UNIL Master's Grants: Your Pathway to Studying in Switzerland

Imagine pursuing your Master's degree at one of Switzerland's most prestigious universities, surrounded by the stunning Alps and Lake Geneva, with generous financial support that lets you focus entirely on your studies. The University of Lausanne (UNIL) Master's Grants make this possible for exceptional international students from around the world [citation:3].

UNIL awards around ten excellence scholarships each year, exclusively to students who have graduated from a foreign university and whose academic results are of a very high standard [citation:3][citation:6]. With a monthly stipend of CHF 1,600 and exemption from registration fees, this is one of Europe's most attractive merit-based funding opportunities for international students [citation:8].

💡 Key Insight

The UNIL Master's Grant application serves as both your scholarship application AND your admission application to the Master's program. You do not need to apply separately for admission [citation:2][citation:6].

What Does the UNIL Master's Grant Cover?

The grant provides substantial support to help you focus on your Master's studies in Lausanne [citation:3][citation:8]:

• Monthly stipend of CHF 1,600 – Paid from 15 September to 15 July (10 months per academic year) for the minimum statutory duration of the Master's program (1.5 to 2 years depending on the program) [citation:3][citation:9].
• Exemption from registration fees – You only pay the semester fees of CHF 80 instead of the standard CHF 580 [citation:3][citation:8].
• Guaranteed student housing – UNIL guarantees accommodation through the Student Housing Foundation of Lausanne (FMEL) at reasonable rates [citation:3].

📌 Important Note

The grant does not cover all living expenses. The Federal and Cantonal Authorities estimate that approximately CHF 2,000 per month is necessary to live in Lausanne. Students should have personal complementary financial resources of around CHF 300-400 per month [citation:2][citation:3].

Eligibility Criteria: Who Can Apply?

The UNIL Master's Grants are designed for outstanding international students. Here are the key requirements [citation:3][citation:8]:

Eligible Candidates

• Hold a foreign university degree considered equivalent to a Swiss Bachelor's degree before beginning the Master's program at UNIL [citation:3][citation:8].
• Demonstrate outstanding academic results – "Particularly brilliant academic results" are required [citation:8].
• Have a C1 language level in French or English (depending on your chosen Master's program's language of instruction) [citation:1][citation:8].
• Not be registered at UNIL – You must not have been enrolled at UNIL previously [citation:1][citation:10].

Not Eligible

• Students with a foreign degree who have already begun a Master's program at UNIL [citation:2].
• Students in their preparatory year (introductory year) [citation:2].
• Candidates applying for specific excluded programs (see section below) [citation:3][citation:8].

Which Master's Programs Are Eligible?

The grant is available for most Master's programs at UNIL, with some important exceptions [citation:3][citation:8]:

Eligible Programs

• Most Master's degrees offered by UNIL across various faculties [citation:3].
• Check the full list of eligible programs on the UNIL website [citation:3].

Programs NOT Eligible

• Master from the School of Medicine [citation:3][citation:8].
• Master in Sciences and Practices of Education [citation:3][citation:8].
• Master of Law – Except for specialisms "International and Comparative Law", "Legal Theory", and "International Tax Law and Policy" [citation:3][citation:8].
• Master of Science in Physical Education and Sport Didactics [citation:3][citation:8].
• Master of Science in Health Sciences [citation:3][citation:8].
• Master of Science in Sustainable Management & Technology [citation:3][citation:8].
• Master of Science in Human Taphonomy [citation:3][citation:8].
• All MAS (3rd cycle programs and Further Education programs) [citation:3][citation:8].

⚠️ Important

If you are applying for a Master in Finance, Psychology, Letters, or Nursing Sciences, specific conditions apply. Check the Admissions Service (SII) page for detailed requirements [citation:14].

Application Deadlines for 2026/2027

UNIL runs one application round each year for the following academic year [citation:1][citation:5]:

✅ Pro Tip

The application deadline is strict. Incomplete applications or those submitted after November 1 will not be considered [citation:2][citation:6]. Mark this date in your calendar and aim to submit at least a week early.

