University of Bern Scholarships 2026 Switzerland

University of Bern Scholarships 2026-2027 in Switzerland | Funding Opportunities for International Students

Study at the University of Bern with Scholarship Opportunities

The University of Bern (UniBE) is one of Switzerland’s leading public research universities, known for its excellence in teaching, innovation, and internationally recognized research. Located in the historic capital city of Bern, the university offers Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD programs across a wide range of disciplines, attracting students from more than 150 countries.

Although the University of Bern does not provide a single fully funded university-wide scholarship for all international students, eligible students can apply for various funding opportunities through the Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships, the Swiss Study Foundation, the Canton of Bern, SEMP (Swiss-European Mobility Programme), faculty funding, foundations, and external scholarship providers. The university also regularly publishes open scholarship calls for international students and researchers.

This complete guide explains the University of Bern Scholarships 2026-2027, including available funding opportunities, scholarship benefits, academic fields, eligibility criteria, required documents, application process, important deadlines, and expert application tips.

Scholarship Overview

Category	Details
Host Country	Switzerland
Host University	University of Bern
Degree Levels	Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD
Scholarship Types	Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships, SEMP, Foundation Scholarships, Faculty Funding, External Scholarships
Eligible Applicants	Swiss and International Students (Scholarship Dependent)
Financial Coverage	Tuition Support, Living Grants, Mobility Funding, Research Funding (Varies by Scholarship)
Application Mode	Online
Study Location	Bern, Switzerland

About the University of Bern

Founded in 1834, the University of Bern is one of Switzerland’s most respected public universities. It offers more than 150 degree programs through eight faculties and is internationally recognized for research in climate science, medicine, space science, law, economics, sustainability, and social sciences.

The university emphasizes interdisciplinary education, international collaboration, and practical research while maintaining partnerships with universities and research institutions across Europe and beyond.

Why Choose the University of Bern?

• One of Switzerland’s leading public universities
• Globally respected research institution
• Modern laboratories and research centers
• Diverse international student community
• Excellent graduate employability
• Safe and high-quality living environment
• Opportunities for exchange and mobility programs
• Access to world-class Swiss education

Scholarship Benefits

Benefits depend on the specific scholarship or funding program.

Benefit	Detailed Description
Tuition Support	Some scholarship programs help reduce tuition costs or provide financial assistance toward study-related expenses, depending on the funding organization.
Monthly Living Allowance	Several scholarship schemes, including government-funded and foundation scholarships, provide monthly financial support to assist with accommodation, food, transportation, and daily living costs.
Research Funding	Master’s and PhD students may receive funding for research projects, laboratory work, academic publications, and conference participation through faculty grants or external funding organizations.
Mobility Grants	Students participating in international exchange programs may receive travel and mobility funding through SEMP and other exchange initiatives.
Academic Networking	Scholarship recipients often gain access to professional development activities, research collaborations, mentoring opportunities, and international academic networks.
International Study Experience	Students benefit from studying in Switzerland while gaining exposure to diverse cultures, multilingual environments, and globally recognized academic standards.
Career Development	Many funding programs encourage participation in internships, research collaborations, workshops, and academic conferences that strengthen career prospects.

Available Fields of Study

Medicine and Health Sciences

The University of Bern offers internationally respected programs in Medicine, Dentistry, Biomedical Sciences, Public Health, Neuroscience, Clinical Research, and Pharmaceutical Sciences. Students gain practical experience through university hospitals and research institutes.

Engineering and Computer Science

Students can specialize in Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, Robotics, Data Science, Software Engineering, Information Systems, and Computational Sciences while participating in innovative research projects.

Business and Economics

Programs include Economics, Business Administration, Finance, Accounting, Banking, International Business, Management, and Entrepreneurship, preparing graduates for careers in multinational organizations and financial institutions.

Natural Sciences

Available disciplines include Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Mathematics, Earth Sciences, Environmental Sciences, Climate Science, and Space Research. The university is internationally recognized for research in climate and environmental sustainability.

Law

Students may pursue Law, International Law, European Law, Criminal Law, Business Law, and Human Rights, developing strong legal reasoning and analytical skills.

Humanities and Social Sciences

Programs cover History, Languages, Philosophy, Political Science, Sociology, Communication Studies, Psychology, Education, Anthropology, and International Relations.

Theology and Religious Studies

The university also offers programs in Theology, Religious Studies, Ethics, and Intercultural Studies, encouraging critical thinking and interdisciplinary learning.

Eligibility Criteria

Eligibility varies depending on the scholarship or funding program.

Generally, applicants should:

• Apply for admission to an eligible University of Bern degree program.
• Meet the academic requirements for the chosen program.
• Hold recognized previous educational qualifications.
• Demonstrate strong academic performance.
• Meet language requirements for the selected course.
• Submit complete applications before the scholarship deadline.
• Satisfy any scholarship-specific conditions established by the funding provider.

