Switzerland: University of Lausanne (UNIL) Scholarships 2026
MASTER'S GRANTS & SCHOLARSHIPS FOR INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS
✅ IELTS NOT REQUIRED WITH EMI CERTIFICATE
Undergraduate Pathways & Master's Study With IELTS-Free Options
Switzerland is one of Europe's most prestigious study destinations, known for world-class universities, global research centers, and some of the highest living standards in the world. While Switzerland is often associated with high tuition fees, the University of Lausanne (UNIL) offers competitive scholarship opportunities and flexible English-language pathways for international students.
Although Switzerland rarely offers fully funded undergraduate programs, UNIL provides affordable admission routes and master's scholarships, along with options to apply without IELTS if you meet approved English-medium criteria.
Here is the complete 2026 guide for international students who want to study in Switzerland.
Why Study at the University of Lausanne?
UNIL is one of Switzerland's top public universities, known for strong academic programs in:
- Business & Economics
- Life Sciences
- Geosciences
- Social Sciences
- Law
- Computer Science
- Humanities
Students benefit from:
- A safe and clean environment
- Access to global research facilities
- Multilingual academic culture
- High graduate employability
- Opportunities for internships and industry collaboration
Lausanne itself is home to international organizations, research labs, and major European companies.
What Scholarships Does UNIL Offer?
1. UNIL Master's Grant
A competitive scholarship covering:
- CHF 1,600 per month for 10 months per year
- Duration of the full master's degree
- Awarded to academically outstanding international students
2. Faculty-Specific Scholarships
Several faculties offer partial grants depending on field and academic results.
3. Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships
Highly competitive grants open to students from selected countries.
4. Need-Based Reductions
Some financial assistance is available for students facing difficulty during their studies.
While Switzerland does not offer fully funded undergraduate scholarships, UNIL provides affordable pathways and high-value support for master's students.
Study Without IELTS – Who Qualifies?
UNIL accepts several IELTS-free pathways, including:
- Completion of secondary school or bachelor's degree fully in English (EMI certificate)
- International Baccalaureate (IB) diploma
- A-Level English-language qualifications
- Recognized English-medium national curricula
- Proof of English through previous employment or coursework (faculty-dependent)
Many bachelor's and master's applicants use the English Medium Instruction certificate to apply without IELTS.
Eligible Undergraduate Pathways
Although Switzerland does not offer many full bachelor's programs in English, international students can enter UNIL through:
Students who study English-medium in high school can join the admission track without IELTS, depending on the faculty.
Eligible Master's Programs (Fully in English)
UNIL offers several English-taught master's degrees, including:
These programs attract students seeking global careers in business, research, and policy.
Eligibility Requirements
You may qualify if you:
- Hold a high school certificate (for bachelor's pathways)
- Hold a bachelor's degree (for master's scholarships)
- Provide English proof through IELTS-free options
- Demonstrate strong academic merit
- Submit a complete application by the deadline
Required Documents
Students typically prepare:
- Valid passport
- Academic transcripts
- High school or bachelor's certificate
- English Medium Instruction letter
- CV or rΓ©sumΓ©
- Motivation letter
- Reference letters
- Research proposal (for certain programs)
How to Apply (Step-by-Step Guide)
Step 1: Choose Your Program
Review bachelor's pathways or master's programs on the UNIL website.
Step 2: Prepare Documents
Ensure your EMI certificate and transcripts are ready.
Step 3: Apply Through the UNIL Admissions Portal
Upload documents and pay the application fee (if required).
Step 4: Apply for Scholarships
Master's scholarship applications are submitted separately.
Step 5: Receive Admission Decision
Scholarship decisions are sent alongside or shortly after admission.
Why Students Choose Switzerland
Switzerland offers:
- Top-ranked universities with global recognition
- Safe, clean, and peaceful environment for focused study
- International job opportunities with competitive salaries
- Research-intensive academic culture at the forefront of innovation
- Competitive salaries after graduation
- Central European location providing access to major European cities
UNIL is ideal for students who want high European education standards and global career pathways.
Official Source (Verified)
Full details available on the official University of Lausanne website:
Official Website: University of LausanneFor the most current information on programs, application deadlines, scholarship details, and specific requirements, always refer to the official UNIL website.
Final Thoughts
The University of Lausanne represents a premier opportunity for international students seeking high-quality Swiss education with flexible admission requirements and valuable scholarship support. As one of Switzerland's top universities, UNIL offers a rigorous academic environment combined with the exceptional quality of life for which Switzerland is famous worldwide.
Switzerland's combination of academic excellence, research opportunities, international connections, and post-study prospects creates an ideal environment for ambitious students. Whether through master's grants, faculty scholarships, or Swiss government awards, motivated students can find valuable financial support to pursue their academic goals at this prestigious institution in the heart of Europe.
Note: This information is based on University of Lausanne's official admissions and scholarship guidelines. Always verify specific requirements, deadlines, and procedures directly with the university before applying.