Study Switzerland 2026: How to Apply for International Student Scholarships

6th October 2025

Switzerland remains one of the world’s most desirable destinations for post-secondary education, combining academic rigor, cross-cultural diversity, and international opportunities. To international students looking forward to starting their education in 2026, a variety of Swiss scholarships exists that are geared towards helping make education more accessible. Not only do such scholarships fund academic development, but they also promote cross-cultural education and worldwide cooperation.

With world-class universities, Switzerland has invested greatly in student services, innovations, and research, which makes it a destination of choice for prospective students. Universities like ETH Zurich, the University of Geneva, and EPFL have high-quality programs, and the Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships is one of the highly sought opportunities for international students.

We at BCES Admissions abroad assist the students to identify the top opportunities for scholarships, create winning applications, and navigate them on the admission process.

Switzerland Scholarships for International Students for 2026

Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships

They are internationally accredited and are available for postgraduate, doctoral, and research degree study. They are designed to enhance international academic mobility and promote projects based on research.

University Scholarships in Switzerland

Major universities like ETH Zurich, University of Lausanne, and University of Bern have international student merit awards at various study levels, ranging from undergraduate degree programs up to doctoral degree programs. 

Research and Innovation Scholarships

Switzerland’s focus on innovation creates a hub for research. International students studying science, technology, medicine, or sustainability are qualified for special funding prospects, along with mentoring opportunities.

Program-Specific Scholar

Scholarships for business management, international relations, hospitality studies, and data science are gaining much interest in 2026, providing students with opportunities in high-in-demand careers.

How to Win a Swiss Scholarship

Research Early – Begin seeking available opportunities a year or more before your intended intake date. Most scholarships open applications earlier on.

Check Eligibility – Verify criteria like academic performance, language, or dissertation outlines, so that you can confirm your eligibility.

Prepare Key Documents – Transcripts, statement of purpose, CV, recommendation letters, and proof of language proficiency are the majority of documents required.

Apply Through Proper Channels – Government scholarships are normally applied for through Swiss embassies, while university-specific ones are applied for through online university portals.

Track Deadlines – Most deadlines fall between September-December of the year of the preceding intake, therefore time planning is essential.

Advantages of Swiss Scholarships for Non-locals

• Educational opportunities at world-class Swiss schools.
• Exposure to culturally varying learning environments.
• Access to first-class academic and research facilities.
• Expanded professional opportunities through successful global networking.
• Advising on acquiring advanced degrees with further specialization on innovations and researches.

Why Switzerland is the Best Option

Switzerland is renowned not just for its high-quality education but also for being a warm, secure, and innovative nation. Boasting a student-centered environment, centrally located Europe, and wonderful facilities, it creates the ideal platform for international students to shine both academically and professionally.

BCES Admissions Abroad facilitates match of academic credentials of the students with appropriate opportunities and extends complete support for a trouble-free and successful experience of studying in Switzerland.