The Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships 2027–2028 offer international students and researchers an opportunity to pursue advanced research or postgraduate study in Switzerland. The scholarship programme is awarded by the Swiss Confederation through the Federal Commission for Scholarships for Foreign Students (FCS) and is designed to strengthen international academic exchange and research cooperation between Switzerland and countries around the world.

For the 2027–2028 academic year, the programme is open to applicants from 183 countries, although the scholarship types and application deadlines vary depending on the applicant’s country of origin.

Scholarship Types

The Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships mainly support highly qualified early-career researchers who have completed a Master’s degree. The programme also offers scholarships for talented artists from eligible countries.

1. Research Scholarships

Research scholarships are designed for early-career researchers who wish to conduct a research project at a Swiss higher education institution or recognised research institute.

Applicants generally need:

• A Master’s degree or equivalent completed by 31 July 2027; for ETH Zurich, the deadline is 30 June 2027
• Birth date after 31 December 1991
• A detailed research proposal with a timeline
• A letter of support from an academic supervisor in Switzerland
• Relevant academic qualifications and research experience

A Swiss academic supervisor is mandatory for research fellowship and PhD scholarship applications. Applicants are responsible for finding a suitable supervisor and obtaining the required letter of support.

2. PhD Scholarships

PhD scholarships support qualified researchers who wish to pursue a doctoral degree at a Swiss university or recognised research institution.

The scholarship can be awarded for 12 months and may be renewable twice, up to a maximum of 36 months, subject to academic progress. The programme is intended for full-time research in Switzerland.

Applicants are assessed on factors including their academic profile, research competence, motivation, the originality and methodological quality of their research project, and the quality of supervision and potential for future research collaboration.

3. Art Scholarships

Art scholarships are intended for highly talented young artists who want to pursue their first Master’s degree at a Swiss art school or conservatory.

Applicants must generally have completed a Bachelor’s degree or equivalent by 31 July 2027, be born after 31 December 1991, and provide admission or proof of application to an eligible Swiss university of the arts or music. This scholarship is available only to applicants from a limited number of countries.

Scholarship Benefits

Selected recipients receive a scholarship of CHF 2,450 per month to help cover basic living expenses for one person. The Swiss authorities emphasize that the scholarship is not considered a salary.

Additional benefits can include:

• Health insurance coverage for scholarship holders from non-EU/EFTA countries
• A one-time CHF 600 rental deposit grant
• Half-Fare Travelcard for public transportation
• A return flight allowance for eligible scholarship holders from non-EU/EFTA countries
• Excursions and activities organised for federal scholarship holders

The scholarship does not provide family allowances, and applicants should carefully review the rules concerning additional income, other scholarships and employment.

Who Can Apply?

The programme is primarily intended for highly qualified international researchers and, for eligible countries, talented artists. Requirements differ according to the scholarship type.

For research and PhD scholarships, applicants should normally have completed a Master’s degree or equivalent and must prepare a strong research proposal. A suitable academic supervisor in Switzerland is an essential part of the application.

For art scholarships, applicants must generally hold a Bachelor’s degree or equivalent and must not already have a Master’s degree when beginning the scholarship.

Applicants should also check the specific eligibility requirements and scholarship availability for their country of origin before applying.