Switzerland, often celebrated for its breathtaking landscapes and world-class education system, has increasingly become a top choice for international students seeking both academic excellence and cultural exposure. Moreover, with globally ranked universities such as ETH Zurich, EPFL, and the University of Geneva, studying in Switzerland offers unmatched access to innovative research, career opportunities, and valuable global networking. However, education in Switzerland can be expensive, which is why scholarships play a crucial role for aspiring students. Whether you’re from India or any other country, numerous Switzerland scholarships for international students offer financial aid, tuition waivers, and living stipends to make your dream of studying in Europe achievable.
Learn everything about Switzerland scholarships, eligibility, application process, and tips to secure funding for your 2026 intake.
Table of contents
- Why Study in Switzerland?
- Types of Scholarships in Switzerland
- Top Switzerland Scholarships for International Students in 2025
- 1. Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships
- 2. ETH Zurich Excellence Scholarship & Opportunity Programme (ESOP)
- 3. EPFL Excellence Fellowships
- 4. University of Geneva Excellence Master Fellowships
- 5. University of Lausanne (UNIL) Master’s Grants
- 6. SNSF (Swiss National Science Foundation) Grants
- 7. IMD MBA Scholarships
- 8. University of Basel Scholarships
- 9. Graduate Institute Geneva Scholarships
- 10. Swiss-European Mobility Programme (SEMP)
- Eligibility Criteria for Switzerland Scholarships
- Application Process for Switzerland Scholarships
- Documents Required for Switzerland Scholarships
- Tips to Secure a Scholarship in Switzerland
- Can I Study for Free in Switzerland?
- FAQs – Switzerland Scholarships 2025
- Final Thoughts – Study in Switzerland with a Fully Funded Scholarship
Why Study in Switzerland?
Switzerland is renowned for its innovation, cutting-edge research, and exceptional education system. Moreover, the country hosts some of the world’s top-ranking universities, celebrated for their academic excellence and employability.
That’s why, every year, thousands of students choose Switzerland as their preferred study destination.
- Globally recognized universities: Swiss degrees are respected worldwide and enhance employability.
- Multilingual and diverse environment: With English-taught programs and exposure to French, German, and Italian, students enjoy a rich cultural blend.
- Affordable tuition fees: Compared to the US or UK, Swiss public universities charge reasonable tuition.
- Post-study opportunities: Students can gain work experience under flexible visa rules.
- Scholarships for all levels: A variety of government and university-funded scholarships make studying in Switzerland more affordable.
Types of Scholarships in Switzerland
Switzerland offers several types of scholarships depending on the level of study and source of funding.
- Government-Funded Scholarships: These are provided by the Swiss Confederation to promote international exchange and research.
- University-Specific Scholarships: Prestigious universities such as ETH Zurich, EPFL, and the University of Lausanne offer merit-based financial aid.
- Private Foundation Scholarships: Institutions like the Swiss National Science Foundation (SNSF) and Erasmus Mundus support specific academic or research programs.
- Program-Level Scholarships: Undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral students can apply for distinct scholarships depending on their academic goals.
| Scholarship Name | Scholarship Type | Funding Source | Eligibility Level |
| Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships | Fully Funded | Swiss Federal Government | Research, PhD, Postdoctoral |
| ETH Zurich Excellence Scholarship & Opportunity Programme (ESOP) | Merit-Based | ETH Zurich University | Master’s Degree |
| EPFL Excellence Fellowships | Merit-Based | École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL) | Master’s Degree |
| University of Lausanne (UNIL) Master’s Grants | Partially Funded | University of Lausanne | Master’s Degree |
| University of Geneva Excellence Master Fellowships | Merit-Based | University of Geneva | Master’s Degree |
Top Switzerland Scholarships for International Students in 2025
1. Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships
Eligibility: Open to international students pursuing research, PhD, or postdoctoral studies in Switzerland. Applicants must have a strong academic record and an invitation from a Swiss institution.
Benefits: Covers tuition fees, monthly stipend, health insurance, housing allowance, and airfare.
Why to Apply: This prestigious, fully-funded scholarship supports outstanding scholars worldwide and promotes academic exchange and research collaboration with top Swiss universities.
2. ETH Zurich Excellence Scholarship & Opportunity Programme (ESOP)
Eligibility: Available to master’s students with excellent academic performance from any country. Applicants must secure admission to ETH Zurich’s eligible programs.
Benefits: Provides full tuition coverage, living expenses, and mentoring support throughout the study period.
Why to Apply: ESOP offers financial independence and direct access to ETH’s renowned research ecosystem, ideal for ambitious students in science, technology, and engineering.
3. EPFL Excellence Fellowships
Eligibility: Open to international students applying for master’s programs at École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL). Requires outstanding academic credentials.
Benefits: Includes CHF 10,000 per semester, accommodation assistance, and mentorship from EPFL professors.
Why to Apply: This fellowship is perfect for top-performing students seeking to study at one of Europe’s leading innovation and research hubs.
4. University of Geneva Excellence Master Fellowships
Eligibility: International students with excellent academic backgrounds applying for master’s programs in science at the University of Geneva.
Benefits: Grants range from CHF 10,000 to CHF 15,000 per year, renewable based on academic performance.
Why to Apply: The scholarship recognizes academic excellence and helps students pursue research-driven degrees in a world-class learning environment.
5. University of Lausanne (UNIL) Master’s Grants
Eligibility: International students applying for eligible master’s programs at the University of Lausanne, with a bachelor’s degree and strong academic record.
Benefits: CHF 1,600 per month for the entire duration of the degree, excluding summer breaks.
