Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships

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Switzerland

Fully Funded

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MSc & Ph.D

November 24, 2024

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The Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships are prestigious awards provided by the Swiss Confederation to promote international research collaboration and cultural exchange. These scholarships are available to postgraduate researchers from over 180 countries, enabling them to pursue research or advanced studies at Swiss public universities, federal institutes of technology, or universities of applied sciences. Art students from select countries can also apply for scholarships to pursue a master’s degree at a Swiss conservatory or university of the arts. The scholarships offer significant financial support, including a monthly stipend, health insurance, tuition fee exemptions, and in some cases, additional allowances for housing and travel. However, it is crucial to note that the application process is entirely free, and applicants should be aware of fraudulent schemes. The scholarships are exclusively offered through Switzerland's official diplomatic representations in the applicants’ home countries, and any unsolicited offers via email or social media are likely scams.

The State Secretariat for Education, Research and Innovation has issued a warning regarding false advertisements for Swiss government scholarships. Fraudsters are attempting to deceive individuals by offering fake scholarships and asking for money transfers under the guise of visa or social insurance costs. The Federal Commission for Scholarships for Foreign Students (FCS) strongly advises the public to disregard these fraudulent offers and emphasizes that the official application process for Swiss government scholarships does not involve any fees. To apply, candidates must follow the official channels through Swiss embassies or consulates in their respective countries, ensuring a secure and legitimate application experience.

To be eligible for the Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships, applicants must meet the following criteria:

Academic Qualifications: Applicants must hold a master’s degree or its equivalent from a recognized university.
For research scholarships, applicants should be planning to pursue research, a PhD, or postdoctoral studies in Switzerland.
Country of Origin: Applicants must be nationals of countries that have been invited to participate in the Swiss Government Excellence Scholarship program. The list of eligible countries is available on the official website.
Language Proficiency: Applicants must demonstrate proficiency in the language of instruction (English, German, French, or Italian) as required by the Swiss university or research institute.
Age Restrictions: Typically, applicants should have been born after December 31, 1987. However, specific age limits may vary depending on the type of scholarship and country of origin.
Residency: Applicants must not have resided in Switzerland for more than a year at the time of application.
Previous Swiss Government Scholarship Holders: Applicants who have already been awarded a Swiss Government Scholarship are generally not eligible to apply for a second one.
Specific Requirements by Scholarship Type:

Research Scholarships: Open to postgraduate researchers (holding at least a master’s degree) in any discipline.
Art Scholarships: Available to art students from specific countries wishing to pursue an initial master’s degree in Switzerland at a conservatory or university of the arts.

8. Host Institution Support:For research scholarships, applicants must obtain a letter of invitation or support from a Swiss professor or research supervisor willing to oversee their project.

Completed Application Form: Obtain and fill out the official application form provided by the Swiss embassy or consulate in your country.
Research Proposal or Study Plan: A detailed proposal outlining the research project or study plan you intend to pursue in Switzerland.
Curriculum Vitae (CV): A comprehensive CV that includes your academic and professional background, as well as a list of publications (if applicable).
Motivation Letter: A letter explaining your reasons for applying, your goals, and how the scholarship will help you achieve them.
Academic Transcripts and Certificates: Certified copies of your academic transcripts and degrees, including your master’s degree certificate or equivalent.
Two Letters of Recommendation: Letters from professors or professional supervisors who can attest to your academic and research capabilities.
Letter of Invitation from Swiss Host (for Research Scholarships): A formal letter from a Swiss professor or research supervisor expressing their willingness to supervise your project.
Proof of Language Proficiency: If required, submit proof of proficiency in the language of instruction (English, German, French, or Italian).
Medical Certificate (if required): A recent medical certificate confirming your physical and mental fitness to study abroad.
Passport Copy: A copy of your passport, showing your personal details and nationality.

Ensure all documents are in English or translated into one of the official languages of Switzerland (German, French, or Italian). Submit your completed application and all supporting documents to the Swiss embassy or consulate in your home country by the specified deadline.

Select Your Country: Choose your country of origin based on your passport.
Check Scholarship Availability: Find out which types of scholarships are available for applicants from your country.
Review Eligibility Criteria: Verify the specific eligibility criteria and application deadlines applicable to your country.
Select a Swiss Institution: Choose a Swiss university or research institution, and secure a letter of invitation from a Swiss professor if required.
Prepare Documents: Gather necessary documents, including your application form, research proposal or study plan, CV, academic transcripts, recommendation letters, and proof of language proficiency.
Submit Application: Submit your application package to the Swiss embassy or consulate in your home country before the deadline.
Review and Selection: Applications are reviewed by the Swiss embassy and the Federal Commission for Scholarships for Foreign Students (FCS) in Switzerland.
Receive Notification: Successful candidates will be notified and provided with further instructions.

Recipients of the Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships receive a comprehensive package of benefits designed to support their research or studies in Switzerland:

Monthly Stipend:Research Scholarships: CHF 1,920 per month for PhD and Postdoctoral researchers.
Art Scholarships: CHF 1,920 per month for master’s students in the arts.
Tuition Fees: Generally, tuition fees are waived or covered by the scholarship, depending on the host institution's policies.
Health Insurance: Basic health insurance coverage is provided for the duration of the scholarship.
Accommodation Allowance: In some cases, an additional housing allowance may be granted to help with accommodation costs.
Travel Expenses: A one-time lump sum is provided to cover flight expenses from the recipient’s home country to Switzerland and back.
Research Funding: A one-time grant may be available for research-related costs, such as fieldwork, materials, or conferences, subject to approval by the host institution.
Special Events and Networking: Access to various academic events, conferences, and cultural activities to enhance the learning experience and provide networking opportunities with other scholars and professionals in Switzerland.

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