Step-by-Step Application Process

The application process has been modernized and is now primarily online. Here's what you need to do [citation:13][citation:14]:

Step 1: Prepare Your Application Documents

Create a single PDF file containing all required documents in the following order [citation:14]:

• Complete CV – With a photo [citation:14].
• Motivation letter (1-2 pages maximum) – Explain why you want to study at UNIL and why you deserve the grant [citation:2][citation:14].
• University degree certificate(s) – If already obtained, plus all official transcripts of grades [citation:14].
• If Bachelor's not yet obtained – Provide a description of the remainder of your course through to completion [citation:2].
• Language certificate – C1 level in French or English [citation:1][citation:14].
• Secondary school diploma (High School, Baccalaureate, etc.) [citation:14].
• Passport copy [citation:14].
• Proof of CHF 200 administration fee payment [citation:2][citation:14].

Step 2: Complete the Online Application

The application is submitted entirely online through the UNIL portal [citation:13][citation:14]:

• Visit the UNIL Master's Grants application page [citation:8]
• Fill in the online form
• Upload your complete PDF application file [citation:13]
• Submit before November 1, 2025 [citation:1]

Step 3: Arrange Recommendation Letters

Two recommendation letters are required [citation:2][citation:14]:

• Letters must be sent directly by the referees from their professional email addresses to: mastergrants@unil.ch [citation:14]
• The candidate's full name must be mentioned in each email [citation:14]
• Teachers or employers can provide these letters [citation:2]
• Deadline: November 1, 2025 [citation:14]

Step 4: Certified Copies (If Applicable)

This step only applies to candidates whose degrees were obtained in a country that has NOT ratified the Lisbon Convention [citation:14].

• Have your university certify copies of your diplomas and transcripts
• Place them in a sealed envelope from the university [citation:14]
• Send to: Université de Lausanne, Service des affaires sociales et de la mobilité étudiante (SASME), Bâtiment Unicentre, CH – 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland [citation:14]
• Deadline: November 1, 2025 (postmark date) [citation:14]

📋 Important Reminders

• Application files sent by email and incomplete files will not be considered [citation:13][citation:14]
• Certified copies are only required if your country is not a Lisbon Convention signatory [citation:14]
• The CHF 200 administration fee is non-refundable, even if your application is withdrawn or refused [citation:2][citation:14]

Selection Timeline

Here's what happens after you submit your application [citation:13]:

• November 1: Application deadline [citation:1]
• November-December: Applications processed by SASME and the Admissions department [citation:13]
• December-January: SASME informs candidates with incomplete applications or those not accepted by the Admissions department [citation:13]
• January-February: Complete applications are transferred to faculties for consideration of eligibility for chosen Master's programs [citation:13]
• February-March: SASME informs candidates whose applications were not accepted by the faculty [citation:13]
• March: Selection board selects candidates who will be offered a Master's grant [citation:13]
• Early April: Candidates are informed of the final decision [citation:13]

Payment of the CHF 200 Administration Fee

You must pay a CHF 200 administration fee with your application [citation:2][citation:14]:

💳 Bank Transfer Details

• Beneficiary: Université de Lausanne – 1015 Lausanne
• IBAN: CH17 0900 0000 1001 3575 3 [citation:14]
• SWIFT/BIC: POFICHBEXXX [citation:14]
• Payment reference: Bourse de Master – [Your First and Last Name] [citation:14]

Any bank charges are the responsibility of the sender [citation:14].

What to Expect After Selection

If you are awarded the UNIL Master's Grant, here's what you can expect [citation:3][citation:2]:

• Monthly stipend payments – CHF 1,600 from September 15 to July 15 [citation:3].
• Guaranteed housing – UNIL will secure accommodation through the FMEL foundation [citation:3].
• Fee exemption – You only pay CHF 80 semester fees instead of the standard CHF 580 [citation:3].
• Withdrawal from the program – Abandoning the Master's program leads to suspension of the grant [citation:3][citation:6].

Language Requirements

UNIL requires a minimum C1 level in French or English depending on your program's language of instruction [citation:1][citation:8].

