Are you looking for a scholarship to study for a master’s degree in Switzerland? The University of Lausanne (UNIL) offers an excellent opportunity for international students through the UNIL Master’s Grant.
The UNIL Master’s Grant is designed for outstanding students from around the world who want to pursue a master’s degree at the University of Lausanne in Switzerland. It provides financial support during the student’s master’s studies and can make studying in Switzerland more affordable.
Around 10 scholarships are awarded each year, making this a competitive scholarship opportunity for high-achieving international students.
In this article, you will learn about the University of Lausanne scholarships for international students, eligibility requirements, scholarship benefits, eligible master’s programs, application process, deadline, and other important details.
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University of Lausanne UNIL Master’s Scholarships 2026 in Switzerland
The University of Lausanne is a public research university located in Lausanne, Switzerland. It offers a wide range of academic programs and attracts students from different countries.
The UNIL Master’s Grant is offered to international students who have completed a university degree equivalent to a bachelor’s degree and want to continue their education at the master’s level.
The international scholarship is awarded based on academic excellence. Applicants are expected to have a strong academic record and demonstrate that they are well prepared for their chosen master’s program.
Scholarship Summary
- Scholarship Name: UNIL Master’s Grant
- University: University of Lausanne
- Country: Switzerland
- Study Level: Master’s Degree
- Offered to: International Students
- Number of Scholarships: Around 10
- Duration: Minimum statutory duration of the selected master’s program
- Study Period: Usually from September to July each year
- Application Opening: September 2026
- Application Deadline: 1 November 2026
- Program Start: 2027
- Application Method: Online
What Is the University of Lausanne Master’s Grant?
The UNIL Master’s Grant is a scholarship program for international students who want to study a master’s degree at the University of Lausanne.
It is mainly intended for students who have achieved excellent academic results during their previous studies.
The scholarship provides a monthly financial grant to selected students. In addition to financial support, scholarship recipients are exempt from the regular fixed registration fees for their courses, although a small semester fee still has to be paid.
Because only a limited number of scholarships are available, applicants should have a strong academic profile and prepare their applications carefully.
Scholarship Benefits for UNIL Master’s Scholarships 2026 in Switzerland
One of the main advantages of the University of Lausanne Master’s Scholarship in Switzerland is the monthly financial support.
Selected students receive:
Monthly Scholarship
The scholarship provides CHF 1,600 per month.
The grant is normally paid from 15 September to 15 July, which means financial support is provided for approximately 10 months each year.
The scholarship can continue for the minimum official duration of the selected master’s program.
Depending on the program, a master’s degree may normally take around one and a half years or two years.
Exemption From Regular Registration Fees
Students who receive the UNIL Master’s Grant are exempt from the fixed registration fees for their courses.
However, students still need to pay the required CHF 80 semester fee.
Study in Switzerland
The scholarship also gives international students the opportunity to study at the University of Lausanne and experience Switzerland’s high-quality education and international academic environment.
Who Can Apply for the UNIL Master’s Scholarships 2026 in Switzerland?
The scholarship is intended for international students who want to enroll in an eligible master’s degree program at the University of Lausanne.
Applicants must meet the academic, language, and other requirements established by the university.
The most important eligibility requirements are explained below.
Eligibility Criteria for University of Lausanne Scholarship
To apply for the UNIL Master’s Grant, applicants generally need to meet the following conditions.
1. Hold a Foreign University Degree
Applicants must have completed a university degree from outside Switzerland that is considered equivalent to a bachelor’s degree by the University of Lausanne.
The required degree must be completed before the beginning of the master’s program.
2. Have Excellent Academic Results
The scholarship is highly competitive.
Applicants should have demonstrated strong academic performance during their previous studies. Excellent grades and a strong academic record can improve the chances of being selected.
The university looks for students who have distinguished themselves through their academic achievements.
3. Meet the Language Requirement
Applicants must have a high level of proficiency in the language used for teaching in their selected master’s program.
A minimum level of C1 is required according to the European Language Portfolio scale.
Depending on the language of the selected program, applicants need:
- C1 level in French, or
- C1 level in English
Applicants should carefully check the language requirements of their chosen master’s program before applying.
4. Must Not Have Previously Studied at UNIL
Applicants should not have been registered as students at the University of Lausanne in the past.
This requirement applies to candidates seeking the UNIL Master’s Grant.
5. Pay the Application Administration Fee
Applicants are required to pay the CHF 200 administration fee connected with the application.
The payment must be completed according to the university’s application instructions.
Which Master’s Programs Are Eligible?
The UNIL Master’s Grant can be used for many master’s programs offered by the University of Lausanne.
However, not every program is eligible.
Applicants should carefully check whether their chosen master’s degree is included in the scholarship program before submitting an application.
Programs Generally Excluded
The scholarship does not cover several specific programs and study areas, including:
- Master’s programs offered by the School of Medicine
- Master’s in Sciences and Practices of Education
- Most Master’s programs in Law
- Master of Science in Physical Education and Sport Didactics
- Master of Science in Health Sciences
- Master of Science in Sustainable Management & Technology
- Master of Science in Human Taphonomy
- MAS programs and other third-cycle/further education programs
There are some exceptions within the field of Law. Applications may be considered for certain specializations, including:
- International and Comparative Law
- Legal Theory
- International Tax Law and Policy
Because eligible programs can change, students should always check the current list of master’s programs before applying.
How Much Does the UNIL Scholarship Pay?
The University of Lausanne Master’s Grant provides CHF 1,600 every month.
