University of Geneva Excellence Master Fellowships 2026 – Study in Switzerland with Funding

The University of Geneva Excellence Master Fellowships are competitive funding awards offered by the University of Geneva through its Faculty of Science. These fellowships are designed to support outstanding students who wish to pursue a Master of Science (MSc) degree in Switzerland.

Rather than focusing only on financial support, the fellowship aims to attract academically strong candidates who demonstrate clear motivation and long-term academic or research potential.

Program Overview

The Excellence Master Fellowships are merit-based awards available for selected Master’s programmes within the Faculty of Science at the University of Geneva.

Key details:

• Host country: Switzerland

• Host institution: University of Geneva

• Level: Master’s degree (MSc)

• Fields: Biology, Chemistry, Computer Science, Physics, Mathematics, Environmental Sciences, and related disciplines

• Funding type: Merit-based fellowship

• Programme start: September 2026

Funding and Financial Support

Students selected for the Excellence Master Fellowship receive:

• 💰 A grant ranging from CHF 10,000 to CHF 15,000 per year

• ⏳ Funding initially awarded for one academic year

• 🔄 Possibility of renewal for the full duration of the Master’s programme, subject to satisfactory academic performance

The fellowship is intended to help cover living and study-related costs while students focus on their academic work.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants are generally expected to:

• Hold a Bachelor’s degree or be in the final year of undergraduate studies

• Demonstrate excellent academic performance

• Meet the admission requirements of the chosen MSc programme

• Submit a complete application within the official deadline

The fellowship is open to international students of all nationalities.

Who Should Apply for This Fellowship

This fellowship is well suited for students who:

• Have a strong academic record in science-related fields

• Plan to pursue research-oriented or academically demanding Master’s programmes

• Are motivated to study in a competitive European university environment

• Can clearly explain how the MSc programme fits their future academic or professional goals

If you are considering research, doctoral studies, or advanced scientific training, this fellowship can significantly strengthen your academic profile.

Who Should NOT Apply

This fellowship may not be the best fit if you:

• Are looking for guaranteed or automatic funding

• Do not meet the academic admission requirements of the MSc programme

• Are seeking short-term or non-academic training

• Are unable to maintain strong academic performance throughout the programme

Applying only when you are a good fit improves your chances and saves time.

What Makes This Fellowship Competitive

The University of Geneva Excellence Master Fellowships are competitive because:

• Only a limited number of fellowships are awarded each year

• Selection is based on academic excellence and motivation, not financial need alone

• Applicants come from strong academic backgrounds worldwide

Well-prepared applications stand out clearly during the selection process.

Common Mistakes Applicants Make

Some common reasons applicants are unsuccessful include:

• Submitting generic motivation letters

• Failing to explain why the chosen MSc programme fits their background

• Ignoring admission requirements or deadlines

• Applying without a clear academic direction

Before applying, it is strongly recommended to review our guide on common reasons scholarship applications get rejected and how to avoid them.

Tips to Improve Your Chances

Before applying, it’s helpful to understand how to evaluate scholarships properly. You can start with our guide on how to choose the right fully funded scholarship as an international student.

To strengthen your application:

• Clearly explain your academic interests and long-term goals

• Show how the Master’s programme aligns with your previous studies

• Prepare documents carefully and submit them early

• Avoid exaggeration — clarity and honesty matter

You may also find it helpful to read our guide on how to choose the right fully funded scholarship as an international student before applying.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is IELTS required?
Some MSc programmes are taught in English. Language requirements depend on the programme — always check official admission guidelines.

Can final-year students apply?
Yes, students in their final undergraduate year may apply, provided they meet admission conditions.

Is the fellowship fully funded?
The fellowship provides significant financial support, but students should plan responsibly for living costs in Switzerland.

Does the fellowship guarantee admission?
No. Admission to the MSc programme and fellowship selection are separate processes.

Official Fellowship Link

For full eligibility details, application instructions, and updates, visit the official University of Geneva page:

https://www.unige.ch/sciences/en/enseignements/formations/masters/excellencemasterfellowships

Final Thoughts

The University of Geneva Excellence Master Fellowships are highly competitive, but well-prepared applicants stand a strong chance. Take time to understand the program, align your goals clearly, and submit a focused application.

Disclaimer

This article is for informational purposes only. TripDoc is not affiliated with the University of Geneva or the Excellence Master Fellowship programme. We do not guarantee admission, selection, or funding. Applicants should always verify details directly from the official university website before applying.

Students pursuing Master’s studies at the University of Geneva.