Swiss Government Excellence Scholarship 2026-2027 Accepting Applications from August 4, 2025 Till December 2025

Switzerland has officially opened applications for the prestigious Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships for the 2026–2027 academic year, inviting early-career researchers, doctoral candidates, and postdoctoral scholars from over 183 countries to apply.

This scholarship program is a flagship initiative by the Swiss Confederation to promote international exchange and research cooperation. If you’re looking to pursue groundbreaking research, advanced doctoral studies, or postdoctoral work in one of the most innovative and academically respected countries in the world, this is your opportunity.

A Scholarship That Builds Global Research Leaders

The Swiss Government Excellence Scholarship is more than just funding—it’s an immersive academic experience in a country known for its cutting-edge innovation, strong research culture, and world-class institutions. This highly competitive scholarship is tailored for international students and researchers who demonstrate academic excellence, original thinking, and a drive to contribute meaningfully to global knowledge and sustainable development. The scholarship not only provides a generous financial package but also offers recipients the chance to become part of Switzerland’s renowned academic community.

Types of Scholarships Available

There are three major types of scholarships under the 2026–2027 call:

1# Research Scholarships — These are open to postgraduate researchers from any academic field who wish to pursue a research stay at a Swiss university, university of applied sciences, federal institute (ETH Zurich or EPFL), or one of the ETH-domain research institutions (PSI, Empa, WSL, or Eawag). A key requirement is having a confirmed academic supervisor in Switzerland who agrees to host and guide your research.

2# PhD Scholarships — These are offered to international students intending to complete a full PhD program in Switzerland. Applicants must already have been admitted to a Swiss doctoral program before applying for the scholarship. This option is ideal for those seeking long-term, immersive doctoral training with full funding.

3# Postdoctoral Scholarships — Designed for scholars who have completed their PhD after December 31, 2020, and before July 31, 2026, this pathway supports postdoctoral research in any discipline at eligible Swiss institutions. Applicants must secure a commitment from a Swiss professor and submit a solid research proposal.

Who Can Apply?

Eligibility is open to nationals from 183 countries, with specific application guidelines and deadlines for each. Applicants must hold the relevant degree for the category they are applying to—Master’s for research and PhD tracks, and a recent PhD for postdoctoral candidates. Importantly, candidates must be born after December 31, 1990, making this scholarship ideal for early-career academics.

Strong language proficiency in English, German, or French (depending on the university or research group) is often expected. Additionally, you’ll need to secure a supporting letter from a Swiss academic supervisor or professor, which is a mandatory part of the application.

Swiss Gov Excellence Scholarship Will Offer the Following Package

This is a fully funded opportunity that includes everything you need to focus on your research or studies without financial stress. Scholarship recipients receive:

• A monthly stipend of CHF 1,920
• Health insurance paid for by the FCS
• Tuition fee exemption, where applicable
• Airfare reimbursement upon completion of the program
• Housing allowance to help offset rental costs
• A Swiss public transport card and discounted access to cultural and academic events
• Additional research funds in special cases

This financial support ensures a stable and productive stay in Switzerland, allowing you to focus fully on your academic goals.

New Process to Apply for Swiss Government Scholarship 2026

Step 1: Check Country-Specific Guidelines
Before anything else, visit the official country-specific application packages and deadlines. These are available at this link: Check Country-Specific Requirements (PDF)

Step 2: Secure a Swiss Supervisor or Admission Letter
You must contact and obtain written confirmation of supervision or admission from a Swiss academic. This letter should detail their willingness to guide your research or academic progress in Switzerland.

Step 3: Prepare Your Documents
Each application must include:

1. 1. A completed FCS application form
   2. A detailed research or study proposal (maximum 5 pages)
   3. Two confidential recommendation letters from academic referees
   4. Copies of academic degrees and transcripts
   5. A signed supervision/admission letter from your Swiss host
   6. A comprehensive CV with a list of publications (if applicable)
   7. A medical certificate and passport copy

Step 4: Submit Your Application to Swiss Authorities in Your Country
Your complete application must be sent to the Swiss Embassy or Consulate in your home country by the specified deadline. Some countries may also ask for electronic copies, so follow your country-specific instructions carefully.

Application Timeline

The application period for this Swiss Excellence Scholarship began on August 4, 2025, and each country has its own submission deadline between September and December 2025. Evaluation of applications takes several months, and successful applicants will be notified by the end of May 2026. Selected candidates will then begin their scholarship-funded studies or research in September 2026.

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