University of Zurich Switzerland Polish Government Scholarships 2025

The Republic of Poland, through the Polish National Agency for Academic Exchange (NAWA), is now offering fully funded scholarships for Swiss students, researchers, and academic staff under the Zawacka NAWA Programme for the academic year 2025/2026. This bilateral scholarship opportunity supports short-term studies, semester programs, and research stays in Poland for individuals in all academic fields.

The monthly stipend depends on the applicant’s status:

1. Bachelor’s or Master’s students: PLN 1,800/month
2. Doctoral students: PLN 2,500/month
3. PhD holders (academic staff): PLN 3,500/month

Note: The scholarship is financial-only. Applicants are responsible for arranging admission with Polish host universities independently.

Types of Eligible Stays

The scholarship supports two main categories:

1. Academic Studies (part-time):

1. Study at a Polish higher education institution under the Ministry of Science and Higher Education
2. Minimum duration: one semester

2. Scientific Research or Internships:

1. Research stays
2. Scientific internships
3. Collection of materials for academic work
4. Teaching or collaboration with Polish academic staff

This scholarship is open to international students from Switzerland.

Who Can Apply?

The program is open to:

1. Bachelor’s and Master’s students
2. PhD candidates enrolled in a Swiss university
3. Academic staff or researchers not employed by a Polish institution

Not Eligible:

1. Individuals with Polish-Swiss dual citizenship
2. Candidates planning to pursue a full PhD degree in Poland (as Polish doctoral schools already provide separate scholarships)
3. Candidates already employed by the host Polish institution

Application Requirements

Applicants must submit a single PDF file containing:

1. Completed application form
2. Supporting documents as listed in Section IV of the application form
3. All documents must be in Polish or English, or have certified translations

How to Apply

1. Prepare your documents and application form in English or Polish
2. Merge all documents into one PDF
3. Email the application to: [email protected] by April 23, 2025

Where to submit:

Email: [email protected]

Selection Process

1. University of Zurich will forward applications to the Polish Embassy in Bern
2. The Embassy will shortlist candidates and recommend them to NAWA
3. NAWA will contact selected applicants to submit additional documentation online via NAWA’s Academic Exchange IT System
4. Final submission deadline to NAWA (upon invitation): no later than September 30, 2025

Important Notes

1. Applicants are responsible for arranging admission or confirmation of research stay with the Polish host university
2. NAWA does not assist with admissions
3. The host university decides on whether to accept the student or researcher
4. Extension requests must be submitted through swissuniversities with prior approval from the host university

Additional Opportunities

Besides this bilateral scholarship program, Swiss nationals may also explore:

1. NAWA Programs (international student and scientist categories)
2. Poland’s National Science Centre (NCN) – independent research grants

Key Dates (Bulleted Summary)

1. Application Deadline (to swissuniversities): April 23, 2025
2. Online submission deadline to NAWA (after selection): September 30, 2025
3. Study or research period: Academic Year 2025/2026
4. Scholarship duration: Short-term or semester-based

Final Thoughts

The Polish Government Scholarship 2025/2026 is a unique opportunity for Swiss students, doctoral researchers, and academic staff to study or conduct research in Poland with financial support. Whether you are seeking a semester abroad, research collaboration, or access to new academic networks in Europe, this program is a gateway to international academic engagement.