
Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships
منح التميز من الحكومة السويسرية
About the scholarship program
The Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships are awarded by the Federal Commission for Scholarships to international researchers holding a master's degree, for research, doctoral or postdoctoral work at Swiss public universities. They typically include a monthly stipend, a tuition waiver and health insurance. Applicants need prior agreement from a supervising professor in Switzerland and usually apply through the Swiss embassy in their country.
Available programmes
Each programme has its own requirements, documents and benefits. Open it to see them in full with the application steps:
The Swiss government awards its Excellence Scholarships for researchers through the ESKAS commission. The Excellence Scholarships for PhD and Research page covers the two types, the deadlines for Arab countries and how to find a supervisor, with the criteria, documents and benefits.
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Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships for PhD and Research 2027–2028
PhDLiving Stipend OnlyAll fieldsDeadline varies by university or programme
Life and living
Switzerland
Life and living
Switzerland
Studying and living in Switzerland
Costs and living
• Tuition: public universities charge low fees for their quality, usually a few hundred to about CHF 2,000 per semester, and some charge more to foreign students. At ETH Zurich, fees for new foreign students rose from CHF 730 to CHF 2,190 per semester from autumn 2025. • Living costs: the University of Zurich puts the minimum at about CHF 1,850 a month, and Zurich University of the Arts estimates living costs at about CHF 1,350 a month (rent about CHF 800). Zurich, Geneva and Lausanne are the most expensive. • Health insurance is compulsory; reduced plans exist for international students.
Working while studying
• During studies: non-European students may work from 6 months after starting their studies, up to 15 hours a week during the semester, and full time during breaks (cantonal rules apply). • After graduation: graduates can get a 6-month short-term permit to look for a job, with proof of funds, accommodation and successful completion of studies. Once hired, the employer applies for a work permit.
Last verified: October 2026· Source
Guide to studying in SwitzerlandFrequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Key questions and answers regarding eligibility, documents, and application steps.
Funding type: Living Stipend Only. Announced benefits: CHF 2,450 a month, Health Insurance, Travel Allowance, Up to 3 Years for a PhD, Rental deposit and travelcard.
Deadline varies by university or programme. Follow the official website for updates.
Required documents: Research proposal, Letter of support from a Swiss supervisor, Curriculum vitae, Two recommendation letters, Degree certificates and transcripts.
Apply directly on the official website: https://www.sbfi.admin.ch/en/swiss-government-excellence-scholarships. ForsaEdu does not receive applications or charge any fee.
Track your academic readiness
Use the checklist in your profile to prepare your documents and make sure you meet this scholarship’s requirements.
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