The information in this article will guide you to apply for the Chinese Government Scholarship of your choice successfully. The scholarship is divided into three main categories, and understanding the differences between them is crucial to ensure a successful application.
Overview of the Chinese Government Scholarship
In order to strengthen mutual understanding and friendship between the Chinese and people around the world and promote China’s exchange and cooperation with other countries in various fields, the Chinese government sets up scholarships for talented students and scholars to pursue higher education or conduct research in Chinese universities.
The Chinese Government Scholarship is a fully funded scholarship for international students. This scholarship is available for undergraduate, masters and PhD studies at more than 280 Chinese Universities. The Scholarship covers accommodation, basic health insurance and monthly allowance up to 3500 Yuan.
The application process for Chinese Government Scholarship is majorly online after the candidate has applied to Chinese university of interest and send the required documents to the university along with the scholarship application form as the case may be.
Categories of Chinese Government Scholarships
To successfully apply for the Chinese Government Scholarship, it is important to understand the specific category of scholarship you are applying for. Each category has different eligibility criteria, which vary based on nationality and other requirements. Selecting the appropriate category ensures you meet the necessary conditions and increases your chances of a successful application.
 Type A: Bilateral Program
The program is in line with cooperation and exchange agreements or consensus between the Chinese government and the governments or institutions of other countries. It is open to undergraduate, postgraduate, general, and senior scholars. Applicants must submit their applications through the designated dispatching authorities in their home countries
Type B: University Program
The program is designed to fund the studies of talented international students in China who are directly selected and recommended by designated Chinese universities. The eligibility criteria for students vary depending on the requirements set by each university. Applicants must submit their applications to the Chinese universities participating in this program
Type C: Designated Scholarship Programs
These programs are established based on cooperation agreements between China and various international organizations and institutions. Applicants should submit their applications directly to the relevant international organizations or institutions.
General Requirements for Chinese Government Scholarships
Minimum Eligibility Requirements
- International Student—must not be a Chinese citizen.
- Current Scholarship—must not hold another Chinese government scholarship.
- Age Limits
  Undergraduate Students: Must be under 25 years old.
  Master’s Degree Students: Must be under 35 years old.
  Ph.D. Degree Students: Must be under 40 years old.
Educational Qualifications
-  Undergraduate—Higher Secondary School Certificate or equivalent.
-  Master’s Degree—Bachelor’s Degree.
-  Ph.D. Degree—Master’s Degree.
Benefits of the Chinese Government Scholarship
Type A (Bilateral Program)
Covers tuition fees, accommodation (shared room), basic medical insurance, and a monthly allowance for personal expenses (between 2,500 and 3,500 Yuan per month, approximately 350 and 500 USD).
Type B (University Program)
Covers tuition fees, accommodation (shared room), and basic medical insurance. The monthly allowance for personal expenses is generally not covered.
Type C (Designated Program)
Offers partial benefits, which may include tuition fees and basic medical insurance but generally provides fewer benefits compared to Types A and B.
Additional Points to Consider
Application Period
Typically from January to April each year, but check specific deadlines for each university.
Documents
Ensure all documents are up-to-date and fulfill the specific requirements of the scholarship type and university.
How to Successfully Apply for Chinese Government Scholarship
Below is detailed step by step process of applying to Chinese Government Scholarship
1. University Selection and Course Interest
It’s important to confirm the specific universities and programs you are interested in before applying. Be sure to check the Chinese Government Scholarship website or the websites of the universities for any updates or specific application procedures. You can select the Chinese University and Course here. Note, you can apply for maximum of three universities.
2. Eligibility Check
Ensure that you meet all the eligibility requirements for both the Chinese Government Scholarship and the chosen university program. This includes academic qualifications, age limits, and any specific requirements set by the university or CSC.
3. Finding a Supervisor and Acceptance Letter
While having an acceptance letter from a supervisor or professor can strengthen your application, it is not always mandatory for all programs or universities. Some universities might accept applications without it, especially for programs that do not require a research proposal. However, you can see how to get a supervisor via cold emailing
4. Submission of Application
Ensure you carefully follow the university’s application requirements and deadlines in addition to CSC’s requirements.
5. CSC Application Portal
Complete the application on the CSC Portal in English or Chinese. Make sure to select the correct scholarship type (A, B, or C) and enter the correct university code as provided by the university or found online.
6. Documents
Ensure all documents are accurate and up-to-date. Attach documents in the required format and ensure they are properly translated if necessary.
7. Downloading and Submitting Application
After completing the online application, download and review your application to ensure accuracy before submission.
8. Results and Visa Processing
Results are typically announced around mid-July, but exact dates can vary. Ensure you follow up with the university or CSC if you do not receive updates in a timely manner.
It is advisable to regularly check both the CSC and university websites for any updates or changes in the application process.
Required Documents for Chinese Government Scholarships
- Completed Application Form
Ensure that the application form is downloaded from the official CSC website after you submitted your application on the portal. Verify that the form corresponds to the current year’s requirements, as forms and processes can change.
- Notary Attested Degree and Transcript
Ensure that the documents are attested according to the guidelines specified by the CSC or the Chinese university. Some universities might require different levels of attestation.
3.Official Medical Form (Foreigner Physical Examination Form)
You must attach a completed and signed copy of the “Foreigner Physical Examination Form,” which is a required document for the application. This form must be filled out by a licensed medical professional. The form must be:
- Signed and Sealed: The form should be signed by the medical professional and stamped with the official seal of the hospital or medical center where the examination was conducted. At least one stamp should be placed on top of the photograph attached to the form.
- Date Requirement: The form must be dated within 6 months prior to the date of your application submission. Forms older than 6 months will not be accepted.
Ensure that you obtain this form from an official source, such as the CSC website or the relevant Chinese university’s admissions office, to comply with all requirements.
- CV
The CV should not only list academic achievements but also highlight any relevant research, work experience, and skills that align with the scholarship or program’s focus.
- TOEFL/IELTS Certificate
If you plan to study in English and are neither a native English speaker nor have completed your first degree in English, you will need to provide proof of your English proficiency. This is typically done through standardized tests such as TOEFL or IELTS. Note that the required test scores may vary depending on the university and program you are applying to.
- Study Plan / Research Proposal
- HSK Diploma
If applying for programs taught in Chinese, the HSK diploma can be more relevant.
- Acceptance Letter
While an acceptance letter from a potential supervisor can strengthen your application, it is not always mandatory. For instance, I was nominated by Shandong University to study Environmental Engineering in 2020 without having an acceptance letter.
Tips for Finding Faculty at Your Desired University:
Search for Faculty Members: Start by searching for faculty members at your chosen university. For example, you might search for “Zhejiang University Faculty of Biochemistry” or “Zhejiang University Life Sciences.” This will help you find relevant departments and faculty members.
Contact Professors: Email professors whose research aligns with your interests. Be concise and clear about your research goals and why you are interested in their work. If you don’t receive a response immediately, avoid sending multiple follow-up emails too soon, as professors may be busy or not currently seeking new students.
- Application Screening Fee
You may have to pay application fee depending on your hosen university.
- Passport
Note:Â It is advised to choose a reliable courier service to send your CSC scholarship application documents directly to the address of that Chinese University so that they reach in time.
Concluding Thought
The Chinese Government Scholarship is known for being relatively less competitive compared to other international scholarships. Even with a second-class lower degree, you still have a good chance of being awarded the scholarship if you present a well-organized and compelling application. One key strategy is to apply early, as this ensures you meet the deadlines for most universities and increases your chances of success.
