Top 10 Scholarships in Switzerland for International Students: Switzerland is renowned for its high-quality education system, cutting-edge research opportunities, and picturesque landscapes. For international students, Switzerland offers numerous scholarships to help offset the costs of studying at its prestigious institutions. Whether you’re interested in undergraduate, master’s, Ph.D., or research programmes, there are opportunities to make your academic dreams in Switzerland a reality. Below are the top 10 scholarships in Switzerland for international students for the 2024-2025 academic year.
1. Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships for Foreign Scholars and Artists
The Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships are offered to international post-graduate researchers in any field, as well as artists from specific countries. This scholarship supports research, Ph.D., or postdoctoral studies at one of the Swiss public universities, Federal Institutes of Technology, or other recognised institutions.
Key Benefits:
- Amount: Full tuition coverage, monthly stipend, health insurance, and travel expenses.
- Eligibility: Open to postgraduate researchers and Ph.D. students from around the world.
2. ETH Zurich Excellence Masters Scholarships
The ETH Zurich Excellence Scholarship & Opportunity Programme (ESOP) supports outstanding students who wish to pursue a Master’s degree at ETH Zurich, one of the world’s leading universities in science and technology. The scholarship covers the full cost of education, including living expenses.
Key Benefits:
- Amount: Full tuition fee waiver and monthly living stipend.
- Eligibility: Open to both Swiss and international students applying for a Master’s degree at ETH Zurich.
3. University of Geneva Excellence Masters Fellowships
The University of Geneva offers Excellence Masters Fellowships to students who want to pursue a Master’s degree in science at the university. This scholarship is highly competitive and awarded based on academic excellence.
Key Benefits:
- Amount: CHF 10,000 to CHF 15,000 per year.
- Eligibility: Open to international students with an excellent academic record and applying for a Master’s degree in science.
4. EPFL Excellence Fellowships
The École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL) offers fellowships to international students enrolling in Master’s programmes. EPFL is one of Europe’s top institutions in technology and engineering, and these fellowships are awarded to students with exceptional academic potential.
Key Benefits:
- Amount: CHF 10,000 per academic year and additional benefits.
- Eligibility: Open to international students applying for a Master’s programme at EPFL.
5. University of Lausanne (UNIL) Master’s Grants
The University of Lausanne (UNIL) offers Master’s Grants to international students who want to pursue a Master’s degree at the university. This programme aims to attract high-achieving students from across the globe.
Key Benefits:
- Amount: CHF 1,600 per month for the duration of the Master’s programme (except for one semester).
- Eligibility: Open to international students with a strong academic background.
6. IMD MBA Scholarships
IMD Business School in Switzerland offers a range of scholarships for international students pursuing an MBA degree. These scholarships are highly competitive and awarded based on merit, leadership potential, and contributions to diversity.
Key Benefits:
- Amount: Scholarships range from CHF 10,000 to CHF 50,000.
- Eligibility: Open to international students with outstanding leadership qualities and academic excellence.
7. Graduate Institute Geneva Scholarships
The Graduate Institute of International and Development Studies in Geneva offers numerous scholarships for international students pursuing Master’s and Ph.D. programmes. The institute is a leader in international affairs and development studies, and its scholarships are designed to attract top students from around the world.
Key Benefits:
- Amount: Partial to full tuition coverage and living expenses.
- Eligibility: Open to international students applying for a Master’s or Ph.D. at the Graduate Institute.
8. ZHAW School of Management and Law International Scholarships
The ZHAW School of Management and Law offers scholarships for international students interested in business, law, and management. These scholarships are awarded to students who demonstrate academic excellence and leadership potential.
Key Benefits:
- Amount: Tuition fee waivers and living stipends.
- Eligibility: Open to international students pursuing Bachelor’s or Master’s degrees at ZHAW.
9. University of Basel Scholarships
The University of Basel provides several scholarships for international students pursuing undergraduate or graduate studies. These scholarships support students who demonstrate academic excellence and are committed to pursuing research or higher education in Switzerland.
Key Benefits:
- Amount: Partial to full tuition waivers and living stipends.
- Eligibility: Open to undergraduate, Master’s, and Ph.D. students from abroad.
10. CERN Graduate Engineering Training (GET) Fellowship
CERN, the European Organisation for Nuclear Research, offers fellowships for international students in engineering and applied physics. The Graduate Engineering Training (GET) Fellowship allows students to gain practical work experience at CERN while contributing to groundbreaking research.
Key Benefits:
- Amount: Monthly stipend, health insurance, and relocation support.
- Eligibility: Open to graduates in engineering or applied physics who are interested in gaining professional experience at CERN.
Conclusion
Switzerland offers numerous scholarships that provide international students with the opportunity to pursue high-quality education in a diverse and innovative environment. Whether you are seeking a Master’s degree, Ph.D., or research opportunity, these top 10 scholarships in Switzerland can help you achieve your academic goals while enjoying the beautiful surroundings and vibrant culture of Switzerland. Start exploring these opportunities today and take the first step towards a world-class education in one of Europe’s top study destinations.
