The Swiss Government Excellence Scholarship is a golden ticket for international students seeking a fully funded research or PhD opportunity in one of the world’s most academically innovative and peaceful countries—Switzerland. But here’s the truth: thousands apply each year, and only a few make it through. But if you apply for this Swiss scholarship the right way then you can also make it through!
If you’re aiming to join the next batch of scholars for the 2026–2027 academic year, you’ll need more than good grades and a decent research plan. You’ll need strategy, precision, and a Swiss-style mindset.
Let’s unlock 7 secret, logic-based tips that can skyrocket your chances of success.
1# Choose a Supervisor Before You Apply
One of the core requirements for research and PhD applicants is a letter of support from a Swiss professor. But here’s what most applicants do wrong—they send generic, mass emails to dozens of professors and get ignored.
Smart Tip:
Study the research interests of 2–3 professors deeply. Mention their recent work, and explain exactly how your proposal fits into their lab or department. Professors are more likely to support applicants who are well-informed and genuinely aligned with their work.
2# Align Your Research Proposal with Swiss Priorities
Switzerland doesn’t just fund talent—it funds value-aligned talent. That means your research proposal should match Swiss innovation, sustainability, or academic goals.
Smart Tip:
Check out websites like the Swiss National Science Foundation (SNSF) or major universities like ETH Zurich and University of Lausanne. Look for ongoing research themes and reflect them subtly in your proposal.
3# Show That You’re a Global Ambassador in the Making
This scholarship isn’t just about studying—it’s about building long-term bridges between Switzerland and your home country.
Smart Tip:
In your motivation letter, describe how you plan to contribute back to your country after your degree. Even better, talk about how you can build research or cultural partnerships between your future Swiss host institution and universities in your home region.
4# Add Strategic Impact Statements to Your Motivation Letter
Many applicants talk vaguely about their “dreams” to study in Switzerland. That’s not enough.
Smart Tip:
Use bold, specific, and measurable statements in your motivation letter. For example:
- “I aim to co-publish at least two papers during my time in Switzerland.”
- “My research will lay the groundwork for a water sanitation policy proposal in [Country].”
Swiss selectors appreciate clarity, purpose, and long-term thinking.
5# Decode the Embassy’s Selection Trends
Not all countries have the same selection dynamics. Some favor STEM applicants, others lean toward development studies or humanities.
Smart Tip:
Quietly explore LinkedIn profiles or past blog interviews of previous Swiss Government Scholarship winners from your country. Look for patterns—field of study, university chosen, host professor—and subtly mirror them. This is about playing the game smartly, not blindly.
6# Create a Swiss-Style CV (Yes, It’s a Thing!)
Your CV should mirror Swiss values: clarity, evidence, modesty, and academic rigor.
Smart Tip:
Include:
- Publications (with full citation format)
- Awards and honors (with rankings or selection stats, if available)
- Leadership roles and projects (with outcomes or percentages)
- Languages, research skills, tools/software proficiency.
Avoid over-glorified fluff. Be precise and professional.
7# Infuse “Swissness” into Your Application Tone
Switzerland is known for its neutrality, balance, structure, and perfectionism. Your application tone should mirror that culture.
Smart Tip:
Keep your motivation letter and proposal focused, humble, and impactful. Avoid overconfident claims or flowery prose. Instead, write as someone who’s serious, committed, and intellectually curious.
That’s the kind of applicant Switzerland invests in.
Next Application Round Starting on 4 Aug 2025: https://www.sbfi.admin.ch/en/swiss-government-excellence-scholarships.
