Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships

About this scholarship

Monthly stipend of CHF 2,450 plus health insurance, flight and transport benefits; tuition fees not covered. Research: 6-12 months; PhD: up to 36 months; Arts: up to 21 months

Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships eligibility criteria

• Born after 31 December 1991
• Master's degree or equivalent completed by 31 July 2027 (research/PhD); Bachelor's for art scholarships
• Detailed research/project plan required
• Letter of support/acceptance from a Swiss academic supervisor (research scholarships)
• Priority to applicants with no prior Swiss study or research experience
• Applicant's country must be on the ESKAS eligible list (apply via home country)
• Previous ESKAS scholarship recipients are ineligible

Benefits and coverage

• Monthly stipend of CHF 2,450 for basic living expenses
• Health insurance premiums covered (non-EU/EFTA nationals)
• One-time rental deposit grant of CHF 600
• Half-Fare public transport travelcard
• Return airfare to Switzerland (non-EU/EFTA nationals)
• Social and cultural activities via the coordinating body

Required documents

• Completed ESKAS online application form
• Detailed CV (education, awards, publications)
• Letter of motivation (max 2 pages)
• Research proposal on the FCS/ESKAS form (max 5 pages)
• Letter of support from a Swiss supervisor plus supervisor's CV
• Two academic reference letters
• Certified copies of university degrees and transcripts
• Copy of passport

How to apply for the Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships

1. Review the eligibility criteria above and confirm you meet every requirement.
2. Prepare all required documents early — transcripts, CV, recommendation letters and motivation letter.
3. Deadline varies by country; the call opens around August/September with country deadlines running from autumn to winter. Submit a complete application before the official deadline.
4. Always confirm the latest details on the official website before applying.

Frequently asked questions