University of Lausanne Master's Scholarship for International Students 2027

Dreaming of pursuing your master’s degree in Switzerland? The University of Lausanne (UNIL) offers a fantastic opportunity for international students seeking financial support to study in a beautiful European setting. This scholarship can open doors to a world-class education and a unique cultural experience.

Understanding the ins and outs of international scholarships can be challenging. This article aims to simplify the process for you. We will guide you through everything you need to know about the University of Lausanne Scholarship, from what it covers to how to submit a winning application.

The University of Lausanne Scholarship, also known as the UNIL Master’s Grants, is designed for academically strong international students. It provides a chance to study at one of Switzerland’s leading universities. Let’s explore how you can take advantage of this valuable opportunity.

What is the University of Lausanne Scholarship?

The University of Lausanne Scholarship, or UNIL Master’s Grants, is a competitive program for international students aiming to pursue a master’s degree at the University of Lausanne. UNIL offers approximately ten of these scholarships each year to students who have demonstrated exceptional academic achievement in their previous studies. These grants are specifically for those who have graduated from a university outside of Switzerland and wish to continue their higher education in Lausanne.

This scholarship is intended to support students for the standard duration of their master’s program, which is typically one and a half to two years. It is awarded based on academic excellence, making it a prestigious opportunity for high-achieving students worldwide. The university aims to attract talented individuals who can contribute to its academic community and benefit from its educational offerings.

Scholarship Coverage and Benefits

The University of Lausanne Scholarship provides significant financial support to its recipients. The grant amounts to CHF 1,600 per month, distributed from September 15th to July 15th each year, covering ten months annually. This funding is provided for the entire duration of the chosen master’s program, whether it is one and a half or two years long.

It is important for applicants to understand that while generous, the scholarship amount may not cover all living expenses in Switzerland. Students are encouraged to review the estimated student budget for the University of Lausanne to plan accordingly. Additionally, scholarship recipients are exempt from the fixed registration fees for their courses. However, a small semester fee of CHF 80.00 is still required.

Eligibility Criteria for UNIL Master’s Grants

To be considered for the University of Lausanne Scholarship, international students must meet several key requirements. These criteria ensure that the scholarship is awarded to the most deserving and qualified candidates.

Academic Excellence: You must have a proven record of outstanding academic results from your previous university studies.
Foreign Degree: You need to have earned a bachelor’s degree from a foreign university that UNIL recognizes as equivalent to its own bachelor’s degree standards.
No Prior UNIL Registration: Applicants should not have been previously registered at the University of Lausanne.
Language Proficiency: A minimum B2 level of proficiency in either French or English is required, depending on the language of instruction for your chosen master’s program. This can be proven with official language test certificates.
Eligible Countries: This scholarship is open to applicants from all countries around the world.
Program Restrictions: Certain master’s programs are not eligible for this scholarship. These include programs from the School of Medicine, Master of Education, Master of Laws (except for specific specializations), and various specialized master’s degrees. Always check the official UNIL website for the most current list of excluded programs.

Required Documents for Application

A complete and well-prepared application is crucial for success. You will need to gather several documents to support your application for the UNIL Master’s Grants. Ensure all documents are accurate and submitted as per the instructions.

Here is a list of the essential documents:

Completed Application Form: A duly filled and signed application form.
Passport-Sized Photograph: Inserted into the application form in JPEG format.
Academic Qualifications: Certified copies of your bachelor’s degree and all university grade transcripts.
Secondary School Diploma: A certified copy of your secondary school diploma. Translations are required for diplomas not in French, German, English, or Italian.
Program Description: If you haven’t yet obtained your bachelor’s degree, provide a copy of the program description for your final semester.
Identification: A copy of your passport or identity card.
Cover Letter: A compelling letter explaining your motivation and suitability for the scholarship.
Curriculum Vitae (CV): A detailed CV outlining your academic and any relevant professional experience.
Language Proficiency Certificate: An official certificate proving your B2 level in French (e.g., DELF/DALF) or English (e.g., TOEFL/IELTS).
Letters of Recommendation: Two original letters of recommendation from your university lecturers, submitted in sealed envelopes.
Proof of Fee Payment: Evidence of payment for the CHF 200.00 administration fee.

Step-by-Step Application Process

Applying for the University of Lausanne Scholarship involves a clear, step-by-step process. It’s important to follow these instructions carefully to ensure your application is considered.

Complete the Application Form: Download and fill out the official application form on your computer. Make sure to sign it after completion.
Gather All Required Documents: Collect all the necessary documents listed above. Ensure they are certified copies where required and translated if necessary.
Prepare Your Application Package: Do not bind your application documents. They should be sent unbound.
Pay the Administration Fee: Make the payment of the CHF 200.00 administration fee and keep the proof of payment.
Send Your Application by Post: Mail your complete, unbound application package to the following address:

Université de Lausanne
Service des affaires sociales et de la mobilité étudiante (SASME)
Bâtiment Unicentre
CH – 1015 Lausanne
Switzerland
6. Application for Admission: Note that submitting the scholarship application also serves as your application for admission to the chosen master’s program and for registration at UNIL.

Application Deadline

The deadline for submitting your application for the University of Lausanne Scholarship for the 2027-2028 academic year is November 1, 2026. It is highly recommended to submit your application well before this date to avoid any last-minute issues.

Tips for a Strong Application

To increase your chances of being selected for the University of Lausanne Scholarship, consider these helpful tips. A well-crafted application can make a significant difference.

Highlight Academic Achievements: Emphasize your academic excellence in your application. Provide specific examples of your successes and how they demonstrate your potential.
Craft a Persuasive Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your opportunity to tell your story. Clearly articulate why you want to study at UNIL, how the scholarship will help you achieve your goals, and what you will contribute to the university.
Choose Recommenders Wisely: Select lecturers who know you well and can speak genuinely about your academic abilities and character. Provide them with information about the scholarship and your CV to help them write strong letters.
Proofread Everything: Carefully review all parts of your application for any grammatical errors or typos. A polished application shows attention to detail.
Understand Program Requirements: Ensure you meet the specific entry requirements for your chosen master’s program at UNIL. The scholarship application is also an admission application.
Check Official Website: Always refer to the official University of Lausanne website for the most up-to-date information on the scholarship, including any changes to criteria, documents, or deadlines. You can find more details at Official Website.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the University of Lausanne Scholarship?

The University of Lausanne Scholarship, or UNIL Master’s Grants, is a competitive program for international students with excellent academic records who wish to pursue a master’s degree at UNIL.

How much financial support does the scholarship offer?

The scholarship provides CHF 1,600 per month for ten months each year, covering the standard duration of a master’s program, and exempts recipients from fixed registration fees.

What are the main eligibility requirements?

Key requirements include outstanding academic results, a recognized foreign bachelor’s degree, no prior UNIL registration, and B2 level French or English proficiency, with certain master’s programs being ineligible.