Deadline: September 30, 2025

Applications are open for the Chinese Government Scholarship 2026/2027. The Chinese Government is offering scholarships for South African students to study at Chinese institutions starting in the 2026/27 academic year. The Department of Higher Education (the Department) is responsible for nominating candidates. The scholarship is offering undergraduate (Bachelors) studies and postgraduate (Master’s or PhD) studies in a variety of study fields, as well as non-degree Chinese language studies. 

Various fields of study are available, including but not limited to the following priority fields:


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  • Agriculture
  • Biotechnology
  • Chinese language studies
  • Computer Science
  • Environment and Climate change
  • Engineering Sciences
  • Food Science
  • Hydrogeological Engineering
  • Maritime Studies
  • Natural and Physical Sciences
  • Nuclear and Renewable Energy
  • Space Science and Technology
  • Telecommunications

Scholarship

The Chinese government offers the following:

  • Tuition
  • Accommodation
  • Stipend
  • Medical Insurance

The South African government offers the following:

  • Return economy airfare
  • Midterm economy airfare
  • Monthly stipend/allowance
  • Once-off settlement allowance
  • Visa costs
  • Compulsory orientation programme before departure
  • Psychosocial Support service
  • Research support

Successful scholarship applicants will be required to sign a contract and return to South Africa upon completion of their studies.

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Eligibility

  • Open to South African citizens in good health (medical check will be required for successful applicants).
  • Strong academic record with a minimum 60% average in previous studies.
  • Availability to study in China from September 2026.
  • Demonstrated interest in China and commitment to the development of South Africa.

Application

Supporting Documents Checklist (in PDF format):

  • Completed DHET application form
  • Copy of South African ID
  • Copy of Passport (valid until at least Dec 1, 2026. Applicants without a valid passport can still apply, however a passport will be required for submission to the Chinese Government when the call opens later in the year)
  • Academic records/transcripts
  • Degree certificates (for Master’s or PhD applicants)
  • Motivational letter (1 page)
  • Reference letters (2 letters from teachers or supervisors)
  • Foreigner Physical Examination Form (for health clearance)
  • Non-criminal record report (issued within the last 6 months)

Submit all required documents via email to [email protected] by 30 September 2025. Documents must be clearly named, e.g., SurnameNamePassport, SurnameNameMatric, SurnameNameAcademicRecord, etc. The email subject line should be Chinese Scholarship Application, [Your Surname]


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For more information, visit Chinese Government Scholarship.

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