Fulbright-Swiss Foreign Student and Visiting Scholar Program 2026–2027 (USA)
The Fulbright-Swiss Foreign Student and Visiting Scholar Program 2026–2027 invites talented students and academic professionals from Switzerland to pursue graduate-level education, research, or lecturing opportunities in the United States.
Funded jointly by the Swiss and U.S. governments, this program is part of the globally renowned Fulbright Program, which has connected over 360,000 scholars, leaders, and researchers since its inception more than 70 years ago.
About the Fulbright Program
Established in 1946, the Fulbright Program is the U.S. government’s flagship international academic exchange initiative. With a legacy of fostering academic excellence, leadership, and mutual understanding, Fulbright has produced alumni who are Nobel Laureates, heads of state, influential researchers, and educators.
In Switzerland, Fulbright promotes strong educational and cultural ties with the United States, offering opportunities to study, research, and teach in American universities.
Scholarship Categories
1. Fulbright-Swiss Foreign Student Program
Eligibility:
Swiss citizens pursuing a Master’s or Ph.D. in the U.S.
Graduate students conducting Ph.D. research or enrolling in non-degree coursework.
Benefits:
Duration: 4 to 10 months
Funding: Up to $20,000 per academic year
Coverage: Tuition fees, academic supplies, and partial living expenses
Ideal for Swiss graduate students aiming to study at top U.S. universities
2. Fulbright Visiting Scholar Program for Switzerland
Eligibility:
Swiss postdoctoral researchers, university lecturers, and academic professionals
Purpose:
Conduct advanced postdoctoral research
Lecture at accredited U.S. universities
Participate in combined teaching and research roles
Benefits:
Grant duration: Up to 10 months
Non-degree program for professional development, academic collaboration, and cross-cultural exchange
Eligible Subjects
All academic disciplines are eligible under both student and scholar categories. Applicants from diverse fields are encouraged to apply, including but not limited to:
Social Sciences
STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics)
Humanities
Business and Economics
Arts and Culture
Application Process
Interested applicants must submit their applications through the official Fulbright partner in Switzerland:
Apply via: swissuniversities
Applicants will find detailed eligibility requirements, required documentation, and application procedures on the Fulbright section of the swissuniversities website.
Why Apply for the Fulbright-Swiss Program?
Study or research at prestigious U.S. institutions
Join a prestigious global network of Fulbright alumni
Advance your academic and professional career
Promote international dialogue through education and research
Gain access to leadership, cultural, and academic development opportunities
Former Fulbright recipients from Switzerland describe the experience as career-defining and culturally transformative.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Who is eligible for the Fulbright-Swiss Foreign Student Program?
Swiss citizens pursuing a Master’s or PhD degree in the United States, or those conducting non-degree graduate-level research, are eligible to apply.
Can postdoctoral researchers apply?
Yes, postdoctoral scholars and academic professionals from Swiss institutions can apply under the Fulbright Visiting Scholar Program.
Is the funding fully covering all expenses?
The program offers partial funding of up to $20,000 per academic year, which can cover tuition, study materials, and part of the living costs. It is not a fully funded scholarship, so applicants may need additional financial planning.
What is the duration of the program?
The scholarship duration ranges from 4 to 10 months, depending on the applicant’s academic plan and program type.
Which subjects are eligible for application?
All academic subjects are eligible. This includes fields in the sciences, arts, humanities, technology, business, and more.
How do I apply?
Applications must be submitted through swissuniversities, the official Fulbright coordinating body in Switzerland. Ensure you review all eligibility criteria and documentation requirements before applying.
Is there an age limit?
There is no strict age limit. However, applicants must meet the academic and professional qualifications relevant to their category (student or scholar).
Final Thoughts
The Fulbright-Swiss Foreign Student and Visiting Scholar Program 2026–2027 offers an extraordinary opportunity for Swiss students and scholars to engage with world-class academic institutions in the United States. Through academic exchange, research, and teaching, participants contribute to mutual understanding and long-term professional development.
Apply by August 5, 2025, to begin your journey of international academic excellence and collaboration.





