Top 6 Fully Funded Scholarships for PhD students in China 2025

Are you dreaming of studying in China but worried about money? Good news! There are many fully funded scholarships for PhD students in China 2025 that can help you. China offers some of the world’s best scholarship programs. These scholarships pay for everything you need. They cover your school fees, living costs, books, and even travel money. You don’t need to pay anything back. China wants to help smart students from all countries.

The Chinese government and top universities give these scholarships. They want to share knowledge and build friendships with students worldwide. In this guide, you will learn about six amazing scholarship programs. Each one can change your life. These scholarships are perfect for PhD students who want to study in China. You will find out how to apply and what you need to do. Let’s start this exciting journey together and find the perfect scholarship for you.

What is the Chinese Government Scholarship (CSC Scholarship)?

The Chinese Government Scholarship is offered by the China Scholarship Council (CSC), a non-profit organization directly under the Ministry of Education of China. This prestigious scholarship program was established in 1992 to promote educational exchanges between China and other countries, thereby helping to build bridges of understanding and cooperation worldwide.

Key Details:

• Institution: China Scholarship Council (CSC) – the official government body responsible for managing international student scholarships and educational exchanges in China
• Ideal candidate: Outstanding international students who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership potential, and genuine interest in Chinese culture and language, suitable for undergraduate, master’s, or doctoral programs
• Total value: Comprehensive funding package worth approximately $40,000-60,000 per year, covering all essential expenses for studying and living in China
• Number of seats: Over 10,000 scholarships distributed annually across more than 280 Chinese universities, making it one of the world’s largest government scholarship programs
• Start date: The Academic year begins in September each year, with some programs offering February intake for specific courses
• Application deadline: Applications accepted from December 15, 2024, through April 30, 2025, with different deadlines for different application channels
• Currently active: Yes, the program is actively accepting applications for the 2025-2026 academic year
• Applications open: The Application portal typically begins in December each year, giving applicants several months to prepare their documents

Chinese Government Scholarship (CSC Scholarship) Coverage

This scholarship provides complete financial support designed to eliminate financial barriers to education:

• Full funding: Comprehensive financial package that covers all major expenses, ensuring students can focus entirely on their studies without financial stress
• Tuition fees: 100% coverage of all university tuition fees, regardless of the program or institution chosen, including laboratory fees and other academic charges
• Living expenses: Monthly stipend ranging from 2,500-3,500 RMB (approximately $350-500 USD) to cover daily living costs, food, and personal expenses
• Books and study materials: Annual allowance for purchasing textbooks, research materials, and other essential academic resources required for coursework
• Travel expenses: Round-trip international airfare between home country and China, plus domestic travel for official university activities and cultural programs
• Other benefits: Comprehensive health insurance coverage, free accommodation in university dormitories, and access to cultural orientation programs

Eligibility Criteria

Who can apply:

• For international students: Exclusively available to non-Chinese citizens who hold valid foreign passports and demonstrate commitment to international education and cultural exchange
• Eligible countries: Students from all countries worldwide are eligible to apply, with no restrictions based on nationality, race, or religious background
• Minimum qualification: High school graduation certificate for undergraduate programs, bachelor’s degree for master’s programs, and master’s degree for doctoral programs, all with strong academic performance
• Required certifications: Valid health certificate from authorized medical institutions, police clearance certificate from home country, and language proficiency certificates (HSK for Chinese programs, TOEFL/IELTS for English programs)
• Required documents: Complete application package including passport copies, academic transcripts with official translations, two recommendation letters from professors or employers, detailed study plan, and pre-admission letters from Chinese universities
• Application type: Exclusively online application through the official CSC platform, with no paper applications accepted

How to Apply for the Chinese Government Scholarship (CSC Scholarship)

Follow these comprehensive steps to ensure a successful application:

1. Visit the official website: Navigate to the China Scholarship Council’s official online application system to access the most current application requirements and guidelines
2. Create an account: Register at the official portal using your valid email address and create a secure password for your application account.
3. Fill out the application form: Complete all sections of the online application form with accurate personal, academic, and contact information, ensuring consistency across all documents.s
4. Upload documents: Submit all required documents in PDF format, ensuring they meet the specified file size and quality requirements
5. Choose your university: Select up to 3 Chinese universities from the approved list, ranking them by preference and ensuring they offer your desired program.
6. Submit before deadline: Complete and submit your application before the specified deadline, allowing time for any technical issues or last-minute corrections.

