EPFL Excellence Fellowships 2026 and École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Switzerland (Sep 2026)

The EPFL Excellence Fellowships 2026 are now open for high-achieving international students looking to pursue a Master’s degree at one of Europe’s most prestigious technical universities. Offered by the École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), this program is designed to reward academic excellence and attract the world’s best talent to Switzerland. Furthermore, selected fellows will receive significant financial support, including a stipend of CHF 10,000 per semester, to cover their living and study costs. Consequently, ambitious students with a strong academic track record are encouraged to apply by the March deadline to secure this competitive opportunity.

Program Highlights

Feature	Details
Program Title	EPFL Excellence Fellowships 2026
Host Institution	École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL)
Location	Lausanne, Switzerland
Level of Study	Master’s Degree
Fellowship Value	CHF 10,000 per semester
Deadline	March 31, 2026

Program Overview

The EPFL Excellence Fellowships 2026 aim to promote equality in education within scientific, administrative, and technical fields. The program is highly exclusive, selecting only approximately 3% of applicants based on their outstanding academic records. This initiative supports EPFL’s mission to foster a diverse and inclusive environment where students from over 120 nationalities collaborate to solve global challenges.

Fellows are not only provided with financial aid but also gain access to a vibrant intellectual community. The fellowship facilitates networking with international organizations, industries, and NGOs, paving the way for future career opportunities. Additionally, the program includes coaching, mentoring, and specific grants for women, ensuring a supportive environment for all scholars.

Eligibility Criteria

To maintain the high standards of the institution, the EPFL Excellence Fellowships 2026 have strict eligibility requirements.

• Nationality: Open to candidates of all nationalities.
• Academic Standing: Applicants must hold a Bachelor’s degree from a recognized university and possess an excellent academic record.
• Enrollment: Candidates must be applying for a Master’s degree at EPFL for the first time. Students already holding a Master’s degree or applying for a second Master’s are not eligible.
• Extracurriculars: Applicants should distinguish themselves through sporting, civic, artistic, or entrepreneurial activities.
• Adherence: Candidates must declare all other scholarships they may be receiving during their studies.

Curriculum & Fields of Study

The fellowship is applicable to a wide range of Master’s programs offered at EPFL. While specific topics depend on the chosen degree, the institution is renowned for:

• Engineering and Technology
• Natural Sciences
• Architecture, Civil and Environmental Engineering
• Computer and Communication Sciences
• Life Sciences
• Management of Technology

Benefits and Financial Coverage

The EPFL Excellence Fellowships 2026 provide substantial financial support to ensure students can focus on their studies without financial burden.

• Financial Grant: A stipend of CHF 10,000 per semester for a maximum of 4 semesters (or 3 semesters for 90-credit programs).
• Housing Support: Guaranteed reservation of a student room in a student residence (specifically for external candidates).
• Recognition: A Certificate of Excellence awarded at the end of the Master’s program.
• Networking: Opportunities to connect with industry leaders and participate in career-building events.
• Note: Fellows are responsible for covering their own tuition fees, rent, and other living expenses using the stipend provided.

Required Documents

Applicants must prepare the following documents to support their application:

• Curriculum Vitae (CV): Detailed academic and professional history.
• Motivation Letter: A strong statement of purpose outlining your goals.
• Academic Transcripts: Official records showing grades and academic performance.
• Recommendation Letters: Two letters from professors familiar with the candidate’s work.
• Bachelor’s Degree: Copy of the degree certificate (if already obtained).

Selection Criteria

The selection process for the EPFL Excellence Fellowships 2026 is rigorous and unbiased.

• Academic Excellence: The primary criterion is the applicant’s past academic performance.
• Potential: Evaluation of the candidate’s potential to contribute to the scientific community.
• Diversity: Commitment to fostering a multicultural and inclusive cohort.
• Competitiveness: Only the top candidates (approx. 3%) are selected.

Registration Details

The application for the fellowship is integrated into the Master’s program application.

Detail	Information
Application Portal	Application Link
Application Deadline	March 31, 2026
Application Fee	Variable (Check Master’s Application Fee)
Mode	Online

Application Process

• Step 1: Access the official EPFL online application portal for Master’s programs.
• Step 2: Complete the standard application form for your chosen Master’s degree.
• Step 3: Locate the specific checkbox asking if you wish to apply for the EPFL Excellence Fellowship.
• Step 4: Tick the box (no separate application form is required for external candidates).
• Step 5: Ensure all supporting documents (CV, Letters of Recommendation, Transcripts) are uploaded correctly.
• Step 6: Submit the complete application before March 31, 2026.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is the EPFL Excellence Fellowship 2026 fully funded?

The fellowship is partially funded. It provides a generous stipend of CHF 10,000 per semester to help cover living costs and tuition, but students manage their own budgets for rent and fees.

2. Can I apply if I already have a Master’s degree?

No, the fellowship is not open to candidates who already hold a Master’s degree or are applying for a second Master’s.

3. What is the deadline for the EPFL Excellence Fellowships 2026?

The application deadline for external candidates is March 31, 2026.

4. Do I need to submit a separate application for the fellowship?

No, external candidates simply need to tick the relevant box on their Master’s degree application form.

5. Is accommodation provided for fellows?

Fellows receive a guaranteed reservation for a room in student housing, but they must pay the rent themselves using their stipend.