Top 10 Fully Funded Scholarships in Switzerland for International Students 2026

Switzerland is one of the most attractive destinations for international students due to its world-class universities, innovation ecosystem, and high quality of life. Many fully funded scholarships are available for international students in 2026, covering tuition fees, living expenses, travel costs, and health insurance.

Below is a list of the best opportunities to study in Switzerland for free.

1. Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships 2026

Offered by the Swiss Confederation, this is one of the most prestigious scholarships.

• Fully funded for Master’s, PhD, and research programs
• Monthly stipend and living expenses
• Tuition fee coverage
• Travel allowance and health insurance
• Available for students from more than 180 countries

This scholarship aims to promote international research cooperation and academic excellence.

2. ETH Zurich Excellence Scholarship and Opportunity Programme

The ETH Zurich is ranked among the top universities globally.

• Covers full tuition fees
• Monthly living stipend
• Support for accommodation
• Open to outstanding Master’s students

This scholarship is highly competitive and focuses on academic excellence.

3. EPFL Excellence Fellowships

The École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne offers scholarships for Master’s programs.

• Financial support for international students
• Monthly stipend
• Housing support
• Access to advanced research facilities

EPFL is known for innovation, engineering, and technology.

4. University of Geneva Excellence Master Fellowship

The University of Geneva offers funding in science and related disciplines.

• Fully or partially funded
• Monthly stipend
• Access to global research networks
• Opportunities in international organizations

5. University of Lausanne Master’s Grants

The University of Lausanne supports talented international students.

• Financial support for Master’s degrees
• Monthly stipend
• Competitive selection process
• Diverse academic programs

6. CERN Summer Student Programme

The CERN offers one of the best fully funded internships.

• Travel costs covered
• Monthly allowance
• Free accommodation
• Opportunity to work with leading scientists

This program is ideal for students in physics, engineering, and IT.

7. IMD MBA Scholarships

The IMD Business School offers several fully funded MBA scholarships.

• Covers tuition and living expenses
• Leadership and entrepreneurship focus
• Global networking opportunities
• Ideal for professionals and business leaders

8. Graduate Institute Geneva Scholarships

The Graduate Institute of International and Development Studies provides funding for international students.

• Fully funded Master’s and PhD programs
• Monthly stipend
• International career opportunities
• Strong focus on global development

9. University of Bern Scholarships

The University of Bern offers funded opportunities in multiple disciplines.

• Tuition and living support
• Research opportunities
• Scholarships for Master’s and PhD
• High employability prospects

10. Zurich University of Applied Sciences Scholarships

The Zurich University of Applied Sciences supports applied research and professional programs.

• Tuition support
• Financial aid
• Industry-focused programs
• Internship opportunities

Why Study in Switzerland?

• World-class universities and research centers
• Strong job and internship opportunities
• Multicultural and international environment
• Safe and high-quality lifestyle
• Gateway to global careers

Final Thoughts

Switzerland offers some of the most prestigious and competitive scholarships in the world. These fully funded opportunities allow international students to study in Europe without financial burden while gaining access to cutting-edge research, global networks, and career opportunities.

Students should prepare early, focus on academic excellence, and develop strong research or leadership profiles to increase their chances of success.