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 article is designed as a complete guide, so students can get all the required details, eligibility information, application materials, procedures, and practical tips—from deciding to apply, through documentation, to arriving in Bern.
Types of Scholarships at the University of Bern
| Scholarship Name | Degree Level Covered | What it Covers | Application Deadline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Swiss Government Excellence Scholarship | Masters, PhD, Postdoc | Tuition, living, research, travel | Nov 1, 2025 |
| University of Bern Scholarships | Bachelor, Masters, PhD | Tuition waivers, living expenses | Mar 31, 2025 (Fall intake) |
| Heyning-Roelli Foundation Scholarship | Exchange students | Travel, living expenses | Varies |
| SEMP (Swiss Erasmus) | Mobility students | Travel, living expenses | Varies |
| Swiss Study Foundation Scholarships | Bachelor, Masters | Financial support, mentoring, access to events | Varies |
| SNSF Grants | PhD, advanced researchers | Research funding, living allowance | Varies |
Who Can Apply? Eligibility Criteria
- Nationality: Open to students from all countries.
- Academic excellence: Consistently outstanding academic records.
- For Bachelor’s: Completed secondary/high school with recognized qualifications.
- For Master’s: Completed a bachelor’s degree or equivalent in a relevant field.
- For PhD/Postdoc: Master’s degree or higher in a related discipline.
- Language proficiency: Proof of English or German (most programs accept TOEFL/IELTS for English; TestDaF/Goethe or similar for German).
- Motivation: A clear academic goal and intent to study/research in Switzerland.
Required Documents for Application
You will need the following:
- Completed application form (downloadable or online).
- Official academic transcripts and degree certificates (scanned copies).
- Valid passport or national ID copy.
- Curriculum Vitae (CV) or Resume.
- Motivation letter/Statement of Purpose: Clearly outline your reasons for choosing Bern and your study/research goals.
- Two or more recommendation letters from teachers or professors (on letterhead, signed).
- Proof of language proficiency: e.g., TOEFL or IELTS for English; TestDaF/Goethe/Zertifikat for German.
- Research proposal/Thesis plan (for PhD/Postdoc/SNSF applicants).
- Passport-sized photo (often required for application portals).
- Proof of financial means (for visa): e.g., bank statement or scholarship confirmation letter.
Tip: Always check the University of Bern program and scholarship website for updates; some scholarships or study programs may require extra materials (e.g., portfolio for art/design, published research for advanced grants).
Application Process: Step-by-Step
- Choose your program: Decide on the degree/program from the University of Bern’s official course list.
- Check eligibility: Ensure you meet degree, subject, and language requirements.
- Prepare documents: Gather all required documents above and make verified translations if not in English/German.
- Apply for the scholarship(s):
- Go to the University of Bern’s application portal or the Swiss Government’s online system, depending on the scholarship.
- Fill out all required fields accurately.
- Upload your documents in PDF or other requested formats.
- Submit your application before the deadline!
- Additional interview/assessment—if required, prepare for an online interview or academic evaluation.
- Track application status via the online portal or email communication.
- Receive scholarship/acceptance offer.
- Apply for student visa: Use your scholarship offer letter as proof of funding.
- Arrange accommodation: University and third-party dorms, private rentals, and short-term stays are available—apply early!
- Arrival and enrollment: Attend orientation, register at Bern, and start your studies!
Quick-View: Application and Study Checklist
| Step | What To Do |
|---|---|
| 1. Program Selection | Browse University of Bern courses, select your preferred program |
| 2. Eligibility Check | Review degree + language requirements |
| 3. Document Preparation | Collect all transcripts, certificates, proof of funds/language, etc. |
| 4. Application Submission | Fill in online form & upload all documents |
| 5. Await Response | Track application portal/email for decisions |
| 6. Visa & Planning | Apply for visa, book accommodation, arrange travel |
| 7. Enroll & Begin Study | Attend orientation, register & start classes |
Studying in Bern: What You Need to Know
- Living costs: Plan for CHF 1,500–2,000/month (rent, food, insurance, public transport, personal).
- Health insurance: Mandatory for international students—can be arranged via Swiss providers or special student packages.
- Part-time work: Often allowed (up to 15 hours/week during term-time, up to 100% in holidays), check permit terms.
- Student support: The university offers arrival help, integration events, and language classes.
- Contact points: Always refer to the University of Bern’s International Office and individual faculty student services for the latest and personalized help.
Official Guidance & Final Tips
- Refer only to official University of Bern platforms and the Swiss Government Scholarship portal for up-to-date program and scholarship announcements.
- Never send documents or payments except through the official, secure application portals.
