Are you looking to apply for the Swiss Government Scholarship? You have come to the right place on the internet.
Honestly, with the way the Naira is dancing against the Dollar and ASUU doing their usual “will they, won’t they” routine, the dream of “Japa” for education is more alive than ever.
But we are not just talking about any kind of Japa; we are talking about landing a premium, fully funded opportunity in one of the wealthiest countries in the world.
If you are a Nigerian researcher or artist looking for doctoral funding that pays in a currency stronger than the Dollar, you need to pay attention to the Swiss government scholarship.
Officially known as the Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships for Foreign Scholars and Artists, this is the “crème de la crème” of academic funding.
It is not for the faint-hearted, but for the Campus Hustle NG community, we know you have the grit to pull it off.
In this guide, we will break down exactly how to apply, how to find a supervisor, and how to position yourself as the best candidate from Nigeria.
READ ALSO: Warwick PhD Scholarship for International Students
Table of Contents
What is the Swiss Government Excellence Scholarship About?
The Swiss Confederation awards these scholarships annually to promote international exchange and research cooperation between Switzerland and over 180 other countries, including Nigeria.
Unlike some scholarships that pay for a Master’s degree, this particular scheme is heavily focused on research. They are looking for serious intellects.
If you want to study in Switzerland to just do coursework, this might not be for you. But if you want to contribute to global knowledge through a research fellowship, keep reading.
Disclaimer
Please Note: Campus Hustle NG is an informational blog. We do not award scholarships.
- Verification: Always verify information on the official website of the State Secretariat for Education, Research and Innovation (SERI).
- Scam Alert: The Swiss Embassy will never ask you to pay money to access the application forms. If someone asks for a “processing fee” to give you the form, run!
READ ALSO: How to Cold Email Professors for PhD Scholarship Funding
FAQs About the Swiss Government Scholarship
Is IELTS/TOEFL compulsory for the Swiss Government Scholarship?
Generally, no. However, your host professor must confirm that your language skills are sufficient for the research.
If your previous degree was in English (which is the case for Nigerian universities), that is usually accepted, but always double-check with the specific university requirements.
Can I move to Switzerland with my family?
The Swiss Government Excellence Scholarship does not include family allowances.
While you can apply for family reunion visas, the process is strict, and you must prove you have sufficient funds to support them (outside of your stipend).
When is the deadline for the Swiss Scholarship for Nigerians?
The call for applications typically opens in August, and the submission deadline at the Swiss Embassy in Abuja is usually in November or December.
Does this scholarship cover Master’s degrees?
For Nigerians, usually no. The scholarship is strictly for PhD, Postdoc, and Research Fellowships. The only exception is for Art students pursuing a Master’s in the arts.
READ ALSO: TETFund Scholarship for Nigerian Lecturers: Steps to Apply
In Summary
Securing a Swiss government scholarship is not a walk in the park. It requires serious research, a solid proposal, and the confidence to approach supervisors abroad.
But the reward? A fully funded life in one of the most beautiful, stable, and academically advanced countries on earth.
Don’t let the “Nigerian Factor” or Imposter Syndrome hold you back. Polish that CV, start drafting those emails to professors, and secure your future.
Check out our YouTube Channel for more…
Are you planning to apply for this scholarship cycle? Drop a comment below with your research field, and let’s help each other find supervisors!
