The University of Geneva is one of Europe’s most respected research universities, renowned for academic excellence, innovation, and global impact. Located in the heart of Switzerland, the university consistently attracts top students and researchers from around the world.
To support outstanding international talent, the Faculty of Science at the University of Geneva (UNIGE) offers the Excellence Fellowship Program for Master’s Studies—a prestigious funding opportunity designed for highly motivated students with exceptional academic records who wish to pursue a Master of Science (MSc) degree in one of the Faculty’s scientific disciplines.
This scholarship not only provides generous financial support but also opens doors to world-class research environments, international networks, and diverse career pathways.
About the Faculty of Science, University of Geneva
The Faculty of Science at UNIGE is internationally recognized as a leading research and teaching institution. Its academic strength spans a wide range of scientific fields, including:
- Astronomy and Astrophysics
- Biology and Life Sciences
- Chemistry and Biochemistry
- Computer Science
- Mathematics
- Physics
- Pharmaceutical Sciences
- Earth and Environmental Sciences
The Faculty hosts two National Centres of Competence in Research (NCCR) funded by the highly competitive Swiss National Science Foundation—SwissMAP (Mathematics and Physics) and PlanetS (Planetary Sciences). In addition, it participates in numerous European and international research projects, placing students at the forefront of scientific discovery.
Why Study a Master’s Degree at UNIGE?
A Master’s degree from the University of Geneva provides more than academic knowledge—it offers a strong foundation for both academic and professional careers. Graduates of the Faculty of Science go on to work in:
- Research and academia
- Industry and innovation sectors
- Education and teaching
- Science administration and policy
- Science communication, journalism, and media
Master’s programs are taught either entirely in English or in a combination of English and French, depending on the program. This flexible language structure makes UNIGE an attractive destination for international students.
Excellence Fellowship Program: Overview
The Excellence Fellowship Program was established by the Faculty of Science with the support of external partners to attract exceptional students from around the world.
Key Features of the Fellowship:
- Open to outstanding and highly motivated students
- Available for Master of Science degrees within the Faculty of Science
- Selection is strictly merit-based, focusing on academic excellence
This fellowship is not tied to teaching or assistantship duties, allowing students to fully concentrate on their studies and research.
Financial Benefits of the Excellence Fellowship
The Excellence Fellowship provides substantial financial support to help students cover living and study expenses in Switzerland.
Fellowship Value:
- CHF 10,000 to CHF 15,000 per year
- Awarded initially for one academic year
- Automatically extended for the full duration of the Master’s program (three or four semesters), provided the student maintains strong academic performance after the first semester
This funding makes studying at one of Europe’s top universities significantly more accessible for international students.
For more opportunities >>>>
Study in Germany 2026: Heinrich Böll Foundation Scholarship (Fully Funded)
University of Hertfordshire Fully Funded PhD Studentship for International Students (2026)
KAS Scholarship Program in Germany 2026 (Fully Funded Master’s & PhD)
Who Can Apply? (Eligibility Criteria)
The Excellence Fellowship is open to top-performing students worldwide, regardless of their country of origin or home institution.
You are eligible to apply if you:
- Have completed or are completing a Bachelor’s degree with excellent results
- Rank among the best students in your academic year
- Meet the admission requirements of the Master’s program you are applying for
- Apply for a Master of Science degree offered by the Faculty of Science
- Have not already started a Master’s program at the Faculty of Science, UNIGE
⚠️ Important Note: Students who have already begun a Master’s program at the Faculty of Science are not eligible for the Excellence Master Fellowship.
Admission Requirement: A Mandatory Step
To be considered for the Excellence Fellowship, all applicants must complete the Master’s admission process through the University of Geneva Admissions Office.
Proof of enrollment depends on your status:
- If you are already a UNIGE student:
- Upload a scanned copy of your UNIGE student card
- If you are not yet a UNIGE student:
- Upload the confirmation email titled “UNIGE-Candidature: Dépôt de votre dossier”, which you receive after registering for the Master’s program
Without proof that you have started the Master’s application process, your fellowship application will not be considered.
Required Application Documents
Your Excellence Fellowship application must be submitted online and uploaded as one single PDF file, written in English or French.
The PDF must include:
- A scanned copy of your passport or national ID
- A Curriculum Vitae (maximum 2 pages)
- Official Bachelor’s degree transcripts, showing all grades
- A motivation letter, clearly explaining:
- Your scientific interests
- Why you chose the specific Master’s program
- Why you want to study at the University of Geneva
- Two academic reference letters from professors who can assess your suitability for the program
- Optional but recommended:
- GRE results
- TOEFL or other language test scores
Incomplete applications are automatically rejected.
Application Process and Timeline
- Applications open: Beginning of January 2026
- Application deadline: 28 February 2026
- Program start date: 14 September 2026
Once you register, you will receive an email containing a personal application link to complete the Excellence Fellowship form.
Official application page:
https://www.unige.ch/sciences/en/enseignements/formations/masters/excellencemasterfellowships
Important Additional Information
- Excellence Fellowships cannot be combined with other UNIGE-funded scholarships
- Selection is highly competitive and based solely on academic merit
- Final decisions are made by the Faculty of Science selection committee
- For academic guidance, applicants may contact:
- Master’s program coordinators
- The Faculty’s academic advisor
The University of Geneva Excellence Fellowship for Master’s Studies is a remarkable opportunity for high-achieving students who want to study science at one of Europe’s most prestigious institutions. With generous financial support, access to cutting-edge research, and international career prospects, this fellowship is ideal for students determined to excel academically and professionally.
If you have an outstanding academic record and a passion for science, this could be your pathway to a world-class education in Switzerland.