Link to the official website: For official application procedures and requirements, visit the China Scholarship Council official website

What is the CAS-TWAS President’s PhD Fellowship Programme?

The CAS-TWAS President’s PhD Fellowship Programme is a prestigious collaboration between the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) and the World Academy of Sciences (TWAS). Established to strengthen scientific capacity in developing countries, this program represents a significant commitment to advancing global scientific research and fostering international scientific cooperation.

Key Details:

• Institution: Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) in partnership with The World Academy of Sciences (TWAS) – two of the world’s most respected scientific organizations
• Ideal candidate: Exceptional young scientists and researchers from developing countries who demonstrate outstanding academic performance, research potential, and commitment to contributing to scientific advancement in their home countries
• Total value: Comprehensive funding package worth approximately $50,000-70,000 over four years, providing complete financial security for doctoral studies
• Number of seats: Up to 200 fellowships awarded annually to outstanding candidates from developing countries worldwide
• Start date: The Academic year commences in September each year, with orientation programs beginning in late August
• Application deadline: February 15, 2025 (Beijing Time) – strict deadline with no extensions granted
• Currently active: Yes, the program is actively recruiting for the 2025 cohort of doctoral candidates
• Applications open: Application period typically lasts in November each year, providing applicants with three months to prepare comprehensive applications

CAS-TWAS President’s PhD Fellowship Programme Coverage

This fellowship provides comprehensive support designed to ensure academic success:

• Full funding: Complete financial support for up to four years of doctoral studies, covering all essential expenses without requiring additional funding sources
• Tuition fees: Full coverage of all university fees, including registration, laboratory access, research facilities, and academic supervision costs
• Living expenses: Generous monthly stipend sufficient to cover accommodation, meals, transportation, and personal expenses in major Chinese cities
• Books and study materials: Annual allowance for purchasing specialized research materials, academic journals, software licenses, and conference attendance fees
• Travel expenses: Round-trip international airfare from home country to China, plus domestic travel for research activities, conferences, and fieldwork
• Other benefits: Comprehensive health insurance, access to world-class research facilities, mentorship from leading scientists, and opportunities for international collaboration

Eligibility Criteria

Who can apply:

• For international students: Open exclusively to citizens of developing countries as classified by the World Bank, with preference given to countries with limited access to advanced scientific training
• Eligible countries: All developing countries worldwide, with special consideration for applicants from Least Developed Countries (LDCs) and Small Island Developing States (SIDS)
• Minimum qualification: Master’s degree in relevant scientific disciplines with exceptional academic performance, demonstrated research experience, and strong foundation in chosen field
• Required certifications: Valid health certificate from recognized medical institutions, English proficiency test scores (TOEFL/IELTS), and academic credentials verified by appropriate authorities
• Required documents: Comprehensive application package including academic transcripts, detailed research proposal, two strong recommendation letters, personal statement, and proof of English proficiency
• Application type: Online application through partner universities’ admission systems, with additional documentation submitted to TWAS

How to Apply for the CAS-TWAS President’s PhD Fellowship Programme

Follow these detailed steps for a successful application:

1. Choose your research area: Select from available research areas at CAS institutes, ensuring alignment with your academic background and career goals
2. Contact supervisor: Identify and establish communication with potential supervisors at your chosen CAS institute, discussing research interests and securing preliminary support
3. Prepare documents: Gather all required documents with official translations where necessary, ensuring they meet the specific requirements of both CAS and TWAS.
4. Apply: Complete your application through the designated university admission system, ensuring all sections are thoroughly completed.
5. Wait for results: Results are typically announced by May, with successful candidates notified through official channels.

Link to the official website: For comprehensive application guidelines and requirements, visit the TWAS official fellowship page

What is the Schwarzman Scholars Program (Tsinghua University)?

