EPFL Excellence Fellowships 2027: CHF 10,000/Semester Master’s Guide
Quick Overview
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Full name | EPFL Master Excellence Fellowships |
| Host institution | École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Switzerland |
| Level | Master’s programmes |
| Coverage | CHF 10,000 per semester; maximum four semesters |
| Extra benefit | Reservation of a student room for external candidates |
| External candidate deadlines | December 15 first round; March 31 second round |
| Selection timing | Beginning of April for first round; early to mid-June for second round |
| Official application route | EPFL online Master’s application; check the fellowship box |
| Official source | `epfl.ch/education/master/master-excellence-fellowships/` |
EPFL’s Master Excellence Fellowships reward outstanding students beginning Master’s study at EPFL. The official fellowship page states that the award is worth CHF 10,000 per semester, can support up to four semesters, and includes a student-room reservation for external candidates.
For Switzerland-focused applicants, compare this with `/eth-zurich-esop-scholarship-2027-guide` and `/swiss-government-excellence-scholarships-2027-guide` before finalising your calendar.
What Does It Cover?
| Benefit | Details |
|---|---|
| Fellowship amount | CHF 10,000 per semester |
| Maximum coverage | Up to four semesters |
| Housing support | Reservation of a student room in a student residence for external candidates only |
| Recognition | Certificate of excellence upon completion of the Master’s programme |
| Renewal | Requires excellent performance after the first year |
| Tuition/rent note | EPFL states students manage living expenses, tuition fees and rent themselves |
The fellowship is substantial but should not be confused with a guaranteed full-cost package. EPFL states that fellowship holders are responsible for managing living expenses, tuition and rent. Build a budget before assuming the CHF 10,000 per semester covers every cost.
Eligibility
✅ You Must:
- Apply to a Master’s programme at EPFL.
- Check the box in the online Master’s application indicating that your profile should be considered for an excellence fellowship.
- Apply for only one Master’s programme per academic year.
- Demonstrate academic excellence, qualifications and motivation.
- For renewal, earn at least the required academic average and credits after the first year.
❌ Not Eligible If:
- You already hold a Master’s degree.
- You are currently enrolled in a Master’s programme at EPFL.
- You apply late after the relevant Master’s deadline.
- You try to combine the fellowship with another substantial scholarship without declaring it.
How to Apply: Step by Step
Step 1: Choose one EPFL Master’s programme
EPFL allows each student to apply for only one Master’s programme per year. Choose carefully: the fellowship application is tied to the programme application.
Step 2: Complete the EPFL online Master’s application
External candidates apply through EPFL’s online Master’s application. No separate scholarship portal is required for external applicants.
Step 3: Check the fellowship consideration box
The official instructions are direct: check the box indicating that your profile should also be considered for an excellence fellowship.
Step 4: Submit by the right deadline
External candidates have two application rounds: December 15 and March 31. If you need a visa, the broader EPFL admissions page advises applying by the December deadline to leave enough time.
Step 5: Monitor decision windows
Selected candidates are notified at the beginning of April for first-round applications and early to mid-June for second-round applications.
Step 6: Plan renewal from day one
To renew for the second year, fellowship holders must reach the official performance threshold. EPFL lists an average of at least 5.0/6 and at least 50 credits for branches other than the internship.
Comparison Table: EPFL vs ETH vs Swiss Government Excellence
| Scholarship | Best for | Value | Deadline |
|---|---|---|---|
| EPFL Excellence Fellowship | Master’s applicants to EPFL | CHF 10,000/semester + room reservation | Dec 15 or Mar 31 |
| ETH Zurich ESOP | Master’s applicants to ETH Zurich | CHF 12,000/semester + tuition waiver | Nov 1–30, 2026 |
| Swiss Government Excellence | Research/PhD applicants, by country | Monthly stipend varies by category | Country-specific, often Nov |
| Erasmus Mundus | Joint Master’s across Europe | Often tuition + allowance | Programme-specific, often Oct-Jan |
Insider Tips
1. Apply in December if you need a visa
EPFL’s admissions information says visa candidates are strongly advised to apply by the December deadline because the visa procedure can take up to three months.
2. Do not treat the fellowship as automatic aid
EPFL says a limited number of fellowships are awarded to the most deserving candidates. Build a backup funding plan.
3. Use achievements beyond grades
EPFL considers academic background, but also research, publications, prizes, fellowships, entrepreneurship, patents, start-up creation, civic activity and similar achievements.
4. Budget for tuition, rent and living costs
The official page states that students are responsible for managing living expenses, tuition fees and rent. The CHF 10,000 per semester is helpful, but budgeting still matters.
5. Understand renewal conditions before accepting
Renewal requires strong first-year performance. Falling below the credit or average requirements can end the fellowship.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is the EPFL Excellence Fellowship?
EPFL states that the fellowship is worth CHF 10,000 per semester, with maximum coverage of four semesters.
Does EPFL provide housing?
For external candidates, the fellowship includes reservation of a student room in a student residence. It is not the same as free rent.
Are extra documents required for external applicants?
The official application page says external candidates need no additional documents beyond those required for admission; they must check the fellowship box in the Master’s application.
Can I apply if I already have a Master’s degree?
No. EPFL states that candidates who already hold a Master’s degree are not eligible.
When will I know the result?
Selected candidates are notified at the beginning of April for first round and early to mid-June for second round.
Timeline Table
| Date | Action |
|---|---|
| August-October 2026 | Choose one EPFL Master’s programme and gather documents |
| Mid-November 2026 | EPFL online applications usually become available |
| December 15, 2026 | First round external deadline; recommended for visa-sensitive applicants |
| Beginning of April 2027 | First-round fellowship notifications |
| March 31, 2027 | Second round external deadline |
| Early-mid June 2027 | Second-round fellowship notifications |
| September 2027 | Master’s studies begin |
Your Action Plan
1. Choose one EPFL Master’s programme and confirm academic fit.
2. Prepare transcripts, CV, motivation material and programme documents.
3. List research, prizes, publications, leadership and civic achievements.
4. Apply by December 15 if visa timing matters.
5. Check the fellowship consideration box before submission.
6. Build a budget that includes tuition, rent and living costs.
7. If awarded, track first-year credits and grades for renewal.
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