Your Ultimate Guide to the Excellence Master Fellowships 2026

Your guide to the Excellence Master Fellowships 2026 is here, and it’s designed to turn your dream of studying in the heart of Europe into a tangible plan. Pursuing a Master’s degree in Switzerland is an ambition many share, but navigating the world of prestigious scholarships can feel overwhelming. This article breaks down everything you need to know about the University of Lausanne (UNIL) Master’s Grants, offering a clear, step-by-step path to crafting an application that stands out. Let’s get you ready to seize this life-changing opportunity.

Excellence Master Fellowships 2026

Applying for the Excellence Master Fellowships 2026 is undoubtedly a rigorous process, but it is also an incredible opportunity to pursue a world-class education in a stunning country. By starting early, staying organized, and crafting an application that genuinely reflects your passion and potential, you put yourself in the strongest possible position to succeed.

What Exactly Are the Excellence Master Fellowships?

The Excellence Master Fellowships, officially known as the UNIL Master’s Grants for foreign students, are prestigious awards offered by the University of Lausanne in Switzerland. They are designed to attract brilliant international students who have graduated from a foreign university and wish to pursue a Master’s degree at UNIL.

This isn’t just about financial aid; it’s about recognition. Winning this fellowship places you among a select group of high-achieving scholars from around the globe. It’s a mark of academic distinction that can open doors for your future career, whether in academia or industry. The university seeks candidates who not only have outstanding grades but also demonstrate the potential to become leaders in their fields.

Are You Eligible? Key Requirements for the 2026 Intake

Before you invest your time and energy, it’s crucial to confirm your eligibility. The criteria are specific, so let’s break them down.

Academic and Personal Prerequisites

• Educational Background: You must hold a bachelor’s degree from a foreign university that is considered equivalent to a bachelor’s from UNIL.
• Academic Excellence: You need to have a proven track record of outstanding academic performance. While there’s no exact GPA cutoff mentioned, successful applicants are typically in the top 10% of their class.
• Program Choice: You must apply for a Master’s program at UNIL for which you are qualified.

Language Proficiency

Your chosen Master’s program will determine the language requirements. Programs are taught in English, French, or both. You’ll need to provide proof of proficiency (typically at a B2/C1 level) in the language of instruction. For English, this usually means a TOEFL or IELTS score. For French, a DELF or DALF certificate is standard. Always check the specific language requirements for your desired program on the official UNIL website.

Who Isn’t Eligible?

It’s equally important to know the exclusion criteria. You cannot apply if you:

• Have already graduated from the University of Lausanne.
• Are already enrolled in a program at UNIL.
• Have previously interrupted your studies at UNIL and are now looking to re-enroll.

Unpacking the Financial Benefits: What Does the Fellowship Cover?

This is a key part of the study in Switzerland for free dream, although it’s important to understand the specifics. The fellowship is a grant, not a full tuition waiver.

The grant consists of CHF 1,600 per month for the entire duration of your Master’s program, which could be 1.5 or 2 years. This stipend is awarded for 10 months of the year (from September 15th to July 15th).

While this generous stipend is designed to cover living expenses, students are still responsible for paying the university’s semester fees, which are approximately CHF 580 per semester. Think of the fellowship as your living allowance, allowing you to focus completely on your studies without the burden of part-time work.

Your Step-by-Step Application Guide for the Excellence Master Fellowships 2026

Feeling confident about your eligibility? Great! Now, let’s create a clear action plan. The application process is meticulous, so organization is your best friend.

Step 1: Choose Your Master’s Program

First and foremost, explore the Master’s programs offered at UNIL. The fellowship is tied to your admission to a specific program. Make sure you select a program that aligns perfectly with your academic background and career goals. It’s crucial to check the program’s eligibility criteria and application deadlines, as they are part of the same process. Note that a few programs, such as the Master of Medicine, are not eligible for the grant.

Step 2: Gather Your Essential Documents

You’ll need a complete file to be considered. Start collecting these documents well in advance:

• The official fellowship application form, signed.
• A certified copy of your Bachelor’s degree and all academic transcripts.
• A complete curriculum vitae (CV).
• A compelling cover letter or personal statement.
• Two original letters of recommendation from your professors.
• A copy of your passport.
• Proof of language proficiency (e.g., TOEFL, IELTS, DELF).
• Proof of payment of the CHF 200.00 administrative fee.

Step 3: Write a Compelling Personal Statement

This is your chance to speak directly to the selection committee. Your personal statement should be more than just a list of achievements. It should tell a story. In my experience advising students, the most successful essays connect their past experiences, their passion for their chosen field, and their future aspirations directly to the resources and faculty at UNIL. Explain why you are the perfect fit for that specific Master’s program and why you deserve this fellowship.

Step 4: Secure Strong Letters of Recommendation

Choose recommenders who know you well academically and can speak to your strengths, potential, and character. Provide them with your CV, personal statement, and details about the fellowship and your chosen program. Give them at least a month’s notice—a rushed letter is rarely a strong one.

Step 5: Submit Your Application Online

Applications for both your chosen Master’s program and the scholarship are submitted through the same online portal. The deadline is firm: November 1st. Do not wait until the last minute. Technical glitches can happen, and late applications are not accepted.

Insider Tips for a Standout Application

With thousands of bright students applying, how do you make your application memorable?

1. Research is Key: Go beyond the program description. Research the professors you want to work with. Mention their work in your personal statement to show genuine interest.
2. Tailor Everything: Avoid generic statements. Every part of your application, from your CV to your personal statement, should be tailored to the UNIL masters scholarship.
3. Proofread Relentlessly: A single typo can signal carelessness. Have a professor, a mentor, or a friend read through your entire application package. A fresh pair of eyes can catch mistakes you’ve overlooked.
4. Highlight Your “X-Factor”: What makes you unique? Whether it’s a specific research project, a volunteer experience, or a unique skill, find a way to weave it into your narrative.

I’ve seen many successful applicants who focused on creating a cohesive narrative across their entire application. Their passion was evident, their goals were clear, and their choice of UNIL felt like a deliberate, well-researched decision, not just one of many options.

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FAQs

Is the CHF 1,600 monthly stipend enough to live on in Lausanne?

Lausanne can be an expensive city. While CHF 1,600 is a very generous stipend, it requires careful budgeting. It should cover essential costs like accommodation, health insurance, and food, but managing additional expenses for travel or leisure will depend on your lifestyle.

Can I work while receiving the UNIL Master’s Grant?

According to the regulations, fellowship holders are not permitted to engage in any paid work alongside their studies. The grant is intended to allow students to dedicate their full attention to their academic program.

How competitive is the Excellence Master Fellowship?

This is a highly competitive scholarship. The University of Lausanne awards only around ten grants each year. Applicants are chosen based on outstanding academic merit from a large international pool, so a strong and polished application is essential.