The Schwarzman Scholars Program is an exclusive, highly competitive scholarship program hosted by Tsinghua University in Beijing, China. Founded by American businessman and philanthropist Stephen Schwarzman, this program was designed to prepare the next generation of global leaders through intensive academic study, leadership development, and cultural immersion in China.

Key Details:

• Institution: Tsinghua University, Beijing – consistently ranked as China’s top university and one of the world’s leading institutions for science, technology, and public policy
• Ideal candidate: Exceptional individuals aged 18-28 with demonstrated leadership potential, academic excellence, and commitment to making a positive global impact through their careers
• Total value: Comprehensive funding package worth approximately $95,000 for the one-year program, including all academic, living, and enrichment expenses
• Number of seats: Highly selective program accepting only 200 scholars annually from a global pool of thousands of applicants
• Start date: Program begins in late August each year with intensive orientation and continues through the following July
• Application deadline: May 20, 2025, for Chinese passport holders, September 10, 2025, for international applicants
• Currently active: Yes, applications are open for the 2025-2026 cohort
• Applications open: Application period typically full in March each year, providing several months for thorough preparation

Schwarzman Scholars Program (Tsinghua University) Coverage

This program provides comprehensive support for an intensive leadership development experience:

• Full funding: Complete financial support covering all program-related expenses, ensuring no financial barriers to participation
• Tuition fees: Full coverage of all academic fees for the Master of Global Affairs degree program
• Living expenses: On-campus accommodation at the state-of-the-art Schwarzman College, including all meals and utilities
• Books and study materials: All required textbooks, research materials, and technology resources provided
• Travel expenses: Travel allowance for program-related activities, including study tours and cultural immersion experiences
• Other benefits: Extensive leadership development programming, mentorship opportunities, networking events, Mandarin language training, and access to exclusive career development resources

Eligibility Criteria

Who can apply:

• For international students: Open to outstanding candidates from all countries worldwide, with no nationality restrictions
• Eligible countries: Global program welcoming applications from all countries, with efforts to ensure diverse geographic representation
• Minimum qualification: Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution with exceptional academic performance, demonstrated leadership experience, and a clear career trajectory
• Required certifications: English proficiency test scores (TOEFL minimum 100 or IELTS minimum 7.0), official academic transcripts, and professional recommendations
• Required documents: Comprehensive application including academic records, leadership portfolio, personal essays, recommendation letters, and evidence of extracurricular achievements
• Application type: Exclusively online application through the official Schwarzman Scholars portal

How to Apply for the Schwarzman Scholars Program (Tsinghua University)

Follow these comprehensive steps for application success:

1. Check eligibility: Thoroughly review all eligibility requirements and ensure you meet age, academic, and experience criteria
2. Create account: Register for the online application portal and begin completing your comprehensive application
3. Choose discipline: Select from three academic concentrations: Public Policy, Economics and Business, or International Studies.
4. Submit essays: Complete required essays demonstrating leadership experience, global perspective, and commitment to positive impact.t
5. Get recommendations: Secure strong recommendation letters from professors, employers, or mentors who can speak to your leadership potential.
6. Apply: Ensure all components are submitted before the deadline, with thorough review for completeness and quality.y

Link to the official website: For detailed application information and requirements, visit the Schwarzman Scholars official website

What is the Siemens China Scholarship (at Tsinghua University)?

The Siemens China Scholarship represents a strategic partnership between Siemens AG, the global technology powerhouse, and Tsinghua University, China’s premier engineering institution. This scholarship program reflects Siemens’s commitment to developing the next generation of engineering and technology leaders while fostering innovation and technological advancement in China.

Key Details:

• Institution: Siemens AG in collaboration with Tsinghua University – combining German engineering excellence with Chinese academic leadership
• Ideal candidate: Outstanding engineering and technology students who demonstrate exceptional academic performance, innovative thinking, and potential for leadership in technological fields
• Total value: Comprehensive funding package worth approximately $30,000-40,000 per year, covering all essential expenses for advanced technical education
• Number of seats: Highly selective program offering 20-30 scholarships annually to the most qualified international applicants
• Start date: The Academic year begins in September with pre-program orientation and technical workshops
• Application deadline: March 31, 2025 – strict deadline with complete application packages required
• Currently active: Yes, actively recruiting for the 2025-2026 academic year
• Applications open: Application period opens in January each year, providing applicants with adequate time for thorough preparation

