Canton of Neuchâtel - Canton of Neuchâtel Student Support Grants

Canton of Neuchâtel study grant

You will receive up to CHF 24,000 per year (about EUR 25,600) to cover your living and education costs. In addition, you will receive a further CHF 6,000 (approximately EUR 6,400) per year for each child who is dependent on you. The amount depends on your own financial situation and that of your parents; it is therefore intended to supplement your budget and does not cover all costs. The grant is awarded for one year at a time and must be reapplied for each year. It may be awarded for up to two semesters beyond the standard duration of your studies. The money is provided by the Canton of Neuchâtel via its Grants Office (OCAB) and does not need to be repaid.

Who can apply

• Where you live: You or your parents are officially registered in the canton of Neuchâtel.
• Age: You are under 35 when your training starts.
• Nationality: You are a Swiss national or a national of an EU or EFTA country, a recognised refugee living in Neuchâtel, a foreign national with a Category B or C residence permit, or you have been living legally in Switzerland for at least 5 years (or have been living in Neuchâtel for 3 years).
• What you study: You are taking part in a recognised training programme or are about to start one. These include apprenticeships, vocational qualifications, bridging courses, and Bachelor’s and Master’s degree programmes.
• Field of study: Any subject.
• Where you study: Normally in Switzerland. Study abroad is only recognised for university-level courses that are not offered by the canton.
• Financial need: You and your parents are unable to cover the full cost of your education yourselves. Your family’s financial situation will be assessed regardless of your age.
• First qualification: As a rule, you cannot receive funding for a second course of study at the same level, unless you are undertaking retraining for health or labour market-related reasons.

How to apply

You should submit your application to the regional social services office (Guichet social régional) in your local authority, not directly to the OCAB. The deadline is 31 December for programmes starting between August and October. For programmes starting at other times, you must submit your application within 60 days of your first day of lessons. You must reapply every year.