Looking for University of Bern Scholarships for 2025-2026? You’re in the right place! The University of Bern in Switzerland’s capital is a top-ranked public university known for its excellent research and scenic alpine setting. Every year it offers scholarship programs to support outstanding international students. These fully-funded opportunities (for Master’s and PhD study) make it easier to study in Switzerland with financial peace of mind.
Whether you dream of cutting-edge science, humanities or law, Bern’s scholarships can help you achieve it. In this guide, we’ll walk you through what’s on offer, who can apply, and how to grab these grants. The University’s own website emphasizes student funding options and even advises consulting professors and departments about funding news, so let’s get started!
Overview of University of Bern Scholarships
The University of Bern offers several prestigious scholarships for 2025-2026, targeting high-achieving students worldwide. For example, it provides Excellence Scholarships for exceptional Master’s applicants and UniBE Doctoral Scholarships for standout PhD candidates. It also participates in the Swiss Government Excellence Scholarship program (in partnership with the Swiss Confederation) for early-career researchers. In addition, various faculty-specific grants and foundation awards are available in fields like law, science and social sciences. In short, Bern’s funding programs cover a wide range of fields and levels.
These scholarships typically cover the entire tuition fee and often include extra support. Recipients may receive a monthly stipend for living costs, health insurance coverage, and even travel allowances. The Swiss Government Excellence Scholarship, for instance, funds Master’s or doctoral research in Switzerland for up to 12–36 months. Combined with Bern’s world-class faculty and a campus in a vibrant international city, this funding can make studying abroad both affordable and life-changing.
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Eligibility Criteria for University of Bern Scholarships
Each scholarship has its own rules, but generally you should meet these criteria:
- International student: You must be a foreign student who completed prior education outside Switzerland.
- Strong academics: A high GPA or excellent grades (Swiss equivalent ~5.0 or above) are required.
- Language skills: Most programs require good English or German proficiency. (If your degree was in English, you might be exempt from tests like IELTS.)
- Program admission: You need an admission offer (or application) for an eligible Master’s or PhD program at Uni Bern.
- Complete documents: Prepare a CV, academic transcripts, a motivation letter and letters of recommendation – these are typically required.
- Open nationality: Students of any country are welcome to apply. There are no national restrictions.
If you tick these boxes, you’re ready to compete. For specific scholarships (like the Swiss Excellence or internal UniBE grants), read the official guidelines carefully to check any extra requirements. As Uni Bern advises, also talk to your academic department and professors – they often know about funding opportunities and deadlines beyond the official calls.
Scholarship Benefits and Funding
What do these scholarships cover? In most cases, winners get full financial support for their studies:
- Tuition fees covered: Your entire university tuition is usually waived.
- Monthly stipend: You receive a living allowance (stipend) each month to help with rent and day-to-day expenses.
- Health insurance: Health insurance costs are often included, giving you peace of mind for medical coverage.
- Travel support: Many scholarships include a one-time travel grant to help cover your trip to Switzerland.
Some programs may offer additional perks, like funding for research materials or conference travel. Overall, these benefits combine to make your studies at Bern nearly cost-free. This is a rare chance to focus on learning and research without worrying about tuition or living costs.
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How to Apply: Step by Step
- Find the right scholarship: Visit the University of Bern’s official scholarships page or inquire at UniBE International. Identify which scholarship matches your study level (Master’s or PhD) and field.
- Check eligibility and prepare documents: Review the specific requirements and gather transcripts, diplomas, CV, motivation letter, and reference letters. Make sure your language tests (e.g. IELTS/TOEFL) are up to date if needed.
- Write a strong application: Craft a clear motivation statement explaining your goals and why Bern is the perfect place for you. Highlight any research experience or outstanding achievements. Personalized essays make a difference.
- Submit online: Most applications are done through the Uni Bern portal or the funding agency’s site. Fill in all fields carefully and upload your documents by the stated deadline. Double-check everything before hitting submit!
- Follow up: After submitting, watch your email for confirmation or requests. You may need to respond to additional queries or interviews.
Ready to apply? For applying, visit the University of Bern Scholarships page by clicking Below Button and start your application. Treat this process as the first step of an exciting journey!
Important Deadlines
Scholarship deadlines are firm. For the 2025–2026 cycle at Bern, notable dates include:
- Swiss Government Excellence Scholarship: Deadline November 1, 2025 (for study beginning fall 2026).
- Excellence Scholarship & UniBE Grants: Deadline March 31, 2025 (for fall 2025 entry).
Many Uni Bern Master’s programs have an April 30, 2025 application deadline for fall admission. Check the official Uni Bern website for exact dates, as they can vary by program. Mark these dates on your calendar now and aim to submit at least a week early. Missing a deadline means waiting another year!
Tips for Applicants
- Plan ahead: Start your application several months in advance. Gathering transcripts and recommendation letters can take time.
- Engage mentors: Talk to professors or current students who studied at Uni Bern. They can give insights and may even write recommendations. (As Uni Bern suggests, ask your department about new funding opportunities.)
- Highlight your fit: In your motivation letter, explain why studying in Switzerland or at Bern matters for your career. Be specific about research interests and how the scholarship will help.
- Proofread everything: Small errors can hurt a good application. Double-check spelling, grammar, and completeness. A polished application stands out.
- Stay positive: Competition is tough, but don’t be discouraged. Many winners apply multiple times before succeeding. Every application you submit is practice and a step forward.
Above all, believe in your potential. You have worked hard to get here – now go the extra mile by putting together a thoughtful, genuine application. This scholarship could change your life, so give it your best shot!
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Conclusion
The University of Bern Scholarships 2025-2026 are an incredible chance to study in Switzerland’s heart without financial worry. With full tuition coverage, living stipends, and a chance to join a vibrant academic community, these awards can kickstart your international career. If you meet the criteria, take action: check the requirements, prepare your documents, and apply before the deadlines. Don’t forget to share this opportunity with classmates or friends who might qualify – good things are better when shared.
You can do this. Apply today and step into your future at Bern!
Your journey at the University of Bern awaits – go for it!
