Are you an ambitious student with a strong academic background, aiming to pursue your master’s degree in Switzerland? The University of Geneva Excellence Masters Fellowships 2025–2026 provide a fantastic opportunity for talented international students to study at one of Europe’s most prestigious research institutions. This fully funded master’s scholarship offers a financial award of up to CHF 15,000 per year, allowing recipients to focus fully on their studies without financial stress.
Organized by the Faculty of Science at the University of Geneva, this fellowship is designed to support exceptional students from around the world in their pursuit of a Master of Science (MSc) degree. The goal is to promote academic excellence and innovation across disciplines in science and technology.
This blog post will cover everything you need to know: eligibility, benefits, available fields, and the step-by-step application process to help you win this competitive scholarship.
About the University of Geneva
Founded in 1559, the University of Geneva (Université de Genève) is a leading public research university in Switzerland, ranked among the top 100 universities worldwide. It is known for its global academic reputation, international community, and strong focus on interdisciplinary research and education.
The Faculty of Science at the university plays a key role in scientific advancement, covering a wide range of research fields from mathematics and computer science to biology, chemistry, and earth sciences. It offers English- and French-taught master’s programs aligned with both academic and professional career paths.
Fellowship Summary
Host Institution: University of Geneva – Faculty of Science
Level of Study: Master’s Degree (MSc)
Study Location: Geneva, Switzerland
Program Duration: 3 or 4 semesters (depending on the chosen program)
Scholarship Value: CHF 10,000 to CHF 15,000 per year
Deadline to Apply: February 28
Language of Instruction: English or French
Eligible Fields of Study
The fellowship supports full-time enrolment in Master of Science (MSc) programs offered by the Faculty of Science. These include:
Mathematics
Computer Science
Physics
Chemistry and Biochemistry
Earth Sciences
Environmental Sciences
Pharmaceutical Sciences
Biology
Neuroscience
Prehistoric Archaeology
Astrophysics
Financial Mathematics and Statistics
Bioinformatics
Many of these master’s programs are fully taught in English, while others are in English and French.
Scholarship Coverage and Benefits
The University of Geneva Excellence Masters Fellowship provides selected students with generous financial support:
CHF 10,000 to CHF 15,000 per year
No teaching duties or work requirements
Initial award for one year, renewable for the full length of the Master’s program (3 or 4 semesters)
Continued funding based on satisfactory academic performance after the first semester
This fellowship is designed to allow students to focus fully on their academic and research pursuits without distractions.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the University of Geneva Excellence Masters Fellowship, applicants must meet the following conditions:
Must be from any country in the world
Must have completed or be completing a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field
Must have an excellent academic record (top students in their graduating class)
Must meet the admission criteria for the chosen Master’s program
Must apply online before the deadline and submit a complete application package
Must demonstrate strong motivation and scientific interest in the chosen field
Language requirement: Programs are in English or French, so proficiency in at least one of these languages is required
Required Documents
Applicants must prepare and upload the following documents in a single PDF file during the online application:
Passport or national identity card (scan)
Proof of registration or application to the University of Geneva (UNIGE card or confirmation email)
Curriculum Vitae (CV) – maximum 2 pages
Transcripts from all university-level studies (certified with grades)
Motivation letter (max 1,000 words) explaining scientific interests and career goals
Two academic reference letters (optional but highly recommended; to be sent directly by professors to Excellence-Master-Sciences@unige.ch)
Language proficiency test results (e.g., TOEFL, IELTS) if applicable
GRE or other standardized test scores (optional, but can strengthen your application)
All documents must be submitted in English or French. If your original documents are in another language, certified translations are required.
Step-by-Step Application Process
Step 1: Choose Your Master’s Program
Visit the University of Geneva Faculty of Science website to select an eligible MSc program.
Step 2: Begin Your Matriculation Process
Start your application for admission to the university. You’ll receive an email confirming your submission — this is required for your fellowship application.
Step 3: Prepare Fellowship Application Documents
Gather and organize all required documents into one single PDF file.
Step 4: Complete Online Fellowship Application
Access the online application form (available in January 2025) via the Faculty of Science website. Upload your complete application file and submit it before the deadline.
Step 5: Await Evaluation and Notification
Applications are evaluated based on academic merit, motivation, and reference letters. Selected applicants will be informed via email.
Application Deadline
Deadline for Fellowship Application: February 28
Applications open: January
Program start date: September (Fall semester)
Why Study at the University of Geneva?
Located in the heart of Geneva, a global city for diplomacy, science, and innovation
Ranked among the top universities in Europe for research output and academic excellence
Offers internationally recognized degrees and research collaboration opportunities
Study in a multicultural, safe, and beautiful environment with access to the Alps
Opens pathways to careers in academia, industry, education, administration, and communication
Official Website
To apply or learn more about the fellowship and available programs:
👉 University of Geneva Excellence Master Fellowships – Official Website
The University of Geneva Excellence Masters Fellowships 2025–2026 are a gateway to one of Europe’s most respected scientific institutions. With generous funding, academic prestige, and access to Switzerland’s thriving intellectual and professional environment, this fellowship is ideal for students ready to push boundaries and make a global impact in science and innovation.
If you’re among the best in your class, start preparing now, gather your documents, and submit a strong application before the deadline. The University of Geneva is ready to welcome your excellence.