Swiss Government Excellence Scholarship 2027: How to Win CHF 1,920/Month to Study in Switzerland

Introduction

Switzerland is home to some of the world’s most respected research institutions — ETH Zurich, EPFL, the University of Zurich, and the University of Geneva, among others. For international researchers and artists, the Swiss Government Excellence Scholarship (known in German as Eidgenössische Stipendien für ausländische Studierende und Kunstschaffende, or ESKAS) is one of the most competitive and generous fully funded scholarships available in Europe.

The scholarship provides a monthly stipend of CHF 1,920 for PhD researchers and CHF 3,500 for postdoctoral researchers, along with tuition waivers, mandatory health insurance, and in some cases, round-trip airfare and a housing allowance.

This article is written for graduate students, early-career researchers, and arts students who want to understand exactly what this scholarship covers, who qualifies, and how to prepare a strong application for the 2027–2028 academic cycle.

Important note on timing: As of June 2025, the 2027–2028 application cycle has not yet officially opened. The Swiss State Secretariat for Education, Research and Innovation (SERI) typically opens applications around August or September of the year preceding the academic start date. This means the 2027–2028 cycle will likely open around August 2026. The information in this guide is based on the most recently published SERI guidelines and previous application cycles. Always confirm the latest details on the official SERI scholarship page before applying.

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What Is the Swiss Government Excellence Scholarship?

The Swiss Government Excellence Scholarship is a fully funded scholarship programme administered by the State Secretariat for Education, Research and Innovation (SERI) on behalf of the Swiss federal government. Selection is carried out by the Federal Commission for Scholarships for Foreign Students (FCS).

The programme has been running for decades and is open to citizens of over 180 countries that have bilateral agreements with Switzerland. It is designed to promote international exchange and research collaboration between Switzerland and partner nations.

Unlike many scholarships that fund taught coursework, the Swiss Government Excellence Scholarship is primarily a research scholarship. It funds:

• PhD research at a Swiss university or federal institute of technology
• Postdoctoral research at a Swiss higher education institution
• Art Master’s studies at a Swiss conservatory or university of the arts (available to applicants from a limited number of countries only)

It does not fund undergraduate degrees or standard taught Master’s programmes (with the exception of the art scholarship track). This is one of the most commonly misunderstood aspects of the programme, and applicants who apply with the wrong degree objective are routinely rejected.

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Types of Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships

1. Research Scholarship for PhD Students

• Who it’s for: International students who have completed a Master’s degree (or equivalent) and want to pursue a PhD at a Swiss university.
• Duration: Up to 3 years, renewed annually based on academic progress.
• Monthly stipend: CHF 1,920
• Availability: Open to applicants from all countries with which SERI has an active bilateral agreement.

2. Research Scholarship for Postdoctoral Researchers

• Who it’s for: Researchers who have completed their PhD within the last five years and want to conduct postdoctoral research at a Swiss institution.
• Duration: 12 months (non-renewable).
• Monthly stipend: CHF 3,500
• Availability: Open to applicants from all partner countries.

3. Art Scholarship for Master’s Students

• Who it’s for: Students who have completed a Bachelor’s degree in an arts discipline and wish to pursue a Master’s at a Swiss conservatory or university of the arts.
• Duration: 1 academic year (12 months).
• Monthly stipend: CHF 1,920
• Availability: Limited to applicants from a specific list of countries. The eligible country list is published by SERI each cycle.

4. PhD Scholarship for Specific Partner Countries

• Who it’s for: Students from selected developing and transition countries who wish to complete an entire PhD in Switzerland.
• Duration: Up to 3 years.
• Monthly stipend: CHF 1,920
• Availability: Restricted to a smaller list of partner countries determined by SERI.

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What Does “Fully Funded” Actually Cover?

The term “fully funded” is widely used in scholarship discussions, but it is important to understand exactly what the Swiss Government Excellence Scholarship includes — and what it does not.

