If you’re an international student dreaming of pursuing higher education in China, the Chinese Government Scholarship (CGS)—administered by the China Scholarship Council (CSC)—is one of the best fully-funded opportunities to achieve that dream. This detailed guide will walk you through everything you need to know about the CSC Scholarship in 2025—from eligibility and application procedures to required documents, tips, and success strategies.
Whether you’re planning to pursue an undergraduate, master’s, or doctoral degree in China, this comprehensive blog post will provide the insights, examples, and action steps you need to apply with confidence.
Table of Contents
- What is the Chinese Government Scholarship (CGS)?
- Types of CSC Scholarship Programs
- Eligibility Criteria
- CSC Scholarship Coverage and Benefits
- Step-by-Step Application Process
- Required Documents
- Practical Tips for a Successful CSC Application
- Example Scenarios for Different Scholarship Types
- FAQs about CSC Scholarships
- Final Thoughts and Next Steps
1. What is the Chinese Government Scholarship (CGS)?
The Chinese Government Scholarship is a fully-funded scholarship offered by the Chinese Ministry of Education to promote international exchange and cooperation in education. It aims to support outstanding students from around the world to study at top Chinese universities.
The China Scholarship Council (CSC) manages the scholarship on behalf of the government and oversees everything from admissions to disbursement.
Key Features:
- Open to applicants from over 180 countries
- Covers full tuition, accommodation, monthly stipend, and medical insurance
- Available for undergraduate, master’s, doctoral, general scholar, and senior scholar programs
2. Types of CSC Scholarship Programs
(1) Bilateral Program
Target: Applicants nominated by their country’s education ministries or embassies
Applies to: Undergraduates, postgraduates, general and senior scholars
How to Apply: Submit through your country’s dispatching authority (usually the Ministry of Education or Chinese embassy)
(2) University Program
Target: Students who apply directly to Chinese universities
Applies to: Postgraduates and scholars (mostly)
How to Apply: Directly through CSC-partner universities
(3) Designated Scholarship Programs
Target: Applicants nominated by international organizations and institutions (e.g., UNESCO, EU, ASEAN)
How to Apply: Through these organizations
| Program Name | Eligible Region or Group | Application Agency | Website |
|---|---|---|---|
| Great Wall | Developing countries | National Commission for UNESCO | https://en.unesco.org |
| EU Program | EU Member States | PRC Mission to the EU | http://www.chinamission.be |
| AUN Program | ASEAN countries | ASEAN University Network (AUN) Secretariat | www.aunsec.org |
| PIF Program | Pacific Island Countries | Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat | www.forumsec.org |
| WMO Program | Meteorological Researchers | World Meteorological Organization (WMO) | http://www.wmo.int/ |
(4) Student Exchange Program
Target: Students involved in exchange programs between Chinese universities and foreign institutions
Duration: Typically less than 12 months
How to Apply: Through the universities involved in the exchange
3. Eligibility Criteria
Before applying, ensure you meet the basic and program-specific requirements:
| Level of Study | Age Limit | Academic Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| Undergraduate | Under 25 | High school graduate |
| Master’s | Under 35 | Bachelor’s degree holder |
| Doctoral | Under 40 | Master’s degree holder |
| General Scholar | Under 45 | High school diploma or above |
| Senior Scholar | Under 50 | Master’s degree or associate professor |
Language Proficiency
| Program Type | Minimum HSK Requirement |
|---|---|
| Chinese-taught Undergraduate/General | HSK Level 3 |
| Chinese-taught Postgraduate | HSK Level 4 |
| Programs in Other Languages | IELTS, TOEFL, etc. |
4. CSC Scholarship Coverage and Benefits
CSC Scholarships are fully-funded, covering:
- Tuition Fees: 100% waived
- Accommodation: Free on-campus housing or a monthly allowance
- Monthly Stipend:
- CNY 2,500/month (Undergraduate)
- CNY 3,000/month (Master’s/General Scholar)
- CNY 3,500/month (Doctoral/Senior Scholar)
- Medical Insurance:
- CNY 800/year for long programs
- CNY 400/year for short programs
5. Step-by-Step CSC Application Process
Step 1: Research Your Preferred University and Program
- Visit campuschina.org
- Use the search tool to find CSC-partner universities and your desired major
Step 2: Apply for Admission (for some programs)
Contact the university for a pre-admission letter or supervisor invitation letter—this improves your chances.
