Switzerland has rapidly become a top study destination for international students, offering numerous prestigious scholarships in Switzerland for 2025. Renowned for its high academic standards, cutting-edge research, and peaceful living environment, Switzerland’s top universities such as ETH Zurich, University of Geneva, EPFL, and the University of Lausanne offer a variety of scholarships to make higher education accessible to students worldwide. Whether you’re planning to pursue a Bachelor’s, Master’s, or Doctoral degree, there are multiple fully funded scholarships in Switzerland that can support your academic ambitions.
These scholarships often go beyond just covering tuition. Many programs offer monthly stipends, accommodation support, travel allowances, and even funding for research expenses. The Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships, university-specific funding options, and scholarships through international partnerships ensure that talented students from all over the world have the chance to study in one of the most developed and academically advanced countries in Europe. In this blog, we’ll explore the best scholarships in Switzerland for international students in 2025, including eligibility, benefits, and how to apply.
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1. Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships
This is one of the most prestigious scholarships in Switzerland, awarded annually by the Swiss Confederation. It is designed for young international researchers and artists who wish to pursue postgraduate studies or research in Switzerland.
Eligibility
- Open to students from over 180 countries
- Applicants must hold a master’s degree before starting the scholarship
- Strong academic and research background
- Must have a letter of invitation from a Swiss professor
What it covers
- Full tuition fees
- Monthly stipend (~CHF 1,920)
- Health insurance
- Flight allowance
- Housing allowance (one-time payment)
2. ETH Zurich Excellence Scholarship
ETH Zurich, one of the world’s leading science and technology universities, offers the ESOP scholarship to international students applying for Master’s programs. This prestigious award not only acknowledges academic excellence but also provides recipients with comprehensive financial support to focus entirely on their studies. It represents a gateway for future innovators and leaders to thrive in a globally respected academic environment while exploring new research frontiers in science, technology, and engineering at one of the best institutions in Europe.
Eligibility
- Open to international students with exceptional academic performance
- Bachelor’s degree from a recognized university
- Must be applying for an ETH Master’s program
What it covers
- Full tuition waiver
- Living expenses (CHF 12,000 per semester)
3. University of Geneva Excellence Master Fellowships
This highly competitive fellowship supports outstanding international students who wish to pursue a Master’s degree in scientific disciplines at the University of Geneva. It is aimed at those who have demonstrated academic excellence and a strong passion for research and innovation. Selected candidates will have the opportunity to study in one of Switzerland’s most prestigious institutions, gaining exposure to cutting-edge research, global networks, and a culturally rich environment at the heart of Europe.
Eligibility
- Open to international students
- Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field
- Strong academic performance
What it covers
- Scholarships ranging from CHF 10,000 to CHF 15,000 per year
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4. EPFL Excellence Fellowships
École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL) offers a limited number of prestigious fellowships to exceptional Master’s students from around the world, based on academic merit. These fellowships aim to attract talented individuals who demonstrate outstanding academic performance and a passion for innovation. Recipients benefit from generous financial support and the opportunity to study at one of Europe’s leading institutions for science and engineering, renowned for its research excellence, modern facilities, and international community.
Eligibility
- International students with a Bachelor’s degree
- Must apply for an EPFL Master’s program
- Excellent academic record
What it covers
- CHF 10,000 per semester
- Reservation of a student room
- No tuition fees
5. University of Lausanne (UNIL) Master’s Grants
UNIL offers 10 Master’s grants each year to international students who demonstrate outstanding academic performance and meet specific eligibility requirements. These grants are designed to support talented individuals from around the world who wish to pursue their Master’s studies in Switzerland. By offering financial assistance, UNIL aims to foster academic excellence and cultural diversity on its campus, making higher education more accessible and impactful for global learners.
Eligibility
- Must hold a Bachelor’s degree from a foreign university
- Strong academic record
- Must not have lived in Switzerland previously
What it covers
- CHF 1,600/month for the duration of the program (1.5 to 2 years)
- Note: This does not cover tuition fees
6. IMD MBA Scholarships
The International Institute for Management Development (IMD) in Lausanne offers several scholarships for international MBA students who demonstrate exceptional potential. These scholarships aim to support talented professionals from diverse backgrounds and are awarded based on both merit and financial need. By easing the financial burden, IMD ensures that students can fully focus on leadership development and academic excellence, preparing them for impactful roles in the global business landscape.
Eligibility
- Admission into IMD MBA program
- Strong academic and leadership profile
- Need-based and merit-based scholarships available
What it covers
- Varies from CHF 10,000 to full tuition coverage (CHF 85,000)
7. CERN Administrative Student Program
CERN, located in the scenic city of Geneva, offers a range of scholarships and internship-style opportunities for international students, particularly in various administrative fields. These opportunities provide hands-on experience, allowing students to gain exposure to world-class research environments and contribute to ground breaking projects while developing essential professional skills
Eligibility
- Students pursuing undergraduate or Master’s programs in fields like HR, law, finance, etc.
- Must be enrolled at a university for the full duration
What it covers
- Monthly allowance (CHF 3,400)
- Travel and health insurance
- Duration: 2–12 months
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Studying in Switzerland is not just a dream; with these fully funded opportunities, it can actually become a reality. Top notch scholarships in Switzerland such as Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships, ETH Zurich ESOP, and University of Geneva Fellowships allow international students to experience the supreme education in one of the most pristine places on earth. Begin your journey today. Your dream degree may be just one scholarship away.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What are the top scholarships in Switzerland for international students?
Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships, ETH Zurich ESOP, and University of Geneva Excellence Fellowships are among the most popular options.
Do the scholarships in Switzerland cover both tuition and living expenses?
Yes, most fully funded scholarships in Switzerland cover tuition fees and offer a generous monthly stipend.
Can I apply for more than one scholarship in Switzerland?
Yes, you can apply for multiple scholarships as long as you meet the eligibility criteria for each.
When should I apply for scholarships in Switzerland?
Most applications open around September and close by December. Always check individual university deadlines.
Do I need to know German or French to study in Switzerland?
Many postgraduate programs are offered in English, especially at research-focused institutions like ETH Zurich and EPFL.