Why to Apply: UNIL offers quality education and a supportive academic atmosphere in one of Switzerland’s most scenic and culturally rich cities.
6. SNSF (Swiss National Science Foundation) Grants
Eligibility: Available for doctoral candidates and researchers collaborating with Swiss academic institutions. Requires a proven research proposal and faculty endorsement.
Benefits: Covers research costs, stipends, and travel expenses for international collaboration.
Why to Apply: Ideal for scholars aiming to advance scientific innovation through Switzerland’s top-tier research infrastructure and international partnerships.
7. IMD MBA Scholarships
Eligibility: Open to high-achieving international MBA applicants with demonstrated leadership potential and professional experience.
Benefits: Partial to full tuition waivers (CHF 25,000–CHF 85,000) depending on the scholarship type.
Why to Apply: Perfect for future business leaders seeking global exposure, practical learning, and networking at Switzerland’s prestigious IMD Business School.
8. University of Basel Scholarships
Eligibility: International master’s and PhD applicants with strong academic and research profiles.
Benefits: Provides tuition waivers and financial support for living costs.
Why to Apply: Located in Switzerland’s cultural capital, the University of Basel offers diverse programs and research opportunities in a globally connected environment.
9. Graduate Institute Geneva Scholarships
Eligibility: For international students pursuing master’s or PhD programs in international relations, law, or development studies.
Benefits: Full or partial scholarships covering tuition and living costs, based on academic merit.
Why to Apply: This scholarship suits globally minded students aspiring to careers in diplomacy, policy, or international organizations.
10. Swiss-European Mobility Programme (SEMP)
Eligibility: Students from partner universities in Europe eligible for short-term study or research exchanges in Switzerland.
Benefits: Provides monthly stipends, travel grants, and academic support during the exchange period.
Why to Apply: A great opportunity to experience Swiss education and culture through a well-structured mobility program supported by Swiss universities.
Eligibility Criteria for Switzerland Scholarships
To secure a scholarship, candidates must demonstrate strong academic, personal, and research potential.
Basic eligibility requirements:
- Consistent academic excellence with a strong GPA or CGPA.
- Admission offer or acceptance letter from a Swiss university.
- Well-written Statement of Purpose (SOP) and recommendation letters.
- For research scholarships – a detailed proposal approved by a Swiss supervisor.
- Language proficiency in English (IELTS, TOEFL) or in German/French depending on the program.
Most full scholarships, such as the Excellence Scholarship Switzerland, require outstanding grades and relevant experience.
Application Process for Switzerland Scholarships
Follow this simple process to apply successfully:
- Research available scholarships and select those matching your program and eligibility.
- Check deadlines – most open between September and December.
- Prepare documents like transcripts, recommendation letters, and SOPs.
- Submit your application online through the university or government portal.
- Attend an interview or assessment (if applicable).
- Await results, notifications usually arrive within 2–3 months.
Pro tip: Begin early and contact potential professors or departments if you’re applying for a research-based program.
Documents Required for Switzerland Scholarships
Prepare the following documents before applying:
- Valid passport.
- Academic transcripts and certificates.
- Offer letter or proof of admission from a Swiss university.
- English or German proficiency test scores.
- Statement of Purpose (SOP).
- Two or more academic recommendation letters.
- Financial documents (if partially funded).
Tips to Secure a Scholarship in Switzerland
- First, maintain an excellent academic record throughout your degree to demonstrate consistent performance.
- Next, customize your SOP to clearly highlight your goals and alignment with the scholarship’s objectives.
- Additionally, obtain strong recommendation letters from professors or employers who can vouch for your abilities.
- Furthermore, apply to multiple scholarships to maximize your chances of success.
- Finally, ensure you meet all deadlines and carefully follow the application instructions to avoid any errors.
Consistency, preparation, and authenticity are key to success.
Can I Study for Free in Switzerland?
Yes, it is possible to study almost free in Switzerland with the right funding. Public universities already charge low tuition fees, but scholarships can cover everything – from tuition to living costs.
For instance, Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships and ETH Zurich ESOP provide full financial support. Some universities even offer tuition waivers for exceptional international students.
With diligent research and timely applications, studying in Switzerland can become an affordable reality.
FAQs – Switzerland Scholarships 2025
Q1. How can I get a full scholarship in Switzerland?
By maintaining strong academic performance, and preparing a compelling SOP, while also applying early to government and university scholarships, students can significantly improve their chances of securing financial aid.
Q2. How much CGPA is required for a scholarship in Switzerland?
There’s no universal Swiss CGPA cut-off. Moreover, schemes like ESOP, EPFL, and UniGE follow a holistic and highly competitive selection process. Therefore, each programme sets its own standards, so it’s important to check the criteria at the programme level.
Q3. Can I study for free in Switzerland?
Yes, with fully funded scholarships like the Swiss Government Excellence Scholarship.
Q4. Are scholarships available for undergraduate students?
Yes, though they are fewer than postgraduate scholarships. Some universities and private foundations offer support.
Q5. What documents are needed for the application?
Academic transcripts, SOP, recommendation letters, and language proficiency certificates.
Final Thoughts – Study in Switzerland with a Fully Funded Scholarship
Switzerland combines academic brilliance, innovation, and quality of life like no other country. With dozens of Switzerland scholarships for Indian and international students, you can pursue your academic dreams without worrying about finances.
Start preparing early, maintain academic excellence, and submit compelling applications to secure your spot in one of Europe’s best study destinations.
Plan your Swiss education confidently – and for easy international fee transfers, choose Supreme Forex to get the best exchange rates for Swiss Franc (CHF) transactions.
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