Swiss Government Excellence Scholarship
Switzerland’s excellence scholarships support researchers and artists through a formal annual call, usually via Swiss embassies. A host professor letter is often the make-or-break document.
Swiss Confederation (FCS / ETH / university hosts) · Switzerland · Research fellowships, PhD, postdoc, arts (types vary) · Monthly grant + benefits
What it is
Federal scholarships for foreign scholars and artists to pursue research or further training at Swiss public universities and related institutions.
Who it is for
Applicants from countries included in that year’s call, meeting age and academic criteria for research fellowships, PhD, postdoctoral, or arts scholarships as offered to their country.
What funding usually covers
A monthly stipend, housing allowance in some cases, health insurance contribution, airfare, and tuition waivers where applicable — according to the year’s FCS brochure.
How to apply
- Download your country’s application package from the Swiss embassy / SBFI pages.
- Secure a host professor / invitation letter for research types.
- Prepare a precise research proposal.
- Submit to the embassy by the country deadline (often autumn).
Documents people commonly need
- Application form and CV
- Research proposal / artistic portfolio
- Host letter
- Degrees and transcripts
- Two referee letters
- Health certificate and passport copy
Typical timeline
Calls commonly open August–September with embassy deadlines around autumn for awards beginning the following academic year. Country annexes set exact dates.
Practical tips
- Cold-email hosts with a tight proposal and why their group.
- Do not recycle a vague PhD proposal — Swiss review is technical.
- Follow the country-specific annex; requirements are not identical worldwide.
Common questions
Do I need a Swiss supervisor first?
For research types, yes — a host professor confirmation is typically required before or as part of the application. Start contacting labs months ahead.
Official source
Rules and deadlines change. Read the current call on the official site before you apply.
Last reviewed for this guide: 2026-08-09.
Related scholarships
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DAAD Scholarship Germany
Germany · Masters, PhD, research
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Eiffel Excellence Scholarship
France · Masters and PhD (rules by call)
-
Gates Cambridge Scholarship
United Kingdom (University of Cambridge) · Postgraduate (masters and PhD)
Want help with this application?
If this award fits your profile, we can help you plan documents, essays, and timing — without pretending anyone can guarantee an award.
DAVS provides admissions and visa consulting. We are not the scholarship provider, university, or embassy. Funding decisions belong to the awarding body. Always verify eligibility and deadlines on the official programme page.