Scholarships for Indian Students in Switzerland

Switzerland’s commitment to fostering international talent is evident through its diverse scholarship programs for Indian students. Whether you’re pursuing research or advanced studies, there’s financial support available to help you thrive.

Hamlets Education specializes in connecting students with these opportunities, providing tailored assistance to enhance your chances of success. Don’t let financial barriers hold you back—explore the possibilities that await in Switzerland.

Types of Scholarships for Indian Students in Switzerland

Switzerland is renowned for its high-quality education system and offers a variety of scholarships to international students, including those from India. These scholarships are designed to attract talented individuals across various disciplines, providing financial support to help them pursue their academic goals in Switzerland. Let’s delve into some of the prominent scholarships that can help turn your Swiss education dream into reality:

1. Swiss Government Scholarships

Aimed at young researchers and postgraduate students from around the world, including India.
These scholarships support doctoral or postdoctoral research in Switzerland, covering tuition fees, monthly stipends, health insurance, and accommodation allowances.
Research and art scholarships are specifically designed for international students pursuing research in any discipline or those engaged in artistic fields.

2. Indian Government and Private Scholarships

The National Overseas Scholarship is offered by the Indian Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment to support students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds to pursue master’s or PhD programs abroad.
The J.N. Tata Endowment for the Higher Education of Indians also provides loan scholarships for Indian students studying internationally.
The Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation Scholarships fund exceptional Indian students for full-time master’s, MPhil, or doctoral programs at top-rated European institutions.

3. University-Specific Scholarships

The ETH Zurich Excellence Scholarship & Opportunity Programme (ESOP) offers outstanding students full coverage of study and living costs during their master’s degree at ETH Zurich.
The University of Lausanne Master’s Grants provides grants to international students who wish to pursue a master’s degree at the University of Lausanne.
The École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne offers fellowships to outstanding master’s students, which include financial support and may cover tuition fees.

4. Industry and Research-Based Scholarships

Formerly part of the Erasmus+ program, the Swiss-European Mobility Programme (SEMP) scholarship facilitates student exchanges between Swiss and European higher education institutions.
Indian students enrolled in European universities participating in SEMP can study in Switzerland with financial support ranging from CHF 380 to CHF 440 per month.
Certain Swiss industries and corporations offer scholarships to attract international talent in specialized fields such as engineering, technology, and business.

5. Other Scholarships

International organizations, such as the European Union and various NGOs, offer scholarships aimed at promoting global cooperation and development.
These scholarships often cover full tuition and living costs for studies in Switzerland.

Scholarship Eligibility Requirements for Indian Students in Switzerland

Securing a scholarship in Switzerland isn’t just about top grades – though they certainly help! Many scholarships also reward research potential, community involvement, and even artistic talent. Some are need-based, ensuring that financial constraints don’t hold back promising students. Language proficiency in English, French, or German might be required, depending on the program. The key? Understanding the fine print, showcasing your strengths, and presenting a compelling application.

Essential Eligibility Factors

1. Academic Performance

For undergraduate programs, candidates should possess a robust academic record from their secondary education. While specific grade requirements may vary by institution, a history of high achievement is essential. Graduates must hold a bachelor’s degree from a recognized university, typically with commendable grades for postgraduate scholarships.

2. English Proficiency

English-Taught Courses: For programs conducted in English, non-native speakers must demonstrate proficiency through standardized tests such as IELTS or TOEFL. Each university sets its own minimum score requirements.
French, German, or Italian-Taught Courses: Switzerland’s multilingual landscape means some programs are offered in these languages. Proficiency in the respective language, evidenced by certifications like DELF/DALF for French or TestDaF for German, may be required.

3. Research Proposal for Doctoral Candidates

Applicants aiming for research-centric programs or scholarships, such as the Swiss Government Excellence Research Scholarships, need to submit a well-structured research proposal. This document should outline the study’s objectives, methodology, and its potential contribution to the field.