What IS Covered

What Is NOT Covered

• Family expenses: The scholarship is designed for the individual recipient. Costs for a spouse or children are not included.
• Research costs: Laboratory fees, fieldwork expenses, and conference travel are generally the responsibility of the host institution or the researcher.
• Excess living costs: Switzerland is one of the most expensive countries in the world. The CHF 1,920 stipend covers basic living expenses but may not be sufficient for all lifestyles, particularly in cities like Zurich or Geneva.
• Language courses: Unless specifically arranged by the host institution.

Bottom line: The scholarship is genuinely fully funded for the individual scholar’s core needs — tuition, living stipend, and health insurance. But you should budget carefully, especially if you plan to bring dependents.

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Eligibility Requirements

Eligibility varies slightly by scholarship type and by country of origin, but the following are the general requirements published by SERI:

For PhD Research Scholarships

• You must hold a Master’s degree or equivalent from a recognized university, completed before the scholarship start date.
• You must be born after 31 December 1991 (for the 2025–2026 cycle; the age cutoff shifts forward each year, so for the 2027–2028 cycle, the cutoff will likely be 31 December 1993 — confirm with SERI when the call opens).
• You must not have been resident in Switzerland for more than one year at the time of application.
• You must have a confirmed academic supervisor at a Swiss university or federal institute of technology who has agreed in writing to supervise your research.
• You must submit a detailed research proposal with a clear timeline.
• You must demonstrate proficiency in the language of instruction (English, German, French, or Italian, depending on the host institution and field).

For Postdoctoral Scholarships

• You must have obtained your PhD no more than five years before the scholarship start date.
• You must have a confirmed host professor at a Swiss institution.
• You must submit a research proposal endorsed by the host.
• The same residency and language requirements apply.

For Art Scholarships

• You must hold a Bachelor’s degree in an arts discipline.
• You must be born after the specified date (varies by cycle).
• You must be a citizen of one of the eligible countries for the art track.
• You must have been accepted or have a confirmed place at a Swiss arts institution.

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How to Apply: The Application Process

The Swiss Government Excellence Scholarship has a distinctive application process that differs from many other fully funded scholarships.

Step 1 — Determine Your Application Channel

Depending on your country of citizenship, you will apply through one of two channels:

• Swiss Embassy or Consulate in your home country: For most countries, the Swiss diplomatic representation handles the initial application review.
• Directly to SERI: For a smaller number of countries, applications go directly to the State Secretariat in Bern.

The specific channel for your country is listed on the SERI country-specific information pages.

Step 2 — Secure a Swiss Academic Supervisor

This is the single most important step and the one that causes the most rejections. Before you can apply, you must:

1. Identify a professor or research group at a Swiss university whose work aligns with your research interests.
2. Contact them directly with your CV, research proposal outline, and a clear explanation of why you want to work with them.
3. Obtain a written letter of confirmation stating that they are willing to supervise your research if you receive the scholarship.

Without this letter, your application will not be considered. Start this process at least 6–12 months before the application deadline.

Step 3 — Prepare Your Documents

Typical required documents include:

• Completed application form (provided by SERI or the Swiss Embassy)
• Full CV with publication list (if applicable)
• Research proposal (5–8 pages, including methodology, timeline, and expected outcomes)
• Letter of confirmation from your Swiss academic supervisor
• Two academic reference letters
• Certified copies of all academic degrees and transcripts
• Copy of your passport
• Language proficiency certificate (if required by the host institution)
• Motivation letter
• Artistic portfolio (for art scholarship applicants only)

Step 4 — Submit Before the Deadline

Deadlines vary by country and by application channel. For most countries, the deadline falls between November and December of the year before the academic start. Some countries have earlier deadlines.

Step 5 — Selection Process

Applications undergo a multi-stage review:

1. Initial screening by the Swiss Embassy or SERI for completeness and eligibility.
2. Academic evaluation by the Federal Commission for Scholarships (FCS), which assesses the research proposal, academic record, and potential for contribution.
3. Final decision communicated to applicants around May or June of the application year.

