University of Geneva Excellence Master Fellowships 2026 , Switzerland
The Faculty of Science at the University of Geneva (UNIGE) is a globally recognized hub for cutting‑edge research and advanced scientific training. Covering a wide spectrum of disciplines—from astronomy and physics to life sciences and computer science—the Faculty offers an outstanding academic environment for students aiming to build careers in academia, industry, public administration, science communication, and beyond.
To attract the world’s most talented students, the Faculty of Science, with support from external partners, offers the Excellence Master Fellowships, a prestigious funding opportunity for high‑achieving and highly motivated candidates pursuing a Master of Science degree at UNIGE.
About the Excellence Master Fellowship
The UNIGE Excellence Master Fellowship is a merit‑based scholarship awarded to exceptional students who demonstrate outstanding academic performance during their bachelor’s studies. Selection is strictly based on excellence, regardless of the applicant’s nationality or home institution.
The fellowship provides:
CHF 10,000 to CHF 15,000 per year
No teaching or assistantship duties
Initial award for one year, with renewal for the standard duration of the Master’s programme (three or four semesters) subject to successful academic progress after the first semester
This fellowship is designed to support students fully dedicated to advanced scientific training and research‑oriented master’s studies.
Degree Level
- Master of Science (MSc)
Available Subjects
The Excellence Master Fellowship is available for Master’s programmes offered by the Faculty of Science, including but not limited to:
Astrophysics
Biochemistry
Biology
Biomedical Sciences
Chemical Biology
Chemistry
Computer Science
Earth Sciences
Environmental Sciences (MUSE)
Mathematics
Mathematics, Computer Science, and Numerical Sciences
Neuroscience
Pharmacy
Physics
Prehistoric Archaeology
Bidisciplinary Master of Science
Programmes are taught entirely in English or in English and French, depending on the discipline.
Benefits
Successful candidates receive:
Annual financial support of CHF 10,000–15,000
Renewable funding for the full duration of the Master’s programme
Freedom to focus on studies without teaching obligations
Access to a top‑tier research environment with strong international visibility
Eligible Nationalities
Open to students of all nationalities
Applicants may apply regardless of their home university
Eligibility Criteria
To be considered for the Excellence Master Fellowship, applicants must:
Have completed or be completing a high‑performing bachelor’s degree
Rank among the top students in their academic cohort
Meet the admission requirements of the chosen Master’s programme at UNIGE
Successfully complete the UNIGE enrolment procedure via the Admissions Office
Not have already started a Master’s programme at the Faculty of Science, UNIGE
Selection is competitive and based entirely on the quality of the academic profile and application file.
Application Procedure
Step 1: Apply for a Master’s Programme
All candidates must first complete the official Master’s programme application through the University of Geneva Admissions Office.
UNIGE students: upload a scan of your UNIGE student card
Non‑UNIGE students: upload the confirmation email titled “UNIGE‑Candidature: Dépôt de votre dossier” as proof that the registration process has started
Step 2: Prepare the Fellowship Application
Applicants must submit one single PDF file (in English or French) containing:
Copy of passport or national ID
Curriculum Vitae (maximum 2 pages)
Bachelor’s degree transcript with all grades
Motivation letter describing scientific interests and reasons for studying at UNIGE
Two academic reference letters from professors
Optional documents (GRE, TOEFL, or other language test results)
Step 3: Online Submission
Applications are submitted online
After registration, applicants receive a personal application link by email
Incomplete applications are not considered.
Application Deadline
28 February
Programmes begin in September
Note: Deadlines may vary, visit official website for more information.
Why Choose the University of Geneva?
Internationally renowned Faculty of Science
Host to Swiss National Centres of Competence in Research (SwissMAP, Planets)
Strong involvement in European research projects
Multilingual and multicultural academic environment
Excellent career prospects in research, industry, and public sectors
Additional Information
For programme‑specific details, applicants are encouraged to consult:
Master’s coordinators
Faculty academic advisors
More information on available programmes can be found via the Faculty of Science Master’s listings.
