Scholarships in Switzerland for Research Programs

Scholarships in Switzerland for Research Programs

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Introduction

Switzerland is known for its high-quality education system, world-class research institutions, and innovation-driven culture. For international students aiming to pursue research-based degrees, Switzerland offers a variety of scholarships and funding opportunities. These scholarships support both Master’s and PhD-level studies, especially in science, technology, engineering, and medicine.

This article highlights the top scholarships in Switzerland for research programs in 2025, helping students around the world access fully funded or partially funded academic opportunities.

Why Choose Switzerland for Research?

  • Home to globally ranked institutions like ETH Zurich and EPFL.
  • Strong government investment in research and development.
  • Multilingual and diverse academic environment.
  • Access to high-paying job opportunities post-study.

1. Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships

Overview

Offered by the Swiss Federal Commission for Scholarships (FCS), these scholarships are for postgraduate researchers in any discipline.

Who Can Apply?

  • International PhD candidates or postdoctoral researchers.
  • Applicants must be accepted by a Swiss research institute.

What It Covers

  1. Monthly stipend
  2. Tuition fee waiver
  3. Health insurance
  4. Airfare
  5. Housing allowance

Application Period

Usually opens from August to December every year.

2. ETH Zurich Excellence Scholarship & Opportunity Programme

Overview

This is a merit-based scholarship for Master’s students, especially those entering research-focused programs.

Eligibility

  • Outstanding academic record.
  • Acceptance into an ETH Zurich Master’s program.

Benefits

  1. Full tuition fee coverage
  2. Living expenses
  3. Research support

3. EPFL Excellence Fellowships

Offered By

École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), one of Europe’s top technical universities.

Benefits

  • CHF 10,000 per semester
  • Reserved accommodation
  • Academic support for research

Fields Covered

  1. Engineering
  2. Computer Science
  3. Life Sciences
  4. Physics

4. University of Geneva Excellence Master Fellowships

Overview

For international students enrolled in research-based Master’s programs at the University of Geneva.

Benefits

  • CHF 10,000–15,000 per year
  • Partial tuition fee coverage
  • Academic mentorship

Areas of Focus

  1. Natural sciences
  2. Mathematics
  3. Computer science

5. ThinkSwiss Research Scholarships

Overview

Aimed at undergraduate and graduate students from the U.S., India, and Singapore, this program promotes research collaboration.

What It Covers

  • CHF 1,600 per month for up to 3 months
  • Research internship in Swiss universities
  • Networking opportunities

Eligibility

  1. Strong academic record
  2. Interest in research

6. UNIL Master’s Grants

University

University of Lausanne

Program

Offered for select Master’s programs with research components.

Benefits

  • CHF 1,600 per month
  • Up to 2 years of funding
  • No tuition fees

7. CERN Doctoral and Fellowship Programs

Organization

CERN (European Organization for Nuclear Research) located near Geneva.

Opportunities

  • Doctoral student programs
  • Senior and junior fellowships

Benefits

  1. Monthly salary
  2. Travel allowance
  3. Health insurance
  4. Access to world-class research labs

How to Apply for Scholarships in Switzerland

Step-by-Step Process

  1. Choose a university and research program that fits your academic goals.
  2. Check eligibility requirements for the scholarships.
  3. Prepare necessary documents including research proposal, recommendation letters, and academic transcripts.
  4. Apply before the deadline.
  5. Follow up with interviews or additional forms if required.

Key Tips

  1. Start preparations 6–8 months before the application deadline.
  2. Contact professors in advance to secure a research supervisor.
  3. Tailor your statement of purpose for each scholarship.

Conclusion

Switzerland offers generous funding opportunities for international students looking to engage in high-level research. From government-backed programs to university-specific scholarships, students have several avenues to secure support for their academic goals. Applying early and presenting a clear research plan will greatly increase your chances of success.

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