The Chinese Government Scholarship (CSC) — formally the Chinese Government Scholarship Programme administered by the China Scholarship Council — is a full scholarship covering tuition, accommodation, and a monthly living stipend. For 2026, the CSC is open to students from over 180 countries targeting Bachelor's, Master's, PhD, and language programs at more than 280 designated Chinese universities.
Important
CSC Scholarship 2026 deadline: Most Chinese universities require your CSC application between January and March 2026. Apply early — later applications rarely succeed.
What Does the CSC Scholarship Cover?
| Level | Tuition | Accommodation | Monthly Stipend |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bachelor's | Full waiver | Provided | ¥2,500 / month |
| Master's | Full waiver | Provided | ¥3,000 / month |
| PhD | Full waiver | Provided | ¥3,500 / month |
| Language | Full waiver | Provided | ¥2,500 / month |
Step-by-Step Application Process
- Step 1 — Choose your university and program. CSC requires you to apply to specific designated universities. Not all Chinese universities are CSC hosts.
- Step 2 — Register on the CSC Online Application System (studyinchina.csc.edu.cn) and complete your profile.
- Step 3 — Prepare your documents: academic transcripts, degree certificates, two recommendation letters, study plan / research proposal, language proficiency certificate, medical certificate, and passport copy.
- Step 4 — Submit your online CSC application and download your Application Form.
- Step 5 — Send your paper documents to your chosen university's international admissions office.
- Step 6 — Your university nominates you for the CSC award. The China Scholarship Council makes the final decision.
- Step 7 — Results are announced April–July. Accepted students receive an Admission Notice and Visa Application Form (JW201 or JW202).
Documents Required for CSC 2026
- CSC Online Application Form (printed and signed)
- Highest academic certificate and transcripts — notarised and translated into Chinese or English
- Two recommendation letters from professors or supervisors
- Study plan (for Bachelor's/Master's) or research proposal (for PhD) — minimum 800 words
- Language proficiency: IELTS 5.5+ for English programs, or HSK 4+ for Chinese programs
- Physical examination form (must be completed at a certified medical facility)
- Non-criminal background check (some universities require this)
- Valid passport copy (6+ months validity)
Tip
Tip: A strong research proposal or study plan significantly increases your CSC success rate. Globlearn Education's advisors review and improve your documents before submission — this is the single biggest factor we can influence.
Common Reasons CSC Applications Fail
- Weak or generic study plan / research proposal
- Missing or incorrectly notarised documents
- Applying too late (past the university's internal deadline)
- No prior contact with a supervisor (for PhD applicants)
- Low academic scores without any compensating factor
- Choosing a university that has already filled its CSC quota
Globlearn Education has guided hundreds of students through successful CSC applications. Our advisors know which universities still have quota, which review applications favourably for students from your country, and how to present your profile at its strongest. Contact us to start your 2026 CSC application.
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