Your Complete Guide to Law Scholarships in Switzerland

Pursuing a law degree in Switzerland offers access to world-class education and a unique international perspective. If you’re looking for financial support to make this dream a reality, you’ve come to the right place. This guide provides detailed insights into the top scholarships available for aspiring law students in Switzerland.

Why Study Law in Switzerland?

Switzerland is renowned for its high-quality universities, political neutrality, and role as a hub for international organizations and arbitration. Studying law here, particularly at the postgraduate level (LL.M. or Ph.D.), provides an unparalleled opportunity to specialize in fields like international law, human rights law, and commercial law. Cities like Geneva host numerous international bodies, including the United Nations and the World Trade Organization, offering incredible networking and career opportunities. However, the cost of living and tuition can be high, making scholarships a crucial component for many international students.

Major Scholarship Opportunities for Law Students

Funding for law studies in Switzerland primarily comes from three sources: the Swiss government, individual universities, and private foundations. Here’s a breakdown of the most prominent options.

1. Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships

This is the most prestigious scholarship program for foreign students in Switzerland, managed by the Federal Commission for Scholarships for Foreign Students (FCS). It is primarily aimed at postgraduate researchers and Ph.D. candidates.

  • Who is eligible? The program is open to post-graduate researchers in any discipline, including law, who hold a master’s degree or equivalent. It is also available for Ph.D. and post-doctoral students. It is important to note that these scholarships are not available for Bachelor’s or Master’s studies. They are designed for those pursuing advanced research or doctoral degrees at a Swiss university.
  • What does it cover? The scholarship is quite comprehensive. It typically includes a monthly stipend (around CHF 1,920), exemption from tuition fees, mandatory Swiss health insurance, a flight allowance for travel to Switzerland, and a special lodging allowance.
  • How to apply: The application process is managed through the Swiss diplomatic representations in an applicant’s home country. You must check the specific eligibility criteria and application deadlines for your country, as they vary. The selection process is highly competitive and focuses on the candidate’s academic profile, the quality of their research proposal, and its potential for future academic cooperation.

2. University-Specific Scholarships

Many top Swiss universities offer their own scholarships to attract talented international students. These are often merit-based and can be highly competitive. For law students, these are excellent options, especially for Master’s (LL.M.) programs.

The University of Geneva (UNIGE)

The Faculty of Law at the University of Geneva is highly respected. They offer Excellence Master Fellowships to outstanding students from any university who wish to pursue a Master’s degree.

  • Value: The grant amounts to CHF 10,000 to CHF 15,000 per year.
  • Eligibility: Selection is based on academic excellence. You must apply for the fellowship at the same time you apply for your chosen Master’s program.

The Graduate Institute, Geneva (IHEID)

Specializing in international relations and development studies, the Graduate Institute offers several LL.M. programs in international law. It provides significant financial aid packages.

  • Types of Aid: They offer a range of scholarships, including full scholarships, partial scholarships, and some that come with a paid position as a teaching assistant. The aid is awarded based on both academic merit and financial need.
  • How to Apply: You must submit a financial aid application alongside your application for admission. Be prepared to provide detailed financial information.

University of Zurich (UZH)

The UZH Faculty of Law is one of the largest in the German-speaking world. While they have fewer dedicated scholarships for international students compared to other universities, they do participate in some funding schemes. It is always best to check directly with the faculty’s international office for the most current opportunities.

University of Lausanne (UNIL)

UNIL offers UNIL Master’s Grants for foreign students who wish to pursue a Master’s degree.

  • Value: The grant is CHF 1,600 per month for the duration of the program.
  • Eligibility: This is a merit-based scholarship for students who have graduated from a foreign university. You cannot apply if you have already studied at a Swiss university.

How to Prepare a Strong Scholarship Application

Securing a scholarship requires more than just good grades. Your application needs to stand out. Here are some key tips to strengthen your submission.

  • Start Your Research Early: Scholarship deadlines can be up to a year before the start of the academic program. Begin researching and preparing your documents well in advance.
  • Tailor Your Motivation Letter: Avoid generic statements. Your letter of motivation or personal statement should be specific to the program and the university. Explain why you want to study law in Switzerland, what your career goals are, and how this specific scholarship will help you achieve them.
  • Highlight Relevant Experience: Emphasize any legal internships, volunteer work, moot court competitions, or research projects you have undertaken. This demonstrates your commitment to the field of law.
  • Secure Strong Letters of Recommendation: Ask professors or employers who know you well and can speak to your academic abilities and character. Give them plenty of notice and provide them with your CV and motivation letter so they can write a tailored recommendation.
  • Check Language Requirements: Most law programs in Switzerland are taught in the local language (German, French, or Italian). However, many LL.M. programs are offered in English. Ensure you meet the language proficiency requirements (e.g., TOEFL, IELTS, DELF, Goethe-Zertifikat) for both admission and any scholarship you apply for.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there scholarships for undergraduate (LLB) law degrees for international students? Generally, scholarships for international students in Switzerland are much more common at the Master’s and Ph.D. levels. Funding for undergraduate studies is very limited, and students are typically expected to be self-funded.

Do these scholarships cover all my living expenses? While some scholarships are very generous, like the Swiss Government Excellence Scholarship, many university grants may only cover a portion of your tuition and living costs. Switzerland has a high cost of living, so it is essential to create a budget and plan for additional funding if needed.

Can I work while studying on a scholarship? International students in Switzerland are generally allowed to work part-time (up to 15 hours per week) during the semester, but usually only after residing in the country for six months. However, you should check the specific conditions of your student visa and your scholarship, as some may have restrictions on employment.