1.Chinese Government Scholarships (CSC Scholarships)
Offered by the China Scholarship Council (CSC) under the Ministry of Education, this is the most widely known scholarship for international students. It supports bachelor’s, master’s, and PhD programs, and can be fully-funded (tuition, accommodation, stipend, insurance) or partially funded depending on category and eligibility.
How It Works:
Government-wide program with various application routes (including via university or sometimes through the Chinese embassy).
Extremely competitive; early application is recommended.
Covers most academic disciplines and most universities in China.
Click here to view the official application link.
Most universities in China offer their own scholarships for international students. Awards vary from full tuition coverage to partial tuition and accommodation waivers. Criteria usually include academic excellence, early application, and sometimes extracurricular achievement.
Scholarship applications are submitted together with school application.
2. University Scholarships (China University Scholarships)
3. Confucius Institute Scholarships
Funded by the Chinese government, the Confucius Institute Scholarship supports international students who want to study Chinese language and culture programs in China. Applicants are usually nominated through Confucius Institutes or partner universities.
Application:
Apply via the Confucius Institute at your home country or the institute’s official website and the host university simultaneously.
External Link:
Confucius Institute Information: here
4. City & Local Government Scholarships
Several municipal and provincial governments in China offer scholarships to attract international students to local universities. These often include tuition waivers, stipends, or study allowances depending on the city or region.
Common Local Scholarships Include:
Beijing City Scholarship
Shanghai City Scholarship
Jiangsu Jasmine Scholarship
Yiwu City Scholarship
Ningbo City Scholarship
Hangzhou Government Scholarship
Application:
Check the official municipal education bureau or your target university’s international office for details — links vary by city.
1. Apply Early
Most Chinese scholarships operate on a first-come, first-considered basis. Early applicants have higher success rates, especially for government and university scholarships.
2. Maintain Strong Academic Records
High grades significantly improve your chances. Many scholarships prioritize academic excellence, especially for CSC and university scholarships.
3. Choose the Right University & Program
Some universities are less competitive but offer generous scholarships. Applying to multiple universities increases your chances.
4. Write a Strong Study Plan or Motivation Letter
Your study plan should clearly explain:
Why you chose China
Why the specific university and program
Your academic background
Your future career goals
A clear and focused study plan can set you apart.
5. Secure Strong Recommendation Letters
Choose referees who know your academic or professional abilities well. Strong, detailed recommendations add credibility to your application.
6. Match the Scholarship to Your Profile
Some scholarships favor:
Specific nationalities
Certain academic levels (Master’s / PhD)
Language or cultural studies
Applying to the right scholarship improves success rates.
7. Prepare Documents Carefully
Incomplete or incorrect documents are a common reason for rejection. Always follow the scholarship’s document format and requirements.
8. Apply for Multiple Scholarships
You can often apply for:
Chinese Government Scholarship (CSC)
University Scholarship
City / Provincial Scholarship
at the same time to increase your chances.
Tips for Getting a Scholarship to Study in China
Winning a scholarship in China is competitive, but the right strategy greatly improves your chances. We will guide you step by step on your application.
1. Academic Certificates & Transcripts
High school certificate (for bachelor’s)
Bachelor’s degree certificate (for master’s)
Master’s degree certificate (for PhD)
Official academic transcripts
2. Passport Copy
A clear, valid passport (usually with at least 6–12 months validity).
3. Study Plan / Personal Statement
A written statement outlining your:
Academic goals
Study plan in China
Career plans after graduation
(Usually 800–1,000 words for postgraduate programs)
4. Recommendation Letters
Usually 2 letters
From professors, lecturers, or employers
Signed and dated
5. English Language Proficiency Certificate
Stamped Letter from your previous school stating that you completed your academics in English.
6. Medical Examination Form
Foreigner Physical Examination Form
Issued by a recognized hospital
Signed and stamped
7. Police Clearance Certificate
DCI Good Conduct Certificate.
8. CV / Resume
Especially important for Master’s and PhD applicants.
9. Research Proposal (PhD Applicants)
A detailed research plan aligned with your intended supervisor and field of study.
Documents Required;
FAQs
What scholarships exist?
There are government, university, and private scholarships available.
How to apply?
Each scholarship page includes a direct link to the official application form.
Most scholarships are open to international students interested in studying in China.
Who can apply?
Is there a deadline?
Deadlines vary; check each scholarship’s page for exact dates.