Dreaming of advancing your research or artistic career in one of the world’s most innovative and beautiful countries? The Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships (ESKAS) 2026–2027 offer a fully funded pathway for outstanding international researchers, postgraduates, and artists to study, conduct research, and collaborate with top Swiss institutions. 2026 Swiss Government Scholarships, Swiss Government Scholarships 2026–2027, This prestigious program is a gateway to academic excellence, cultural exchange, and international networking.
About the Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships
Every year, the Swiss Confederation awards Government Excellence Scholarships to foster global academic exchange and research cooperation with more than 180 countries. The program is managed by the Federal Commission for Scholarships for Foreign Students (FCS), which carefully selects recipients based on academic merit, research quality, and potential for collaboration.
Important Notice on Scams:
The Swiss Government has warned against fraudulent scholarship offers circulating via email or social media. All official applications are free of charge. The FCS never asks for money transfers for visa or insurance fees. Always apply through official Swiss diplomatic channels.
Who Can Apply?
The Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships are mainly designed for early-career researchers and talented artists who have completed a Master’s degree or PhD.
There are two main categories:
1. Research Scholarships
For postgraduate researchers in any discipline, wishing to conduct research at:
- Swiss cantonal universities
- Universities of applied sciences
- ETH Zurich (ETHZ) or École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL)
- Swiss federal research institutes (PSI, WSL, Empa, Eawag)
Requirement: Applicants must secure an academic supervisor in Switzerland who will guide their research project.
Includes:
- Research Fellowships
- PhD Scholarships
- Postdoctoral Scholarships
2. Art Scholarships
For students pursuing a first Master’s degree in an artistic field at a Swiss conservatory or art school. Available only for applicants from select countries.
Application Process & Deadlines
Application deadlines and available scholarships vary depending on the applicant’s country of origin. The process generally follows these steps:
- Find the country-specific guidelines on the official scholarship portal.
- Prepare required documents, including a research proposal or portfolio (for art applicants).
- Submit your application through the Swiss diplomatic representation in your home country.
Selection Criteria
The Federal Commission for Scholarships (FCS) evaluates applications based on:
- Academic and professional profile of the candidate
- Quality and originality of the research project or artistic work
- Potential for future collaboration between Switzerland and the applicant’s home country
Scholarship Timeline
- Applications Open: August 4, 2025
- Selection Results: By May 2026
- Program Start: Academic year 2026–2027
- Next Call (2027–2028): August 2026
Why Choose the Swiss Government Excellence Scholarship?
- Fully funded tuition, living allowance, health insurance, and travel costs
- Opportunity to work with world-leading professors and researchers
- Access to Switzerland’s high-quality research facilities and creative hubs
- Immersion in one of the most innovative, multicultural, and safe countries in the world
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Final Thoughts
The Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships (ESKAS) are more than just funding—they’re an invitation to join a global network of bright minds committed to innovation, research, and cultural exchange. Whether you’re an aspiring researcher or a creative artist, this program could be your bridge to an extraordinary academic journey in Switzerland. For official details and country-specific application links, visit the Swiss Federal Commission for Scholarships (FCS) website.
