Deadline: January 31, 2026
The ANSO-CAS-TWAS/UNESCO PhD Scholarship 2025-2026 is now open for applications! This fully funded doctoral scholarship provides a unique opportunity for talented students from developing countries to pursue PhD studies in China. Jointly offered by the Alliance of International Science Organizations (ANSO), the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), and The World Academy of Sciences (TWAS)/UNESCO, the programme supports exceptional researchers who wish to contribute to global scientific advancement.
About the ANSO-CAS-TWAS/UNESCO PhD Scholarship 2025-2026
The ANSO-CAS-TWAS/UNESCO PhD Scholarship 2025-2026 builds on the CAS-ANSO Scholarship’s existing framework, which supports hundreds of MSc and PhD students every year. Under this collaboration, up to 40 PhD students from developing countries will be selected to study for up to four years in leading Chinese universities and institutes.
Scholars will study at either the University of Science and Technology of China (USTC), the University of Chinese Academy of Sciences (UCAS), or other CAS institutes. The goal is to nurture global scientific talent and enhance cooperation between developing nations and China through education, innovation, and research.
Benefits of the ANSO-CAS-TWAS/UNESCO PhD Scholarship
Successful applicants will enjoy a comprehensive scholarship package, including:
- ✅ Tuition waiver for the entire study period.
- ✅ Monthly stipend: CNY 6,000 or 7,000 (based on qualification test performance) for up to 48 months.
- ✅ Health insurance coverage.
- ✅ Application fee waiver.
- ✅ International travel allowance: one round trip from the home country to China.
- ✅ One-time visa support.
This fully funded opportunity allows scholars to focus on their research without worrying about financial constraints.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the ANSO-CAS-TWAS/UNESCO PhD Scholarship 2025-2026, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Must be non-Chinese nationals.
- Must come from developing countries (“countries in the South”), as defined by TWAS.
- For the PhD programme, applicants must be born on or after 1 January 1990 (inclusive).
- Must meet the admission criteria for international students at USTC, UCAS, or other CAS institutes.
- Applicants must not already be pursuing a PhD in China.
- Applicants cannot apply to both USTC and UCAS under this scholarship category.
- Must demonstrate proficiency in English or Chinese (language certificate or equivalent proof required).
Host Institutions
Applicants will be admitted to one of the following prestigious Chinese institutions:
- University of Science and Technology of China (USTC)
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences (UCAS)
- Other Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) institutes
These institutions are renowned for their strong research infrastructure and world-class faculty supervision.
Duration of the Programme
The scholarship covers up to four years of PhD study, depending on academic progress and performance.
Priority Consideration
- Women and applicants from Least Developed Countries (LDCs) are given special (but not exclusive) consideration during the selection process.
- Candidates are encouraged to identify a prospective supervisor and research area early to strengthen their application.
Application Deadline
All applications must be submitted by 31 January 2026 (Beijing Time).
Early preparation is strongly advised to allow sufficient time for obtaining recommendation letters, language certificates, and document translations.
How to Apply
Applicants should submit their materials online through one of the following portals:
- University of Science and Technology of China (USTC) application portal
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences (UCAS) application portal
Candidates must follow the detailed submission instructions provided by their chosen university, ensuring that all required documents are uploaded before the deadline.
Tips for a Strong Application
- Prepare all documents early (including academic transcripts, CV, research proposal, and references).
- Clearly define your research interests and align them with the chosen institution’s faculty expertise.
- Ensure that your research proposal demonstrates innovation, feasibility, and impact.
- Since the stipend is in Chinese Yuan (CNY), research the cost of living in your target city for better planning.
- Double-check all uploaded files before submitting your application to avoid disqualification.
Important Links
- 👉 Click here to Apply for the ANSO-CAS-TWAS/UNESCO PhD Scholarship 2025-2026
- 🔍 Read more about the programme here
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