About this opportunity
The EPFL Excellence Fellowship 2027 rewards outstanding students beginning a master degree at EPFL in Lausanne, Switzerland, with CHF 10,000 per semester plus a guaranteed housing reservation. It is open to international students across EPFL's 29 master programmes in engineering, computer science, life sciences, architecture, basic sciences and management. Selection weighs academic results alongside research, entrepreneurship and civic or societal achievements, making it a strong STEM scholarship target for high-achieving applicants. The deadline for external applicants is 15 December 2026.
The EPFL Excellence Fellowship 2027 is a partially funded fellowship offered by École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL) for applicants heading to Switzerland. Applications close on Dec 15, 2026.
Who should apply?
This may be a fit if the following points describe you. Always use the official criteria as the final check.
- Hold, or be completing, a bachelor degree in a field related to the chosen EPFL master programme, from EPFL or another recognised institution
- Be applying for an EPFL master programme for the 2027 intake
- Show remarkable academic results; EPFL states the fellowship is very competitive and only a small percentage of applicants are awarded
- Show extracurricular distinction such as research, publications, prizes, entrepreneurship, or civic or artistic activity, which strengthens the file
- Tick the Master Excellence Fellowship box on the EPFL master application form and complete the fellowship application file
- Note that no minimum GPA and no nationality restriction are stated on the official fellowship page
What the opportunity may offer
- CHF 10,000 per semester, up to CHF 40,000 over a two-year master degree
- Guaranteed housing reservation in a student residence for eligible fellows
- Choice of 29 master programmes across EPFL's five faculties and two colleges
- Freedom to choose internships and first work experience according to scientific interest
- Renewal into the second year subject to at least 50 ECTS credits and an overall average of 5.0 out of 6
- Study at one of Europe's leading STEM universities in Lausanne, Switzerland
Required documents
- Completed EPFL master application with the Master Excellence Fellowship box ticked
- Curriculum vitae
- Degree certificate if available, plus official transcripts, with legalised translations where required
- Identity document
- Statement of purpose for the chosen master programme
- Academic referee details, as requested in the application form
Application process
- Choose an EPFL master programme and start the application in IS-Academia
- Tick the Master Excellence Fellowship box on the application form and complete the fellowship application file
- Submit, pay and validate the application by 15 December 2026 for external applicants
- Make sure referees submit their letters by the reference deadline stated in the application
- Await the selection outcome; EPFL notifies successful fellowship candidates ahead of the autumn 2027 start
Before you apply
- □Apply before Dec 15, 2026 — confirm the date in your own time zone
- □Confirm that you meet every eligibility condition set by École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL)
- □Prepare your 6 required documents in the format asked for
- □Ask referees early and share the official instructions
- □Review the official source once more before submitting
Deadline notes
External applicants apply via IS-Academia by 15 December 2026. EPFL bachelor students applying for a consecutive master degree in the same field apply directly to their section by 31 January 2027. Applications submitted after the deadline are considered for master admission only and are not eligible for the fellowship. Renewal into the second year requires at least 50 ECTS credits and an overall average of 5.0 out of 6.
Frequently asked questions
How much is the EPFL Excellence Fellowship worth?
CHF 10,000 per semester, up to CHF 40,000 over a two-year master degree, plus a guaranteed housing reservation. It does not waive tuition, so recipients still cover tuition, rent and living costs.
What is the application deadline?
15 December 2026 for applications submitted via IS-Academia. EPFL bachelor students applying for a consecutive master in the same field apply directly to their section by 31 January 2027.
How do I apply for the fellowship?
Apply for an EPFL master programme and tick the Master Excellence Fellowship box on the application form, then complete the fellowship application file.
What does renewal into the second year require?
At least 50 ECTS credits and an overall average of 5.0 out of 6.
Programme details can change. Check the original listing before you prepare or submit an application.
Last reviewed: 2026-10-26UShireZone is not affiliated with École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL). We never charge applicants to apply. Always verify details and submit through the official website.