4. Leadership and Extracurricular Achievements

Swiss scholarships don’t just look at your grades—they value leadership, social impact, and extracurriculars. Your chances improve if you have:

Leadership experience (student councils, club presidents, NGO involvement).
Volunteering & community service (working with non-profits, environmental projects).
Excellence in sports, arts, or competitions (international Olympiads, research grants).

5. Financial Documentation

While many scholarships alleviate financial burdens, some institutions require proof of sufficient funds to cover living expenses. This may include bank statements or affidavits of financial support.

6. Statements of Purpose (SOPs) and Letters of Recommendation (LORs)

SOPs: A compelling personal essay detailing your academic journey, career aspirations, and why you deserve the scholarship.
LORs: Strong endorsements from academic or professional referees can significantly bolster an application. These letters should attest to the applicant’s academic prowess, character, and suitability for the chosen program.

7. Age Requirements

Certain scholarships impose age restrictions. For example, candidates for the Swiss Government Excellence PhD Scholarships must be born after December 31, 1989.

8. Health and Medical Requirements

Proof of comprehensive health insurance coverage is often a prerequisite for both university admission and visa approval. Some scholarships, like the Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships, may include health insurance as part of their benefits.

9. Application Deadlines

Swiss scholarship deadlines vary:

Government scholarships (e.g., Swiss Excellence Scholarships) – Close between September and December for the following academic year.
University scholarships – Deadlines usually fall between January and April.
Private & research grants – Some have rolling deadlines, but early applications are encouraged.

Late applications are automatically rejected, so staying ahead of the timeline is crucial.

Top Scholarships for Indian Students to Study in Switzerland

For Indian students, Switzerland isn’t just about alpine vistas—it’s a hub for fully funded STEM, business, and hospitality degrees. Government programs and university grants prioritize candidates with innovative research proposals or entrepreneurial drive. Many awards even waive tuition fees at public universities. If precision, innovation, and global exposure define your goals, Switzerland’s scholarships are your gateway.

Swiss Government Scholarships

Scholarship Name	Scholarship Amount	Eligibility Criteria	Additional Details
Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships	Covers tuition fees, monthly stipend, health insurance, and accommodation allowance.	- Indian nationals - Completed master's degree or PhD - Admission to a Swiss institution - Age and field-specific criteria may apply.	Aimed at young researchers and postgraduate students from around the world, including India.

Indian Government & Private Scholarships

Scholarship Name	Scholarship Amount	Eligibility Criteria	Additional Details
National Overseas Scholarship	Financial assistance for tuition and other expenses.	- Indian nationals from Scheduled Castes, Denotified Nomadic and Semi-Nomadic Tribes, Landless Agricultural Labourers, and Traditional Artisans. - Age ≤ 35 years. - Secured admission to a foreign institution. - Family income ≤ INR 8,00,000 per annum.	Supports students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds to pursue master's or PhD programs abroad.
J.N. Tata Endowment Loan Scholarship	Loan scholarship ranging from INR 1,00,000 to INR 10,00,000.	- Indian nationals. - Graduates from a recognized Indian university. - Secured admission to a postgraduate, PhD, or postdoctoral program abroad.	Provides loan scholarships for Indian students studying internationally. Requires repayment in five equal installments within the third and seventh years.
Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation Scholarships	Up to USD 100,000 covering tuition, living expenses, one-way travel, and health allowance.	- Indian nationals. - Age ≤ 30 years. - First-class degree from a recognized Indian institution. - Admission to a full-time master's, MPhil, or doctoral program in Europe, UK, or USA.	Funds exceptional Indian students for full-time master's, MPhil, or doctoral programs at top-rated European institutions.