Step 3: Register on the CSC Portal
- Access the CSC application portal at www.campuschina.org
- Fill out the Online Application Form for Chinese Government Scholarship
- Choose correct Program Category and Agency Number
Step 4: Submit to Receiving Agency
Depending on your program type, submit your documents to:
- Your country’s embassy or ministry
- The university you’re applying to
- International organization (if relevant)
Step 5: Wait for Notification
CSC and the universities will review applications, conduct evaluations, and notify selected candidates via email or agency.
6. Required Documents for CSC Scholarship 2025
| Document Type | Notes |
|---|---|
| CSC Application Form | Fill and submit online at campuschina.org |
| Passport Copy | Ensure it’s valid for at least 12 months |
| Highest Degree Certificate | If currently studying, provide an expected graduation certificate |
| Transcripts | Notarized copies with English/Chinese translations |
| HSK/TOEFL/IELTS Score Report | According to your program’s requirements |
| Admission/Pre-admission/Invitation Letter | Required for postgraduate and research applicants |
| Study Plan or Research Proposal | Minimum 500-1000 words, clear and concise |
| Two Recommendation Letters | From professors or associate professors |
| Portfolio (Arts/Design applicants only) | Videos, sketches, or project samples |
| Physical Examination Form | Valid within 6 months; use the official form |
| Certificate of Non-Criminal Record | Issued within the last 6 months |
| Guardian Letter (for under 18 applicants) | Legal documentation of Chinese guardian |
7. Practical Tips for a Successful CSC Application
1. Start Early
Applications open in October or November and usually close by March or April. Starting early gives you time to gather documents, contact universities, and polish your application.
2. Focus on Language
If your program is Chinese-taught, begin HSK preparation early. For English-taught programs, aim for a competitive IELTS score (6.5+) or TOEFL (90+).
3. Customize Your Study Plan
Make your study or research plan unique. Link your goals to China’s development areas, your background, and how the program helps you grow.
Example: If applying for a Master’s in Public Health, mention how studying in China will help you tackle public health challenges in your country.
4. Get Strong Recommendations
Seek out professors who know you well and can highlight your academic potential, leadership, or research skills.
5. Apply to Multiple Universities
You can apply to up to three universities using one CSC application. Choose wisely—include both top-tier and mid-tier universities.
8. Example Scenarios for Different Scholarship Types
Example 1: Undergraduate Bilateral Program Applicant from Ghana
- Applies through the Ghanaian Ministry of Education
- Chooses Beijing University of Technology, majoring in Civil Engineering
- Submits application form, passport copy, HSK 3 score, transcripts, and study plan
Example 2: Master’s Student Applying via University Program
- Applies directly to Shanghai Jiao Tong University
- Obtains a pre-admission letter
- Submits CSC form, IELTS score, two recommendation letters, and research proposal
9. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I apply to more than one scholarship program at once?
Yes, but you must submit separate applications through each receiving agency.
Q: Is a pre-admission letter mandatory?
No, but it increases your chances of getting selected.
Q: Do I need to know Chinese?
Not always. Many programs are taught in English. Check with your university of interest.
Q: What happens after I get selected?
You’ll receive an admission notice, visa instructions, and flight arrangements (if offered). Prepare for departure.
10. Final Thoughts and Next Steps
The Chinese Government Scholarship is an incredible opportunity for students who are ambitious, globally-minded, and ready to immerse themselves in one of the world’s fastest-growing education hubs.
If you’re serious about applying:
- Bookmark this guide and refer back to it regularly.
- Research eligible programs and universities today.
- Start gathering your documents now—don’t wait until deadlines approach.
Ready to Start Your CSC Application?
Visit www.campuschina.org and begin your journey toward studying in China with a fully-funded scholarship. For more guides and scholarship updates, stay tuned to our blog.