Looking to study in Switzerland without the burden of student loans? You’re in the right place. This guide highlights the top fully funded scholarships in Switzerland for international students, covering tuition, living stipends, health insurance, travel expenses, and additional benefits. Whether you’re aiming for a master’s, PhD, or research stay, Switzerland offers some of the most generous academic funding opportunities in Europe.
Why Study in Switzerland?
World-Class Education
Switzerland is home to globally ranked institutions, including ETH Zurich, EPFL, the University of Geneva, and the University of Lausanne, which are renowned for their academic excellence in science, engineering, business, and public policy.
Innovation Hub
As one of the world’s most innovative countries, Switzerland provides outstanding opportunities for research, innovation, and cross-disciplinary collaboration.
International Environment
With four national languages and a strong international presence, Swiss universities host students from more than 100 countries, offering multilingual programs and a rich cultural experience.
Career Opportunities
Switzerland hosts multinational organizations like Nestlé, Novartis, Roche, and UN agencies, offering networking and post-study job opportunities.
Top Fully Funded Scholarships in Switzerland
1. Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships
- Levels: PhD, Postdoctoral, and Research
- Benefits:
- CHF 1,920 monthly stipend
- Tuition waiver (for most programs)
- Health insurance
- Round-trip airfare
- Research allowance
- Eligibility: Citizens from 180+ countries
- Deadline: August–December (country-specific)
- Official Website
2. ETH Zurich Excellence Scholarship & Opportunity Programme (ESOP)
- Level: Master’s
- Benefits:
- Full tuition waiver
- CHF 12,000 per semester for living expenses
- Eligibility: Exceptional academic record
- Deadline: December 15 annually
- Website
3. EPFL Excellence Fellowships
- Institution: École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne
- Level: Master’s
- Benefits:
- CHF 10,000 per semester
- Reserved student accommodation
- Tuition exemption
- Deadline: April 15
- Website
4. University of Geneva Excellence Master Fellowships
- Fields: Sciences (biology, chemistry, physics, etc.)
- Level: Master’s
- Benefits: CHF 10,000–15,000 per year
- Eligibility: Strong academic record
- Deadline: March
- Website
5. University of Lausanne (UNIL) Master’s Grants
- Level: Master’s
- Benefits: CHF 1,600/month (except July & August)
- Duration: Full program duration
- Eligibility: High academic achievement
- Deadline: November 1
- Website
6. IMD MBA Scholarships
- Level: MBA
- Benefits:
- Up to CHF 85,000 (based on category)
- Categories: Merit, Diversity, Women in Business
- Deadline: Rolling (multiple rounds)
- Website
7. Graduate Institute Geneva Scholarships
- Fields: International Relations, Development, Law, Economics
- Levels: Master’s and PhD
- Benefits:
- CHF 20,000 stipend (full scholarship)
- Partial to full tuition reduction
- Deadline: January 15
- Website
Eligibility Criteria (General)
| Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| Academic Qualification | Bachelor’s or equivalent for Master’s; Master’s for PhD |
| Language Proficiency | English (IELTS/TOEFL); French or German for local-language programs |
| Research Proposal | Required for research/postdoc applicants |
| Motivation Letter | Needed for nearly all applications |
| Letters of Reference | Usually 2–3 academic/professional references |
Required Documents Checklist
- Academic transcripts & certificates
- Valid passport copy
- CV/Resume (preferably Europass)
- Language test scores
- Motivation letter or SOP
- Research proposal (PhD/Postdoc only)
- Letters of recommendation
- Portfolio (for art/design programs)
Timeline & Application Deadlines
| Scholarship | Application Window |
| Swiss Government Excellence | August–December |
| ETH Zurich ESOP | Until December 15 |
| EPFL Excellence Fellowship | Until April 15 |
| UNIGE Master Fellowship | Until March |
| UNIL Master’s Grants | Until November 1 |
| Graduate Institute Geneva | Until January 15 |
| IMD MBA Scholarships | Rolling admission rounds |
Deadlines vary yearly. Always confirm on the scholarship’s official page.
Application Tips to Boost Your Chances
- Start Early: Begin 6–8 months before the application opens
- Tailor Each Application: Address the university’s mission & goals
- Write a Strong SOP: Show purpose, fit, impact, and long-term vision
- Secure Quality References: From academic supervisors or work mentors
- Check Document Formats: Ensure no formatting or missing pages
- Apply to Multiple Scholarships: Consider at least 3 Swiss scholarships
- Follow-up: After submitting, track emails and portals for updates
FAQs: Switzerland Scholarships
Q: Can I work while studying in Switzerland?
A: Yes. Up to 15 hours/week during the semester and full-time during holidays.
Q: Are Swiss scholarships very competitive?
A: Yes, especially ETH and Swiss Government Scholarships. A well-crafted, personalized application helps.
Q: Do I need to speak French/German?
A: Not for most international programs. English-taught courses are widely available.
Q: Can I bring family members?
A: Yes, but most scholarships do not cover dependent costs.
Q: Is health insurance included?
A: For many scholarships, like the Swiss Government, yes. Otherwise, you may need to purchase it.
Related Guides
- Fully Funded Scholarships for International Students in 2025
- Best Countries for Fully Funded Scholarships in 2025
- How to Write a Statement of Purpose for Swiss Scholarships
- Fully Funded MBA Scholarships in Europe
- Fully Funded Scholarships Without IELTS in 2025
Final Thoughts
Switzerland offers a rare blend of academic prestige, full financial support, and international opportunity. Whether you’re applying to ETH Zurich, EPFL, or through the Swiss government, the key is preparation, precision, and passion.
Plan smart. Apply early. Study in Switzerland for free.