Siemens China Scholarship (at Tsinghua University) Coverage

This scholarship provides comprehensive support tailored for engineering education:

• Full funding: Complete financial support covering all academic and living expenses, allowing students to focus entirely on their technical studies
• Tuition fees: Full coverage of all university fees, including specialized engineering laboratory access, software licenses, and technical equipment usage
• Living expenses: Monthly allowance sufficient to cover accommodation, meals, transportation, and personal expenses in Beijing
• Books and study materials: Annual allowance for purchasing technical textbooks, specialized software, research materials, and conference attendance
• Travel expenses: Round-trip international airfare coverage plus domestic travel for internships, research activities, and technical conferences
• Other benefits: Exclusive internship opportunities at Siemens facilities, mentorship from industry professionals, networking events, and potential career placement assistance

Eligibility Criteria

Who can apply:

• For international students: Open to exceptional students from all countries worldwide with strong backgrounds in engineering and technology
• Eligible countries: Global program with no nationality restrictions, encouraging applications from diverse backgrounds
• Minimum qualification: Bachelor’s degree in engineering, computer science, or related technical fields with outstanding academic performance and demonstrated technical competence
• Required certifications: English proficiency test scores (TOEFL/IELTS), academic credential verification, and technical skill assessments, where applicable
• Required documents: Complete application package including academic transcripts, technical portfolio, motivation letter, recommendation letters, and proof of English proficiency
• Application type: Online application through Tsinghua University’s international admissions portal with additional Siemens-specific requirements

How to Apply for the Siemens China Scholarship (at Tsinghua University)

Follow these detailed steps for a successful application:

1. Visit the Tsinghua website: Access the international admissions portal and locate the Siemens scholarship application section
2. Create account: Register for the online application system and begin your comprehensive application process
3. Choose program: Select an appropriate engineering or technology program that aligns with your academic background and career goals.
4. Submit documents: Upload all required documents in specified formats, ensuring they meet quality and content requirements.
5. Write a motivation letter: Craft a compelling motivation letter explaining your interest in engineering, China, and Siemens’ technological innovation.
6. Submit application: Complete and submit your application before the deadline, ensuring all sections are thoroughly complete.d

Link to the official website: For complete application procedures and requirements, visit Tsinghua University’s official website

What is the Shanghai Government Scholarship?

The Shanghai Government Scholarship is a prestigious initiative by the Shanghai Municipal Government designed to attract outstanding international students to China’s most dynamic and economically vibrant city. This scholarship program reflects Shanghai’s commitment to becoming a global education hub while fostering international understanding and cooperation.

Key Details:

• Institution: Shanghai Municipal Government in partnership with leading Shanghai universities, including Fudan University, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, and East China Normal University
• Ideal candidate: International students who demonstrate academic excellence, cultural adaptability, and genuine interest in experiencing Shanghai’s unique blend of traditional Chinese culture and modern international business environment
• Total value: Comprehensive funding package worth approximately $25,000-35,000 per year, providing substantial financial support for studying in one of Asia’s most expensive cities
• Number of seats: Generous allocation of 300-400 scholarships annually distributed across multiple universities and academic programs
• Start date: The Academic year begins in September with comprehensive orientation programs introducing students to Shanghai’s culture and opportunities
• Application deadline: April 30, 2025 – allowing sufficient time for university admission processes and document preparation
• Currently active: Yes, actively accepting applications for the 2025-2026 academic year.
• Applications open: Application period typically opens in February each year, coordinated with university admission cycles.

