EPFL Excellence Fellowships 2026 in Switzerland and EPFL (Mar 31, 2026)

The EPFL Excellence Fellowships 2026 are now open for applications, inviting the world’s brightest minds to study in the heart of Europe. Offered by the École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), this program is designed for students with outstanding academic records who wish to pursue their Master’s degree in Switzerland. Consequently, this highly competitive fellowship serves as a launchpad for future leaders in science and technology.

This international initiative promotes equality in education by offering financial support to top-tier candidates from any nationality. With a selection rate of approximately 3%, the EPFL Excellence Fellowships 2026 are among the most prestigious awards in Europe. Therefore, eligible students seeking to advance their education without a heavy financial burden should apply before the March deadline.

Program Highlights

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

Program Overview

The EPFL Excellence Fellowships 2026 provide a limited number of grants to Master’s level students, aiming to foster diversity and inclusion within scientific and technical fields. The institute focuses heavily on sustainability and social impact, using science and technology to promote peace and humanitarian action worldwide.

Fellows selected for this program gain access to a robust international network comprising universities, industries, and NGOs. This connectivity ensures that participants are not only supported financially but also mentored towards securing promising career opportunities in the future.

Eligibility Criteria

To maintain its high standards, EPFL has established strict eligibility requirements.

• Nationality: Open to anyone from any nationality and any part of the world.
• Academic Excellence: Applicants must have a very strong academic record.
• Degree Status: Candidates must be enrolling in a Master’s program for the first time; those applying for a second Master’s degree are ineligible.
• Extracurriculars: Applicants should distinguish themselves through sporting, civic, artistic, or entrepreneurial activities.
• Transparency: Applicants are required to declare all other scholarships they may be receiving.

Financial Benefits and Support

The EPFL Excellence Fellowships 2026 offers substantial financial aid to help cover the costs of living and studying in Switzerland.

• Stipend: Selected fellows receive a grant valued at CHF 10,000 per semester.
• Duration: The funding is provided for a maximum of 4 semesters of the degree program.
• Accommodation: External candidates receive a free room reservation service, easing the housing hunt in Switzerland.
• Recognition: Fellows receive a certificate of excellence upon completing their program.
• Note: Fellows are responsible for covering remaining expenses, including tuition fees and rent, using the stipend provided.

Required Documents

Applicants must prepare the following documents to demonstrate their suitability for the EPFL Excellence Fellowships 2026:

• Curriculum Vitae (CV): Detailed academic and professional history.
• Recommendation Letters: Two letters from relevant professors.
• Motivation Letter: A statement outlining the candidate’s goals and reasons for applying.
• Academic Transcripts: Official records showing grades and performance.

Application Process

The application process for the EPFL Excellence Fellowships 2026 is streamlined and integrated into the Master’s program application.

1. External Applicants: Students with a Bachelor’s from a foreign university can apply via the Master’s application form by simply checking the box to apply for the scholarship. No additional documents are needed beyond the standard admission requirements.
2. Internal Applicants: Students completing their Bachelor’s at EPFL may have a specific section or area to apply through, often requiring supporting documents.
3. Submission: Ensure the form is completed carefully and submitted online before the deadline.

Important Dates

Activity	Date
External Applications Deadline (Round 2)	March 31, 2026

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Who can apply for the EPFL Excellence Fellowships 2026?

Both international students (external) and current EPFL students (internal) with excellent academic records can apply.

2. What is the value of the fellowship?

The fellowship provides CHF 10,000 per semester for up to 4 semesters.

3. Does the fellowship cover tuition fees?

The stipend is intended to help cover expenses, but students are technically responsible for paying tuition and rent from these funds or their own resources.

4. How competitive is the program?

It is very competitive, with only about 3% of applicants receiving the fellowship.

5. When is the deadline for international students?

The deadline for external candidates (Round 2) is March 31, 2026.