Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships

The Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships are aimed at promoting international exchange and research cooperation between Switzerland and over 180 other countries. Administered by the Federal Commission for Scholarships for Foreign Students (FCS) under the State Secretariat for Education, Research and Innovation (SERI), these prestigious national awards support foreign researchers who hold a master's degree or doctorate to conduct research or further their education in Switzerland.

Who it's for

The scholarship program is open to young researchers from around the world across all academic disciplines. It encompasses three primary award categories: PhD Scholarships for master's degree holders wishing to complete a full doctorate; Research Fellowships for researchers pursuing doctoral or non-degree research stays; and Postdoctoral Scholarships for researchers with a recently completed PhD. Candidates must demonstrate academic excellence and present a research proposal that has been formally accepted by a supervising professor at an eligible Swiss university or federal institute (such as ETH Zurich or EPFL).

What it covers

The scholarship provides full financial support throughout the research stay. Fellows receive a monthly tax-free living allowance ranging from CHF 1,920 (for PhD and research fellows) to CHF 3,500 (for postdoctoral scholars). The scholarship also provides complete health and accident insurance coverage, a one-off housing allowance of CHF 300, a public transportation half-fare pass, and return flight allowances where applicable.

• Master's degree or PhD achieved prior to the commencement of the scholarship.
• Academic excellence and a solid publication or research track record.
• Written letter of endorsement and supervision from an academic host professor in Switzerland.
• Comprehensive and feasible research proposal with clear timelines.
• Applicant must not have resided in Switzerland for more than one year prior to scholarship start.

• Monthly living stipend of CHF 1,920 (PhD/Research) or CHF 3,500 (Postdoc).
• Full exemption from university tuition fees at Swiss public universities.
• Mandatory Swiss health insurance and accident insurance paid by the FCS.
• One-off accommodation allowance of CHF 300 paid upon arrival.
• Return flight allowance for scholars from non-European countries.
• Swiss public transport half-fare card (Halbtax) for discounted national travel.

1. Identify a supervising professor at an eligible Swiss university, ETH Zurich, EPFL, or research institute and obtain their official letter of acceptance.
2. Obtain the official application package from the Swiss Embassy or diplomatic representation in your home country.
3. Prepare all required documents, including the FCS application form, research proposal, CV, and letters of recommendation.
4. Submit your completed application package directly to the Swiss Embassy in your home country.
5. Embassy deadlines fall between October and December 2026 (typically by November 30, 2026 depending on the country).