Deadline: January 5, 2026
The Chinese Government Scholarship 2026/2027 for South Africans is now open, offering a fully funded opportunity for qualified South African citizens to pursue undergraduate, postgraduate, and non-degree studies in China. This comprehensive programme is a collaboration between the China Scholarship Council (CSC) and South Africa’s Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET). The Chinese Government Scholarship 2026/2027 for South Africans provides full financial support, extensive academic options, and structured guidance for applicants committed to advancing South Africa’s development upon their return.
Introduction
The Chinese Government Scholarship 2026/2027 offers South African students an exceptional chance to study in top Chinese universities under a fully funded arrangement. This programme supports undergraduate, master’s, doctoral, and non-degree Chinese language studies, ensuring wide access across academic levels. With generous financial coverage, travel support, and structured pre-departure preparation, the scholarship aims to build human capacity and strengthen cooperation between China and South Africa. Applicants must meet academic, age, language, and citizenship requirements and demonstrate a commitment to contributing to the country after their training.
About the Opportunity
The scholarship is administered through a bilateral agreement between the Chinese Embassy/CSC and South Africa’s DHET. It covers both academic and financial needs to ensure scholars succeed in China. The programme includes:
- Placement in accredited Chinese universities
- Support for Chinese-taught and English-taught programmes
- Comprehensive financial coverage provided jointly by China and South Africa
Eligibility
Applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Must be a South African citizen in good physical and mental health
- Minimum academic average of 60% in the most recent qualification
- Must meet age limits as of 1 January 2027:
- Undergraduate: up to 25 years old
- Master’s: up to 35 years old
- PhD: up to 40 years old
- Non-degree Chinese language studies: generally under 35
- Language requirements:
- HSK Level 3 for Chinese-taught undergraduates, general and senior scholars
- HSK Level 4 for Chinese-taught master’s and doctoral studies
- CSCA (China Scholastic Competency Assessment) required for undergraduate applicants
- Must demonstrate interest in China and commitment to contributing to South Africa’s development
- Applicants under 18 must provide legal guardian documentation
Benefits / Award Details
Covered by the Chinese Government (CSC):
- Full tuition fees
- Free university dormitory accommodation or accommodation subsidy
- Monthly stipend:
- RMB 2,500 for undergraduate students
- RMB 3,000 for master’s and general scholars
- RMB 3,500 for doctoral and senior scholars
- Comprehensive medical insurance (RMB 800 per year)
Covered by South Africa’s DHET:
- Return international airfare (and mid-term travel if applicable)
- Monthly living allowance supplement
- Once-off settlement allowance on arrival
- Visa fee coverage
- Pre-departure orientation and psychosocial support
- Research support where applicable
Application Requirements / Documents
Applicants must prepare and submit the following:
- Completed Chinese Government Scholarship application form
- CSC online application via the Campus China platform
- Copy of South African ID
- Valid passport (must be valid until at least March 2027)
- Certified academic transcripts and certificates
- HSK certificate (where required)
- CSCA test result (for undergraduate applicants)
- Study plan or motivation letter (word count varies by level)
- Two reference letters (required for master’s and doctoral applicants)
- Foreigner Physical Examination Form (medical certificate)
- Police clearance certificate (issued within the past 6 months)
- Portfolio for applicants applying to art or design fields
- Additional documents required by selected universities
Timeline / Key Dates
- Application Deadline: 5 January 2026
(Note: Internal DHET timelines may vary; applicants are encouraged to apply early.)
How to Apply
Applicants must complete both the CSC application and the DHET submission process:
- Submit an online application on the CSC Campus China portal.
- Download and complete the Chinese Government Scholarship application form.
- Apply to selected Chinese universities where required.
- Email the completed forms and all supporting documents to DHET as instructed in the official call.
- Ensure all documents are properly certified and meet the specific scholarship criteria.
Selection Process
The selection process includes:
- Eligibility screening by DHET
- Nomination of shortlisted applicants to the Chinese Embassy/CSC
- Final selection by the China Scholarship Council
- Issuance of admission documents by the host Chinese university
Applicants must sign a scholarship contract and commit to returning to South Africa after completing their studies.
Additional Information / Terms
- Scholars must comply with all academic, health, and conduct regulations in China.
- Students are required to return to South Africa immediately after completing their programme.
- Incomplete or late applications will not be considered.
- Meeting minimum requirements does not guarantee selection.
Host Organisation
The scholarship is jointly managed by:
- China Scholarship Council (CSC)
- Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET), South Africa
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