The art scholarship enables selected applicants to pursue their first Master’s degree at a Swiss art school or conservatory. Valid only for full-time studies in Switzerland. These scholarships are intended for art students wishing to obtain their first Master’s degree in Switzerland.

Scholarships are available at all Swiss conservatories and art schools. They are available to applicants from only a limited number of countries.

ELIGIBILITY:

Target group:

Highly talented young artists who do not already hold a Master’s degree or equivalent qualification.

Priority will be given to individuals who have not previously studied or conducted research in Switzerland (see eligibility criteria for exceptions).

This scholarship is available to only a limited number of countries.

Criteria:

Bachelor’s degree or equivalent completed by 31 July 2027.

Date of birth after 31 December 1991.

Applicants must not yet hold a Master’s degree at the start of the scholarship.

Admission letter or proof of application to a Swiss University of the Arts or Music. If applicable: confirmation that the application period has not yet opened.

If the applicant already resides in Switzerland, the date of entry must not be earlier than 1 August 2026 (submit a copy of the registration confirmation or residence permit).

Selection Criteria:

Artistic profile, qualifications, and motivation.

Submitted portfolio: artistic maturity and potential.

Enrollment availability at the desired university.

Duration:

12 months

Extension possible up to a maximum of 21 months, depending on the chosen Master’s degree programme and the required ECTS credits.

Start date: 1 September 2027.

Key Elements of the Scholarship Application:

Complete CV including educational background, degrees, awards, list of exhibitions, concerts, teaching, and practical experience.

Letter of motivation (max. 2 pages): reasons for stay in Switzerland, significance for future career and professional plans after the scholarship.

E-mail addresses of two different professors in the relevant field must be provided during the online application. Those professors will be contacted through the application system and asked to upload a recommendation letter (FCS/ESKAS form).

Copies of certificates and transcripts from previous universities (if not in English, French, Italian, or German, with certified translations).

Copy of passport (dual citizens submit copies of both passports).

Copy of residence permit or of registration confirmation if already residing in Switzerland.

Art Portfolio: Submit a PDF document that includes:

In the field of music: a link (e.g., YouTube) or QR code to a high-quality recording of three different styles of music. Composers submit their scores.

in the field of visual arts: a link or QR code to a portfolio showing three pieces of artwork together with sketches (indicating the creation date and labeled with the applicant’s first and surname and country).

in other artistic domains (e.g., dance, acting, writing): a link or QR code to a recording of artistic performances and creations.

Confirmation from the Swiss University of the Arts or Music showing that admission has already been granted or is currently under review.

This can also be a conditional admission, subject to an entrance examination or other specific requirements.  
If registration at the chosen university is not yet possible, a confirmation from the Swiss university about the start date of the admission process is sufficient (e.g., an email from the university).

BENEFIT:

Scholarship amount:

CHF 2,450 per month to cover basic living expenses for one person.