China has become one of the most popular study destinations in Asia, with many universities offering English-taught programmes and generous scholarships for international students. The best-known is the Chinese Government Scholarship, but there are several other routes too.
This guide explains the main types of China scholarships, who can apply, how to choose the right programme, and how to put together a strong application.
Last checked: October 2026. Scholarship rules and dates change every year; always confirm on official websites.
Main Types of China Scholarships
1. Chinese Government Scholarship (CSC Scholarship)
Funded by China’s Ministry of Education and managed by the China Scholarship Council (CSC), this is the largest scholarship for international students in China. It supports bachelor’s, master’s, PhD and non-degree study. A full scholarship usually covers:
- Tuition fees
- Free campus accommodation or an accommodation allowance
- A monthly living stipend (the amount depends on your level of study)
- Comprehensive medical insurance
There are two main ways to apply:
- Type A (embassy route): apply through the Chinese embassy or the government scholarship office in your home country, which nominates candidates to the CSC.
- Type B (university route): apply directly to a participating Chinese university, which recommends successful candidates to the CSC.
Both routes use the CSC online application system (Campus China). Deadlines are set by each embassy and university and often fall early in the calendar year for programmes starting in September.
2. Provincial and City Government Scholarships
Many provinces and cities, such as Beijing, Shanghai and Jiangsu, offer their own scholarships for international students at universities in their region. These are often partial but can be easier to win than the national scholarship.
3. University Scholarships
Most major Chinese universities run their own scholarships for international students, ranging from tuition waivers to full awards. Check the international student office website of each university you are interested in.
4. International Chinese Language Teachers Scholarship
For students who want to study Chinese language or teaching Chinese as a foreign language, this scholarship (often promoted through local Confucius Institutes or Chinese language centres) funds language study and related degrees in China.
5. Schwarzman Scholars
A highly competitive one-year master’s programme in Global Affairs at Tsinghua University in Beijing, for about 150 future leaders a year. Applicants must hold a first degree and be at least 18 and under 29 on 1 August of the year they enrol. For applicants outside mainland China, Hong Kong, Macao and Taiwan, the next deadline is in September 2027.
General Eligibility
Exact requirements vary, but most China scholarships expect you to:
- Be a non-Chinese citizen in good health.
- Hold the right previous qualification: a high school diploma for bachelor’s, a bachelor’s degree for master’s, and a master’s degree for PhD.
- Meet the age limit for your level, which differs by programme.
- Meet language requirements: usually an HSK (Chinese proficiency) level for Chinese-taught programmes, or IELTS/TOEFL or proof of English-medium study for English-taught programmes.
How to Choose the Right Programme
- Language of teaching: decide whether you want an English-taught programme or are willing to study Chinese first.
- University strengths: look at each university’s reputation in your subject, not just overall rankings.
- City and cost of living: large cities offer more opportunities but cost more.
- Supervisor fit (for research degrees): contact potential supervisors early; an acceptance letter from a professor can strengthen your application.
How to Apply: Step by Step
- Research programmes and scholarships about a year before you want to start.
- Choose your route: embassy (Type A), university (Type B), or both if allowed.
- Prepare documents: notarised certificates and transcripts, a study plan or research proposal, two recommendation letters (usually for postgraduate study), a passport copy, language test results, and the Foreigner Physical Examination Form.
- Complete the online application on the CSC system and on the university’s own portal if required.
- Submit before the deadline set by your embassy or university.
- Attend an interview if requested.
- Apply for your student visa after receiving an admission notice and the visa application form (JW201 or JW202).
Tips for a Strong Application
- Write a specific study plan that links your chosen programme to your career and your home country.
- Choose referees who can describe your academic ability in detail.
- Make sure all documents are complete, translated where needed and properly notarised.
- Start learning basic Chinese; it shows commitment and makes daily life easier.
- Avoid agents who charge fees to “guarantee” a scholarship. Official applications are free or have only small university fees.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I study in China without IELTS?
Some universities accept proof that your previous degree was taught in English instead of IELTS. Policies vary, so check each university.
Can I apply to more than one university?
The CSC system usually lets you list several university choices. Check the current rules for your route.
Do I need to speak Chinese?
Not for English-taught programmes, though some scholarships include a preparatory year of Chinese for Chinese-taught degrees.
Conclusion
With government, provincial and university scholarships available, studying in China can be very affordable. Start early, choose the right route and programme, prepare complete documents, and write a focused study plan. For other destinations, see our guides to UK scholarships and USA scholarships.
