The Swiss Government Research Funding 2027 programme is now welcoming international applications through the Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships 2027–2028. Funded by the Swiss Confederation, this prestigious initiative supports talented early-career researchers and artists from more than 180 countries, promoting international academic exchange and research collaboration with leading Swiss universities and research institutions.
Administered by the Federal Commission for Scholarships for Foreign Students (FCS/ESKAS), the programme offers fully funded opportunities for postgraduate researchers to undertake research, PhD studies, and artistic education in Switzerland.
About the Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships
The Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships are awarded annually to outstanding international scholars to strengthen global research cooperation between Switzerland and partner countries.
The programme supports researchers who have demonstrated academic excellence and wish to conduct advanced research or doctoral studies at recognized Swiss higher education institutions under the supervision of experienced academic mentors.
Scholarships are available to applicants from 183 eligible countries, making this one of the world’s most competitive and internationally recognized government-funded research programmes.
About the Research Funding Programme
The research funding programme enables international scholars to pursue innovative research projects across a wide range of academic disciplines at Swiss universities, universities of applied sciences, federal institutes of technology, and research institutes.
Successful applicants work alongside leading researchers while contributing to scientific advancement and strengthening international research partnerships.
Scholarship Categories
The Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships include several funding opportunities:
Research Fellowship
Research fellowships are available for postgraduate researchers wishing to undertake research at eligible Swiss institutions under the supervision of a Swiss academic host.
PhD Scholarships
Outstanding Master’s degree holders may apply for fully funded PhD scholarships that support doctoral studies at Swiss universities and research institutions.
Art Scholarships
Art scholarships support students pursuing an initial Master’s degree in artistic disciplines at eligible Swiss institutions. These awards are available to applicants from selected countries.
Scholarship Benefits
Successful scholars may receive:
- Monthly scholarship of CHF 2,450.
- Full funding for approved research or study.
- Access to world-class Swiss universities.
- Supervision by leading academic researchers.
- International research collaboration opportunities.
- Participation in Switzerland’s globally recognized research ecosystem.
- Professional networking opportunities.
- Academic and cultural exchange experiences.
- Enhanced international research profile.
- Opportunity to study in one of the world’s leading education systems.
Eligible Host Institutions
Research may be conducted at:
- Swiss cantonal universities.
- Universities of Applied Sciences.
- ETH Zurich (ETHZ).
- EPFL.
- Paul Scherrer Institute (PSI).
- Swiss Federal Institute for Forest, Snow and Landscape Research (WSL).
- Empa.
- Eawag.
Applicants must obtain the support of an academic supervisor in Switzerland before submitting their application.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants should generally:
- Be international applicants from an eligible country.
- Hold a completed Master’s degree for research and PhD scholarships.
- Be talented early-career researchers.
- Be 35 years old or younger (where applicable).
- Secure supervision from a Swiss academic host for research scholarships.
- Meet the admission requirements of the chosen institution.
Eligibility requirements vary depending on the scholarship category.
Fields of Research
Applications are welcomed across virtually all academic disciplines, including:
- Artificial Intelligence.
- Computer Science.
- Engineering.
- Medicine.
- Public Health.
- Environmental Science.
- Climate Change.
- Agriculture.
- Biotechnology.
- Chemistry.
- Physics.
- Mathematics.
- Economics.
- Social Sciences.
- Education.
- Business.
- Law.
- Humanities.
- Life Sciences.
- Data Science.
Researchers from interdisciplinary fields are also encouraged to apply.
Selection Criteria
Applications are evaluated by the Federal Commission for Scholarships for Foreign Students based on:
- Academic excellence.
- Quality of the proposed research project or artistic work.
- Candidate profile.
- Potential for future international research collaboration.
Competition is highly selective, and only the strongest applications are awarded scholarships.
Application Process
Applicants should:
- Review the scholarship requirements for their country.
- Identify an eligible Swiss university or research institution.
- Secure an academic supervisor where required.
- Prepare the required application documents.
- Submit the application through the Swiss diplomatic representation in their country.
- Await evaluation by the Federal Commission for Scholarships for Foreign Students.
Applications are submitted free of charge. Applicants should beware of fraudulent scholarship offers requesting payment.
Important Dates
Key dates for the 2027–2028 scholarship cycle include:
- Application information published: August 2026.
- Applications open: 20 August 2026.
- Scholarship decisions announced: By the end of May before the academic year begins.
- 2028–2029 scholarships expected to open: August 2027.
Applicants should regularly monitor official announcements for country-specific deadlines.
Why Study in Switzerland?
Switzerland is internationally recognized for excellence in higher education, scientific research, innovation, and technology. Scholars benefit from access to world-class laboratories, internationally renowned professors, outstanding research infrastructure, and collaborative academic environments.
Studying in Switzerland also provides valuable international networking opportunities and enhances future academic and professional careers.
Conclusion
The Swiss Government Research Funding 2027 programme offers an exceptional opportunity for talented researchers and artists worldwide to pursue advanced education and research at some of Europe’s leading institutions. With generous financial support, access to internationally recognized universities, and opportunities to collaborate with distinguished researchers, the Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships continue to attract outstanding scholars from around the globe.
Researchers planning to study or conduct research in Switzerland should begin preparing their applications early and ensure they meet all eligibility requirements before the application period opens.
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