International students seeking to pursue their academic goals are drawn to Switzerland for its world-class education system, stunning scenery, and rich cultural heritage. Switzerland offers a unique blend of cultural richness and educational quality through its renowned universities and research facilities. However, many students may find the cost of studying in Switzerland prohibitive.
Thankfully, there are several scholarships available to help bridge this income gap. This article will provide a comprehensive guide for international students wishing to study in Switzerland. It will review the many scholarship programs offered there, their eligibility requirements, application procedures, and benefits.
In this article, we will also examine Switzerland Scholarship for international students to apply for it to get fully funded opportunities.
Types of Scholarships in Switzerland
There are some types of Scholarships in Switzerland, which are as follows:
- Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships
The Swiss Federal Commission for Scholarships for International Students (FCS) provides these scholarships to promote scientific collaboration and international interchange between Switzerland and more than 180 nations.
They are mainly for
PHD students
Artists
Postdoctoral researchers
There are some benefits, which include:
Monthly stipend
Tuition fee waiver
Health insurance
Travel allowance (in some cases)
Housing allowance
University-Specific Scholarships
The ETH Zurich Excellence Scholarship and Opportunities Program (ESOP) offers full scholarships to exceptional Master’s students.
Excellence Master’s Fellowships at the University of Geneva: for students pursuing a Master’s degree in scientific fields.
Master’s grants from the University of Lausanne (UNIL) are available to students who have obtained degrees from international universities.
Ecole Polytechnique Federale de Lausanne financially supports exceptional Master’s students through the EPFL Excellence Fellowships.
Private and Foundation Scholarship
Numerous scholarships are also offered by Swiss and foreign corporations and foundations. These could be aimed at particular disciplines, research areas, or nations.
Among the examples are
The Research Scholarships offered by Think Swiss.
Scholarships for nutrition research from the Nestle Foundation.
Qualifications Standards
Scholarship programs have different eligibility restrictions, but generally include:
Academic distinction
A clear research proposal (for postdoctoral or PhD fellowships)
Evidence of linguistic ability (typically in French, German, or English, depending on the program)
Admission to a Swiss university (for the majority of university scholarships)
Additionally, some scholarships could prioritise applicants from developing nations or impose restrictions on nationality.
Application Process
Usually, the application procedure entails:
Selecting a program and institution that qualify
Submitting an application, either online or on paper, along with supporting documentation like Academic records and degrees
Resume or CV
Letter of motivation
Reference letters
Language certifications, such as DELF/DALF and IELTS/TOEFL
Certain programs, particularly those that offer research-based scholarships, require an interview or an acceptance letter from a Swiss professor.
Although there are many different deadlines, the majority of government scholarships have deadlines for the upcoming academic year that fall between September and December.
Benefits of Studying in Switzerland
Top-tier research institutes and universities
Being in a multilingual setting and being exposed to many cultures
Possibilities to intern and work with prestigious international corporations
Availability of a high-quality, safe lifestyle
Tips for a Successful Scholarship Application
Get started early: Months in advance conduct research and compile documentation.
Customize your application: Make each application to the objectives of the fellowship.
Show your impact: Demonstrate how your education will advance society and your profession.
Obtain credible references: Select references who are aware of your strengths both personally and academically.
How to apply
If you want to apply for Switzerland Scholarships, here are following steps you have to follow before applying:
First, see if you are eligible. You must have been born after December 31, 1983, with a master’s degree. You must not have been in Switzerland for more than one year before the scholarship starts and have not been awarded this scholarship before. A complete research proposal and a Swiss professor willing to supervise you during your studies are also required.
Next, gather all the necessary documents. A photocopy of your application form, your resume, a motivation letter explaining why you are applying for the scholarship, a complete research plan, two recommendation letters, your academic transcripts and certificates, a passport copy, medical certificate, and proof of your proficiency in English or another language are all included.
Then, send this application to the Switzerland embassy. First, the Embassy will review your application. It will be referred to Switzerland for a final decision if it passes. They will decide based on your research proposal, academic background, and future career potential. In the end, the results are often made public.
If selected, you will receive a monthly allowance of CHF 1,920, free health insurance, housing funds, return flights, and a Swiss public transport discount card. Do not pay anyone to apply for it. This scholarship is free for everyone.
Official website: Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships
Costs of living and studying in Switzerland
Costs of living and studying in Switzerland are as:
University fees
Public Universities: CHF 1,000 – CHF 4,000.
Private Universities: CHF 10,000 – CHF 20,000 or more.
Some universities offer scholarships to help with these fees.
Living costs per month
Rent for room or apartment: CHF 500 - CHF 1,500
Food and Groceries: CHF 300 – CHF 600
Public Transport: CHF 70 – CHF 120
Health Insurance: CHF 80 – CHF 400
Other things (Phones, Clothes): CHF 100 – CHF 300
Total per month: CHF 1,000 – CHF 2,500
FAQs
Can I get a full scholarship in Switzerland?
Many Swiss universities offer merit-based scholarships to international students with outstanding academic records.
Can I study in Switzerland after 12th?
Yes, you can pursue undergraduate studies in Switzerland after completing your 12th grade.
Do you get paid to study in Switzerland?
Many institutions offer scholarship packages to international students, including a tuition fee waiver and / or a monthly stipend to help with living costs.
Can I work in Switzerland after study?
To get a post-graduation work permit in Switzerland, you need to go to your Cantonal Migration Office and apply for a residence permit.
