University of Zurich PhD Scholarship Program for International Students, Switzerland

Eligibility Criteria

• Eligible Countries: All nationalities are eligible.
• Acceptable Course or Subjects: The granted will be awarded for PhD degree. The Program covers a wide range of subjects, including Economics, Financial Economics, Corporate Finance, Mathematical Finance, and Econometrics. Internationally renowned academics teach all courses from Switzerland, Europe, and North America.
• Admissible Criteria: To be eligible, the applicants must meet all the following criteria:
• Applicants must have an excellent command of spoken and written English, very mature soft skills, and refined presentation skills.
• A GMAT or GRE is required for applicants with degrees from the Non-bologna States or in fields other than economics, Finance, or business administration.
• Strong core mathematical skills.
• A master’s degree, ideally in Economics or Finance (though computer science, mathematics, physics, statistics, or related fields might be considered)
• In the PhD program’s framework, students choose their advisors after starting the Program in the first year of studies.

Offered Benefits

• Most accepted students are granted admission with a stipend of about 2500 CHF per month. This amount is more than enough for a student to live in Zurich.
• Due to the limited number of fully-funded positions, the University encourages candidates to apply for the first round deadline (January 15th).

Application Process

The admission for application as visiting doctoral student (up to one year) is competitive.

• How to Apply: Applicants must contact PhD Program Coordinator Mrs. Sarah Wikus at
• Supporting Documents: Pre-selection of candidates is based on the submitted application file, including a copy of an application dossier (CV, academic transcripts, GMAT/GRE Test score, detailed research proposal, and indication of potential advisors at the Department). Also, submit outstanding letters of recommendation from at least two professors from the school where you finished your most relevant degree.
• Admission Requirements: GMAT or GRE is recommended for all applicants. Applicants need a Master of Science in Finance or Economics degree deemed equivalent by the local Admission Committee, composed of finance professors from the University of Zurich.
• Language Requirement: The working language of the Program is English. For non-native English speakers, applicants may submit their results of a standardized English test, such as the TOEFL, which has to be at least 7.0.