Application Deadline: 30 September 2025
Applications are now open for the 2026/2027 Chinese Government Scholarships. 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.
Bachelor’s programmes are taught in Chinese, however a Chinese language proficiency certificate is not a requirement to apply. Postgraduate programmes are taught in English.
Eligibility
- 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.
Fields of Study
Various fields of study are available, including but not limited to the following priority fields:
- 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
Important: Postgraduate applicants, previously disadvantaged individuals, and those applying in priority fields will receive preference.
Education requirements and age limits:
| STUDY PROGRAMME | EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS | AGE (AS OF SEPTEMBER 2026) |
| Chinese language studies (non-degree) | National Senior Certificate (or equivalent) with a minimum of 60%. Applicants with a post-school qualification will be given priority | Under 35 |
| Bachelor’s degree | National Senior Certificate (or equivalent) with a minimum of 60% average is recommended) | Under 25 |
| Master’s degree | Bachelor’s degree or NQF 7 qualification (a minimum of 60% average. Please note that you do not need an Honours degree to apply for a Master’s programme | Under 35 |
| Doctoral degree | Master’s degree (a minimum of 60% average) | Under 40 |
Scholarship Duration
| STUDY PROGRAMME | DURATION OF PROGRAMME | DURATION OF PREPARATORY CHINESE LANGUAGE COURSE | DURATION OF SCHOLARSHIP(Years) |
| Chinese language studies | 1 | None | Up to 2 |
| Bachelor’s degree | 4-5 | 1-2 | 4-7 |
| Master’s degree | 2-3 | 1-2 | 2-5 |
| Doctoral degree | 3-4 | 1-2 | 3-6 |
Scholarship Worth
The Chinese government offers the following:
| STUDY PROGRAMME | Tuition (RMB per year) * | Accommodation (RMB per year) | Stipend (RMB per year) | Medical Insurance (RMB per year) |
| Chinese language studies | 20000-27000 | 8400 | 30000 | 800 |
| Bachelor’s degree | 20000-27000 | 8400 | 30000 | 800 |
| Master’s degree | 25000-34000 | 8400 | 36000 | 800 |
| Doctoral degree | 33000-45000 | 12000 | 42000 | 800 |
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.
How to Apply
Complete the DHET Application form.
Submit all required documents via email to [email protected] by 30 September 2025.
Email subject line:
Chinese Scholarship Application, [Your Surname]
Required Supporting Documents (PDF format only)
Documents must be clearly named, e.g., SurnameNamePassport, SurnameNameMatric, SurnameNameAcademicRecord, etc.
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)
For More Information:
Visit the Official Webpage of the Chinese Government Scholarships
