Studying in Switzerland: Swiss Confederation Excellence Scholarships, ETH and EPFL

Switzerland is home to some of the best-performing research institutions in the world, notably ETH Zurich and EPFL. Tuition fees at public universities remain moderate, but the cost of living is high: excellence scholarships are therefore a decisive lever.

A two-speed system

Federal institutes of technology (ETH, EPFL), cantonal universities and universities of applied sciences coexist. Admission requirements are high, particularly in science and engineering. Master's programmes are often in English or in German/French depending on the region.

Swiss Confederation excellence scholarships

The State Secretariat for Education, Research and Innovation (SERI) awards excellence scholarships to foreign researchers and artists for a research stay, a doctorate or a postdoctorate at a Swiss university. Applications go through the embassy or the official representative in the country of origin and generally require a research project and the agreement of a Swiss supervisor. The calendar is annual and places are limited.

University programmes

• ETH Zurich - Excellence Scholarship & Opportunity Programme: financial support and mentoring for excellent master's candidates.
• EPFL - Excellence Fellowships: excellence scholarships for high-potential master's students.
• Foundation aid and targeted department scholarships.

Putting together the file

The academic file is decisive: transcripts with ranking, a precise study or research project, recommendation letters, language level. For a doctorate, contact a professor in advance: without a supervision agreement, the application is rarely accepted.

Visa and residence

Moroccan nationals need a visa for long studies, issued after admission and on proof of sufficient financial means. On arrival, a residence permit must be requested from the municipality.

Cost of living

Zurich, Geneva and Lausanne are particularly expensive. Student housing is limited: look as soon as you are admitted, using the universities' services. Calculate the budget carefully, because the authorities check the ability to fund the stay.

Advice

• Aim for programmes aligned with your results: selection is very rigorous.
• Contact professors early for research paths.
• See each scholarship's page for updated dates.