EPFL Master Excellence Fellowships: Your Gateway to Studying in Switzerland

Imagine studying at one of Europe's most prestigious technical universities, surrounded by the stunning Swiss Alps and Lake Geneva, with financial support that lets you focus entirely on your studies. The EPFL Master Excellence Fellowships make this possible for outstanding students from around the world.

The École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL) offers these prestigious fellowships to reward the most exceptional students beginning their Master's studies [citation:1]. With a generous stipend of CHF 10,000 per semester and guaranteed housing, this is one of Europe's most attractive merit-based funding opportunities for international students.

💡 Key Insight

The EPFL Master Excellence Fellowship is open to students of any nationality who are applying to a Master's program at EPFL. You don't need to be an EPFL graduate to apply—external candidates are equally eligible [citation:1][citation:6].

What Does the EPFL Master Excellence Fellowship Cover?

The fellowship provides substantial support to help you focus on your studies and professional development [citation:1]:

• Stipend of CHF 10,000 per semester – Paid at the start of each semester into a Swiss bank account [citation:1][citation:6]. For a standard 120-credit Master's program, this covers up to 4 semesters (3 semesters of coursework + 1 semester for the Master's project) [citation:1][citation:11].
• Guaranteed student housing – A room in a student residence is reserved for external candidates [citation:1][citation:11].
• Certificate of Excellence – Upon successful completion of your Master's program, you receive this prestigious recognition [citation:1][citation:8].

This fellowship is designed to allow students to concentrate on their Master's studies while also having the opportunity to pursue activities that enrich their professional background [citation:1].

📌 Important Note

The fellowship does not cover all living expenses. Students are responsible for managing their own costs, including tuition fees, rent (after the first semester for some residences), food, and transportation [citation:1][citation:6]. Plan your budget accordingly.

Eligibility Criteria: Who Can Apply?

The fellowship is open to a wide range of candidates, but there are some important requirements to keep in mind [citation:1][citation:6][citation:15]:

Eligible Candidates

• Anyone applying to a Master's program at EPFL, regardless of nationality [citation:1]
• Students with an outstanding academic record [citation:1]
• Candidates who demonstrate remarkable achievements in extracurricular activities such as research, sports, arts, civic engagement, or entrepreneurship [citation:1]

Not Eligible

• Candidates who already hold a Master's degree [citation:6][citation:15]
• Students currently enrolled in a Master's program at EPFL [citation:6]

Each student may apply for only one Master's program per year [citation:15].

What Makes a Strong Candidate?

While academic excellence is crucial, EPFL takes a holistic approach to evaluating applications. The selection committee considers 

• Academic track record – Your Bachelor's degree grades and transcript
• Research experience – Publications, prizes, or fellowships you've received [citation:1]
• Entrepreneurial spirit – Patent applications, start-up creation, or innovative projects [citation:1]
• Societal commitment – Associative or civic activities, organizing festivals or events [citation:1]
• Extracurricular achievements – Sports, arts, or other activities that distinguish you [citation:1]

The key is to demonstrate that you're not just a high-achieving student in the classroom, but someone who will contribute to the EPFL community in meaningful ways.

Application Deadlines for 2026

EPFL runs two application rounds each year. Choose the round that best fits your preparation timeline [citation:15][citation:14]:

✅ Pro Tip

Applying in Round 1 (December) gives you an earlier decision (April), allowing more time for visa and travel arrangements. If you need more time to prepare your application, Round 2 (March) is a good alternative [citation:9][citation:14].

Step-by-Step Application Process

The application process varies depending on whether you are an external candidate or an EPFL graduate. Here's what you need to know [citation:15]:

External Candidates (Bachelor's from outside EPFL)

1. Apply to your chosen Master's program – Submit your application through EPFL's online Master's application portal [citation:15].
2. Check the fellowship box – On the application form, tick the box indicating that your profile should also be considered for an Excellence Fellowship [citation:1][citation:15].
3. Submit all required documents – No additional documents beyond those required for Master's admission are needed for external candidates [citation:15].

Internal Candidates (EPFL Bachelor's Graduates)

If you earned your Bachelor's at EPFL and are applying for a Master's in the same field of study [citation:15]:

• Submit your application directly to your section, with a copy to master.fellowship@epfl.ch [citation:15]
• Required documents: CV, motivation letter, full transcript of all grades earned at EPFL [citation:15]
• Two recommendation letters from professors familiar with your work, submitted directly by referees to master.fellowship@epfl.ch 

Internal candidates changing field of study follow the external candidate application process but must also provide two recommendation letters [citation:15].