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Opportunities for African Students

The Swiss Government Excellence Scholarship is open to citizens of many African countries. Based on previous cycles, eligible African nations have included (but are not limited to):

• Nigeria
• South Africa
• Ghana
• Kenya
• Ethiopia
• Tanzania
• Uganda
• Cameroon
• Senegal
• Egypt
• Morocco
• Tunisia
• Rwanda
• Mozambique
• Madagascar

Important: The list of eligible countries can change from cycle to cycle. Some African countries may be eligible for the PhD and postdoctoral tracks but not for the art scholarship track. Always verify your country’s eligibility on the official SERI page when the 2027–2028 call opens.

Specific Considerations for Nigerian Applicants

Nigerian applicants have historically been eligible for the PhD and postdoctoral research scholarships. Applications from Nigeria are typically processed through the Swiss Embassy in Abuja. Nigerian applicants should:

• Begin contacting Swiss professors early, as the competition is intense.
• Ensure all academic documents are properly certified and, if necessary, translated into English, French, or German.
• Be prepared for the visa application process at the Swiss Embassy, which can take several weeks.
• Note that the monthly stipend of CHF 1,920 (approximately NGN 3.2–3.5 million depending on exchange rates) is intended to cover living costs in Switzerland, which are significantly higher than in Nigeria.

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Important Things to Know Before Applying

The Competition Is Fierce

The Swiss Government Excellence Scholarship receives thousands of applications each year for a limited number of awards. In recent cycles, the FCS has awarded approximately 200–300 scholarships across all categories and countries. This means the acceptance rate is low, and a strong research proposal with a committed Swiss supervisor is essential.

Switzerland Is Expensive

While CHF 1,920 per month is a reasonable stipend by Swiss standards, it is not luxurious. Rent in Zurich or Geneva can easily consume CHF 800–1,200 per month for a modest room. Budget carefully and investigate whether your host institution offers subsidized student housing.

You Need a Supervisor First

This cannot be overstated. The most common reason for rejection is the absence of a confirmed Swiss academic supervisor. Do not wait until the application deadline to begin this process. Start reaching out to professors at least one year in advance.

The Scholarship Is Not for Taught Master’s Programmes

If you are looking for a fully funded scholarship to pursue a standard taught Master’s degree in business, engineering, or the humanities, this is not the right scholarship. The only Master’s-level funding is through the art scholarship track, which is restricted to specific arts disciplines and countries.

Beware of Fraud

• The Swiss Government Excellence Scholarship does not charge an application fee.
• SERI and the Swiss Embassies will never ask for payment via wire transfer, cryptocurrency, or mobile money.
• The only official source of information is the SERI website (sbfi.admin.ch).
• If anyone contacts you via WhatsApp, Telegram, or social media claiming to “guarantee” you this scholarship in exchange for money, it is a scam.

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Step-by-Step Application Guide for the 2027–2028 Cycle

Step 1 — Confirm your eligibility (citizenship, degree, age, residency). Check the SERI website when the 2027–2028 call opens.

Step 2 — Identify potential Swiss supervisors. Search university department pages at ETH Zurich, EPFL, University of Zurich, University of Bern, University of Geneva, University of Basel, University of Lausanne, and other Swiss institutions.

Step 3 — Contact professors with a tailored email. Include your CV, a brief research outline, and a clear explanation of why their group is the right fit.

Step 4 — Secure a written confirmation letter from a Swiss professor willing to supervise you.

Step 5 — Prepare your research proposal. This should be 5–8 pages, clearly structured with objectives, methodology, timeline, and expected outcomes.

Step 6 — Gather all required documents (transcripts, degrees, references, passport copy, language certificates).

Step 7 — Complete the official application form from SERI or your local Swiss Embassy.

Step 8 — Submit your application through the correct channel (Embassy or SERI) before your country-specific deadline.

Step 9 — Save your submission confirmation and monitor your email for updates.

Step 10 — If selected, begin the Swiss student visa process through your local Swiss Embassy. Visa processing can take 8–12 weeks.

