Chinese Government Scholarships 2026/27 for Young South Africans to Study in China (Fully Funded)

Are you a South African student dreaming of studying abroad without the financial burden? The Chinese Government Scholarships 2026/27 for young South Africans present a fully funded opportunity to pursue undergraduate, master’s, or doctoral studies in China.

This program, jointly managed by the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) and the China Scholarship Council (CSC), promotes academic exchange, mutual understanding, and cooperation between South Africa and China.

This initiative aims to strengthen educational and cultural ties between both nations while supporting talented South Africans to access quality higher education and cutting-edge research in leading Chinese universities.

Chinese Government Scholarships 2026/27 Summary

What Is the Chinese Government Scholarship All About?

The Chinese Government Scholarship (CGS) is one of the world’s largest and most prestigious scholarship programs. It was established by the Ministry of Education of the People’s Republic of China to promote international cooperation and support talented students from around the globe.

For South Africans, the scholarship is offered through a collaboration between the China Scholarship Council (CSC) and the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET). The main goal is to provide South African citizens with the opportunity to study at Chinese universities, pursue research, and acquire advanced skills in various fields that contribute to South Africa’s national development priorities.

This fully funded scholarship covers everything from tuition fees and accommodation to monthly living allowances, airfare, and medical insurance, making it an excellent choice for students who want to achieve academic excellence in a multicultural and innovative environment.

Who Can Apply? (Eligibility Criteria)

To be considered for the Chinese Government Scholarships 2026/27, applicants must meet the following eligibility requirements:

• Must be a South African citizen in good physical and mental health.
• Must have an academic average of at least 60% in their most recent qualification.
• Must meet both the age and qualification requirements as of 1 January 2027:

Additional Requirements:

• Language proficiency:
  • HSK Level 3 for Chinese-taught undergraduate or general scholar programs.
  • HSK Level 4 for Chinese-taught master’s or doctoral programs.
• Bachelor’s applicants must provide CSCA (China Scholastic Competency Assessment) scores.
• Applicants under 18 must provide legal guardian documentation.

Priority Fields of Study

While applications are accepted in all fields, priority will be given to disciplines that align with South Africa’s national development priorities, such as:

• Agriculture and Biotechnology
• Engineering and Computer Science
• Environmental Science and Climate Change
• Food Science and Technology
• Natural and Physical Sciences
• Maritime Studies
• Hydrogeological Engineering
• Nuclear and Renewable Energy
• Space Science and Technology
• Telecommunications
• Chinese Language Studies

Note: Applicants seeking to study professional degrees such as engineering should confirm the recognition and accreditation of their chosen Chinese university with the relevant South African professional bodies.

Scholarship Benefits

The Chinese Government Scholarships 2026/27 offer comprehensive financial and academic support jointly provided by the Chinese Government and the South African Government through DHET.

Chinese Government Contribution

• Full tuition fees: covered by the Chinese government.
• Accommodation: either a free university dormitory or an accommodation subsidy.
• Monthly stipend:
  • Undergraduates: RMB 2,500
  • Master’s/General Scholars: RMB 3,000
  • Doctoral/Senior Scholars: RMB 3,500
• Comprehensive medical insurance: RMB 800 per year per person.

South African Government Support (via DHET)

• Return international airfare (and mid-term travel if applicable).
• Monthly living allowance supplement.
• One-off settlement allowance.
• Visa fees and pre-departure orientation.
• Research support where applicable.

This combined financial package ensures that successful candidates can fully focus on their studies and research while experiencing life in one of the world’s most dynamic educational environments.

Required Documents

Applicants must prepare a complete and clearly labeled set of documents in PDF format before submission. These include:

• Completed Chinese Government Scholarship Application Form (via CSC online system).
• Copy of South African ID and passport (valid until at least March 1, 2027).
• Highest qualification certificate or proof of current enrollment.
• Certified academic transcripts.
• HSK Certificate (for Chinese-taught programs).
• CSCA score report (for undergraduate applicants).
• Study plan or motivation letter with specific word requirements:
  • Bachelor’s: 300–500 words
  • Master’s: 500–800 words
  • Doctoral: 800–1,000 words
  • Scholars: 500–700 words
• Two reference letters (for Master’s, Doctoral, and Scholar programs).
• Foreigner Physical Examination Form (completed and stamped).
• Police clearance certificate (issued within 6 months).

• Portfolio of work (for applicants in art or design fields, if applicable).

Step-by-Step Application Procedure

Here is a simple guide on how to apply for the Chinese Government Scholarships 2026/27:

Step 1: Complete the CSC Online Application

Visit the official CSC website and fill out the online application form. Ensure that all information provided is accurate and consistent across your documents.

Step 2: Submit to Host University (If Required)

Some universities may require a direct submission of your application. Check the requirements of your chosen university on their official website.

Step 3: Send Documents to DHET

After completing the CSC application, download and email your completed application form along with all supporting documents to the email address displayed on the site.

Step 4: DHET Nomination

The Department of Higher Education and Training will review all applications and nominate qualified candidates to the China Scholarship Council (CSC) for final selection.

Step 5: Final Selection by CSC

The CSC will assess all nominated applications, and successful candidates will receive an official admission notice and visa instructions from their host universities.

Important Dates

• Application Opening: Ongoing
• Application Deadline: Unspecified
• Study Commencement: September 2026

Applicants are strongly encouraged to submit their applications well in advance of the deadline to avoid technical issues or incomplete submissions.

Why Study in China?

China has emerged as one of the world’s leading destinations for higher education, with over 3,000 universities offering programs in science, technology, engineering, business, arts, and humanities. Studying in China provides:

• Global exposure to world-class academic and research environments.
• Affordable living costs with comprehensive scholarship coverage.
• Cultural immersion and the opportunity to learn Mandarin, a globally significant language.
• Career advancement through international networking and skill development.

For South Africans, this program also supports knowledge transfer and innovation, contributing to the nation’s economic and technological growth upon return.

For more information, visit the official webpage or contact them via their email address.

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