📋 Application Checklist

• Identify your Master's program (choose one)
• Prepare your application file (CV, motivation letter, transcripts)
• Check the fellowship box on your Master's application
• Submit before the deadline (December 15 or March 31 for external candidates)
• For internal candidates: arrange recommendation letters before January 31 or April 15
• Open a Swiss bank account upon arrival in Switzerland [citation:15]

Fellowship Renewal: What to Expect in Year 2

The fellowship is not automatically renewed. To continue receiving the stipend for your second year, you must meet strict academic requirements [citation:1][citation:11][citation:15]:

• Minimum average of 5.0 out of 6 – This average is weighted by ECTS credits and includes all numerical grades from courses and exams in your first Master's year [citation:15]
• At least 50 ECTS credits earned – Credits from language courses, admission courses, or courses outside your study plan do not count [citation:15]

⚠️ Important

EPFL is very clear: there are no exceptions for students who do not meet these renewal requirements. The fellowship is designed for high-performing students, and the renewal conditions reflect this standard [citation:11][citation:15].

Frequently Asked Questions

Can international students apply for this fellowship?

Yes. The EPFL Master Excellence Fellowships are open to students of any nationality who meet the eligibility criteria [citation:1][citation:6].

How much is the fellowship worth?

CHF 10,000 per semester for up to 4 semesters (maximum CHF 40,000) [citation:1][citation:11]. The fellowship covers 3 semesters of coursework plus 1 semester for the Master's project for 120-credit programs [citation:1].

Does the fellowship cover tuition fees?

No. Students are responsible for paying their own tuition fees and managing all living expenses, including rent [citation:15].

Do I need a separate application for the fellowship?

No. For external candidates, the fellowship application is integrated into the Master's application form. Just check the box to be considered [citation:1][citation:15].

What is the GPA requirement for the fellowship?

There is no minimum GPA requirement for application, but it is highly competitive. Only a small percentage of applicants are awarded the fellowship [citation:6].

Can I combine this with other scholarships?

Generally no. The fellowship cannot be combined with other substantial scholarships. You must declare all scholarships received during your Master's program [citation:6][citation:15].

Making Your Application Stand Out

With a limited number of fellowships awarded each year, the competition is intense. Here are some tips to strengthen your application [citation:9][citation:14]:

• Apply in Round 1 if possible – Earlier applicants may benefit from more available places [citation:9].
• Highlight your extracurricular achievements – Research experience, publications, sports, arts, civic engagement, or entrepreneurship all count [citation:1].
• Write a focused motivation letter – Connect your specific goals to the EPFL program you're applying to [citation:14].
• Submit a complete application early – Avoid last-minute issues with the application portal [citation:9].

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🚀 Ready to Apply for the EPFL Master Excellence Fellowship?

Don't miss the December 15 or March 31 deadlines. Start your EPFL Master's application today and take the first step toward one of Europe's most prestigious fellowship opportunities.

Frequently Asked Questions About EPFL Master Excellence Fellowships

Can international students apply for the EPFL Master Excellence Fellowship?

Yes. The fellowship is open to students of any nationality who are applying to a Master's program at EPFL, provided they meet the eligibility criteria [citation:1][citation:6].

How much does the EPFL Master Excellence Fellowship provide?

CHF 10,000 per semester, with a maximum coverage of 4 semesters (total CHF 40,000). The fellowship covers up to 3 semesters of coursework plus 1 semester for the Master's project for 120-credit programs [citation:1][citation:11].

What are the application deadlines for the EPFL Master Excellence Fellowship?

There are two application rounds. For external candidates, deadlines are December 15 (Round 1) and March 31 (Round 2). For internal EPFL candidates, deadlines are January 31 (Round 1) and April 15 (Round 2) [citation:15].

What documents do I need for the application?

External candidates only need the documents required for standard Master's admission. Internal candidates (same field) must provide a CV, motivation letter, transcript, and two recommendation letters [citation:15].

Does the fellowship cover housing?

Yes. Guaranteed housing in a student residence is provided for external candidates. This is a significant additional benefit beyond the cash stipend [citation:1][citation:11].

What are the renewal conditions for the second year?

To renew the fellowship for the second year, students must achieve an overall average of at least 5.0 out of 6 and earn at least 50 ECTS credits. Language courses and courses outside the study plan do not count toward the 50 credits [citation:11][citation:15].

Can I work while receiving the fellowship?

Yes. Working in Switzerland does not affect the amount or continuation of the Excellence Fellowship [citation:6].

Can I combine this fellowship with other scholarships?

Generally no. The fellowship cannot be combined with other substantial scholarships. Candidates must declare all scholarships received during their Master's program [citation:6][citation:15].

What if I need to defer my admission?

If you defer or postpone your admission, you will lose the scholarship. However, you may reapply the following year through the standard application process [citation:6].

How are fellowship payments made?

Fellowships are paid into a Swiss bank or postal account at the start of each semester. Recipients should open a Swiss bank account upon arrival in Switzerland [citation:6][citation:15].

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Start Your EPFL Master's Journey Today

The EPFL Master Excellence Fellowship is your opportunity to study at one of the world's leading technical universities with substantial financial support. Don't miss the December 15 or March 31 deadlines.

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