Forum Pakistan is excited to share a golden opportunity for Pakistani students and researchers with global ambitions. The Swiss Government has officially opened the application window for its prestigious Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships for the 2026-2027 academic year. This program offers a fully funded pathway to advanced academic and research pursuits in Switzerland, one of the world’s leading hubs for innovation and higher education, A great opertunity for Higher Education.
These highly sought-after scholarships are designed to foster international exchange and research cooperation, allowing exceptional Pakistani graduates and researchers to work at renowned Swiss universities, federal institutes of technology, and research institutions. It’s a chance to not only elevate your academic career but also build invaluable global research linkages.
What the Scholarship Covers and Who Can Apply
The Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships are open to highly qualified individuals and are divided into three main categories:
- PhD Scholarships: For those with a Master’s degree looking to pursue a doctoral program.
- Research Fellowships: For postgraduate researchers with a Master’s degree who wish to conduct a research project.
- Postdoctoral Fellowships: For early-career scientists who have completed their PhD.
Successful applicants will receive a comprehensive financial package, making this a truly life-changing opportunity. The benefits typically include:
- Monthly Stipend: A generous monthly stipend to cover living expenses in Switzerland.
- Tuition Fee Exemption: The scholarship covers tuition fees at the host institution.
- Health Insurance: Premiums for compulsory Swiss health insurance are covered.
- Travel Allowance: A return airfare is provided for non-EU/EFTA students.
- Accommodation Allowance: A one-time housing allowance to assist with initial settling in.
Key Requirements and How to Apply
To be considered for this competitive scholarship, prospective applicants must demonstrate a strong academic record and a clear research proposal. A crucial component of the application is securing a letter of support from a Swiss academic supervisor who is willing to guide your proposed research. Without this, your application will not be considered.
Here are the essential details for Pakistani applicants:
- Application Deadline: September 30, 2025
- Application Portal: Applications are submitted online via the official portal at https://go.eskas.ch/LoginServlet.
- Contact for Information: For specific questions and to request application documents, Pakistani candidates are advised to contact the Swiss Embassy in Islamabad via email at [email protected].
Applicants are strongly advised to start the process well in advance of the deadline, as gathering all required documents, including a detailed research proposal and the mandatory letter from a Swiss professor, takes significant time and effort. This is an unparalleled opportunity to advance your academic and professional journey on a global stage, and Forum Pakistan encourages all eligible scholars to apply.
