Switzerland–Rwanda Cooperation Scholarships 2026–2027: How Rwandan Students Can Apply

Education has always been a cornerstone of Rwanda’s development, and opportunities for international scholarships continue to open new doors for talented students. The Higher Education Council (HEC) has officially announced that the Swiss Government is offering a limited number of scholarships for the 2026–2027 academic year under the Switzerland–Rwanda Cooperation program.

This initiative presents a golden opportunity for Rwandan students to pursue advanced studies and research at world-class Swiss universities. If you are interested in furthering your education through Research Fellowships, PhD, or Postdoctoral studies, this could be your pathway to academic excellence abroad.

In this article, we break down all the essential details: eligibility, study programs, how to apply, deadlines, and why this scholarship is so valuable.

What Are the Switzerland–Rwanda Cooperation Scholarships?

The scholarships are part of a long-standing academic cooperation program between Switzerland and Rwanda. Through this initiative, the Swiss Government provides limited funding for Rwandan students to study at Swiss universities.

Unlike many other scholarship programs, these are specifically tailored for advanced academic studies:

Research Fellowships (1 year)
PhD studies (up to 3 years)
Postdoctoral studies (1 year)

It’s important to note that undergraduate and master’s programs are not included in this scholarship scheme for East African students.

Who Can Apply?

The scholarships are highly competitive and aimed at exceptional students who demonstrate academic potential and a clear research direction. Here are the key eligibility criteria:

Open to Rwandan students only under the Rwanda–Switzerland cooperation framework.
Applicants must be applying for Research Fellowships, PhD, or Postdoctoral studies.
Age limit: Applicants must be under 35 years old for Research Fellowships and PhD studies. There is no age limit for Postdoctoral studies.
Fields of study: Available in most areas except Fine Arts.

Duration of the Scholarships

Research Fellowships: 12 months
PhD Studies: Up to 3 years
Postdoctoral Studies: 12 months

This duration provides enough time for deep engagement in academic research and for building networks within Switzerland’s highly regarded higher education ecosystem.

How to Apply for the Switzerland–Rwanda Cooperation Scholarships

The application process is designed to be transparent and efficient, but it requires careful preparation. Here are the steps:

1. Review Eligibility Requirements

Before applying, make sure you meet the age, academic, and program requirements.

2. Visit the Official Scholarship Website

Applicants must consult the Swiss Government’s official scholarship page:
www.sbfi.admin.ch/scholarships_eng

This site provides detailed guidelines and necessary documents.

3. Submit Applications Through the GO ESKAS Portal

All applications must be completed electronically via the official portal:
https://www.go.eskas.ch

4. Application Deadline

All applications must be submitted no later than November 28, 2025. Late or incomplete applications will not be considered.

5. Get Additional Support

For local inquiries, applicants can reach out to the Higher Education Council (HEC):

Website: www.hec.gov.rw
Email: info@hec.gov.rw
Call Centre: +250 786 823 101

Benefits of Studying in Switzerland

Studying in Switzerland offers more than just academic advancement. The country is globally recognized for excellence in education, innovation, and research. Here are some of the benefits:

World-class universities such as ETH Zurich and University of Geneva.
Opportunities to collaborate with leading researchers and access cutting-edge labs.
Exposure to multicultural learning environments with students and faculty from across the globe.
High living standards in a safe, innovative country known for its neutrality and international cooperation.
Access to a strong network of international organizations based in Switzerland, such as the UN and WHO.

Why This Scholarship Matters for Rwanda

These scholarships represent more than personal academic achievement—they contribute to Rwanda’s national development. Scholars who benefit from the program are expected to:

Return home with specialized knowledge to strengthen Rwanda’s education and research capacity.
Apply innovative research to tackle local challenges in health, technology, agriculture, and governance.
Foster stronger Switzerland–Rwanda relations in education and development cooperation.

Dr. Edward Kadozi, Director General of the HEC, emphasized during the public announcement that this program is part of Rwanda’s long-term strategy to build a knowledge-based economy.

Common Mistakes to Avoid During Application

Every year, strong candidates miss out due to simple errors. To improve your chances:

Do not submit incomplete applications.
Respect the deadline (November 28, 2025).
Ensure your research proposal is clear and realistic.
Double-check age requirements.
Use only the official portal (GO ESKAS) to apply.

Additional Resources

Learn more about studying in Switzerland: www.studyinswitzerland.plus
Swiss scholarship application portal: https://www.go.eskas.ch
Rwanda HEC official site: www.hec.gov.rw

The Switzerland–Rwanda Cooperation Scholarships 2026–2027 provide a life-changing opportunity for Rwandan researchers and students to study at some of the best universities in the world. With a focus on Research Fellowships, PhD, and Postdoctoral studies, the program equips young scholars with the skills and experience needed to contribute to Rwanda’s growth.

If you meet the eligibility criteria, don’t wait—start preparing your documents today. Remember, the deadline is November 28, 2025. This could be your gateway to academic excellence and international impact.