If you are looking to study in Switzerland with financial aid, the EPFL Excellence Fellowships are among the most rewarding opportunities available to international students.
These scholarships support outstanding individuals pursuing master’s degrees across a wide range of academic disciplines. This guide provides a complete overview of the EPFL Excellence Fellowships, including the benefits, eligibility criteria, required documents, and a detailed step-by-step application process to help you put together a successful submission.
The EPFL Excellence Fellowships for 2026–2027 are open to master’s degree students. Selected candidates can receive up to CHF 32,000 in funding, along with assistance for accommodation, tuition, and visa-related expenses.
Here is the official link for EPFL Excellence Fellowships
EPFL Excellence Fellowships
1. Benefits of the EPFL Excellence Fellowships
2. Eligibility criteria for the EPFL Excellence Fellowships
3. How to Apply for the EPFL Excellence Fellowships
4. Deadlines for the EPFL Excellence Fellowships
5. FAQs about the EPFL Excellence Fellowships
1. Benefits of the EPFL Excellence Fellowships
Recipients of the EPFL Excellence Fellowships receive the following:
- CHF 10,000 per semester in financial support
- Assistance with reserving a room in a student residence
- A certificate of excellence awarded upon completion of the master’s program
Fellowship recipients are responsible for managing and covering their personal expenses, including housing and living costs.
The fellowship funding is available for a maximum of four semesters (or three semesters for a 90-credit master’s program), provided the recipient remains enrolled as a regular EPFL student. The funding period cannot be extended, even if the student chooses a minor program or encounters other circumstances that lengthen their studies.
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2. Eligibility criteria for EPFL Excellence Fellowships
Applicants must meet the following conditions to qualify:
Required language: English
Eligible applicants: Students from all countries
- Candidates must hold a bachelor’s degree from a recognized university, or an equivalent qualification, in a field related to EPFL’s master’s programs
- Applicants who already hold a master’s degree or an equivalent qualification in the same or a closely related field are not eligible
- Candidates should demonstrate excellent academic performance and strong letters of recommendation
3. How to Apply for EPFL Excellence Fellowships
Applicants should follow these steps to submit their application:
Step 1: Online Registration
Register through the official online application system.
Step 2: Complete the Application Form
Fill out the required online application form with accurate information.
Step 3: Submit Required Documents
All submitted documents must be written in English, French, German, or Italian. If documents are in another language, applicants must provide officially certified translations.
Required documents include:
- A curriculum vitae (CV)
- Certified copies of academic diplomas or bachelor’s degree certificates. If the diploma is not yet available, it must be submitted to the Academic Service after arrival
- Certified university transcripts and graduation records
- A motivation letter or cover letter of no more than 1,000 words explaining academic background and future career goals
- Contact information for three academic referees who will provide recommendation letters (except for certain applicants already enrolled at a Swiss Federal Institute of Technology or university applying for a master’s program in the same field as their bachelor’s degree)
- Three confidential recommendation letters from professors or teachers familiar with the applicant’s academic abilities and potential. These letters must be submitted through the electronic application system
- A copy of an identity card or passport
- A Swiss residence permit, if the applicant is a foreign resident living in Switzerland.
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4. Deadlines for EPFL Excellence Fellowships
The EPFL Excellence Fellowships have two application rounds each year. The deadlines are:
- First round: December 15
- Second round: March 31
For further details, applicants should refer to the official information provided by EPFL.
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5. FAQs about the EPFL Excellence Fellowships
What Are EPFL Excellence Fellowships 2026?
EPFL Excellence Fellowships 2026 are prestigious financial awards designed to support exceptional students beginning their master’s studies. The fellowships recognize students with outstanding academic records as well as involvement in extracurricular activities such as sports, arts, community service, or entrepreneurship.
Who Can Apply for EPFL Excellence Fellowships 2026?
Students who have completed a bachelor’s degree at EPFL or another recognized institution may apply. Both EPFL students and external applicants are eligible if they demonstrate excellent academic results and active participation in extracurricular activities.
How Much Financial Support Do EPFL Excellence Fellowships 2026 Provide?
The fellowship provides CHF 10,000 per semester to help master’s students with their educational expenses. In addition to financial support, recipients receive help with student accommodation, which lowers living costs and allows them to focus more effectively on their studies and personal development.
How Do I Apply for EPFL Excellence Fellowships 2026?
Applicants need to indicate their interest through the master’s application form and upload all required supporting documents. Students already studying at EPFL and continuing in the same academic field can submit their applications directly to their department or section for fellowship consideration.
Can EPFL Excellence Fellowships 2026 Be Renewed?
Yes, the fellowship may continue into the second year of the master’s program. To qualify for renewal, students must earn at least 50 ECTS credits and maintain an overall academic average of 5.0 out of 6. These requirements ensure that fellowship recipients continue to demonstrate strong academic performance throughout their studies.
