If you’re a talented artist dreaming of studying in Europe, this could be your big break. The Swiss Government Excellence Art Scholarship offers a rare opportunity to pursue a fully funded Master’s degree at one of Switzerland’s top conservatories or art schools.
Designed for emerging artists from select countries, the scholarship provides a monthly stipend, health insurance, a public transport pass, and even a return flight allowance. But it’s not just about funding—it’s a gateway to world-class artistic training in a country known for precision, innovation, and creativity.
Whether you’re a painter, musician, designer, or filmmaker, this scholarship could be the launchpad that transforms your potential into international success.
Scholarship Summary
- Host Country: Switzerland
- Scholarship Category: Masters Scholarships
- Eligible Countries: All countries
- Scholarship Benefits: Tuition fee, CHF 1,920, etc.
- Deadline: November – December
Scholarship Benefits for Swiss Government Excellence Art Scholarship 2026
The scholarship provides beneficiaries with:
- Monthly stipend of CHF 1,920 to cover basic living expenses.
- Health insurance is provided, especially for non-EU/EFTA recipients.
- One-time housing allowance of CHF 300.
- Swiss public transport half-fare card valid for one year.
- Return flight allowance for scholars from non-EU/EFTA countries.
- Tuition fees are often waived, depending on the host institution.
Eligibility Requirements for Swiss Government Excellence Art Scholarship 2026
To be considered for the scholarship, you:
- Must be from a country included in the program’s list of eligible countries.
- Must have completed a Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) by 31 July 2026.
- Must be born after 31 December 1990.
- Must not already hold a Master’s degree or equivalent.
- Admission process to a Swiss art or music school must be in progress at the time of application.
- If already living in Switzerland, the date of entry must not be earlier than 1 August 2025 and must be supported with a residence permit or registration confirmation.
Documents Required for Swiss Government Excellence Art Scholarship 2026
You will need the following documents:
- Completed official application form (two sets: original and copy)
- Bachelor’s degree certificate and academic transcripts
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Motivation letter
- Portfolio of artistic work
- Proof of application or admission process at a Swiss art school or conservatory
- Proof of date of birth (passport or birth certificate)
- Residence permit (if already in Switzerland)
- Medical certificate (in some cases)
- Copy of passport
- Confidential letters of recommendation (may be required depending on country)
- Letter of support or conditional acceptance from host institution (if required)
Scholarship Deadline
- Application period usually runs from August to December each year, depending on the applicant’s country.
- For most countries, applications must be submitted by November or December 2025.
- Selection results are typically announced by the end of May 2026.
- Scholarship begins on 1 September 2026.
Steps on How to Apply for the Swiss Government Excellence Art Scholarship
- Check Eligibility
- Ensure you’re from an eligible country.
- Confirm you meet age and education criteria (born after 31 Dec 1990; Bachelor’s completed by 31 July 2026).
- Make sure you do not already hold a Master’s degree.
- Begin the admission process to a Swiss art or music school.
- Find a Host Institution
- Identify a Swiss conservatory or art school that offers your intended Master’s program.
- Start the application or entrance exam process directly with the institution.
- Prepare Required Documents
- Application form (two sets)
- Motivation letter
- Curriculum Vitae
- Portfolio
- Academic transcripts and degree certificate
- Admission confirmation or proof of application to Swiss institution
- Passport copy
- Letters of recommendation (if required)
- Medical certificate (depending on your country)
- Residence permit (if currently in Switzerland)
- Request Institutional Support
- Obtain a letter of support or confirmation from the Swiss institution showing their willingness to accept or evaluate your candidacy.
- Submit Your Application
- Send your complete application package to the Swiss Embassy or designated authority in your home country.
- Pay close attention to country-specific instructions and deadlines, which typically fall between August and December.
- Wait for the Selection Results
- Applications are reviewed by the Federal Commission for Scholarships for Foreign Students.
- Final decisions are announced by the end of May of the following year.
- If Selected
- Confirm your acceptance.
- Finalize your admission with the host institution.
- Apply for a Swiss visa and prepare for relocation.
Click here to Get Standard CV for Admission or Scholarship Application
Click here to Get Admission or Scholarship CV or Statement of Purpose/Motivation Letter from a Professional.