EPFL Excellence Fellowships 2027 Switzerland | Fully Funded Master’s Scholarships

For international students aiming to pursue master’s studies in Switzerland, the EPFL Excellence Fellowships 2027 offer an outstanding opportunity. These prestigious scholarships are awarded to academically exceptional candidates who wish to study at the École polytechnique fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), one of Europe’s most diverse and innovative technical universities. The fellowships provide comprehensive financial support, including a stipend of CHF 10,000 per semester for up to four semesters, along with reserved student residence for external candidates, enabling recipients to focus fully on their studies and research.

A notable aspect of these fellowships is their availability across a wide array of fields, reflecting EPFL’s commitment to multidisciplinary education and research. Applicants should pay close attention to the application deadline and prepare their documentation carefully to maximize their chances.

• ETH Zurich Excellence Scholarship
• Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships
• Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degrees
• Swiss-European Mobility Programme (SEMP)

EPFL Scholarships Summary

• Level of Study: Master’s degree
• Host Institution: École polytechnique fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL)
• Country: Switzerland
• Funding: Fully funded, including CHF 10,000 per semester stipend for up to four semesters, plus reserved accommodation
• Application Deadline: March 31, 2027
• Fields of Study: Architecture, Civil & Environmental Engineering, Engineering, Computer & Communication Sciences, Basic Sciences, Life Sciences, Management of Technology, Humanities, and EPFL Middle East
• Program Duration: 1.5 to 2 years depending on the master’s program

The main scholarship covered in this guide is:

1. EPFL Excellence Fellowships – Main Master’s Scholarships at EPFL

EPFL Scholarships Deadline

The EPFL Excellence Fellowships have one upcoming application deadline for the 2027/2028 academic year:

• Next Deadline: March 31, 2027

The first deadline of December 15, 2026, has passed. Prospective applicants should prepare their applications for the March 31 deadline. The next application cycle will open in November 2027.

EPFL Scholarship Coverage

EPFL Excellence Fellowships

The fellowship offers substantial support to master’s students admitted to EPFL, ensuring financial security throughout their studies:

• A stipend of CHF 10,000 per semester, totaling up to CHF 40,000 for the entire master’s program (up to four semesters)
• Reservation of a student room in an EPFL student residence for external candidates
• Coverage of tuition fees (CHF 1,460 per year) and visa fees
• A certificate of excellence upon successful completion of the master’s degree
• Note: Fellows are responsible for all additional personal expenses including living costs and rent beyond the reserved accommodation

Tuition Fees for EPFL Master’s Programs

EPFL charges a modest tuition fee of CHF 1,460 per year for all master’s programs. This fee is covered by the Excellence Fellowship, relieving financial burden on recipients.

Living Costs and Student Housing at EPFL

While the fellowship reserves a student room in EPFL residences for external candidates, students are responsible for managing all other living expenses, including food, transportation, and personal costs. The exact living costs vary depending on lifestyle and accommodation choices.

How to Fund Your Studies at EPFL

Besides the EPFL Excellence Fellowship, students may explore additional funding options such as education loans for international students, assistantships, employer sponsorship, or other scholarships. It is advisable to consult EPFL’s official financial aid office and external scholarship databases for updated opportunities.

Eligibility Criteria for EPFL Excellence Fellowships

Applicants must meet both EPFL admission requirements and the fellowship’s standards of academic excellence to be considered for funding.

• Must hold a bachelor’s degree or equivalent in a relevant field related to the EPFL master’s curriculum
• Applicants who already possess a master’s degree or equivalent in the same or a similar field are not eligible
• Demonstration of outstanding academic records and strong references is mandatory
• English proficiency is required as the language of instruction
• Open to applicants from all countries worldwide

How to Apply for EPFL Excellence Fellowships

1. Register and create an account through EPFL’s official online application portal.
2. Complete the application form with accurate and detailed information.
3. Prepare and upload all required supporting documents in English, French, German, or Italian. If documents are in other languages, provide certified translations.
4. Submit the application before the March 31, 2027 deadline.

Documents Required

• Curriculum vitae (CV)
• Certified copies of bachelor’s diploma(s) or proof of expected graduation
• Certified transcripts of all university-level graduation reports
• Cover letter detailing academic background and career objectives (max 1000 words)
• Contact information for three academic referees who will submit confidential recommendation letters via the application system
• Valid identity card or passport
• For applicants residing in Switzerland, a copy of the residence permit

Frequently Asked Questions

What level of study do EPFL Excellence Fellowships support?

These fellowships are exclusively for master’s degree candidates at EPFL.

Are international students eligible to apply?

Yes, applicants from all countries worldwide can apply.

Is English proficiency required?

Yes, since the master’s programs are taught in English, applicants must demonstrate proficiency.

What is the financial coverage of the fellowship?

The fellowship provides CHF 10,000 per semester stipend, tuition fee coverage, visa fees, and reserved student housing for external candidates.

When is the next application deadline?

The upcoming deadline is March 31, 2027. The next application cycle opens in November 2027.

Can the fellowship duration be extended?

No, the fellowship is limited to a maximum of four semesters (or three semesters for 90-credit programs) without extension.

For the most current information and to apply, visit the official EPFL Excellence Fellowships website.