Federal Commission for Scholarships for Foreign Students (FCS), Switzerland • Switzerland
About This Scholarship
The Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships are offered by the Swiss Confederation to promote international exchange and research collaboration between Switzerland and over 180 countries. Since 1961, more than 40,000 foreign scholars have benefited from this program.
For the 2027 academic year, two main types of scholarships are available:
1. **Research Scholarships** — for postdoctoral researchers and artists
2. **PhD Scholarships** — for joint PhD projects (candidate enrolled abroad, supervised partly at Swiss institution)
Benefits include:
- Monthly stipend of CHF 1,920 (postdoc/PhD candidates)
- Accommodation subsidy up to CHF 300/month
- Health insurance contribution of CHF 150/month
- Tuition fee waiver
- Return airfare (lump sum)
- Language course support
- Access to Swiss university facilities and research networks
Eligibility Requirements
- Citizen of an eligible partner country (check SBFI website)
- Research Scholarships: PhD degree completed (postdoc), under 35 years for postdoc, under 40 for arts
- PhD Scholarships: Master's degree completed, admitted by Swiss professor as co-supervisor
- Excellent academic record
- Clear and feasible research/study plan
- Acceptance letter from a Swiss professor or institution (for research/PhD tracks)
- Some countries use national selection procedures — check with your national agency
Ready to Apply?
Visit the official scholarship page for detailed application instructions.