Overview

The Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships (Swiss Confederation / Federal Commission for Scholarships for Foreign Students, FCS/ESKAS) offer fellowships for early‑career researchers and PhD candidates to pursue research or doctoral projects in Switzerland for the 2027–2028 cycle. The programme is administered by the State Secretariat for Education, Research and Innovation (SERI / SBFI) and the Federal Commission for Scholarships for Foreign Students (FCS/ESKAS).

What the scholarship pays for

The scholarship provides a monthly allowance and several additional benefits to help cover living and study‑related costs. For the research, PhD and art categories the package includes:

  • CHF 2,450 per month (research/PhD/art categories).
  • Compulsory health‑insurance coverage for non‑EU/EFTA scholars.
  • One‑time CHF 600 rental‑deposit grant.
  • Half‑Fare Travelcard and a return‑flight allowance.

Who can apply

Eligible applicants are highly qualified early‑career researchers from abroad. Country‑specific rules apply. For the research/PhD tracks many applicants are required to have completed a Master’s degree by 31 July 2027. Applicants must identify a Swiss academic supervisor and satisfy the nationality‑specific conditions listed by the programme.

How to apply

  1. Register in GO ESKAS: Create an account and start your application in the GO ESKAS online portal.
  2. Follow the SBFI A–Z country list: Check the country‑specific instructions and any local requirements or deadlines (embassies or representations may publish their own details).
  3. Prepare documents and supervisor details: Secure an agreement or support from a Swiss academic supervisor and assemble the required documents according to the country‑specific checklist.
  4. Submit online: Complete and submit the application through GO ESKAS by the deadline that applies to your country.

For full application instructions and the official country list use the programme’s official information page:

Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships — official SBFI page

Key dates

  • Application deadline (example / embassy notice): 2026‑11‑30 — check your country entry on the SBFI A–Z list for the exact deadline that applies to you.
  • Degree completion requirement (for many research/PhD applicants): Master’s completed by 31 July 2027.

Practical tips

  • Confirm your country deadline: Deadlines and some requirements are country‑specific. Use the SBFI A–Z list to find the final local deadline rather than relying on a single global date.
  • Contact a potential Swiss supervisor early: Identifying and securing support from a Swiss academic supervisor can strengthen your application and is required for many tracks.
  • Allow time for GO ESKAS registration: Register and complete the online form well before the deadline so you can resolve any technical issues and gather supporting documents.

Before you apply, always verify eligibility rules, required documents and the exact deadline that applies to your nationality on the official programme page linked above.