Study in Switzerland: 15 Amazing Scholarships for International Students

 Switzerland is more than just a land of breathtaking landscapes, luxury watches, and delicious chocolates—it’s also home to some of the world’s most prestigious universities. For years, this peaceful European country has attracted thousands of bright minds from across the globe who dream of earning a degree in an international, research-driven environment. Its reputation for academic excellence, combined with its cultural diversity and innovative research, makes it a dream destination for students looking to study abroad.

The good news? Studying in Switzerland doesn’t always mean draining your savings. With numerous fully and partially funded scholarships available, international students can pursue their education at top Swiss universities without overwhelming financial stress. These scholarships cover everything from tuition fees to living expenses, making the Swiss higher education system accessible to students from every corner of the world.

But what exactly are the top scholarships available in Switzerland for foreign students? Can you study in Switzerland for free with a scholarship? And are these opportunities open to undergraduates, master’s students, or doctoral researchers? These are the common questions asked by many aspiring students as they search for reliable funding to turn their study-abroad dreams into reality.

This article gives you everything you need to know. We’ve compiled a list of the best scholarships in Switzerland for international students, along with details on eligibility, application processes, and funding coverage. Whether you’re aiming for a bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree, this guide will help you find the right opportunity to kickstart your academic journey in Switzerland.

Why Study in Switzerland?

Before we dive into scholarships, it’s worth asking: why Switzerland?

1. World-Class Universities
   Institutions like ETH Zurich, EPFL, and the University of Geneva consistently rank among the best universities in the world. They are especially known for research in science, technology, and international relations.

2. Multilingual Environment
   With four national languages (German, French, Italian, and Romansh) and many programs offered in English, Switzerland is an international hub that welcomes students from diverse linguistic backgrounds.

3. Innovation and Research
   Switzerland invests heavily in research and development. It has one of the highest numbers of Nobel laureates per capita, a testament to its academic rigor.

4. Cultural Diversity
   Situated in the heart of Europe, Switzerland is home to international organizations such as the United Nations, the Red Cross, and the World Trade Organization. This global environment offers unique exposure to international affairs and multicultural experiences.

5. Safe and High Standard of Living
   With its strong economy, low crime rates, and excellent public services, Switzerland is one of the safest and most livable countries in the world.

Of course, the high standard of living also means studying here can be expensive. Tuition fees may be lower than in the US or UK, but the cost of living (housing, food, transportation) is significant. That’s where scholarships play a crucial role.

Top Scholarships in Switzerland for International Students

1. Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships

The Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships are among the most prestigious funding opportunities for international students. Administered by the Swiss Confederation, these scholarships aim to promote international exchange and research cooperation between Switzerland and over 180 countries worldwide.

Who can apply?

• PhD students

• Post-doctoral researchers

• Art students at selected Swiss art universities

Benefits:

• Full tuition coverage

• Monthly living allowance

• Health insurance

• Travel allowance

• Housing stipends (in some cases)

Unique Point: You must be nominated by your country’s Swiss embassy. Each country has specific guidelines and quotas, so the first step is contacting the Swiss embassy in your home country.

This is one of the few fully funded scholarships in Switzerland, making it extremely competitive but also highly rewarding.

2. ETH Zurich Excellence Scholarship & Opportunity Programme (ESOP)

ETH Zurich, Switzerland’s leading science and technology university, offers the Excellence Scholarship & Opportunity Programme (ESOP) to outstanding master’s students.

Who can apply?

• International students pursuing a master’s degree at ETH Zurich.

Benefits:

• Full tuition fee waiver

• Generous living allowance (monthly stipend)

• Mentorship and networking opportunities

Why it stands out: ETH Zurich is often ranked alongside MIT and Stanford. If you’re an ambitious student with excellent grades and research potential, this scholarship allows you to focus entirely on academics without worrying about finances.

3. University of Geneva Excellence Master Fellowships

The University of Geneva, a highly respected institution especially known for science and diplomacy, offers Excellence Master Fellowships to international students.

Who can apply?

• Students applying for a master’s degree in science

Benefits:

• CHF 10,000–15,000 per year

• Renewable for the duration of the program (usually two years)

Unique Point: Unlike fully funded scholarships, this one is partial, but it significantly reduces the cost of studying at one of Switzerland’s oldest and most globally connected universities.

4. University of Lausanne (UNIL) Master’s Grants

The University of Lausanne (UNIL) provides Master’s Grants for talented international students.

Who can apply?

• Students with an undergraduate degree from outside Switzerland

• Applicants with strong academic records

Benefits:

• CHF 1,600 per month (for up to two years)

• Excludes tuition fees (students must cover them separately)

Unique Point: This scholarship is ideal for motivated students who want steady financial support to cover living expenses while studying in Lausanne, a vibrant student city.

5. IMD MBA Scholarships

The International Institute for Management Development (IMD) in Lausanne is one of the top business schools in Europe, particularly known for its intensive one-year MBA program.