Shanghai Government Scholarship Coverage

This scholarship provides comprehensive support for studying in China’s financial capital:

• Full funding: Complete financial support covering all essential expenses for academic success in Shanghai’s competitive educational environment
• Tuition fees: Full coverage of all university fees regardless of program or institution, including specialized course fees and laboratory access
• Living expenses: Monthly stipend adjusted for Shanghai’s cost of living, covering accommodation, meals, transportation, and personal expenses
• Books and study materials: Annual allowance for purchasing textbooks, research materials, and technology resources required for academic programs
• Travel expenses: Partial travel allowance supporting international transportation and domestic travel for educational activities
• Other benefits: Comprehensive health insurance, access to cultural activities, language exchange programs, and internship opportunities in Shanghai’s thriving business community

Eligibility Criteria

Who can apply:

• For international students: Open to non-Chinese citizens worldwide who seek high-quality education in China’s most internationally connected city
• Eligible countries: Students from all countries worldwide are eligible, with particular encouragement for applicants from Belt and Road Initiative countries
• Minimum qualification: High school graduation certificate with strong academic performance for undergraduate programs, bachelor’s degree for master’s programs, with emphasis on academic excellence
• Required certifications: Valid health certificate from authorized medical institutions, language proficiency certificates (HSK for Chinese programs, TOEFL/IELTS for English programs), and police clearance certificates
• Required documents: Comprehensive application package including academic transcripts with official translations, personal statement, recommendation letters, and proof of language proficiency
• Application type: Online application through participating Shanghai universities’ international student portals

How to Apply for the Shanghai Government Scholarship

Follow these comprehensive steps for a successful application:

1. Choose Shanghai University: Select from eligible universities, including Fudan, Shanghai Jiao Tong, East China Normal, or other participating institutions
2. Contact the university: Establish communication with the international student office of your chosen university to understand specific requirements and procedures.
3. Prepare documents: Gather all required documents with official translations where necessary, ensuring they meet university and government standards.
4. Apply: Complete your application through the university’s international office, ensuring all sections are thoroughly completed.
5. Wait for results: Results are typically announced by June, with successful candidates notified through official university channels.

Link to the official website: For official application procedures and participating universities, visit the Shanghai Municipal Education Commission website

What is the Beijing Government Scholarship?

The Beijing Government Scholarship is a prestigious program established by the Beijing Municipal Government to attract exceptional international students to China’s capital city. This scholarship reflects Beijing’s status as China’s political, cultural, and educational center, offering students unique opportunities to experience Chinese history, culture, and modern development.

Key Details:

• Institution: Beijing Municipal Government in collaboration with prestigious Beijing universities, including Peking University, Tsinghua University, Beijing Normal University, and other leading institutions
• Ideal candidate: Outstanding international students who demonstrate academic excellence, cultural curiosity, and commitment to fostering international understanding through education
• Total value: Comprehensive funding package worth approximately $30,000-40,000 per year, providing substantial support for studying in China’s capital
• Number of seats: Selective program offering 200-300 scholarships annually to qualified international students across various academic disciplines
• Start date: The Academic year begins in September with extensive orientation programs introducing students to Beijing’s rich cultural heritage and modern opportunities
• Application deadline: May 31, 2025 – providing adequate time for university admission processes and comprehensive document preparation
• Currently active: Yes, actively recruiting outstanding international students for the 2025-2026 academic year.
• Applications open: Application period typically opens in March each year, coordinated with university admission timelines.

Beijing Government Scholarship Coverage

This scholarship provides excellent financial support for studying in China’s capital:

• Full funding: Complete financial support covering all essential expenses, ensuring students can focus entirely on their academic and cultural experience
• Tuition fees: Full coverage of all university fees regardless of program or institution, including access to specialized facilities and resources
• Living expenses: Monthly allowance appropriate for Beijing’s cost of living, covering accommodation, meals, transportation, and personal expenses
• Books and study materials: Annual allowance for purchasing academic materials, research resources, and technology required for coursework
• Travel expenses: Travel allowance supporting international transportation and domestic travel for educational and cultural activities
• Other benefits: Comprehensive health insurance, access to cultural exchange programs, language learning opportunities, and networking events with local students and professionals

Eligibility Criteria

Who can apply:

• For international students: Open to exceptional students from all countries worldwide who seek to experience China’s capital while pursuing academic excellence
• Eligible countries: Global program welcoming applications from all countries, with efforts to ensure diverse international representation
• Minimum qualification: High school graduation certificate with strong academic performance for undergraduate programs, bachelor’s degree for master’s programs, with emphasis on academic achievement and potential
• Required certifications: Valid health certificate from recognized medical institutions, language proficiency test scores (HSK for Chinese programs, TOEFL/IELTS for English programs), and police clearance certificates
• Required documents: Comprehensive application package including official academic transcripts, detailed study plan, recommendation letters, personal statement, and proof of language proficiency
• Application type: Online application through participating Beijing universities’ international student admission systems