The payment period normally runs from 15 September to 15 July, giving approximately 10 months of support each year.
The grant is available for the minimum statutory duration of the selected master’s degree.
For example, depending on the program, students may receive the scholarship for approximately:
- 1.5 years, or
- 2 years
The scholarship may not continue if a student definitively fails after the first year.
Students should also remember that the monthly grant is intended to help with living and study expenses in Switzerland. Switzerland can be an expensive country for international students, so applicants should carefully plan their budget before moving to Lausanne.
When Will Applications Open?
Applications for the 2027–2028 academic year are scheduled to open in September 2026.
Students interested in the scholarship should begin preparing their documents before the application period starts.
Preparing early is especially important because applicants may need academic documents, language certificates, personal statements, and other supporting materials.
University of Lausanne Scholarship Deadline
The application deadline for the 2027–2028 academic year is:
1 November 2026
Late applications may not be accepted, so applicants should submit their complete application before the deadline.
Do not wait until the final day to apply. Online applications can take time, especially when several documents need to be uploaded.
How to Apply for the University of Lausanne Scholarship?
The application process is completed online.
An important feature of the UNIL Master’s Grant application is that the scholarship application also serves as the application for admission to the selected master’s program.
Therefore, applicants for the Master’s Grant do not need to submit a separate master’s admission application to the university’s Admission Office.
Step 1: Choose an Eligible Master’s Program
First, explore the master’s programs available at the University of Lausanne.
Choose a program that matches your previous education, academic interests, and career plans.
Make sure the program is eligible for the UNIL Master’s Grant.
Step 2: Check the Admission Requirements
Carefully review the requirements of your selected master’s program.
Check your:
- Previous degree
- Academic qualifications
- Language skills
- Required documents
- Program-specific requirements
Meeting the scholarship requirements does not automatically mean that you meet every requirement of the selected master’s program.
Step 3: Prepare Your Documents
Prepare all required documents before beginning the online application.
Depending on your circumstances and chosen program, documents may include:
- University degree
- Academic transcripts
- Curriculum vitae
- Language certificate
- Personal statement or motivation letter
- Identification document
- Other supporting documents requested by the university
Make sure your documents are complete, clear, and properly prepared.
Step 4: Pay the Application Fee
Applicants must pay the required CHF 200 administration fee.
Keep proof of payment if it is provided, as it may be useful during the application process.
Step 5: Complete the Online Application
Complete the scholarship application form online.
Provide accurate information about your education, academic achievements, language skills, and other required details.
Step 6: Upload the Complete Application File
The complete application file must be submitted online in PDF format.
Applicants should carefully check that all required documents have been uploaded before submitting the application.
Applications should not be sent by email if the application instructions require online submission.
Step 7: Submit Before the Deadline
Submit the application before 1 November 2026.
It is recommended to apply well before the deadline so there is enough time to solve any technical or document-related problems.
Important Documents for the Application
A strong application depends on complete and well-prepared documents.
Although the exact document list may depend on the university’s current application requirements, applicants should be prepared to provide documents such as:
Academic Documents
Your academic transcripts and degree documents should clearly show your previous education and academic performance.
Since the scholarship is highly competitive, strong academic results are especially important.
Curriculum Vitae
Your CV should provide a clear overview of your:
- Education
- Academic achievements
- Research experience
- Work experience
- Internships
- Relevant skills
- Awards
- Other important achievements
Keep your CV organized and easy to read.
Language Certificate
Applicants need to demonstrate the required language level for their selected program.
The language requirement may be French or English depending on the language of instruction.
Motivation Letter
Your motivation letter is an important part of your application.
Explain why you want to study the selected master’s program, why you chose the University of Lausanne, and how the degree fits into your academic and professional goals.
Avoid using a generic motivation letter. Your statement should clearly show why you are a good candidate for the program and scholarship.
How to Increase Your Chances of Getting the UNIL Scholarship
The University of Lausanne Master’s Grant is competitive because only around 10 scholarships are available.
You should therefore make your application as strong as possible.
Maintain Strong Academic Performance
Academic excellence is one of the most important factors.
Make sure your application clearly presents your strongest academic achievements.
Choose the Right Master’s Program
Your chosen program should be connected to your previous education and future goals.
A clear academic direction can make your application more convincing.
Write a Strong Motivation Letter
Your motivation letter should answer important questions such as:
- Why do you want to study this program?
- Why did you choose the University of Lausanne?
- What academic experience do you have?
- What are your future goals?
- How will this degree help your career?
- What can you contribute to the university?
Write naturally and avoid copying standard scholarship statements from the internet.
Check Your Language Requirements
Do not leave language requirements until the last minute.
If your program requires proof of English or French proficiency, make sure you have the necessary qualification before submitting your application.
Submit a Complete Application
Missing documents can create problems during the evaluation process.
Before submitting your application, check every requirement carefully.
The University of Lausanne Master’s Grant in Switzerland is a valuable opportunity for talented international students who want to pursue a master’s degree in Switzerland.
The scholarship offers CHF 1,600 per month and provides an exemption from fixed course registration fees, making it easier for successful students to manage the cost of studying at UNIL.
However, the scholarship is competitive and only around 10 awards are available. Applicants should therefore have strong academic results, meet the required language level, select an eligible master’s program, and submit a complete application before the deadline.
If you are planning to apply for the UNIL Master’s Scholarship 2026–2027, start preparing your academic documents and other application materials early. A carefully prepared application can help you present your academic achievements and future goals more effectively.
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