Are you passionate about teaching Chinese language and culture? The International Chinese Language Teachers Scholarship 2026 offers a fully funded opportunity for international students and educators to study in China and advance their careers in Chinese language education.
This prestigious program, sponsored by the Center for Language Education and Cooperation, supports outstanding candidates worldwide to pursue degree and non-degree programs at top Chinese universities, including Xiamen University.
In this detailed guide, you’ll learn about the scholarship benefits, eligibility requirements, programs available, application process, and deadlines.
About Xiamen University (XMU)
Founded in 1921 by Tan Kah Kee, Xiamen University is one of China’s most prestigious institutions. It is part of major national initiatives such as the 211 Project, 985 Project, and the Double First-Class Initiative, all aimed at developing world-class universities.
Located in a scenic coastal setting, XMU is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful universities in the world. The university features:
- Multiple campuses: Siming, Zhangzhou, Xiang’an, and Malaysia
- Over 47,000 students across undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral levels
- Strong global partnerships with 277+ universities
- 19 disciplines ranked in the global top 1% (ESI rankings)
XMU is also a leader in international Chinese language education, operating numerous Confucius Institutes and classrooms worldwide.
Scholarship Summary
| Feature | Details |
| Host Country | China |
| University | Xiamen University |
| Sponsor | CLEC |
| Study Levels | Bachelor’s, Master’s, Non-degree |
| Funding Type | Fully Funded |
| Application Opens | March 1, 2026 |
| Deadline | May 15, 2026 (September intake) |
What Does the Scholarship Cover?
The International Chinese Language Teachers Scholarship provides comprehensive financial support, including:
- Full Tuition Fees
- Free Accommodation (or housing allowance)
- Monthly Living Allowance
- RMB 2,500/month (Bachelor’s & short-term programs)
- RMB 3,000/month (Master’s)
- RMB 3,500/month (Doctoral)
- Comprehensive Medical Insurance
This makes it one of the best fully funded scholarships in China for international students.
Available Programs and Duration
- Master’s Degree in International Chinese Language Education
- Duration: Up to 2 years
- Intake: September 2026
- Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree
- HSK Level 5 (≥210) + HSKK Intermediate (≥60)
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Bachelor’s Degree in Chinese Language
- Duration: Up to 4 years
- Intake: September 2026
- Requirements:
- High school certificate
- HSK Level 4 (≥210) + HSKK Intermediate (≥60)
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One-Year Study Program
- Duration: 11 months
- Requirements:
- HSK Level 3 (≥210–270 depending on track)
- HSKK recommended or required
-
One-Semester Study Program
- Duration: 5 months
- Intake: September 2026 or March 2027
- Requirements:
- HSK Level 3 (≥180) + HSKK
-
Four-Week Study Program
- Duration: 4 weeks
- Intake: July or December 2026
- Areas:
- Chinese language
- Traditional Chinese Medicine
- Taiji culture
- Cultural immersion programs
Eligibility Criteria
To apply, you must:
- Be a non-Chinese citizen
- Be aged 16–35 years (up to 45 for in-service teachers)
- Be in good physical and mental health
- Have a strong interest in Chinese language education
- Have a clean legal record
- Meet academic and language requirements (HSK/HSKK)
Applicants for Bachelor’s degrees are usually required to be under 25 years old.
Application Process (Step-by-Step)
Follow these steps to apply successfully:
- Visit the official scholarship portal:
http://cis.chinese.cn - Search for:
- Recommending institutions (e.g., Confucius Institutes)
- Host institution (Xiamen University)
- Submit your online application
- Upload required documents
- Track your application status online
- Wait for admission results (released ~3 months before program start)
- Confirm admission and register at XMU
For more information, visit the official website here
Application Deadlines (2026 Intake)
- April 15, 2026 – July (4-week programs)
- May 15, 2026 – September intake (main deadline)
- September 15, 2026 – December (4-week programs)
- October 31, 2026 – March 2027 semester
Required Documents
General Documents
- Passport (scan)
- HSK & HSKK certificates (valid for 2 years)
- Recommendation letter from a recommending institution
Additional Documents (Degree Applicants)
- Academic transcripts and certificates
- Recommendation letters (2 for Master’s/PhD)
- Personal statement (for doctoral applicants)
Special Cases
- Proof of employment (for in-service teachers)
- Guardian documents (for applicants under 18)
Special Considerations
- Priority is given to:
- In-service Chinese language teachers
- Applicants with job offers after graduation
- Previous scholarship holders (within 3 years) may not be eligible for short-term programs
- Students must pass a medical examination before enrollment
- Scholarships can be withdrawn for misconduct or non-compliance
Why Apply for This Scholarship?
Here’s why this opportunity stands out:
- Fully funded study in China
- Access to a globally recognized university
- Strong career prospects in Chinese language teaching
- Cultural immersion and international networking
- Opportunity to study in one of the most beautiful campuses worldwide
Contact Information
CLEC Scholarship Office
- Email: scholarships@chinese.cn
- Website: http://cis.chinese.cn
Xiamen University Admissions
- Email: admissions@xmu.edu.cn
- Website: http://admissions.xmu.edu.cn
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
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Is the International Chinese Language Teachers Scholarship fully funded?
Yes, it covers tuition, accommodation, living allowance, and medical insurance.
-
Can Nigerians apply for this scholarship?
Yes. The scholarship is open to all non-Chinese citizens, including applicants from Nigeria.
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Do I need HSK before applying?
Yes, HSK (and sometimes HSKK) scores are mandatory depending on the program.
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When will results be announced?
Results are typically released about 3 months before the program begins.
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Can I apply without a recommending institution?
No, you must apply through an approved recommending institution such as a Confucius Institute.
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