China has become a global powerhouse in higher education, hosting over 500,000 international students and offering some of the world’s most generous financial aid packages. For the 2026/2027 academic year, the Chinese Government Scholarship (CSC) provides a fully funded opportunity that covers 100% of tuition fees, free on-campus accommodation, and comprehensive medical insurance. Recipients also receive a monthly living allowance of up to 3,500 RMB ($500) for doctoral students, 3,000 RMB for Master’s candidates, and 2,500 RMB for undergraduates. To secure this “full-ride” award, you must meet rigorous standards, including a minimum GPA of 3.0/4.0 and specific age limits for each degree level.
The Chinese government funds these educational grants. CSC scholarships support international students. High academic scores increase selection chances. University committees review research proposals.
I am writing this guide on the CSC Scholarship to Study in China because the 2026 application cycle has introduced new mandatory assessments, such as the China Scholastic Competency Assessment (CSCA) for undergraduate applicants. Understanding the distinction between Type A (Embassy track) and Type B (University track) is vital for a successful strategy. Use the following factual data to meet eligibility criteria and turn your academic dreams into a reality.
CSC Scholarship Summary (2026)
- Level of Study: Undergraduate, Master’s, PhD, and Visiting Scholar programs.
- Institution(s): Over 280 designated Chinese universities (Tsinghua, Peking, Fudan, etc.).
- Location: Cities across China (Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Wuhan).
- Program Period: 2–7 years depending on degree level and language training.
- Deadline: Typically between January and April 2026.
Scholarship Coverage and Benefits
The CSC scholarship is one of the most comprehensive funding models in the world.
- Full Tuition Waiver: The scholarship covers the entire cost of registration and tuition for the duration of the program.
- Free Accommodation: Students live in free university dormitories (usually shared rooms) or receive an accommodation subsidy of up to 1,000 RMB/month.
- Monthly Stipend:
- Undergraduate: 2,500 RMB/month.
- Master’s Degree: 3,000 RMB/month.
- Doctoral Degree: 3,500 RMB/month.
- Medical Insurance: Comprehensive insurance worth 800 RMB per year is provided to all recipients.
Eligibility Criteria for 2026
To apply for the CSC scholarship, you must fulfill four primary administrative conditions.
- Citizenship: You must be a non-Chinese citizen with a valid foreign passport.
- Age Limits:
- Undergraduate: Under 25 years.
- Master’s: Under 35 years.
- PhD: Under 40 years.
- Academic Performance: You must have an excellent academic record, typically requiring a GPA of 3.0/4.0 or a score of at least 80/100.
- Language Proficiency: * Chinese-taught: HSK Level 4 (undergrad/master’s) or Level 5 (PhD) with a score of 180+.
- English-taught: IELTS 6.0+, TOEFL 80+, or a Medium of Instruction (MOI) certificate.
Required Documents Checklist
You must upload clear, color scans of the following documents to the CSC portal.
- Notarized Highest Diploma: Your degree certificate must be notarized and translated into English or Chinese.
- Academic Transcripts: Complete records from your previous degree, sealed by the university.
- Two Recommendation Letters: Provided by professors or associate professors from your last institution.
- Study Plan or Research Proposal: Minimum 800 words for Master’s and 1,500 words for PhD applicants.
- Foreigner Physical Examination Form: Must be valid for 6 months and include blood test results.
- Non-Criminal Record Report: A police clearance certificate issued within the last 6 months.
- CSCA Score Report: Mandatory for undergraduate applicants entering in September 2026.
Step-by-Step Application Process
The 2026 application follows a “three-stage” process involving university admission and CSC selection.
- Stage 1: University Pre-Admission: Apply directly to your chosen university (Type B) or contact the Chinese Embassy in your home country (Type A) to secure a Pre-Admission Letter.
- Stage 2: CSC Online Portal: Create an account at studyinchina.csc.edu.cn. Select the correct Program Category (Type A, B, or C) and input the specific Agency Number for your target university or embassy.
- Stage 3: Submission and Review: Upload all notarized documents and your pre-admission letter before the deadline. Universities will nominate qualified candidates to the CSC for a final expert review in late March 2026.
Helpful Resources
While focusing on China, many students also explore other regions. You may consult the handbook for overseas employment for future career planning. If you are interested in European alternatives, look into Spain scholarships for international students or specialized research like the Museums Victoria PhD research scholarship. For general safety updates, visit the Canada travel advisories or the travel advice for United States portals.