Who can apply?

• MBA applicants with strong leadership potential

• Applicants from diverse cultural and professional backgrounds

Benefits:

• Multiple scholarships available (merit-based and need-based)

• Funding up to CHF 85,000

Unique Point: Given the high tuition fees of MBA programs, these scholarships provide significant relief, especially for talented students from developing countries.

6. EPFL Excellence Fellowships

The École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL) is a powerhouse in engineering and natural sciences. It offers the Excellence Fellowships to outstanding master’s students.

Who can apply?

• Students applying for master’s programs at EPFL

Benefits:

• CHF 10,000 per semester

• Assistance with accommodation and living expenses

• Valid for up to two years

Unique Point: EPFL is internationally recognized for research in robotics, life sciences, and technology. This fellowship is highly competitive but offers strong financial and academic support.

7. Graduate Institute Geneva Scholarships

The Graduate Institute of International and Development Studies (IHEID) in Geneva offers generous scholarships for students in international affairs, law, and development studies.

Who can apply?

• Master’s and PhD applicants with an interest in international relations and development

Benefits:

• Full and partial scholarships available

• Tuition reduction or complete waiver

• Stipends for living costs

Unique Point: Located near the United Nations and numerous NGOs, the Graduate Institute provides unparalleled opportunities for students interested in diplomacy, development, and global policy.

8. University of Basel Scholarships

The University of Basel, Switzerland’s oldest university, provides funding opportunities for international master’s and doctoral students.

Who can apply?

• High-achieving international students pursuing postgraduate degrees

Benefits:

• Monthly stipends

• Research support funds

Unique Point: Basel is known for its cutting-edge research in life sciences and biotechnology, making it a great destination for science-oriented students.

9. Zürich University of the Arts (ZHdK) Scholarships

For creative students, the Zürich University of the Arts (ZHdK) offers scholarships in fields such as music, dance, film, design, and fine arts.

Who can apply?

• Talented students applying for master’s programs in creative fields

Benefits:

• Partial tuition coverage

• Sometimes includes living allowances

Unique Point: Applicants must provide a strong artistic portfolio. This is one of the few scholarships tailored to arts and design students in Switzerland.

10. International University in Geneva Scholarships

The International University in Geneva (IUG) provides both merit-based and need-based scholarships.

Who can apply?

• Bachelor’s and master’s students in business, international relations, and communication

Benefits:

• Partial tuition waivers (30–50%)

• Renewable depending on performance

Unique Point: With small class sizes and strong links to international organizations, IUG provides a practical and global learning experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can international students get scholarships in Switzerland?
Yes. Many universities and the Swiss government offer scholarships to attract talented students worldwide. Opportunities range from fully funded (covering tuition, living costs, and travel) to partial funding (tuition reductions or living stipends).

2. Are scholarships in Switzerland fully funded?
Some are fully funded, such as the Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships and ETH Zurich ESOP. Others are partial, providing stipends or tuition discounts.

3. Who can apply?
Any international student with excellent academic records can apply. Some scholarships target specific fields (e.g., sciences, arts, business), while others are open to all disciplines.

4. Do I need to speak German or French?
Not necessarily. Many Swiss universities offer English-taught programs at the master’s and PhD levels. However, if your program is taught in German, French, or Italian, you may need to provide proof of language proficiency.

5. When should I apply?
Most Swiss scholarships open applications between September and December for the following academic year. Deadlines vary, but it’s best to start preparing at least 6–9 months before.

6. What documents are required?
Common requirements include:

• Academic transcripts

• Motivation letter

• Research proposal (for PhD applicants)

• Recommendation letters

• Proof of language proficiency

Tips for Applying to Swiss Scholarships

1. Start Early: Deadlines can be strict, and competition is high. Begin preparing documents months in advance.

2. Tailor Your Application: Highlight why you want to study in Switzerland and how the scholarship aligns with your goals.

3. Strong Recommendations: Secure recommendation letters from professors or employers who know your strengths.

4. Polished Motivation Letter: Clearly explain your academic achievements, career plans, and why you deserve the scholarship.

5. Check Embassy Announcements: For government scholarships, embassy websites provide the most accurate information.

Conclusion

Switzerland may be famous for its mountains, chocolates, and luxury watches, but its academic opportunities are equally world-class. With a wide range of scholarships—some fully funded and others partially funded—international students can pursue high-quality education without shouldering the full financial burden.

From the prestigious Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships to specialized fellowships at ETH Zurich, EPFL, and IMD, these opportunities make Switzerland one of the best destinations for higher education. Whether you are an aspiring scientist, diplomat, entrepreneur, or artist, there is a scholarship tailored to your ambitions.

So, if studying in Switzerland has always been your dream, now is the time to take action. Explore the scholarships mentioned above, prepare your application carefully, and step confidently toward an unforgettable academic journey in the heart of Europe.