The University of Lausanne (UNIL) in Switzerland offers master’s scholarships to international students. Masters Scholarships are scholarships for excellence awarded, exclusively to students who have graduated from a foreign university and whose academic results are of a very high level. The University of Lausanne Master’s Scholarship is very competitive in Europe; international students are selected on a competitive basis by the University of Lausanne. UNIL grants around ten scholarships per year. This Europe scholarship program is an excellent opportunity to study in Europe. The scholarship financially supports students pursuing eligible master’s degrees starting in September 2025. The scholarship is granted for the minimum statutory period of the program chosen by the student. It amounts to CHF 1,600 per month. Candidates are made aware of the fact that the sum of the scholarship awarded is not sufficient to live in Switzerland. It is not a fully funded scholarship.
The University of Lausanne Scholarship annually provides 10 master’s scholarships for international students in Europe. The University of Lausanne (UNIL) is currently ranked #224 in the 2025 QS World University Rankings. Located in Lausanne, Switzerland, UNIL is known for its scenic lakeside campus and has a strong international presence, with about 25% of its students and 50% of its faculty coming from abroad. UNIL is known for its research-driven approach, particularly in fields like environmental sciences, medicine, and business studies. It collaborates closely with several Swiss and international research institutions
- Application Deadline: November 1, 2024
University Information
- Institution: University of Lausanne (UNIL)
- Location: Lausanne, Switzerland
- Global Ranking: The university is ranked #224 in the QS World University Rankings 2025 and has a reputation for excellence in Western Europe, where it is listed among the top 42 universities
- Program Duration: 1.5 to 2 years depending on the chosen master’s program.
Study Areas for UNIL Master’s Scholarship 2025
The University of Lausanne offers a variety of programs eligible for the master’s scholarship, spanning several disciplines across multiple faculties:
Eligible Study Areas
- Faculty of Biology and Medicine
- Faculty of Law, Criminal Justice, and Public Administration
- Faculty of Geosciences and Environment
- Faculty of Business and Economics
- Faculty of Arts
- Faculty of Social and Political Sciences
- Faculty of Theology and Sciences of Religions
- Interfaculty Programs
Scholarship Benefits
- Monthly Stipend: CHF 1,600 from September to July (for 10 months annually).
- Tuition Fee Reduction: Scholarship recipients are exempt from registration fees, except for a CHF 80 administrative fee per semester
- UNIL guarantees to all Master’s grantees an accommodation with the Student Housing Foundation of Lausanne (FMEL)
- The rent has to be paid by the student, but the amount is reasonable in comparison with the prices of the private housing market in the Lausanne region.
- International students at UNIL can either have their European health insurance recognized or buy a special health insurance (for students from other countries) which is also cheaper than the ones that are paid by Swiss students.
- Students will get an opportunity to experience European study culture.
Benefits Not Included
The scholarship is insufficient to cover all living costs, and students must plan for additional expenses for accommodation, food, and personal needs
Eligibility Criteria
- Candidates must have graduated from a foreign university only: their qualification/university degree must be deemed equivalent to a Swiss university bachelor’s degree (180 ECTS credits).
- Students who have already obtained a master’s level degree from a foreign university (or are about to obtain one at the time of application) also have the right to apply, although priority will be given to students who only hold a bachelor’s level degree.
- Excellent academic record with a high level of proficiency (at least B2 in French or C1 in English, depending on the program).
- Applicants should not have been previously registered at UNIL.
- A non-refundable CHF 200 administrative fee is required
Required Documents
- Completed and signed application form.
- Passport-sized photo (JPEG).
- Bachelor’s degree certificate (or a certified translation).
- Detailed CV and cover letter.
- Two sealed letters of recommendation from academic referees.
- Proof of language proficiency (TOEFL, IELTS, DALF, or DELF).
- Copy of passport or ID.
- Proof of payment of CHF 200 application fee
Application Process
- Applications must be submitted online and sent by post to the Social Affairs and Student Mobility Service (SASME) at UNIL.
- The same application serves as both the scholarship request and admission to the chosen master’s program
- upload all the required documents with the form in an application file (in PDF) during the online application process.
- Applicants who have a bachelors from a university in a State that did ratify the Lisbon Recognition Convention must not send certified copies by postal mail.
Tips for Successful Application
- Ensure all required documents are accurate and properly certified.
- Prepare your application well before the deadline to avoid delays.
- Tailor your cover letter to highlight your academic strengths and alignment with UNIL’s programs.
- Contact referees early to ensure timely submission of recommendation letters.
Monthly Living Expenses for International Students
The average living expenses in Switzerland, especially for students, can range from CHF 1,600 to 2,500 per month depending on your lifestyle and location. Here is a breakdown of typical costs:
- Accommodation: Renting a room or small apartment costs between CHF 700 to 900 per month. This usually excludes utilities such as electricity, water, and heating, which add about CHF 150 monthly.
- Food: Grocery shopping may set you back around CHF 450 to 600 per month. Dining out is pricey, with meals at mid-range restaurants costing CHF 20 to 40. Opting for home-cooked meals can save significant amounts.
- Transport: A public transport pass costs about CHF 50 to 85 monthly, depending on the city and zones. Switzerland’s efficient transport system covers trains, trams, and buses, minimizing the need for private vehicles.
- Health Insurance: Health insurance is mandatory for residents and students, with premiums ranging from CHF 90 to 300 per month, based on your age and coverage plan.
- Leisure and Entertainment: Going out for drinks can be costly, with beers around CHF 8 and cocktails CHF 17. Gym memberships range from CHF 50 to 150 monthly, and movie tickets cost approximately CHF 20 each.
- Study Costs: University students pay semester fees of around CHF 580. Additionally, academic supplies and books may cost about CHF 100 to 150 monthly.
Planning a budget with at least CHF 2,000 per month ensures you have adequate coverage for these costs, along with a cushion for occasional outings or unexpected expenses. Careful financial management will help navigate the relatively high living costs of Switzerland effectively.
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Why Choose UNIL?
- Access to high-quality education and research opportunities.
- Exposure to a diverse international environment.
- Strategic location in the heart of Europe, with excellent academic and cultural resources.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is there an application fee? Yes, applicants must pay a CHF 200 non-refundable fee.
- Are all master’s programs covered? No, some programs like Medicine and certain Law courses are excluded.
- When will applicants be notified? Selections will be communicated by April 2025.
- Can students reapply if unsuccessful? Yes, students can apply for future cycles if eligible.
- Are other funding options available? Students can explore additional scholarships or part-time work opportunities to support their stay
Official Link for Application
For detailed information and to apply, visit the official scholarship page: UNIL Master’s Scholarship