The China Link Scholarship 2025 Program is now open to international applicants, offering a fully funded opportunity to pursue academic or research activities at top universities across China.
Managed by the China Scholarship Council (CSC), this initiative is part of China’s broader strategy to strengthen academic exchange and global collaboration in higher education.
Whether you’re an undergraduate, postgraduate, or PhD candidate or a university academic looking to collaborate with Chinese institutions, this scholarship opens the door to world-class resources, rich cultural experiences, and long-term academic partnerships.
Overview of the China Link Scholarship Program
The China Link Scholarship 2025 is designed to foster mutual understanding, promote educational diplomacy, and encourage academic cooperation between China and the international community. It’s part of CSC’s effort to build strong relationships with foreign partner universities and develop a global academic network that spans disciplines and borders.
This scholarship targets international students and faculty members who wish to participate in short- or long-term academic visits, research work, or cooperative projects at Chinese universities. It is ideal for those looking to expand their knowledge, collaborate on international research, and experience China’s advanced educational and technological environment.
Key Benefits of the China Link Scholarship
Applicants selected for the China Link Scholarship will receive comprehensive support during their stay in China, including:
- Full Tuition Waiver: All tuition fees for courses or research projects are covered.
- On-Campus Accommodation: Free housing at the host university for the entire duration of your stay.
- Medical Insurance: Comprehensive health coverage for general medical needs, accidents, and emergencies.
- Monthly Stipend:
- CNY 3,000/month for general scholars (typically students or early-career researchers)
- CNY 3,500/month for senior scholars (faculty members or researchers with more advanced academic standing)
- No IELTS Requirement: English language testing is not mandatory, though some universities may conduct interviews or set their communication standards.
Scholarship Duration
The length of the scholarship depends on the applicant’s goals and academic level:
- Short-term academic visits can last from a few months up to one academic year.
- Research-based exchanges can be extended depending on project requirements and host university policies.
- There are no fixed cycle applications accepted all year round, offering flexibility to students and faculty from around the world.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the China Link Scholarship Program 2025, applicants must meet the following requirements:
Non-Chinese Citizenship: You must be a citizen of a country other than the People’s Republic of China.
Good Conduct and Academic Excellence: Demonstrated high academic performance and integrity.
Health Status: You must be in good physical and mental health.
Age Limits:
- Under 45 years old for general scholars.
- Under 50 years old for senior scholars.
Institutional Affiliation: You must be:
- A registered full-time student, or
- A full-time academic staff member at one of CSC’s recognized foreign partner universities.
Admission or Invitation: You must have either:
- An admission letter (if applying to enroll in a program), or
- An invitation letter (if joining a research group or faculty-led project) from a Chinese host university.
Fields of Study
The China Link Scholarship supports a broad range of academic disciplines, including but not limited to:
- Engineering
- Medicine
- Agriculture
- Business and Economics
- Environmental Science
- Artificial Intelligence and Data Science
- Chinese Language and Cultural Studies
- International Relations and Public Policy
Whether you’re exploring tech innovation, environmental challenges, or cross-cultural education, there’s a spot for your research focus under this program.
Application link
https://www.campuschina.org/content/details3_942241.html
How to Apply for the China Link Scholarship 2025
Here is a detailed step-by-step process to guide applicants through the China Link Scholarship application:
- Choose a Chinese university that aligns with your academic interests.
- Visit the university’s international office or academic department page.
- Contact the department or international coordinator to inquire about available research or academic opportunities.
- Request an official admission notice or invitation letter from your preferred university.
- You may need to provide a CV, research proposal, academic transcripts, and/or letters of recommendation as part of their internal review process.
- Go to the official Chinese Government Scholarship portal: https://www.campuschina.org/content/details3_942241.html
- Register and fill out the application form for the China Link Scholarship Program.
- Upload all supporting documents, including your admission/invitation letter.
- The Chinese host university will review your application and nominate you for the scholarship.
- The university must submit the final scholarship nomination list to CSC at least two months before your expected start date.
- CSC will evaluate applications and notify Chinese universities of the results.
- Your host university will inform you of the outcome and help you with visa, travel, and arrival arrangements.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible to apply for the China Link Scholarship?
Any non-Chinese citizen under the age of 45 (for students) or 50 (for senior scholars), currently enrolled or employed at a foreign partner university of CSC.
Do I need to take the IELTS or TOEFL to qualify?
No, there is no mandatory IELTS/TOEFL requirement, although some universities may assess your communication skills in English or Chinese.
Is the scholarship only for students?
No. Both students and academic staff from CSC’s partner institutions are eligible.
Can I apply directly to CSC without securing a host university first?
No. You must first obtain an invitation or admission letter from a Chinese host university before applying through CSC.
How much is the stipend?
CNY 3,000 per month for general scholars and CNY 3,500 per month for senior scholars.
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