Chinese Government Scholarship 2026/2027
📜 About the Scholarship
The Chinese Government Scholarship is now open for applications for the 2026/2027 academic year. This scholarship provides South African students with the opportunity to pursue undergraduate (Bachelor's), postgraduate (Master's or PhD), or non-degree Chinese language studies at Chinese institutions. The Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) is responsible for nominating candidates.
Priority Fields of Study
The scholarship supports various fields, including but not limited to:
- Agriculture
- Biotechnology
- Chinese Language Studies
- Computer Science
- Environment and Climate Change
- Engineering Sciences
- Food Science
- Hydrogeological Engineering
- Maritime Studies
- Natural and Physical Sciences
- Nuclear and Renewable Energy
- Space Science and Technology
- Telecommunications
🎁 Benefits of the Scholarship
What the Chinese Government Offers
| Study Programme | Tuition (RMB/year) | Accommodation (RMB/year) | Stipend (RMB/year) | Medical Insurance (RMB/year) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chinese Language Studies | 20,000–27,000 | 8,400 | 30,000 | 800 |
| Bachelor's Degree | 20,000–27,000 | 8,400 | 30,000 | 800 |
| Master's Degree | 25,000–34,000 | 8,400 | 36,000 | 800 |
| Doctoral Degree | 33,000–45,000 | 12,000 | 42,000 | 800 |
What the South African Government Offers
- Return economy airfare
- Midterm economy airfare
- Monthly stipend/allowance
- Once-off settlement allowance
- Visa costs
- Compulsory orientation programme before departure
- Psychosocial support services
- Research support
Note: Successful applicants must sign a contract and return to South Africa upon completing their studies.
✅ Eligibility Criteria
General Requirements
- South African citizenship and good health (medical check required for successful applicants).
- Strong academic record with a minimum 60% average in previous studies.
- Availability to study in China from September 2026.
- Demonstrated interest in China and commitment to South Africa's development.
Education Requirements and Age Limits
| Study Programme | Education Requirements | Age (as of September 2026) |
|---|---|---|
| Chinese Language Studies | National Senior Certificate (NSC) with a minimum of 60%. Post-school qualification applicants are prioritized. | Under 35 |
| Bachelor's Degree | NSC with a minimum of 60% average. | Under 25 |
| Master's Degree | Bachelor's degree or NQF 7 qualification with a minimum of 60% average. | Under 35 |
| Doctoral Degree | Master's degree with a minimum of 60% average. | Under 40 |
📅 Scholarship Duration
| Study Programme | Duration of Programme (Years) | Preparatory Chinese Language Course (Years) | Total Duration of Scholarship (Years) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chinese Language Studies | 1 | None | Up to 2 |
| Bachelor's Degree | 4–5 | 1–2 | 4–7 |
| Master's Degree | 2–3 | 1–2 | 2–5 |
| Doctoral Degree | 3–4 | 1–2 | 3–6 |
📝 Application Process
Application Deadline
30 September 2025
How to Apply
- Complete the DHET Application Form.
- Submit all required documents via email to chinaapplications@dhet.gov.za by 30 September 2025.
- Use the subject line:
Chinese Scholarship Application, [Your Surname]
Required Supporting Documents
All documents must be in PDF format and clearly named (e.g., SurnameNamePassport, SurnameNameMatric, etc.).
- Completed DHET application form
- Copy of South African ID
- Copy of passport (valid until at least December 1, 2026)
- Academic records/transcripts
- Degree certificates (for Master's or PhD applicants)
- Motivational letter (1 page)
- Two reference letters (from teachers or supervisors)
- Foreigner Physical Examination Form (health clearance)
- Non-criminal record report (issued within the last 6 months)
Note: Applicants for postgraduate studies must also submit a research proposal and any admission documents from Chinese universities.
🔍 Selection Process
-
DHET Screening:
Applications will be reviewed to determine eligibility based on the minimum requirements. -
Further Instructions:
Eligible applicants will receive instructions on how to submit their applications on the Chinese Government’s CSC online portal, which opens in November 2025. -
Notification:
Applicants who do not meet the criteria will be notified via email. Unfortunately, individual feedback will not be provided.
📧 Contact Information
For inquiries, email chinaapplications@dhet.gov.za.
⚠️ Important Notes
- Applicants must research their chosen programmes and institutions to ensure qualifications are recognized in South Africa.
- No additional financial support will be provided by the DHET beyond what is stated.
- Studies must be completed within the scholarship duration as specified in the Admission Notice.
- Tuition (RMB per year):
- Chinese language studies: 20000-27000
- Bachelor’s degree: 20000-27000
- Master’s degree: 25000-34000
- Doctoral degree: 33000-45000
- Accommodation (RMB per year):
- Chinese language studies: 8400
- Bachelor’s degree: 8400
- Master’s degree: 8400
- Doctoral degree: 12000
- Stipend (RMB per year):
- Chinese language studies: 30000
- Bachelor’s degree: 30000
- Master’s degree: 36000
- Doctoral degree: 42000
- Medical Insurance (RMB per year): 800
- Return economy airfare
- Midterm economy airfare
- Monthly stipend/allowance
- Once-off settlement allowance
- Visa costs
- Compulsory orientation programme before departure
- Psychosocial Support service
- Research support
