Are you dreaming of pursuing advanced studies in Switzerland? Then the Swiss Government Excellence Scholarship might be your golden ticket which is about to open its applications window for the class of 2026-2027. But before packing your bags for the Alps, let’s break down two key questions every international student asks: How much financial support does this scholarship offer? and Are you allowed to work while studying in Switzerland on a student visa?
How Much is the Swiss Excellence Scholarship 2026 Worth?
The Swiss Excellence Scholarship—also known as the ESKAS Scholarship—is funded by the Swiss Confederation and administered by the Federal Commission for Scholarships for Foreign Students (FCS). It’s designed to promote international exchange and research cooperation between Switzerland and over 180 countries.
Here’s what you can expect in terms of financial support:
Scholarship Amounts:
- CHF 1,920/month for Research Scholars and PhD students
- CHF 3,500/month for Postdoctoral researchers
This amount is not a salary, but a monthly stipend intended to help you cover living expenses such as accommodation, food, and transportation.
Additional Benefits:
- Full health insurance for non-EU/EFTA scholarship holders
- One-time housing allowance of around CHF 300
- Half-fare public transport card
- Return airfare (after completion of the scholarship)
- Tuition fee waivers (if negotiated with the host university).
The scholarship usually lasts for 12 months but can be extended for up to 36 months for PhD candidates. Postdoctoral awards are fixed for a maximum of 12 months and are non-renewable.
Is It Allowed to Work While on a Study Visa in Switzerland (2026)?
This is a crucial question for many international students—especially those who may need a little extra income or want to gain work experience.
The Good News:
Yes, international students in Switzerland can work, but with restrictions.
- Non-EU/EFTA students are allowed to work up to 15 hours per week during the semester and full-time during semester breaks.
- However, you can only start working six months after you begin your studies, and you must get authorization from the cantonal immigration office and your university.
For Scholarship Recipients:
If you’re funded by the Swiss Excellence Scholarship, working part-time is not guaranteed by the scholarship itself. Your residence permit and your canton’s regulations will decide whether you’re allowed to work.
Also, since the scholarship is designed to fund your research and living costs, the Swiss government encourages you to focus on your studies and research responsibilities rather than work.
After Graduation: Can You Stay in Switzerland for Work?
Yes! Once you complete your program, Switzerland offers an exciting pathway:
- You can stay in Switzerland for up to 6 months after graduation to find a job.
- During this time, you’re allowed to work to support yourself while job hunting.
- If you secure a relevant job during this period, you can then apply for a work permit and transition into a longer-term career in Switzerland.
References
- Swiss Government Excellence Scholarship Recruitment Starting on August 4, 2025
- https://www.eda.admin.ch/countries/pakistan/en/home/services/scholarships.html.
