Best Scholarships in Switzerland for International Students 2025: Study in Europe with Financial Support

Switzerland is a premier study destination known for its world-class education system, cutting-edge research facilities, and multicultural environment. For international students aspiring to study in Switzerland, numerous scholarship opportunities are available for the academic year 2025. These scholarships provide financial support and open doors to excellent universities, research programs, and career advancement. This blog highlights some of the top scholarships in Switzerland for international students in 2025.

Why Study in Switzerland?

Switzerland boasts some of the best universities in the world, including ETH Zurich, the University of Geneva, and EPFL. The country is also a hub for innovation and research, with strong ties to industries and organizations like CERN and WHO. Although living expenses in Switzerland can be high, various scholarships help ease financial burdens, making quality education accessible to students from all backgrounds.

Top Scholarships in Switzerland for International Students 2025

1. Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships

The Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships are among the most prestigious funding opportunities for international students. They are awarded to outstanding students pursuing master’s, PhD, and postdoctoral research at Swiss universities.

Benefits:

• Monthly stipend for living expenses

• No application processing fee

• Tuition fee waiver (varies by university)

• Access to Switzerland’s top research institutions

• Networking opportunities with fellow scholars

Deadline: Varies by country (Check the official website for details)

2. University of Geneva Excellence Master Fellowship

The University of Geneva offers the Excellence Master Fellowship for highly motivated students pursuing a master's degree in science disciplines.

Benefits:

• Annual grant between CHF 10,000 to CHF 15,000

• Financial support for three to four semesters (based on academic performance)

• Opportunity to study at a globally recognized university

• English-taught programs available for international students

Deadline: February 28, 2025

3. EPFL Excellence Fellowships

The École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL) offers Excellence Fellowships to exceptional master’s students across various disciplines.

Benefits:

• CHF 10,000 per semester (up to four semesters)

• Free room reservation (for external candidates)

• International networking and career opportunities

• Certificate of Excellence upon graduation

Deadline: Varies (Check EPFL website)

4. CERN Administrative and Technical Student Programs

CERN, the world’s leading particle physics laboratory, offers internships for students in administrative and technical fields. These programs provide valuable hands-on experience in a world-class research environment.

Benefits:

• Monthly stipend of CHF 3,452

• Travel allowance

• Health insurance coverage

• Paid leave (2.5 days per month)

• Exposure to leading researchers and scientists

Deadline: March 3, 2025

5. WTO Internship Programme

The World Trade Organization (WTO) offers paid internships for students interested in global trade and policy.

Benefits:

• CHF 60 daily stipend

• Professional experience in an international organization

• Networking and mentorship opportunities

Deadline: December 31, 2025

6. WHO Internship Program

The World Health Organization (WHO) provides internships in public health, research, and policy fields.

Benefits:

• Living allowance for eligible interns

• Free medical and accident insurance

• Certificate or recommendation letter upon completion

Deadline: Varies (Check WHO website)

7. ETH Robotics Summer Fellowship

ETH Zurich offers a fully funded summer research program for students interested in robotics and artificial intelligence.

Benefits:

• CHF 4,000 stipend

• Travel expenses covered (up to CHF 1,200 for international students)

• Accommodation provided

• Participation in social and networking events

Deadline: February 28, 2025

8. UNIL Master Degree Scholarship

The University of Lausanne (UNIL) offers master’s degree scholarships for outstanding students from foreign universities.

Benefits:

• CHF 1,600 monthly stipend

• Financial support for the duration of the master’s program

• Study at one of Switzerland’s leading institutions

Deadline: Varies (Check UNIL website)

9. Biozentrum PhD Fellowships Program

The University of Basel provides Biozentrum PhD Fellowships for talented researchers in molecular life sciences.

Benefits:

• Competitive PhD stipend

• Access to state-of-the-art research facilities

• Opportunities for collaboration with global scientists

Deadline: Varies (Check University of Basel website)

Final Thoughts

Switzerland offers excellent opportunities for international students seeking financial support for higher education. Whether you are interested in research, business, science, or public policy, there are scholarships to suit various academic fields. If you dream of studying in one of the most beautiful and innovative countries in Europe, start preparing your applications now!

Make sure to apply for the scholarships that best match your field of study and eligibility criteria. Share this blog with friends who are looking for scholarship opportunities in Switzerland. Best of luck!