Required Documents

Document	Purpose	Detailed Description
Valid Passport	Identity Verification	International applicants should provide a valid passport that remains valid throughout the admission and visa process. This document is essential for identity verification and residence permit applications.
Academic Certificates	Educational Qualification	Applicants must submit official certificates confirming successful completion of previous academic studies appropriate for the degree level they are applying for.
Academic Transcripts	Academic Evaluation	Official transcripts enable the admissions committee and scholarship providers to assess academic performance, prerequisite knowledge, and overall eligibility.
Curriculum Vitae (CV)	Personal Profile	Graduate applicants should prepare a professional CV highlighting academic achievements, internships, research experience, leadership activities, publications, volunteer work, and technical skills.
Motivation Letter	Personal Statement	A compelling motivation letter should explain your reasons for choosing the University of Bern, academic interests, future career goals, and how receiving financial support will contribute to your educational journey.
Recommendation Letters	Academic Assessment	Strong recommendation letters from professors, supervisors, or employers strengthen the application by demonstrating academic excellence, leadership potential, and personal qualities.
Language Proficiency Certificate	Language Requirement	Depending on the program, applicants may need proof of English, German, French, or another required language. Language requirements differ by faculty and degree program.
Research Proposal (Research Degrees)	Research Evaluation	Master’s by Research and PhD applicants may need to submit a research proposal outlining objectives, methodology, significance, expected outcomes, and alignment with faculty expertise.

Application Process

Step	Action	Detailed Description
Step 1	Choose Your Degree Program	Explore the University of Bern’s undergraduate, master’s, or doctoral programs and carefully review admission requirements, language requirements, and available scholarship opportunities before selecting your preferred course.
Step 2	Review Scholarship Opportunities	Visit the university’s scholarship and student financing pages to identify funding opportunities such as Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships, SEMP grants, foundation scholarships, faculty awards, or external funding programs that match your academic profile.
Step 3	Prepare Supporting Documents	Collect all required documents, including academic certificates, transcripts, passport, CV, motivation letter, recommendation letters, language certificates, and research proposal if applicable. Ensure documents are certified and translated when required.
Step 4	Submit Your Admission Application	Complete the University of Bern’s online admission application before the published deadline. Upload all supporting documents carefully and verify that your application is complete before submission.
Step 5	Apply for Scholarships	Some scholarships require separate applications after admission, while others are administered through external organizations or government agencies. Carefully follow the application instructions for each funding opportunity.
Step 6	Admission and Scholarship Evaluation	The university and scholarship providers evaluate applications based on academic merit, research potential, leadership qualities, motivation, and scholarship-specific eligibility criteria.
Step 7	Receive Admission & Funding Decision	Successful applicants receive admission offers and scholarship decisions according to the timelines established by the university or funding organization.
Step 8	Complete Visa & Enrollment	International students should finalize enrollment, apply for a Swiss student visa if required, arrange accommodation, and prepare for their studies in Bern.

Important Deadlines

Admission deadlines vary depending on the degree program and applicant category. Applicants should submit their online admission application within the official application periods published by the University of Bern. Scholarship deadlines also vary depending on the funding source. The university regularly updates its scholarship portal with current open calls, while external organizations publish their own annual schedules.

Why Study in Switzerland?

Switzerland is consistently ranked among the world’s best countries for higher education, research, innovation, and quality of life. Students benefit from internationally recognized degrees, a multilingual environment, advanced research facilities, excellent public transportation, and strong employment opportunities after graduation.

Tips to Increase Your Selection Chances

• Maintain excellent academic performance.
• Write a personalized and convincing motivation letter.
• Obtain detailed recommendation letters from professors or employers.
• Apply well before the deadline.
• Demonstrate research experience where applicable.
• Ensure language requirements are fully met.
• Monitor scholarship announcements regularly.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Does the University of Bern offer a fully funded scholarship for all international students?

No. The University of Bern does not offer one universal fully funded scholarship. Instead, students can apply for various government, foundation, mobility, and external funding opportunities depending on their eligibility.

Can international students apply?

Yes. The University of Bern welcomes international applicants across undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral programs. Scholarship eligibility depends on the specific funding scheme.

Is IELTS required?

Language requirements vary by program. Some programs require proof of English proficiency, while others require German or another language depending on the language of instruction.

Where can I find current scholarship opportunities?

The University of Bern publishes open scholarship calls and funding opportunities on its official scholarship page, while additional funding is available through Swiss government and external organizations.

Final Thoughts

The University of Bern Scholarships 2026-2027 provide international students with access to a wide range of funding opportunities through government agencies, foundations, exchange programs, and research grants. Although there is no single university-wide fully funded scholarship, eligible students can significantly reduce the cost of studying in Switzerland by combining available financial aid programs. If you plan to study at the University of Bern, begin preparing your application early, monitor scholarship announcements, and submit a strong academic profile to improve your chances of receiving funding.