How to Apply for a Chinese Government Scholarship (CSC) 2026

1. What is the CSC scholarship?

The Chinese Government Scholarship, administered by the China Scholarship Council (CSC), is the largest fully-funded route for international students to study in China. "Full funding" typically covers tuition, on-campus accommodation, a monthly living stipend, and comprehensive medical insurance. It is awarded for degree programs (undergraduate, master's and PhD) and some non-degree study.

2. The main types

• Bilateral Program — applied through the Chinese embassy in your home country. Open to most nationalities; deadlines usually Jan–Apr.
• University Postgraduate Program (High-Level University) — you apply directly to a Chinese university, which nominates you. Strong for Master's / PhD. Deadlines often Dec–Apr.
• Excellence / Silk Road PhD — targeted at outstanding PhD candidates, especially from Belt & Road countries.
• MOFCOM Scholarship — for students from developing countries, prioritising economics, trade and engineering; applied via your home government channel.

See the full scholarship list for deadlines and links.

3. Typical eligibility

• Non-Chinese citizen in good health.
• Academic record meeting the program (most funded awards expect a GPA around 3.0/4.0 or higher).
• Language: HSK for Chinese-taught programs; an English test (TOEFL/IELTS) for English-taught programs if English is not your first language.
• Age limits apply by degree level — check the official notice for your year.

4. Documents you'll usually need

• Completed application (via Campus China for most CSC routes).
• Highest diploma & transcripts (notarised + translated).
• Study plan / research proposal.
• Two recommendation letters.
• Physical examination form.
• Language proficiency certificate.
• Passport copy.

5. Timeline (indicative)

• Sep–Nov: MOFCOM and some autumn CSC rounds open.
• Nov–Mar: University-postgraduate and Excellence nominations.
• Jan–Apr: Bilateral Program via embassies (the biggest window).
• Apr–Jul: Provincial government scholarships.

Dates shift every year — always confirm on the official notice for your country and target university.