Chinese Government Scholarships 2026/27: Fully Funded Opportunities for South Africans
Overview
Applications are invited for the China Government Scholarship – China Africa Friendship undergraduate, master and doctoral Programme for 2026/27 academic year. This programme is targeted at the best South African scholars and students: those who have a potential to change the world and those who will find success in all 10 life dimensions – intellectual, informative, material, aesthetic, creative, communicative, productive, ethical, social and spiritual.
Students start their programmes in September 2026, studying for a highly valued qualification while experiencing another culture and building international relationships before coming home to give back to South Africa.
Study Levels Available
The scholarship caters for a variety of academic paths:
• Bachelor’s degrees with or without 1–2 years’ Chinese language preparation — 4–5 years (in total, up to 7)
• Master level degrees (2-3 years) with the possibility for language courses to learn koine / demotic Greek (intensive period could last up to 5 years)
• Doctoral studies (3-4 years); optional: including language preparation courses (up to 6 years in total)
• Non-preparatory, non-degree Chinese language programs (maximum of 2 years)
• General Professional and Senior Scholar research programmes
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible, candidates must fulfil the following essential criteria by 1 January 2027:
• Have a South African citizenship and a valid passport (which expires after 1st March 2027)
• Physically and mentally fit
• Minimum 60% (or equivalent) in the preceding qualifications
• Starting date September 2026
• Proven case for commitment to China and to returning home
Age and previous result must accord with the study level.
Priority Fields of Study
In all these areas applications from across the disciplines are welcomed although strategic priority is offered to those which will underpin South Africa’s development.
• Agriculture & Biotechnology
• Engineering & Computer Science
• Environment & Climate Change
• Food Science
• Natural & Physical Sciences
• Maritime Studies
• Hydrogeological Engineering
• Nuclear & Renewable Energy
• Space Science & Technology
• Telecommunication
• Chinese Language Studies
Financial Benefits and Support
Chinese Government (CSC) coverage:
• Full tuition fees
• On-campus accommodation
• Monthly stipend: RMB 2,500 (Bachelor’s), RMB 3,000 (Master’s / General Scholar); RMB 3,500 (PhD / Senior Scholar)
• Medical insurance (RMB 800 per year)
South African Government (DHET) top-ups:
• Roundtrip and mid-class economy airfare
• Monthly living-allowance supplement
• One-time settlement allowance
• Visa application fees
• Pre-departure orientation
• Psychosocial support
• Research support for postgraduates
How to Apply
There are two parts to applying through DHET:
Compile and send attached DHET application form with all required documents in PDF.
DHET will evaluate and submit to the CSC (Stage 2 deadline: 5 January 2026).
Key tips:
• Start gathering documents early
• Title files as directed (e.g. SurnameNamePassport.pdf)
• Maintain uniformity on all forms, certificates etc.
Required Documents
All of the material must be in PDF and certified where required:
• Filled in CSC application form (available on DHET)
• South African ID and copy of valid passport
• Certificate of the highest level and academic transcript
• Copy of Language Proficiency (HSK/CSCA if necessary)
• Statement of purpose or motivation letter (300-500 words for undergraduates; more for postgraduates)
Selection Criteria and Process
DHET and CSC select candidates on academic achievement, language proficiency, commitment and objective to develop South Africa. Strong applicants have a high GPA and clear plans for applying their education in their home country.
Discover the Best Fully Funded Scholarships in Europe
Post-Selection Obligations
Awardees must:
• Enter into contracts with CSC and DHET
• Maintain satisfactory progress
• Return to South Africa within the period for which you have been granted a visa
• Pledge to pay back his dues to the country through professional career and service.
Important Considerations Before Applying
• Make sure your Chinese school and programme of study is accredited by SAQA
• Be realistic in planning your degree to be able to complete it within the scholarship period – extensions cannot be taken for granted
Application Deadline
Closing date for stage 2 application (through DHET) will be on 5 January 2026. All incomplete or tardy requests will not be considered. Mark it on your calendar, and then pitch early.
Contact and Further Information
Please see the DHET website for latest guidelines and application links and DHET International Scholarships Office contact details.
Conclusion
The Chinese Government Scholarship 2026/27 provides an unparalleled opportunity to South African students, for complete study in China. Meeting the eligibility guidelines, crafting strong applications and meeting all deadlines can open doors to gamechanging academic and cultural experiences whilst also deepening their potential to be dynamic leaders of South Africa’s future growth.
