Chinese Government Scholarship for South Africans 2026–2027

The Chinese Government Scholarship for South Africans 2026–2027 is now open for applications. This program is a collaboration between the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) and the China Scholarship Council (CSC). It aims to strengthen educational cooperation between South Africa and China, foster mutual understanding, and support talented South African students and scholars in pursuing higher education or research at Chinese universities.

🌟 Benefits of the Scholarship

Chinese Government Contribution

• Tuition fees: Fully covered.
• Accommodation: Free university dormitory or 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 person per year.

South African Government Support

Through the DHET, successful South African recipients will also receive:

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

Note: Successful applicants must sign a contract and return to South Africa upon completing their studies.

✅ Eligibility Criteria

To qualify, applicants must:

• Be a South African citizen in good physical and mental health.
• Have an academic average of at least 60% in their most recent qualification.
• Meet the following age and qualification requirements (as of 1 January 2027):
  • Undergraduate applicants: Must hold a high school diploma and be under 25 years old.
  • Master’s applicants: Must hold a Bachelor’s degree and be under 35 years old.
  • Doctoral applicants: Must hold a Master’s degree and be under 40 years old.

Language and Additional Requirements

• HSK Level 3: For Chinese-taught undergraduate, general, or senior scholar programs.
• HSK Level 4: For Chinese-taught Master’s or Doctoral programs.
• CSCA (China Scholastic Competency Assessment): Required for Bachelor’s degree applicants.
• Applicants under 18 must submit legal guardian documentation.

📅 Application Date and Process

Application Deadline

05 January 2026

Application Process

1. Complete the Chinese Government Scholarship online application at: www.campuschina.org.
2. Submit the application to the host university (if required).
3. Download the Chinese Government Scholarship application form.
4. Email the downloaded application form, all required documents, and proof of submission to: chinaapplications@dhet.gov.za.

Required Documents (PDF format, properly labelled)

• Completed CSC online application form.
• Copy of South African ID.
• Copy of passport (valid until at least 1 March 2027).
• Highest qualification certificate OR proof of enrolment.
• Academic transcripts (certified copies).
• HSK Certificate (if applicable).
• CSCA score report (Bachelor’s applicants only).
• Study plan or motivational letter:
  • Undergraduate (Bachelor’s Degree): Minimum 300–500 words.
  • Postgraduate (Master’s Degree): Minimum 500–800 words.
  • Doctoral (PhD): Minimum 800–1,000 words.
  • General and Senior Scholar Applicants: Minimum 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 art/design applicants, if applicable).

🌐 Scholarship Application Portal

• View details of the Chinese Government Scholarship for South Africans: Click here.
• Apply directly at: www.campuschina.org.

This scholarship offers a fantastic opportunity for South African students to further their education in China while fostering international collaboration and cultural exchange. Don't miss the chance to apply!

Chinese Government Contribution

• Tuition fees (covered in full)
• Accommodation: Free university dormitory or 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 person per year

South African Government Support Through the DHET, successful South African recipients will also receive:

• Return international airfare and mid-term travel (where applicable)
• Monthly living allowance supplement
• Once-off settlement allowance
• Visa fees
• Pre-departure orientation and psychosocial support
• Research support (where applicable)