The Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET), in partnership with the China Scholarship Council (CSC), invites South African citizens to apply for the Chinese Government Scholarship for the 2026/27 academic year.
This programme aims to strengthen educational cooperation between South Africa and China, promote mutual understanding and friendship, and support talented South African students and scholars to pursue higher education or research at Chinese universities.
The Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) would like to thank all applicants who participated in the initial internal screening phase of the Chinese Government Scholarship Programme.
The call is now officially open for Stage 2 of the application process for the 2026/27 academic year.
This stage requires applicants to complete and submit their applications to the Chinese Government Scholarship online system and/or host universities, in order to be considered for nomination by the DHET and final selection by the China Scholarship Council (CSC).
Study Levels Offered
The Chinese Government Scholarship offers opportunities to pursue:
- Undergraduate (Bachelor’s degrees)
- Postgraduate (Master’s and PhD) degrees
- Non-degree Chinese language studies
- General and Senior Scholar programmes
Studies commence in September 2026.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify, an applicant 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):
| Programme | Minimum Qualification | Maximum Age |
|---|---|---|
| Chinese Language (Non-degree) | National Senior Certificate (NSC) with 60% | Under 35 |
| Bachelor’s Degree | NSC with Bachelor’s Pass | Under 26 |
| Master’s Degree | Bachelor’s Degree (60%+) | Under 35 |
| Doctoral Degree | Master’s Degree (60%+) | Under 40 |
| General Scholar | NSC with Bachelor’s Pass | Under 45 |
| Senior Scholar | Master’s Degree / Associate Professor | Under 50 |
Language and additional requirements:
- HSK Level 3: for Chinese-taught undergraduate, general, or senior scholar programmes.
- HSK Level 4: for Chinese-taught Master’s or Doctoral programmes.
- CSCA (China Scholastic Competency Assessment): required for Bachelor’s degree applicants (see www.csca.cn).
- Applicants under 18 must submit legal guardian documentation from a guardian.
Priority Fields of Study
Applications in various disciplines are welcome, but preference will be given to fields aligned with South Africa’s development priorities, including:
- Agriculture & Biotechnology
- Engineering & Computer Science
- Environment & Climate Change
- Food Science
- Natural and Physical Sciences
- Maritime Studies
- Hydrogeological Engineering
- Nuclear & Renewable Energy
- Space Science & Technology
- Telecommunication
- Chinese Language Studies
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NB: Applicants who wish to study professional degrees, i.e. engineering must consult the professional body in South Africa on the appropriateness and recognition of the university they are applying to.
Note: Previously disadvantaged individuals and postgraduate applicants will receive priority consideration.
What the Scholarship Covers
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)
Successful applicants must sign a contract and return to South Africa upon completion of their studies.
How to Apply (Stage 2 Process)
All documents must be clearly labelled and submitted both to the CSC online system and via email to [email protected]Â
- Complete the Chinese Government Scholarship online application at:Â www.campuschina.org
- Submit the application to the host university (if required).
- Download the Chinese Government Scholarship application form.
- Email the downloaded application form and all documents and proof of submission to:Â [email protected]
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) Applicants: Length: Minimum 300–500 words
- Postgraduate (Master’s Degree) Applicants Length: Minimum 500–800 words
- Doctoral (PhD) Applicants Length: Minimum 800–1,000 words
- General and Senior Scholar Applicants Length: Minimum 500–700 words
- Two reference letters (for Master’s, Doctoral, and Scholar programmes)
- Foreigner Physical Examination Form (completed and stamped)
- Police clearance certificate (issued within 6 months)
- Portfolio of work (for art/design applicants, if applicable)
For more Information: Visit the website for Chinese Government Scholarship 2026/27 for South African Students: Fully Funded Study in China
