EPFL Excellence Scholarship 2027 in Switzerland: Apply and Get Up to CHF 40,000
EPFL opens prestigious master’s excellence scholarship for global students
International students dreaming of earning a world-class master’s degree in Europe now have a new opportunity as applications open for the 2027 EPFL Excellence Scholarship in Switzerland. Offered by the École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), the prestigious scholarship provides generous financial support of up to CHF 40,000, reserved student accommodation, and a certificate of excellence upon graduation.
The scholarship is aimed at academically outstanding students from around the world who wish to pursue one of EPFL’s master’s degree programmes. With no IELTS requirement specified for the scholarship application and eligibility open to applicants from all nationalities, the programme is expected to attract thousands of highly qualified candidates.
Recognized as one of Europe’s leading institutions for science, engineering, and technology, EPFL continues to invest in attracting talented students by offering financial assistance that allows recipients to focus on academic excellence and research.
What Is the EPFL Excellence Scholarship?
The EPFL Excellence Scholarship is a merit-based fellowship designed for exceptional students applying to master’s programmes at EPFL in Switzerland.
The award is available to students who completed their bachelor’s degree either at EPFL or at another recognized university worldwide. Selection is based solely on academic merit, with successful candidates chosen after a comprehensive review of their academic achievements and application materials.
EPFL currently offers 29 master’s programmes across five faculties and two colleges, covering disciplines such as engineering, computer science, life sciences, architecture, environmental sciences, mathematics, physics, and technology.
Scholarship Benefits Worth Up to CHF 40,000
One of the biggest attractions of the EPFL Excellence Scholarship is its generous financial package.
Successful applicants will receive:
- CHF 10,000 per semester
- Up to CHF 40,000 for a two-year master’s programme (approximately $45,650)
- Up to CHF 30,000 for programmes lasting one and a half years
- Reserved accommodation in an EPFL student residence
- Certificate of Excellence upon successful completion of the programme
These benefits help reduce financial pressure while allowing students to fully dedicate themselves to their studies, research, and professional development.
Who Is Eligible to Apply?
The scholarship is open to applicants from all countries and nationalities.
To qualify, candidates must:
- Apply for an eligible EPFL master’s programme.
- Hold a recognized bachelor’s degree or equivalent qualification in a related field.
- Demonstrate an excellent academic record.
Unlike many international scholarships, the programme does not impose nationality restrictions, making it one of the most accessible merit-based master’s scholarships in Europe.
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Required Documents for the EPFL Excellence Scholarship
Applicants should prepare the following documents before beginning the online application:
- Completed application form
- Academic transcripts
- Bachelor’s degree or diploma certificate
- Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Valid passport or identity card
- Motivation letter
- Recommendation letters
Optional documents such as TOEFL, GRE scores, research publications, and portfolios may also be submitted to strengthen an application, although they are not compulsory.
How to Apply for the EPFL Excellence Scholarship 2027
Interested applicants must first apply for an eligible EPFL master’s programme through the university’s admission portal.
During the admission process, applicants should indicate that they wish to be considered for the EPFL Excellence Scholarship, upload all required documents, and submit their application before the appropriate deadline.
There is no separate scholarship application outside the master’s admission process.
Application Deadlines
EPFL has announced two application rounds:
- Round 2: December 15, 2026
- Round 1 (2027): March 15, 2027
Prospective students are encouraged to begin preparing their application materials well in advance due to the competitive nature of the scholarship.
Why the EPFL Excellence Scholarship Is Highly Competitive
EPFL consistently ranks among the world’s top universities for engineering, science, and technology. As a result, the Excellence Scholarship attracts applications from high-achieving students across the globe.
Recipients benefit not only from financial support but also from access to cutting-edge laboratories, internationally recognized researchers, interdisciplinary learning opportunities, and a vibrant international academic community.
For students seeking to pursue graduate studies in Switzerland with significant financial assistance, the 2027 EPFL Excellence Scholarship remains one of the most prestigious opportunities currently available.
FAQ
What is the EPFL Excellence Scholarship 2027?
The EPFL Excellence Scholarship is a merit-based funding programme offered by the École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL) for outstanding students applying to eligible master’s degree programmes in Switzerland.
Is the EPFL Excellence Scholarship fully funded?
The scholarship provides substantial financial support of CHF 10,000 per semester, amounting to CHF 40,000 for a two-year master’s programme or CHF 30,000 for a 1.5-year programme. It also includes reserved accommodation and a certificate of excellence, though students should check the official EPFL website for any additional expenses not covered.
Who can apply for the EPFL Excellence Scholarship?
Applicants from any country can apply, provided they hold a recognized bachelor’s degree in a relevant field and are applying for an eligible EPFL master’s programme. Selection is based on academic excellence.
Do I need IELTS to apply for the EPFL Excellence Scholarship?
The scholarship itself does not require IELTS. However, applicants should review the language requirements of their chosen master’s programme, as English proficiency documentation may still be required depending on the course.
How much funding does the scholarship provide?
Successful applicants receive CHF 10,000 per semester, with total funding reaching CHF 40,000 for two-year programmes or CHF 30,000 for shorter master’s degrees.
Does the scholarship provide accommodation?
Yes. Scholarship recipients are offered a reserved room in an EPFL student residence, helping ease accommodation arrangements during their studies.
What documents are required?
Applicants need to submit:
- Completed application form
- Academic transcripts
- Bachelor’s degree certificate
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Passport or identity card
- Motivation letter
- Recommendation letters
Optional documents such as TOEFL, GRE scores, research publications, or portfolios may strengthen an application.
How do I apply for the EPFL Excellence Scholarship?
Students apply through the EPFL master’s admission portal. During the application process, they should indicate their interest in the Excellence Scholarship and upload all required documents before the deadline.
When is the application deadline?
The scholarship has two application rounds:
- December 15, 2026 (Round 2)
- March 15, 2027 (Round 1)
Applicants should verify deadlines for their specific programme on the official EPFL admissions page.
How are scholarship recipients selected?
Recipients are chosen solely on academic merit. EPFL evaluates applicants based on the quality of their academic record and the strength of their overall application.
Which master’s programmes are eligible?
EPFL offers 29 master’s programmes in areas including engineering, computer science, architecture, life sciences, environmental sciences, mathematics, chemistry, and physics.
Is the EPFL Excellence Scholarship competitive?
Yes. Because it is open to exceptional students worldwide and awarded based on academic excellence, the scholarship is highly competitive.
Why should I choose EPFL for graduate studies?
EPFL is consistently ranked among the world’s leading universities for science, engineering, and technology. Students benefit from internationally recognized faculty, advanced research facilities, strong industry collaborations, and excellent career opportunities after graduation.