Chinese Government Scholarship 2026/2027 for South African Applicants
The Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET), in collaboration with the China Scholarship Council (CSC), invites South African citizens to apply for the Chinese Government Scholarship for the 2026/2027 academic year. This prestigious opportunity is designed to promote educational cooperation, mutual understanding, and cultural exchange between South Africa and the People’s Republic of China.
About the Programme
The Chinese Government Scholarship enables outstanding South African students and scholars to pursue undergraduate, postgraduate (Master’s and PhD), and non-degree Chinese language or research programmes at accredited Chinese universities. Studies will commence in September 2026.
The initiative forms part of a broader partnership between the DHET and CSC, supporting South Africa’s strategic goal of developing a globally competitive education and skills system. Applicants who successfully complete their studies are expected to return home to contribute to the country’s development.
Study Levels Offered
The scholarship provides funding for the following levels of study:
- Undergraduate (Bachelor’s) Degrees
- Postgraduate (Master’s and PhD) Degrees
- Non-degree Chinese Language Studies
- General and Senior Scholar Programmes
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Be a South African citizen in good physical and mental health.
- Have achieved an academic average of at least 60% in their most recent qualification.
- Meet the 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 / Associate Professor | Under 50 |
Language and Other Requirements
Applicants applying for Chinese-taught programmes must provide proof of Chinese language proficiency:
- 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) results for Bachelor’s degree applicants.
Applicants under 18 years of age must provide official guardian documentation.
Priority Fields of Study
While applications from all disciplines are accepted, preference will be given to fields aligned with South Africa’s development priorities, including:
- Agriculture and Biotechnology
- Engineering and Computer Science
- Environment and Climate Change
- Food Science
- Natural and Physical Sciences
- Maritime Studies
- Hydrogeological Engineering
- Nuclear and Renewable Energy
- Space Science and Technology
- Telecommunication
- Chinese Language Studies
Applicants seeking to study professional degrees such as engineering are advised to consult the relevant South African professional body to confirm recognition of their chosen university. Priority will be given to previously disadvantaged individuals and postgraduate applicants.
Scholarship Benefits
Chinese Government Contribution:
- Full tuition coverage
- Free university dormitory accommodation 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 DHET, successful applicants 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 (if applicable)
Successful recipients must sign a contract and commit to returning to South Africa after completing their studies.
Application Procedure (Stage 2 Process)
The second stage of the application process requires submission to both the CSC online portal and the DHET via email. All documents must be submitted in PDF format, clearly labelled.
Steps to Apply:
- Complete the online application on the CSC website: www.campuschina.org
- Submit the application to your chosen host university (if required).
- Download the completed CSC application form.
- Email the form, proof of online submission, and all required documents to: chinaapplications@dhet.gov.za
Required Documents:
- Completed CSC application form
- Copy of South African ID and valid passport (valid until at least 1 March 2027)
- Certified copies of highest qualification and academic transcripts
- Proof of HSK Certificate and CSCA score (if applicable)
- Study plan or motivational letter:
- Bachelor’s: 300–500 words
- Master’s: 500–800 words
- Doctoral: 800–1,000 words
- General/Senior Scholar: 500–700 words
- Two reference letters (Master’s, Doctoral, and Scholar applicants)
- Foreigner Physical Examination Form (completed and stamped)
- Police clearance certificate (issued within 6 months)
- Portfolio (for art and design applicants)
Important Notes
Applicants are responsible for ensuring that their chosen programme and institution are recognised in South Africa. Information provided by the scholarship sponsor supersedes any details published elsewhere. No additional funding beyond the stated benefits will be provided by DHET. Studies must be completed within the period specified in the official Admission Notice.
VISIT OFFICIAL WEBSITE TO APPLY
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