For French-Taught Programs

• Proof of C1 level in French (DELF, DALF, TCF, etc.) [citation:1]

For English-Taught Programs

• Proof of C1 level in English (IELTS 7.0, TOEFL iBT 100, etc.) [citation:12]
• Some HEC Master's programs may require TOEFL or IELTS specifically [citation:2]

💡 Language Pro Tip

Even if your program is taught in English, UNIL recommends providing proof of any French knowledge you have. Living in Lausanne, knowing French will be beneficial [citation:2].

Housing Assistance

UNIL guarantees housing for all Master's Grant recipients through the Student Housing Foundation of Lausanne (FMEL) [citation:3].

• Rent is reasonable compared to the private housing market in the Lausanne region [citation:3].
• International students from EU/EFTA can have their European health insurance recognized [citation:3].
• Students from other countries can purchase affordable student health insurance [citation:3].

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Missing the November 1 deadline – Applications received after this date will not be considered [citation:2].
• Submitting an incomplete PDF file – Incomplete applications are not processed [citation:2][citation:14].
• Sending application by email – Applications sent by email are not accepted [citation:13][citation:14].
• Forgetting to pay the CHF 200 administration fee – Proof of payment must be included in your application [citation:2].
• Applying for an excluded program – Check the excluded programs list before applying [citation:3][citation:8].
• Not arranging recommendation letters – Both letters must be received by the deadline [citation:14].

Frequently Asked Questions

Can international students apply for the UNIL Master's Grant?

Yes. The grants are exclusively for students who have graduated from a foreign university, regardless of nationality [citation:

How many grants are awarded each year?

UNIL awards approximately ten Master's Grants each year [citation:3][citation:6].

Is the UNIL Master's Grant fully funded?

No. The grant of CHF 1,600 per month does not cover all living expenses in Lausanne. Students should have additional personal resources of around CHF 300-400 per month [citation:2][citation:3].

Do I need to apply separately for admission?

No. The application for the Master's Grant also serves as your application for admission to the Master's program [citation:2]

What is the language requirement for the grant?

You need a minimum C1 level in French or English, depending on the language of instruction of your chosen Master's program 

Can I apply if I'm already enrolled at UNIL?

No. You cannot apply if you are already registered at UNIL or have been registered in the past [citation:1][citation:10].

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🚀 Ready to Apply for the UNIL Master's Grant?

Don't miss the November 1 deadline. Start your UNIL Master's application today and take the first step toward one of Switzerland's most prestigious scholarship opportunities.

Frequently Asked Questions About UNIL Master's Grants

Can international students apply for the UNIL Master's Grant?

Yes. The grants are exclusively for students who have graduated from a foreign university, regardless of nationality [citation:3]

How many grants are awarded each year?

UNIL awards approximately ten Master's Grants each year [citation:3][citation:6].

Is the UNIL Master's Grant fully funded?

No. The grant of CHF 1,600 per month does not cover all living expenses in Lausanne. Students should have additional personal resources of around CHF 300-400 per month [citation:2][citation:3].

Do I need to apply separately for admission?

No. The application for the Master's Grant also serves as your application for admission to the Master's program [citation:2]

What is the language requirement for the grant?

You need a minimum C1 level in French or English, depending on the language of instruction of your chosen Master's program 

Can I apply if I'm already enrolled at UNIL?

No. You cannot apply if you are already registered at UNIL or have been registered in the past [citation:1][citation:10].

What are the application deadlines for the UNIL Master's Grant?

The application deadline for the 2026/2027 academic year is November 1, 2025 [citation:1][citation:8].

What is the CHF 200 administration fee for?

This fee covers administrative processing and examination of your application. It is non-refundable under all circumstances 

Does UNIL provide housing for grant recipients?

Yes. UNIL guarantees accommodation for all Master's Grant holders through the Student Housing Foundation of Lausanne (FMEL) at reasonable rates [citation:3].

What happens if I don't get the grant?

You may still be admitted to the Master's program if you indicate on your application that you wish to maintain your candidacy by financing your registration and stay through other means [citation:6].

Start Your UNIL Master's Journey Today

The UNIL Master's Grant is your opportunity to study at one of Switzerland's leading universities with substantial financial support. Don't miss the November 1 deadline.

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