Switzerland is home to some of the world's most prestigious universities, attracting talented students from across the globe. Among these institutions, the École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL) stands out as a global leader in engineering, technology, science, and innovation.Applications are now open for the EPFL Master Excellence Fellowships 2026, one of the university's most competitive scholarship programs. The fellowship is designed to reward academically outstanding students who wish to pursue a Master's degree at EPFL while receiving substantial financial support.

The scholarship provides CHF 10,000 per semester for up to four semesters, along with guaranteed accommodation for eligible international students and access to an exceptional learning environment. The fellowship is available to students of all nationalities, making it an excellent opportunity for both domestic and international applicants.

If you are planning to study in Switzerland and have an excellent academic record combined with achievements beyond the classroom, this fellowship could significantly reduce your financial burden while helping you earn a world-class degree.

Why Study at EPFL?

EPFL consistently ranks among the best universities in Europe and is internationally recognized for excellence in research, innovation, and technology.

Located in Lausanne, Switzerland, the university offers modern research facilities, internationally respected faculty members, and close collaboration with industries and research organizations around the world.

Students benefit from:

• World-class education
• Globally recognized degrees
• Cutting-edge laboratories
• International student community
• Excellent employment opportunities after graduation
• Strong links with industry and research institutions
• Beautiful campus overlooking Lake Geneva

EPFL graduates are highly sought after by employers and research institutions worldwide.

EPFL Master Excellence Fellowships 2026 Overview

Here are the key details of the scholarship.

The fellowship recognizes students who demonstrate academic excellence as well as leadership potential through extracurricular achievements.

Benefits of the EPFL Master Excellence Fellowships

The EPFL Master Excellence Fellowship offers much more than financial support. It provides recipients with the resources needed to focus on their studies and develop professionally.

Financial Support

Successful applicants receive:

• CHF 10,000 per semester
• Funding for up to four semesters
• Significant assistance with living expenses while studying in Switzerland

Although students may still need additional funds depending on their lifestyle, the fellowship greatly reduces the overall cost of earning a Master's degree.

Guaranteed Student Housing

International and external candidates receive guaranteed accommodation in a student residence.

Finding affordable housing in Switzerland can be challenging, especially in popular university cities like Lausanne. This benefit gives students peace of mind before they arrive.

Career Development Opportunities

Recipients enjoy the flexibility to choose internships and work experiences that align with their academic interests and long-term career goals.

This allows students to gain valuable industry experience while completing their degree.

Cross-Disciplinary Learning

EPFL encourages interdisciplinary education by allowing students to develop skills outside their primary field of study.

Students can strengthen their expertise in areas such as entrepreneurship, innovation, leadership, and communication.

Certificate of Excellence

Upon successfully completing the Master's programme, fellowship recipients receive a prestigious Certificate of Excellence that highlights their outstanding academic achievement.

Available Master's Programmes

The fellowship applies to a wide range of Master's programmes offered by EPFL.

Some of the available fields include:

Engineering

Students can specialize in various engineering disciplines supported by world-class laboratories and research centres.

Computer Science

EPFL is internationally recognized for computer science, software engineering, cybersecurity, and high-performance computing.

Artificial Intelligence

Students interested in machine learning, robotics, and intelligent systems will find excellent research opportunities.

Data Science

This programme combines statistics, programming, artificial intelligence, and big data analytics.

Physics

Students gain advanced theoretical and experimental training in modern physics.

Chemistry

The chemistry programme provides access to cutting-edge laboratories and internationally respected researchers.

Environmental Sciences

Students explore sustainable solutions to environmental challenges through scientific research and innovation.

Biotechnology

EPFL's biotechnology programme combines biology, engineering, and medical sciences.

Robotics

The university has become one of Europe's leading centres for robotics research and innovation.

Materials Science

Students study advanced materials used in electronics, energy, medicine, and manufacturing.

Architecture

The programme combines creativity, sustainability, engineering, and urban design.

Energy Systems

Students investigate renewable energy, sustainable technologies, and future energy solutions.

Mathematics and Applied Sciences

Advanced mathematical modelling and computational methods prepare graduates for careers in research and industry.

Eligibility Criteria

The EPFL Master Excellence Fellowships are highly competitive. Applicants must satisfy several important requirements.

Academic Excellence

Applicants must have an outstanding academic record from previous university studies.

Strong grades remain one of the primary selection criteria.

Master's Programme Application

Candidates must be applying for admission to an eligible Master's programme offered by EPFL.

The fellowship is linked directly to the Master's application.

Extracurricular Achievements

EPFL also values applicants who have demonstrated excellence outside academics.

Examples include:

• Scientific research
• Entrepreneurship
• Sports
• Arts
• Community service
• Leadership activities
• Innovation projects

One Programme Per Year

Applicants may apply for only one Master's programme during each admission cycle.

Carefully select the programme that best matches your academic background and career ambitions.

Ineligible Applicants

The following applicants are not eligible:

• Students who already hold a Master's degree
• Students currently enrolled in a Master's programme at EPFL

Renewal Requirements

Students who receive the fellowship must maintain excellent academic performance throughout their studies.

To renew the fellowship during the second year, recipients must:

• Maintain an average grade of at least 5.0 out of 6
• Successfully complete at least 50 ECTS credits

Application Deadlines

There are two admission rounds each year.

First Application Round

Deadline: 15 December

Second Application Round

Deadline: 31 March

Applicants are encouraged to submit their applications well before the deadline to avoid last-minute issues.

How to Apply for the EPFL Master Excellence Fellowships

The application process is simple because there is no separate scholarship application.

Follow these steps:

Step 1: Choose Your Master's Programme

Visit the EPFL Master's admissions portal and select the programme that matches your academic interests.

Step 2: Complete the Online Application

Fill in all required personal and academic information.

Step 3: Select the Fellowship Option

During the application process, check the box indicating that you wish to be considered for the Master Excellence Fellowship.

Step 4: Upload Required Documents

Submit all documents required for admission.

No additional documents are required specifically for the fellowship.

Step 5: Submit Before the Deadline

Complete your application before either:

• 15 December
• 31 March

Late applications are generally not accepted.

Tips to Improve Your Chances

Because the fellowship is highly competitive, applicants should submit the strongest application possible.

Consider the following suggestions:

• Maintain excellent university grades.
• Highlight research projects and academic achievements.
• Include leadership and volunteer experience.
• Demonstrate participation in innovation or entrepreneurship activities.
• Carefully prepare your motivation letter.
• Ensure every required document is complete and accurate.
• Apply early rather than waiting until the deadline.

A well-prepared application can significantly improve your chances of receiving both admission and the fellowship.

Why Choose Switzerland for Your Master's Degree?

Switzerland consistently ranks among the world's best countries for higher education and innovation.

International students benefit from:

• Outstanding universities
• High-quality education
• Safe living environment
• Excellent research funding
• Strong economy
• International networking opportunities
• Access to multinational companies

Graduates from Swiss universities are highly respected by employers worldwide, making Switzerland an excellent destination for postgraduate study.

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