How to Apply for the Beijing Government Scholarship

Follow these detailed steps for a successful application:

1. Select Beijing University: Choose from eligible universities, including Peking University, Tsinghua University, Beijing Normal University, or other participating institutions
2. Get admission: Apply for admission to your chosen university first, as scholarship applications are typically processed in conjunction with university admission.
3. Prepare documents: Collect all required documents with official translations where necessary, ensuring they meet both university and government requirements.s
4. Submit scholarship application: Complete your scholarship application through the university’s international student office or scholarship department.
5. Interview: Attend an interview if required by the university or scholarship committee, demonstrating your motivation and suitability for the program
6. Wait for results: Results are typically announced by July, with successful candidates receiving official notification through university channels.

Link to the official website: For comprehensive application information and participating universities, visit the Beijing Municipal Education Commission website

Conclusion

Fully funded scholarships for PhD students in China 2025 open doors to amazing opportunities. These six scholarship programs can help you achieve your dreams without money worries. The Chinese Government Scholarship offers the most seats, with over 10,000 places. The CAS-TWAS Fellowship is perfect for science students. The Schwarzman Scholars Program builds future leaders. The Siemens Scholarship helps engineering students. Shanghai and Beijing scholarships let you study in China’s most exciting cities. All these programs pay for everything you need. They cover school fees, living costs, books, and travel money.

The application process is simple but needs careful preparation. Start early and gather all your documents. Choose the scholarship that matches your goals best. Don’t wait too long because deadlines come quickly. These scholarships can change your life forever. They give you world-class education and amazing experiences. Apply today and take the first step toward your bright future in China. Your dream PhD journey is waiting for you.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is a Chinese Government Scholarship hard to get?

The Chinese Government Scholarship is competitive but not impossible to get. Every year, over 10,000 students receive this scholarship from around the world. Your chances are good if you have strong grades and prepare your application well.

How much money do you get from the CSC Scholarship?

CSC Scholarship gives you 2,500-3,500 RMB per month for living expenses. This is about $350-500 USD each month. The scholarship also pays for your tuition fees, books, and flight tickets to China.

Can I work while studying with the CAS-TWAS Fellowship?

No, you cannot work while studying with the CAS-TWAS Fellowship. This fellowship is for full-time PhD students only. You must focus on your research and studies during the four-year program.

What subjects can I study with the CAS-TWAS Fellowship?

You can study science subjects like physics, chemistry, biology, and mathematics. The fellowship also covers engineering, computer science, and environmental science. All programs are research-focused PhD degrees at top Chinese universities.

How long is the Schwarzman Scholars Program?

The Schwarzman Scholars Program is exactly one year long. It starts in August and ends in July the next year. This is a full-time Master’s degree program with intensive classes and leadership training.

Do I need to speak Chinese for Schwarzman Scholars?

No, you do not need to speak Chinese for the Schwarzman Scholars Program. All classes are taught in English. However, you will learn basic Chinese as part of the program.

Can I choose my major with the Siemens China Scholarship?

You can choose from engineering and technology majors only. The Siemens China Scholarship focuses on subjects like electrical engineering, computer science, and mechanical engineering. You must study at Tsinghua University in Beijing.

How many students get the Siemens China Scholarship each year?

Only 20-30 students get the Siemens China Scholarship each year. This makes it very competitive and special. Siemens looks for the best engineering students from around the world.

Which universities accept the Shanghai Government Scholarship?

Shanghai Government Scholarship works with many top universities in Shanghai. These include Fudan University, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, and East China Normal University. You can choose from over 20 universities in Shanghai.

Is the Beijing Government Scholarship better than the Shanghai Government Scholarship?

Both scholarships are excellent and offer similar benefits. The Beijing Government Scholarship gives slightly more money each month. Shanghai Government Scholarship offers more university choices. Choose based on which city you prefer to live in.