Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships 2027–2028

The Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships offer international researchers and talented artists the opportunity to study or conduct research at universities and recognised institutions across Switzerland. For the 2027–2028 academic year, the programme is primarily aimed at early-career researchers who have completed a Master’s degree, as well as talented artists seeking their first Master’s degree in Switzerland.

The main research options include Research Fellowships and PhD Scholarships. Applicants generally need a Master’s degree or equivalent completed by 31 July 2027, must be born after 31 December 1991, and must submit a strong research proposal. Research applicants must also secure an academic supervisor at a Swiss higher education institution before applying.

The Art Scholarship is available to talented applicants from a limited number of countries who want to pursue their first Master’s degree in an artistic field. Applicants need a Bachelor’s degree or equivalent and must provide an appropriate artistic portfolio and proof of admission or application to a Swiss arts or music institution.

Selected scholars receive CHF 2,450 per month for basic living expenses. Additional benefits can include health insurance for eligible non-EU/EFTA scholars, a CHF 600 rental-deposit allowance, a public-transport Half-Fare Travelcard, and a return-flight allowance for eligible non-EU/EFTA recipients. Applications for the 2027–2028 scholarships open from 20 August 2026, with country-specific deadlines applying.

Eligibility

Primarily for highly qualified international researchers and artists. Research applicants generally need a relevant Master’s degree, while Art Scholarship applicants need a Bachelor’s degree and must be pursuing their first Master’s in an artistic field. Applicants generally must be born after 31 December 1991. Research applicants also need a Swiss academic supervisor.