The Government of China has officially opened applications for the 2026 Youth of Excellence Scheme of China (YES China) Scholarship, a prestigious and fully funded opportunity designed for outstanding international professionals and future leaders.
This program provides comprehensive financial support, including full tuition, accommodation, living allowances, and travel costs, allowing participants to focus entirely on their academic and leadership development in China.
Youth of Excellence Scheme of China Scholarship Summary
| Host Country | China |
| Study Location | Top Chinese Universities |
| Scholarship Type | Postgraduate |
| Eligible Applicants | International Students from All Countries |
| Funding Coverage | Full Tuition, Accommodation, Monthly Allowance, Travel Costs |
| IELTS Requirement | Not Mandatory |
| Application Deadline | March 31, 2026 |
About the YES China Scholarship 2026
The Youth of Excellence Scheme of China (YES China) is one of the Chinese Government’s leading global initiatives to attract and train outstanding international talents with strong leadership potential and a multicultural outlook.
The program aims to prepare future leaders who can contribute to international cooperation, policy development, and global governance. Participants gain a master’s degree from top-ranked Chinese universities and receive in-depth exposure to China’s culture, innovation, and governance systems.
Most YES China master’s programs last for 12 months, while some special fields follow a “1+1” structure, where students complete one year of coursework and one year of research or dissertation preparation.
Eligibility Criteria for the YES China Scholarship 2026
To qualify for the Youth of Excellence Scheme of China Scholarship, applicants must meet the following conditions:
- Must be a citizen of a country other than China and in good physical and mental health.
- Must be under the age of 45 at the time of application.
- Must hold a bachelor’s degree or higher with a minimum of three years of professional experience.
- Preference is given to candidates with prior professional training or experience related to their intended field of study.
Applicants should also belong to one of the following categories:
- Government officials at the division chief level (or equivalent) or above.
- Senior executives or managers in institutions or enterprises.
- Administrators in universities or research institutions.
- Professionals with relevant experience or internships in international organizations.
Note: The pre-admission letter from the chosen university must include all registration details (such as admission date and major) and must not mention any other government-funded scholarship commitments.
Benefits of the Youth of Excellence Scheme of China 2026
Successful applicants to the YES China Scholarship will enjoy full financial sponsorship from the Chinese Government, which includes:
- Full Tuition Fees
- Free University Accommodation
- Monthly Living Stipend
- Round-trip Travel Costs
- Comprehensive Academic and Cultural Support
This scholarship ensures that international students experience a comfortable and productive study period while developing globally relevant skills and leadership capabilities.
How to Apply for the YES China Scholarship 2026 (Step-by-Step Guide)
Follow the steps below to submit your application successfully:
- Visit the Chinese Government Scholarship Application Portal and create an account.
- For the online application, applicants need to log in through this link.
- Select “Type A” under the scholarship category.
- Use the agency code 1563 and select “Youth of Excellence Scheme of China” as the scholarship program.
- Ensure you have received a pre-admission letter from one of the participating Chinese universities.
- Complete all required fields and upload necessary documents, including your degree certificate, work experience proof, and health report.
- Submit your application before the deadline — March 31, 2026 (GMT+8).
For more details, visit the official website here.
After submission, the China Scholarship Council (CSC) will review applications in two stages — an initial screening and a final expert evaluation. Selected candidates will receive admission and scholarship confirmation thereafter.
Why You Should Apply for YES China 2026
The Youth of Excellence Scheme is not just a scholarship — it’s a leadership journey. Scholars develop practical skills, participate in global forums, and gain exposure to China’s development model, innovation systems, and cultural heritage.
Graduates from the YES China program go on to hold influential roles in government, international organizations, academia, and private enterprises — driving change in their home countries and across the world.
Application Deadline
March 31, 2026
Applicants are encouraged to prepare early and secure their university pre-admission letter before the deadline.
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