Comprehensive Application Guide – University of Bern Scholarships 2026
The University of Bern in Switzerland is inviting international students to apply for its 2026 scholarships, which include a variety of fully funded and partial awards. This guide provides all the essential information prospective applicants need—from eligibility requirements and required documents to the step-by-step application process and practical advice for living in Bern.
Types of Scholarships at the University of Bern
| Scholarship Name | Degree Level Covered | What It Covers | Application Deadline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Swiss Government Excellence Scholarship | Master’s, PhD, Postdoc | Tuition, monthly stipend, health insurance, research and travel allowances | November 1, 2025 |
| University of Bern Scholarships | Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD | Tuition waivers and partial or full support for living expenses | March 31, 2025 (Fall intake) |
| Heyning-Roelli Foundation Scholarship | Exchange students | Travel and living expenses | Varies by program |
| SEMP (Swiss Erasmus Mobility Programme) | Mobility students | Travel, accommodation, and daily allowance | Varies |
| Swiss Study Foundation Scholarships | Bachelor’s, Master’s | Financial support, academic mentoring, and access to events | Varies |
| SNSF Grants (Swiss National Science Foundation) | PhD, advanced researchers | Research funding and living allowance | Varies |
Eligibility Criteria
The scholarships are open to students of all nationalities, provided they meet the following criteria:
- Academic Excellence: Demonstrated through consistently strong academic performance.
- Educational Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s applicants: Must have completed secondary or high school with qualifications recognized by Swiss authorities.
- Master’s applicants: Must hold a relevant bachelor’s degree or equivalent from an accredited institution.
- PhD/Postdoc applicants: Must possess a master’s degree or higher in a closely related field.
- Language Proficiency:
- For English-taught programs: Minimum TOEFL (90 iBT) or IELTS (6.5).
- For German-taught programs: Minimum TestDaF (4×4), Goethe-Zertifikat C1, or equivalent.
- Clear Academic Motivation: Applicants must articulate well-defined academic or research goals and explain their interest in studying or conducting research in Switzerland.
Required Documents
Applicants should prepare the following documents in advance:
- Completed online application form
- Official academic transcripts and certified degree certificates (scanned copies)
- Copy of a valid passport or national ID
- Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV) or resume
- Statement of Purpose or motivation letter outlining academic goals and reasons for choosing the University of Bern
- Two or more recommendation letters from academic referees (on official letterhead and signed)
- Proof of language proficiency (e.g., TOEFL, IELTS, TestDaF, Goethe-Zertifikat)
- Research proposal or thesis plan (required for PhD, Postdoc, and SNSF applicants)
- Passport-sized photograph (if required by the application portal)
- Proof of financial means (e.g., bank statement or scholarship letter for visa purposes)
Note: Some programs—such as those in art, design, or architecture—may require portfolios or writing samples. Always consult the specific program’s webpage for additional requirements.
Application Process: Step-by-Step
- Choose Your Program: Review the University of Bern’s official list of degree programs and select your preferred course of study.
- Verify Eligibility: Ensure you meet the academic, language, and subject-specific prerequisites for your chosen program.
- Prepare Documents: Collect all necessary documents. If any are not in English or German, arrange for certified translations.
- Submit Your Application:
- For University of Bern Scholarships: Apply through the university’s official online portal.
- For Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships: Apply via your home country’s Swiss embassy or the State Secretariat for Education, Research and Innovation (SERI) portal.
- Upload all documents in the required format (typically PDF).
- Participate in Additional Assessments: Some scholarships may require an online interview or academic evaluation.
- Track Your Application: Monitor your email and application portal for updates or requests for additional information.
- Receive Offer: If selected, you will receive an official acceptance letter along with scholarship confirmation.
- Apply for a Student Visa: Use your scholarship letter as proof of financial support when applying for a Swiss student visa.
- Arrange Accommodation: Secure housing early through university residences, private rentals, or short-term housing options.
- Arrive and Enroll: Attend orientation sessions, complete administrative registration, and begin your studies.
Quick-View: Application and Study Checklist
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1. Program Selection | Browse University of Bern courses and select your preferred program |
| 2. Eligibility Check | Review degree and language requirements |
| 3. Document Preparation | Collect transcripts, certificates, language proofs, and financial documentation |
| 4. Application Submission | Complete the online form and upload all required documents |
| 5. Await Response | Monitor your application status via email or portal |
| 6. Visa and Planning | Apply for a student visa, book accommodation, and plan travel |
| 7. Enrollment and Study | Attend orientation, register officially, and begin classes |
Studying in Bern: Practical Information
- Cost of Living: Budget between CHF 1,500 and CHF 2,000 per month to cover rent, groceries, health insurance, public transportation, and personal expenses.
- Health Insurance: Mandatory for all students in Switzerland. Coverage can be arranged through Swiss public insurers or specialized student insurance plans.
- Part-Time Work: International students are permitted to work up to 15 hours per week during term time and full-time during semester breaks, subject to residence permit conditions.
- Student Support Services: The University of Bern provides orientation programs, integration events, language courses, academic advising, and mental health resources.
- City Life: Bern is a UNESCO World Heritage city known for its high quality of life, safety, historic charm, and proximity to the Swiss Alps.
Final Tips and Official Resources
- Always rely on official sources: Visit the University of Bern’s International Office and the Swiss Government Scholarships portal for accurate and updated information.
- Never submit personal or financial information through unofficial channels or third-party agents.
- Begin your application well in advance to allow sufficient time for document preparation, translations, and referee coordination.
With careful planning and thorough preparation, the University of Bern offers a world-class academic experience in one of Europe’s most innovative and stable countries. Use this guide to navigate the 2026 scholarship application process with confidence.
Good luck with your application. 🇨🇭