The Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET), in collaboration with the China Scholarship Council (CSC), invites South African students to apply for the Chinese Government Scholarship 2026/2027. This prestigious program aims to strengthen educational cooperation between South Africa and China while providing talented students and scholars the opportunity to pursue higher education and research at leading Chinese universities.
Applications are now open for Stage 2 of the process, which requires candidates to submit their documents through the CSC online system and/or host universities for DHET nomination and final CSC selection.
Programs and Study Levels Offered
The scholarship supports a variety of programs, including:
- Undergraduate (Bachelor’s degrees)
- Postgraduate (Master’s and PhD degrees)
- Non-degree Chinese language studies
- General and Senior Scholar programs
All studies are set to begin in September 2026.
Eligibility Criteria
To apply, candidates must:
- Be South African citizens in good physical and mental health.
- Maintain a minimum academic average of 60% in their most recent qualification.
- Meet age and qualification requirements as of 1 January 2027:
| Program | Minimum Qualification | Maximum Age |
|---|---|---|
| Chinese Language (Non-degree) | NSC 60% | Under 35 |
| Bachelor’s Degree | NSC Bachelor’s Pass | Under 26 |
| Master’s Degree | Bachelor’s 60%+ | Under 35 |
| Doctoral Degree | Master’s 60%+ | Under 40 |
| General Scholar | NSC Bachelor’s Pass | Under 45 |
| Senior Scholar | Master’s / Associate Professor | Under 50 |
Language Requirements:
- HSK Level 3: Chinese-taught undergraduate, general, or senior scholar programs
- HSK Level 4: Chinese-taught Master’s or Doctoral programs
- CSCA (China Scholastic Competency Assessment): required for Bachelor’s applicants
Applicants under 18 must submit documentation from a legal guardian.
Also Apply For: CMU-Africa Mastercard Foundation Scholars 2026–2027
Priority Fields of Study
Preference is given to programs 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
Previously disadvantaged individuals and postgraduate applicants are given priority.
Scholarship Benefits
Chinese Government Contribution:
- Full tuition coverage
- Free accommodation or subsidy
- Monthly stipend: RMB 2,500–3,500 depending on program
- Comprehensive medical insurance
South African Government Support via DHET:
- Return international airfare and mid-term travel
- Monthly living allowance supplement
- Once-off settlement allowance
- Visa fees
- Pre-departure orientation and psychosocial support
- Research support (if applicable)
Successful applicants must commit to returning to South Africa upon completion of their studies.
How to Apply (Stage 2)
- Complete the CSC online application at Campus China.
- Submit applications to the host university (if required).
- Download and complete the Chinese Government Scholarship application form.
- Email all documents to chinaapplications@dhet.gov.za.
Required documents (PDF, properly labelled):
- Completed CSC online form
- South African ID and a valid passport
- Highest qualification certificate/proof of enrollment
- Academic transcripts (certified)
- HSK Certificate (if applicable)
- CSCA score report (Bachelor’s only)
- Study plan or statement of purpose
- Two reference letters (for Master’s, Doctoral, and Scholar programs)
- Foreigner Physical Examination Form
- Police clearance certificate (issued within 6 months)
- Portfolio (for art/design applicants, if applicable)
Applicants are responsible for ensuring their chosen programs and universities are recognized in South Africa. All scholarship conditions must be met within the specified duration.
For inquiries, visit the official website of the Chinese Government Scholarship.
