Each year, the Swiss Confederation awards Government Excellence Scholarships to encourage international exchange and research cooperation between Switzerland and over 180 other countries. Apply Below.
Application Deadline:
- 31 December 2026
Tell Me About The Award:
The Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships, awarded by the Federal Commission for Scholarships for Foreign Students (FCS/ESKAS), support talented early‑career researchers and artists from over 180 countries. The program promotes international exchange, advanced research, and cooperation with Swiss universities, federal institutes of technology, and research institutions.
Which Fields are Eligible?
- Research Fellowship – postgraduate researchers with a Master’s degree.
- PhD Scholarship – doctoral studies at Swiss universities, ETHZ, EPFL, or ETH Domain institutes.
- Art Scholarship – first Master’s degree in artistic fields (limited eligible countries).
Type:
- Academic Scholarship | International Exchange | Research & Arts
Who can Apply?
Applicants must:
- Hold a Master’s degree (for research/PhD categories).
- Secure support from a Swiss academic supervisor.
- Be from one of the 183 eligible countries.
- For art scholarships: be applying for a first Master’s degree in arts (country restrictions apply).
How are Applicants Selected?
Selection is based on:
- Candidate profile.
- Quality of research project or artistic work.
- Synergies and potential for future cooperation.
Which Countries Are Eligible?
- 183 countries worldwide.
Where will the Award be Taken?
- Swiss cantonal universities, universities of applied sciences, ETH Zurich, EPFL, and ETH Domain institutes (PSI, WSL, Empa, Eawag).
How Many Awards?
- Multiple scholarships awarded annually across categories.
What is the Benefit of the Award?
- Monthly scholarship stipend.
- Tuition support (where applicable).
- Relocation and travel allowances.
- Access to world‑class Swiss research facilities.
- Supervision by leading academics.
- International networking and collaboration opportunities.
- Recognition through a prestigious government‑funded award.
How Long Will the Award Last?
- Duration depends on program type:
- Research Fellowship: 1 year (renewable).
- PhD Scholarship: up to 3–4 years.
- Art Scholarship: duration of Master’s program.
How to Apply:
- Review country‑specific eligibility and instructions (published August 2026).
- Prepare documents:
- Application form.
- Passport copy.
- CV.
- Master’s degree certificate & transcripts.
- Research proposal/study plan.
- Motivation letter.
- Letters of recommendation.
- Language proficiency proof.
- Acceptance/support letter from Swiss supervisor.
- Portfolio (for art applicants).
- Submit the application via the Swiss embassy/diplomatic representation in your country between August and December 2026.
Visit the Application Webpage for Details
