Switzerland is renowned worldwide for its high-quality higher education system and reputation for academic and research excellence. For exceptional international students seeking to study at the postgraduate level in Switzerland, the Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships offer a premier opportunity to gain admission to top Swiss universities completely free of tuition fees.
Overview of the Scholarship Program
The Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships are merit-based scholarships awarded by the Swiss Federal Commission for Scholarships for Foreign Students (FCS) on behalf of the Swiss government. Established in 1985, the program aims to promote international exchange and cooperation in science, research and innovation by attracting top talent from around the world to study at Swiss universities and research institutions at the master’s, doctorate, and postdoctoral levels.
Each year, the FCS offers around 250 scholarships across all academic disciplines and language regions of Switzerland. The scholarships are very competitive, with only about 15% of applications being successful. However, for those who receive an award, it covers tuition fees, monthly living expenses, insurance costs, and travel expenses to and from Switzerland – essentially providing free higher education at world-class Swiss institutions.
Key Facts about the Scholarship Program:
- Open to nationals of all countries worldwide
- Covers Master’s, PhD, and postdoctoral study levels
- Wide range of eligible academic fields across sciences, engineering, humanities, and social sciences
- Scholarships awarded regionally for study in French-, German- or Italian-speaking regions of Switzerland
- Tuition, living expenses, insurance, and travel are covered by the scholarship
- Duration ranges from 8-24 months for a master’s, 12-36 months for a PhD
- The deadline for applications is exactly 31 October each year
With these prestigious, fully-funded scholarships, outstanding students have a unique opportunity for an internationally-recognized Swiss education at top universities. Let’s explore the eligibility criteria and application process in more detail.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for a Swiss Government Excellence Scholarship, candidates must fulfill both the academic and language criteria:
Academic Requirements
- Have completed a first university degree with outstanding academic results
- Have a clearly defined research/study project that can be carried out in Switzerland
- For PhD candidates who have obtained acceptance from a Swiss university to pursue their doctoral studies
- For postdoctoral applicants who have obtained a faculty position or postdoctoral fellowship in Switzerland
Language Requirements
- Demonstrate mastery of the language of instruction for the chosen university
- This will typically be one of Switzerland’s national languages: French, German, Italian, or English for certain programs
- Applicants must provide official language certificates as proof of proficiency
Additional requirements:
- Be aged 30 or under at the start of the scholarship
- Not being a resident of Switzerland
- Intend to return to their country of origin after completion of studies
Meeting both academic and language standards is crucial. The scholarship competition is extremely selective, so presenting strong academic credentials along with requisite language abilities is key to a successful application.
Application Process
Those who fulfill the eligibility criteria can begin the application process, which takes place entirely online through the FCS website [link]. Here are the main application steps:
1. Choose Study Destination
Applicants must select the intended French-, German- or Italian-speaking region of Switzerland where they wish to pursue their studies based on the university programs and research opportunities available.
2. Complete Online Application Form
Provide personal details, education history, language proficiency, research proposal, references, etc. Applications can only be submitted online through the FCS applicant portal.
3. Upload Required Supporting Documents
Certified copies of degrees/transcripts, language certificates, letters of acceptance from a Swiss university, letters of recommendation, motivation letter, CV/resume, etc.
4. Application Deadline
All applications and supporting documents must be fully submitted online before the 31 October deadline each year. Late or incomplete applications won’t be tolerated.
5. Evaluation and Selection Process
Applications undergo detailed evaluation by the respective regional admission committees based on academic excellence, research potential, language skills and other criteria. Shortlisted candidates may need to participate in an interview.
6. Award Notification
All applicants will be notified of the final decision by mid-April the following year. Successful candidates will receive an official scholarship contract outlining terms and monetary benefits.
The entire application and review procedure takes approximately 6 months. With thorough preparation and strong credentials, dedicated scholars stand an excellent chance at this outstanding scholarship opportunity.
Fields of Study
The Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships are awarded across an extensive range of academic disciplines relevant to Switzerland’s research and innovation landscape. Some of the most popular fields studied by scholarship recipients include:
Sciences and Engineering
- Physics
- Chemistry
- Biology
- Computer Science
- Engineering (electrical, mechanical, civil, etc.)
- Environmental Sciences
- Materials Science
- Nanosciences
Social Sciences and Humanities
- Economics
- Political Science
- International Relations
- Law
- History
- Languages
- Communication Studies
- Sociology
Medical and Health
- Medicine
- Pharmacology
- Biomedical Sciences
- Public Health
- Nursing
Business and Management
- Management
- Finance
- Marketing
- Entrepreneurship
The strengths and global recognition of Swiss universities give scholars access to excellent research facilities and world-class faculty across a truly diverse range of scholarships. This creates unmatched opportunities for advanced study and specialization.
Scholarship Benefits and Duration
For successful candidates, Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships provide extremely generous financial support and benefits that cover all essential costs of studying in Switzerland:
- Full waiver of tuition fees at bachelor’s, master’s, or PhD level
- Monthly living expense contribution of CHF 1,920 for master’s and CHF 2,320 for PhD
- Additional family allowances, if applicable
- Comprehensive individual health, accident, and liability insurance
- A one-time travel allowance of a maximum of CHF 1,000
The standard duration is:
- 12-24 months for master’s programs
- 12-36 months for PhD studies (must obtain admission from a Swiss university first)
- Up to 24 months for postdoctoral fellowships
Scholars can comfortably focus solely on their studies and research without concerns over financial hardship. This allows maximizing academic performance and truly utilizing Switzerland’s educational resources to their fullest potential.
Tips for a Winning Application
With such a competitive selection process, it is crucial to present the strongest possible application. Here are some tips refined over years of scholarship success:
Research Thoroughly
- Study university programs and research match closely to the research statement
- Connect personally with professors for letters of support
Show Academic Excellence
- Highlight top grades, awards, publications impressively
- Demonstrate research experience and innovation potential
Prove Language Proficiency
- Include official certificates at the required CEFR level
- Describe language use personally and professionally
Craft Purposeful Statements
- Clearly outline significant research question and methodology
- Convey authentic motivation and Switzerland’s relevance to goals
Seek Solid Recommendations
- From respected professors who can evaluate aptitude accurately
- Possibly previous employers affirming drive and accomplishments
Be Consistent and Organized
- Present application sections cohesively and error-free
- Carefully proofread all content for clarity and quality
Top-scoring applications truly excite the review committee about an applicant’s future success and value to Switzerland. With diligent work, shining candidates emerge victorious from this highly rewarding process.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to some commonly asked questions about the Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships:
1. What are the success rates?
On average, only around 15% of applications are successful each year. With highly-qualified candidates worldwide, competition is intense. Presenting an outstanding profile greatly increases chances.
2. Can I apply to multiple Swiss universities?
No, applicants must select a single preferred region of study during application and obtain admission commitment from one university. Applying to multiple simultaneously risks a negative evaluation.
3. What fields are less competitive?
While all subjects attract top applicants, certain niche areas within sciences, engineering, and humanities sometimes see relatively fewer candidates. Unique research proposals here stand out positively.
4. Will my spouse/family receive funding?
No additional allowances are provided beyond the scholars themselves. Partners/dependents requiring visas and permits must demonstrate independent means of financial support.
5. Can I work part-time in Switzerland?
Scholarship holders are allowed limited employment of 15- 20 hours per week, subject to restrictions. Work must not conflict with study obligations or the post-graduation return policy of the scholarship terms.