University-Specific Scholarships

Scholarship Name	Scholarship Amount	Eligibility Criteria	Additional Details
ETH Zurich Excellence Scholarship & Opportunity Programme (ESOP)	Covers full study and living costs during the master's degree.	- Excellent academic records. - Admission to a master's program at ETH Zurich.	Offers outstanding students full coverage of study and living costs during their master's degree at ETH Zurich.
University of Lausanne Master's Grants	CHF 1,600 per month for the duration of the master's program (1.5 to 2 years).	- Bachelor's degree from a foreign university. - Outstanding academic records. - Admission to a master's program at the University of Lausanne.	Provides grants to international students who wish to pursue a master's degree at the University of Lausanne.
EPFL Excellence Fellowships	Financial support including accommodation, tuition fees, and visa fees.	- Outstanding academic records. - Admission to a master's program at École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL).	Offers fellowships to outstanding master's students, which include financial support and may cover tuition fees.

Industry and Research-Based Scholarships

Scholarship Name	Scholarship Amount	Eligibility Criteria	Additional Details
Swiss-European Mobility Programme (SEMP)	CHF 380 to CHF 440 per month.	- Students enrolled in European universities participating in SEMP. - Selected for exchange to a Swiss institution.	Facilitates student exchanges between Swiss and European higher education institutions.

Apply for Scholarships to Study in Switzerland for Indian Students

Securing a scholarship to study in Switzerland can significantly alleviate financial burdens and open doors to world-class education. Given the competitive landscape, a strategic and well-prepared approach is essential. Here are detailed, actionable tips to enhance your chances of success:

Begin your scholarship search well ahead of application deadlines. Familiarize yourself with the various options to identify those that align with your academic goals and qualifications. Official university websites and the Swiss Government’s scholarship portal are reliable sources for up-to-date information.
Each scholarship has distinct eligibility criteria encompassing academic achievements, language proficiency, and sometimes financial need:
- Academic Excellence: Maintain a strong academic record, as many scholarships prioritize high achievers. For instance, the ETH Zurich Excellence Scholarship requires applicants to be in the top 10% of their bachelor’s degree class.
- Language Proficiency: Depending on the program’s language of instruction, demonstrate proficiency in English (through IELTS/TOEFL scores) or other relevant languages. Most universities require certificates proving your knowledge of the language in which classes are taught.
- Financial Need: For need-based scholarships, be prepared to provide documentation such as income certificates or bank statements to substantiate your financial situation.
Scholarship committees value candidates who demonstrate leadership, community service, and extracurricular engagement. Emphasize:
Volunteering experience with NGOs or social impact projects.
- Leadership roles in student organizations, clubs, or sports teams.
- Awards or recognitions in competitions, Olympiads, or hackathons.
- A well-rounded profile can significantly enhance your application.
Your Statement of Purpose (SOP) should convincingly narrate your academic journey, future aspirations, and why Switzerland is the perfect place for you. Scholarship committees look for candidates with clear, goal-oriented ambitions that align with their program’s mission.
Instead of a generic endorsement, choose recommenders who have closely observed your academic performance, research skills, or leadership abilities to draft your Letter of Recommendation (LOR).
If your scholarship requires an interview, think of it as an opportunity to bring your application to life. Interviewers want to see more than just academic excellence—they want to understand your vision, motivation, and awareness of your field. Research how Switzerland plays a role in your subject area, be prepared to discuss current developments, and articulate why you are an ideal candidate.
Scholarship applications are highly competitive, and missing a deadline—even by a day—can mean disqualification. Avoid last-minute rushes by creating a clear timeline that tracks all crucial dates, required documents, and submission guidelines.
You don’t have to navigate the scholarship process alone. Connect with advisors, alumni, and current scholarship recipients to gain valuable insights into what makes a winning application. Many universities have guidance offices dedicated to helping students craft strong applications.

Conclusion

Switzerland’s prestigious scholarships open doors to world-class education, rewarding ambition, excellence, and potential. A meticulously crafted application can be your key to success. Let Hamlets Education guide you through every step—from finding the right scholarship to securing your spot in Switzerland’s top universities.

Achieve Academic Excellence in Switzerland with Tailored Scholarships