EPFL Excellence Fellowship Master 2027 | Switzerland

About the EPFL Excellence Fellowship, Master

The EPFL Excellence Fellowship, Master is a fully funded scholarship offered by École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Switzerland for study in Switzerland (EPFL, Lausanne). The scholarship supports students pursuing Masters studies in EPFL's Master's programmes: Architecture/Civil/Environmental Engineering, Engineering, Computer & Communication Sciences, Basic Sciences, Life Sciences, Management of Technology, College of Humanities. Recipients receive CHF 10,000/semester, max 4 semesters (CHF 40,000 total for a 2-year programme) for a duration of 2–3 semesters of the Master's cycle + 1 semester for the Master's project (max 4 total).

Eligible applicants: All nationalities. Academic standing: Top academic ranking in bachelor's, typically top 5–10% of class. Outstanding academic record. Renewal requires 5.0/6 weighted average + 50 ECTS credits.

If you meet the eligibility requirements and align with the EPFL Excellence Fellowship, Master selection criteria, this represents a life-changing opportunity to study with full financial support. Read the sections below carefully to understand the benefits, eligibility, application process, and deadline before applying.

Scholarship Benefits & What's Covered

Selected recipients of the EPFL Excellence Fellowship, Master receive a comprehensive funding package. Here's what the scholarship covers:

• Stipend and allowances: CHF 10,000/semester, max 4 semesters (CHF 40,000 total for a 2-year programme)
• Tuition fees: Yes
• Accommodation: No, but via stipend. A room in a student residence is reserved
• Airfare / travel: No
• Health insurance: No
• Family / dependants: No
• Program duration: 2–3 semesters of the Master's cycle + 1 semester for the Master's project (max 4 total)
• Number of awards per year: 100–150 per year

The scholarship is classified as Fully Funded. This means recipients receive complete financial coverage throughout their study period, allowing them to focus entirely on their academic and research goals without financial burden.

Eligibility Requirements

To be considered for the EPFL Excellence Fellowship, Master, applicants must meet the following requirements. Applications from ineligible candidates are automatically rejected, so review these carefully before applying.

Academic requirements

• Minimum degree level: Bachelor's degree from a university abroad (external candidates)
• Academic standing: Top academic ranking in bachelor's, typically top 5–10% of class. Outstanding academic record. Renewal requires 5.0/6 weighted average + 50 ECTS credits
• Academic background: Bachelor's degree. Must NOT already hold a Master's
• Fields of study: EPFL's Master's programmes: Architecture/Civil/Environmental Engineering, Engineering, Computer & Communication Sciences, Basic Sciences, Life Sciences, Management of Technology, College of Humanities

Nationality & residency

• Eligible countries: All nationalities
• Residency: Must be applying to an EPFL Masters program

Language requirements

• Language of instruction: Depends on programme, typically English or French
• Language test: Set by standard EPFL Master's admission, not the fellowship itself
• Minimum score: Not fellowship-specific

Other requirements

• Age: No fixed age limit
• Gender: Open to all genders

How to Apply for the EPFL Excellence Fellowship, Master

Applications for the EPFL Excellence Fellowship, Master are submitted through the official channels of École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Switzerland. Follow these steps to submit a strong application:

Step 1: Verify eligibility. Confirm you meet every requirement listed above, particularly nationality, academic level, and language proficiency. Applications from ineligible candidates are automatically rejected without review.

Step 2: Prepare required documents. You will need to submit: CV, degree copies, full transcripts, statement of purpose (max 1,000 words), three referee contacts, ID/passport. The application fee is CHF 150 with a foreign Bachelor's degree. TOEFL/GRE scores are welcome but not compulsory. Prepare each document carefully, reviewers typically shortlist based on document quality and completeness.

Step 3: Secure reference letters. Yes. External applicants give three academic referees, and at least two letters are required. Referees upload them themselves, due one week after the deadline.. Contact your referees early. References take time to prepare.

Step 4: Submit the application. Complete the application on the official portal before the deadline. The application deadline for this scholarship is 15 Dec 2026. Late or incomplete applications are not considered.

Step 5: Await response. Shortlisting typically takes 4–8 weeks after the deadline. Successful candidates are invited to interview or additional assessment. Final decisions are announced 3–6 months after the application deadline.

Visit Application Portal

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the EPFL Excellence Fellowship, Master fully funded?

The scholarship is classified as Fully Funded. This means it covers all or most major costs — see the Benefits section above for a full breakdown.

Who can apply for the EPFL Excellence Fellowship, Master?

Applicants must be from All nationalities. Additionally, applicants must hold Bachelor's degree from a university abroad (external candidates). Full eligibility criteria including language, age, and academic requirements are detailed in the Eligibility section above.

What is the application deadline?

The application deadline for the EPFL Excellence Fellowship, Master is 15 Dec 2026. Late applications are not accepted, so aim to submit at least 2 weeks in advance.

Is there a bond or return obligation?

No bond.

Where do I apply?

Apply directly on the official portal: Application Link. ScholarshipSpace does not process applications on their behalf.