Chinese Government (CSC) Scholarship 2026/27 for South African Students
The 2026/27 Chinese Government (CSC) Scholarship Programme for South Africans is now open.
The Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET), in partnership with the China Scholarship Council (CSC), has officially opened Stage 2 of the application process for the Chinese Government Scholarship for the 2026/27 academic year.
This scholarship gives South African students the chance to study at accredited universities in China, helping to strengthen educational ties between the two countries. It supports undergraduate, postgraduate, research, and non-degree language studies — all beginning in September 2026.
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CHINESE GOVERNMENT (CSC) SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATION ELIGIBILITY AND BENEFITS
Eligibility and Requirements
To apply, candidates must meet the following:
General Requirements
- Must be a South African citizen.
- Must be in good physical and mental health.
- Must have at least 60% average in the most recent academic qualification.
Age and Qualification Requirements (as of 1 January 2027)
| Programme | Minimum Qualification | Maximum Age |
|---|---|---|
| Chinese Language (Non-degree) | 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 Requirements
- HSK Level 3: Chinese-taught undergraduate, general, or senior scholar programmes.
- HSK Level 4: Chinese-taught Master’s or PhD programmes.
- CSCA Score: Required for Bachelor’s degree applicants. (www.csca.cn)
Applicants under 18 must submit legal guardian documentation.
Fields of Study
Applications are welcome across diverse fields, but priority will be given to areas aligned with South Africa’s development goals, including:
- Agriculture & Biotechnology
- Engineering & Computer Science
- Natural and Physical Sciences
- Environment & Climate Change
- Nuclear & Renewable Energy
- Maritime Studies
- Hydrogeological Engineering
- Space Science & Technology
- Telecommunication
- Food Science
- Chinese Language Studies
Note: Students applying for professional degrees (e.g., engineering) should confirm recognition with the relevant South African professional council.
Previously disadvantaged applicants and postgraduate candidates may receive preference.
Stipend / Bursary Amount (Benefits)
Chinese Government Covers:
- Full tuition
- Accommodation (university dormitory or subsidy)
- Monthly stipend:
- Undergraduate: RMB 2,500
- Master’s / General Scholar: RMB 3,000
- Doctoral / Senior Scholar: RMB 3,500
- Comprehensive medical insurance (RMB 800/year)
South African Government (DHET) Covers:
- Return international airfare and mid-term travel (if applicable)
- Monthly living allowance supplement
- One-time settlement allowance
- Visa fees
- Pre-departure orientation and psychosocial support
- Research support (where applicable)
Successful recipients must return to South Africa after completing their studies.
HOW TO APPLY FOR CHINESE GOVERNMENT (CSC) SCHOLARSHIP
All documents must be submitted online to the CSC system and emailed to DHET.
Step-by-Step:
- Visit www.campuschina.org and complete the Chinese Government Scholarship online application.
- Submit your application to the chosen host university if the university requires it.
- Download and save the completed CSC application form.
- Email the form and all required documents to: chinaapplications@dhet.gov.za
Required Documents (PDF format, clearly labelled):
- Completed CSC application form
- SA ID copy
- Valid passport (valid at least until 1 March 2027)
- Highest qualification certificate or proof of enrolment
- Academic transcripts (certified)
- HSK certificate (if applicable)
- CSCA score report (for Bachelor’s applicants)
- Study plan / motivational letter (a strong cover letter is key — see our guide on how to write a cover letter for scholarships):
- Undergraduate: 300–500 words
- Master’s: 500–800 words
- Doctoral: 800–1,000 words
- General/Senior Scholar: 500–700 words
- Two reference letters (Master’s / PhD / Scholars)
- Foreigner Physical Examination Form (stamped)
- Police clearance certificate (issued within 6 months)
- Portfolio (for art/design applicants)
CLOSING DATE FOR CHINESE GOVERNMENT (CSC) SCHOLARSHIP
Stage 2 applications must be submitted before the closing date (to be confirmed by DHET for 2026/27 cycle — early submissions are strongly encouraged).
Applicants who do not receive communication after the review period should consider their application unsuccessful.
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