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11. SCHOLARSHIP COMPARISON TABLE

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12. COUNTRY-BY-COUNTRY OPPORTUNITIES

Since the Swiss Government Excellence Scholarship is a single programme with country-specific application procedures rather than separate country-based scholarships, the relevant breakdown is by host institution in Switzerland:

ETH Zurich (Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Zurich)

• Fields: Engineering, natural sciences, mathematics, architecture, computer science
• Language: Primarily English at the PhD level
• Notes: One of the most competitive host institutions. Strong supervisor match is critical.

EPFL (École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne)

• Fields: Engineering, computer science, life sciences, architecture
• Language: English and French
• Notes: Located in the French-speaking part of Switzerland. Excellent research infrastructure.

University of Zurich

• Fields: Medicine, law, economics, humanities, natural sciences
• Language: German and English (varies by faculty)
• Notes: Largest university in Switzerland. Broad range of research groups.

University of Geneva

• Fields: International relations, law, sciences, medicine, humanities
• Language: French and English
• Notes: Strong in international organizations and diplomacy-related research.

University of Bern

• Fields: Space sciences, climate research, law, medicine
• Language: German and English
• Notes: Home to several specialized research centres.

University of Basel

• Fields: Life sciences, chemistry, humanities, law
• Language: German and English
• Notes: Switzerland’s oldest university. Strong pharmaceutical and biotech connections.

University of Lausanne

• Fields: Biology, medicine, law, business, social sciences
• Language: French and English
• Notes: Collaborative research environment with EPFL.

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13. APPLICATION GUIDE

(See the step-by-step guide in the main article body above.)

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14. IMPORTANT WARNINGS

• No application fee: The Swiss Government Excellence Scholarship does not charge any fee. If you are asked to pay, it is a scam.
• No guaranteed outcomes: ScholarCareer.com does not guarantee admission, scholarship selection, or visa approval.
• Verify everything on the official SERI website before making any decisions or payments.
• Deadlines are strict. Late applications are not accepted under any circumstances.
• The 2027–2028 cycle details have not yet been published. All dates and figures in this article are based on previous cycles and may change.
• Do not rely on third-party agents who claim to have “insider access” to the selection committee.

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15. FAQ

1. Is the Swiss Government Excellence Scholarship fully funded?
Yes, for the individual recipient. It covers a monthly stipend (CHF 1,920 for PhD, CHF 3,500 for postdoc), tuition fees, and mandatory health insurance. Airfare and housing allowances are provided in some cases. It does not cover family expenses or research costs.

2. Can I apply for a Master’s degree with this scholarship?
Only if you are applying for the Art Scholarship track, which funds a Master’s in an arts discipline at a Swiss conservatory or arts university. Standard taught Master’s programmes in other fields are not eligible.

3. What is the monthly stipend amount?
PhD researchers and art scholarship holders receive CHF 1,920 per month. Postdoctoral researchers receive CHF 3,500 per month. These figures are based on the most recent published SERI guidelines and may be adjusted for future cycles.

4. Do I need to speak German or French?
It depends on your host institution and field of study. Many PhD programmes at ETH Zurich, EPFL, and other institutions are conducted in English. However, some faculties at the Universities of Zurich, Bern, or Lausanne may require German or French proficiency. Check with your prospective supervisor.

5. When does the 2027–2028 application cycle open?
As of June 2025, the 2027–2028 cycle has not yet been officially announced. Based on previous years, applications typically open around August or September 2026 with deadlines in November or December 2026. Monitor the SERI website for updates.

6. Can Nigerian students apply?
Yes. Nigeria has historically been an eligible country for the PhD and postdoctoral research scholarships. Applications are typically processed through the Swiss Embassy in Abuja. Confirm eligibility when the 2027–2028 call opens.

7. Do I need a Swiss supervisor before applying?
Yes. A written confirmation from a professor at a Swiss university or federal institute who has agreed to supervise your research is a mandatory requirement. Applications without this letter are not considered.

