Are you an aspiring researcher or artist seeking to study in Switzerland at world-class institutions like ETH Zurich, EPFL, or top Swiss art academies? Funded by SERI and awarded by the Federal Commission for Scholarships for Foreign Students (FCS), the Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships 2026-27 provide a fully funded opportunity to undertake research or artistic studies in Switzerland.

This globally competitive scholarship program promotes international academic exchange and research collaboration by awarding about 140 fully funded scholarships annually to exceptional postgraduate students from over 180 countries.

About the Swiss Excellence Scholarship Program

Administered by the Swiss Federal Commission (FCS), this program aims to attract early career researchers and artists to contribute to the scientific and cultural advancement of Switzerland. It supports international PhD candidates, postdoctoral researchers, research fellows, and art students pursuing a master’s degree.

You can choose to study at:
• Swiss cantonal universities
• Swiss universities of applied sciences
• ETH Zurich or EPFL
• Art and music schools for selected countries

Scholarship duration: 12 to 36 months depending on program type.

Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships 2026 Overview

Feature	Details
Scholarship Name	Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships 2026–2027
Funding Body	Swiss Confederation via FCS
Host Country	Switzerland
Eligible Programs	Research (PhD/Postdoc), Art Master’s
Monthly Stipend	CHF 1,920 (Research), CHF 3,500 (Postdoc)
Eligible Countries	183+
Application Opening	August 4, 2025
Application Deadline	Sept 30 to Dec 19, 2025 (country-specific)
Program Start Date	September 1, 2026

Scholarship Benefits

• Monthly stipend:
  – CHF 1,920 for research/art students
  – CHF 3,500 for postdoctoral researchers
• One-time CHF 300 rental deposit grant
• Health insurance for non-EU/EFTA awardees
• Half-Fare Travelcard (public transport)
• Return flight allowance for non-EU/EFTA students
• Access to academic/cultural excursions
• Mentorship and supervision by leading Swiss academics

🔎 Note: The scholarship does not cover tuition, conference travel, or field research costs.

Eligibility Criteria

1. For Research & PhD Scholarships
   • If you’re holding a Master’s degree or equivalent by July 31, 2026
   • Born after December 31, 1990
   • A detailed research proposal with academic merit
   • Academic supervisor in Switzerland (mandatory)
   • Not residing in Switzerland before August 1, 2025
2. For Postdoctoral Scholarships
   • PhD completed between January 1, 2023 – July 31, 2026
   • Strong academic and research background
   • Swiss academic supervisor endorsement
3. For Art Scholarships
   • Bachelor’s degree by July 31, 2026
   • Born after December 31, 1990
   • No prior Master’s degree
   • I f you have got your Enrolment/admission already in process at a Swiss art/music school

How to Apply

• Review deadlines for your country: Download PDF
• Contact a professor in Switzerland for academic supervision
• Prepare the following:
  • Detailed CV and degrees
  • Research/art proposal
  • Motivation letter
  • Two academic recommendation letters
  • Language proficiency and health certificate
• Submit via your local Swiss Embassy or Consulate

🗓 Applications open: August 4, 2025
📅 Deadlines vary: Between Sept 30 – Dec 19, 2025

Comparison of Swiss vs Similar Global Scholarships

Feature	Swiss Excellence	DAAD Germany	Fulbright USA	MEXT Japan
Coverage	Tuition + Stipend + Insurance	Full	Tuition + Stipend	Full
Monthly Stipend	CHF 1,920–3,500	€861–1,200	$1,500–2,000	¥143,000–148,000
Host	Switzerland	Germany	USA	Japan
Eligibility	Research/Art	All fields	All fields	All fields
Application Deadline	Sept–Dec 2025	Oct 2025	Sept–Oct 2025	April–May 2026

FAQs About Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships 2026

1. Can I apply for the Swiss Government Scholarship 2026 without a professor’s support?
   No, you must have an academic supervisor in Switzerland who agrees to mentor you.
2. Are tuition fees included in Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships 2026?
   No, tuition is not covered. Some universities may offer fee waivers, but many charge CHF 600–2,000 per semester.
3. What is the monthly stipend amount?
   CHF 1,920 for research and CHF 3,500 for postdoc scholars.
4. Can I apply if I already live in Switzerland?
   Yes, but your residence must have started after August 1, 2025.
5. Is the scholarship available for undergraduate programs?
   No, it is only for postgraduate (master’s, PhD, postdoc, or art master’s).
6. What language is required for applying?
   Most programs require English or German/French proficiency depending on your university’s medium.
7. How competitive is the Swiss Excellence Scholarship?
   Highly competitive. Only 140 scholarships are awarded from over 180 eligible countries.
8. What is the selection timeline of Swiss art scholarships?
   Results are announced by May 2026.
9. Are there age restrictions?
   Yes. Applicants must be born after December 31, 1990.
10. Can I bring my family with me?
    There is no dependent allowance. Any family member’s expenses are your responsibility.

Seize this unique chance to pursue your studies in one of the world’s most peaceful and forward-thinking nations. The Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships 2026-27 offer a life-changing chance to pursue world-class research or art education in Switzerland. Begin contacting Swiss professors today and prepare your application before your country’s deadline. APPLY NOW.

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