may be eligible for an Arts Scholarship to pursue a Master's. For research scholarships, a Master's degree is generally required.

Q: Is there an age limit for these scholarships?

A: Yes, applicants must be between 22 and 60 years old.

Q: Do I need to find a professor in Switzerland before applying?

A: For Research Fellowships, a mandatory letter from a host university professor in Switzerland, including their brief CV, is a crucial requirement.

Motivation Letter

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