8. Is there an application fee?
No. The Swiss Government Excellence Scholarship does not charge any application fee. Any request for payment is fraudulent.

9. How long does the scholarship last?
PhD scholarships last up to 3 years (renewed annually). Postdoctoral scholarships last 12 months. Art scholarships last 1 academic year.

10. Can I bring my family?
The scholarship stipend is calculated for the individual recipient only. You may bring family members on a Swiss visa, but you will need to demonstrate sufficient additional funds to support them, which the scholarship does not provide.

11. What happens if my research takes longer than 3 years?
The scholarship cannot be extended beyond the maximum duration. You would need to seek alternative funding from your host institution or other sources.

12. How competitive is this scholarship?
Very competitive. The FCS awards approximately 200–300 scholarships annually from thousands of applications worldwide. A strong research proposal, excellent academic record, and a committed Swiss supervisor significantly improve your chances.

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17. OFFICIAL SOURCES

1. SERI — Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships (Main Page):
   https://www.sbfi.admin.ch/sbfi/en/home/education/scholarships-and-grants/swiss-government-excellence-scholarships.html
2. SERI — Country-Specific Information and Application Forms:
   Available through the main SERI scholarship page (select your country)
3. Swiss Federal Commission for Scholarships (FCS):
   Referenced on the SERI scholarship page
4. Swiss Embassy/Consulate Directory:
   https://www.eda.admin.ch/eda/en/home/representations.html
5. ETH Zurich Admissions:
   https://ethz.ch/en/studies.html
6. EPFL Admissions:
   https://www.epfl.ch/education/

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18. FINAL FACT-CHECK NOTES

✓ Scholarship name: Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships for Foreign Scholars and Artists (ESKAS) — verified via SERI.
✓ Provider: State Secretariat for Education, Research and Innovation (SERI) — verified.
✓ Stipend amounts: CHF 1,920 (PhD/Art), CHF 3,500 (Postdoc) — based on most recent published SERI guidelines. Subject to adjustment for 2027–2028 cycle.
✓ Tuition waiver: Confirmed by SERI.
✓ Health insurance: Confirmed by SERI.
✓ Airfare: Confirmed for select countries only — not universal.
✓ Housing allowance: CHF 300/month in specific circumstances — confirmed by SERI.
✓ 2027–2028 cycle status: NOT YET ANNOUNCED as of June 2025. All dates are projections based on historical patterns.
✓ Eligibility: General requirements verified via SERI. Specific age cutoffs for 2027–2028 not yet published.
✓ No application fee: Confirmed.
✓ Supervisor requirement: Confirmed as mandatory.
✓ Art scholarship restriction: Confirmed — limited to specific countries and arts disciplines.
✓ Nigeria eligibility: Historically confirmed for PhD and postdoc tracks. Must be re-verified when 2027–2028 call opens.

Unverified items: Exact 2027–2028 deadlines, updated age cutoffs, and any changes to the eligible country list cannot be confirmed until SERI publishes the official call.

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Conclusion

The Swiss Government Excellence Scholarship remains one of the most prestigious and genuinely fully funded scholarships available to international researchers and artists. With a monthly stipend of CHF 1,920 for PhD candidates, full tuition coverage, and health insurance, it provides a strong foundation for conducting world-class research in one of Europe’s most innovative countries.

However, this scholarship is not for everyone. It is designed specifically for research-oriented candidates at the PhD and postdoctoral level (plus a limited art Master’s track), and the competition is intense. Your success will depend heavily on the quality of your research proposal and, above all, your ability to secure a committed Swiss academic supervisor well in advance.

What you should do now:

1. Bookmark the official SERI scholarship page and check it regularly for the 2027–2028 announcement.
2. Begin identifying and contacting potential Swiss supervisors in your field.
3. Start drafting your research proposal.
4. Ensure all your academic documents are certified and organized.
5. Do not pay anyone who claims to “guarantee” you this scholarship.

Scholarship deadlines, eligibility requirements, and funding details can change. Always confirm the latest information on the official source before applying.

Last Verified: June 2025

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