Deadline: January 23, 2026
The UNESCO/The People’s Republic of China – The Great Wall Co-Sponsored Fellowships Programme is a prestigious international academic opportunity designed to support students, researchers, and scholars from developing countries in pursuing advanced studies or research in China. This fellowship, co-sponsored by UNESCO and the Government of the People’s Republic of China, aims to promote educational collaboration, cultural exchange, and capacity building among developing nations.
The UNESCO Great Wall Co-Sponsored Fellowships Programme offers a life-changing opportunity for talented individuals from around the world to study or conduct research at leading Chinese universities while deepening global academic partnerships and understanding.
Purpose of the Fellowship
The Great Wall Co-Sponsored Fellowships Programme seeks to:
- Promote human resource development and capacity building in developing countries.
- Foster international academic exchange in fields such as education, culture, communication, science, and technology.
- Strengthen global collaboration and mutual learning through education and research.
Fellowship Opportunities
Depending on the year and programme edition, selected candidates can undertake the following study or research tracks:
- One-Year Visiting Scholar Programmes
- Available as General Scholar or Senior Scholar.
- Ideal for candidates seeking to pursue advanced study or specialized research in their fields.
- These are typically non-degree programmes designed for professional growth and academic exchange.
- Master’s and Doctoral Degree Programmes
- Open for full-degree studies in selected Chinese universities (duration: 2–5 years).
- Courses are offered in English or Chinese, depending on the chosen programme.
- Chinese-taught courses may require candidates to demonstrate Chinese language proficiency (e.g., HSK certification).
Eligibility Criteria
The programme is open to nationals of 135 developing Member States from Africa, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, Europe, and the Arab States.
General Requirements
For Visiting Scholar Programmes
- General Scholar: Must hold a high school diploma or equivalent; usually under 45 years of age.
- Senior Scholar: Must hold a master’s degree or hold an academic title (e.g., Associate Professor); usually under 50 years of age.
- Proficiency in English or Chinese depending on the language of instruction.
For Degree Programmes
- Master’s Degree: Bachelor’s degree required; age limit around 35 years.
- Doctoral Degree: Master’s degree required; age limit around 40 years.
- Candidates must meet admission requirements of the chosen Chinese university.
- Must be in good physical and mental health.
Priority Considerations:
Preference is given to women, candidates from Africa, and Small Island Developing States (SIDS) to ensure equitable representation and inclusivity.
Fellowship Benefits
The UNESCO Great Wall Co-Sponsored Fellowships Programme provides a comprehensive scholarship package that typically includes:
- Full tuition waiver for the duration of study.
- Free or subsidized accommodation in university dormitories.
- Monthly living stipend to cover basic expenses.
- Comprehensive medical insurance for the fellowship period.
- In certain cases, international travel support may also be provided.
Note: Benefits may vary slightly depending on each fellowship cycle or the host institution.
Application Process
- Submission of Application
- Interested applicants must apply through their National Commission for UNESCO.
- Some programme editions may also require online registration via the China Government Scholarship Information System (CGSIS) before nomination.
- Nomination and Selection
- National Commissions will forward qualified applicants to UNESCO.
- Final selections are jointly made by UNESCO, the Chinese Ministry of Education, and participating universities.
- Placement and Admission
- Successful candidates will be placed in designated Chinese universities based on their fields of study, academic background, and language proficiency.
Host Institutions
All studies and research activities under the Great Wall Co-Sponsored Fellowships Programme take place at selected Chinese universities officially recognized under the UNESCO–China cooperation framework. These institutions are equipped with world-class research facilities, experienced faculty, and diverse academic programmes aligned with global educational standards.
Current Application Cycle
The 2026–2027 UNESCO/The People’s Republic of China – The Great Wall Co-Sponsored Fellowships Programme is currently open for applications. Interested candidates are encouraged to prepare their documents and submit them before the expected deadline (January–February 2026).
Official Links
👉 Read More About the Programme
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