Scholarships For South Africans To Study In China: Chinese Government Scholarship 2025/2026

About the Chinese Government Scholarships 2025/2026

Applications are now open for Chinese Government Scholarships for 2025/2026. The Chinese Government, in collaboration with the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET), is inviting South African students to apply for scholarships to study in China during the 2025/26 academic year. This opportunity enables students to pursue higher education at prestigious Chinese institutions in various fields, contributing to skills development and fostering international collaboration.

The scholarships offer funding for multiple study options:

Undergraduate Studies: Focused on identified scarce skills, available to students proficient in Chinese (HSK Level 5 or above).

Postgraduate Studies: Open to Master’s and Ph.D. candidates, with a preference for postgraduate applicants.
Non-degree Chinese Language Studies: For individuals interested in enhancing their proficiency in the Chinese language.

Bachelor’s programs under the scholarship are conducted in Chinese, requiring applicants to have an advanced level of language proficiency.

Eligibility Criteria

This program is exclusively available to South African citizens who meet the following criteria:

Health Requirements: Applicants must be in good health. Selected candidates will need to pass a medical check.
Academic Performance: A minimum of 65% average in prior academic studies is required.

Availability: Candidates must be prepared to begin studies in China by September 2025.
Commitment: Applicants should demonstrate an interest in China and a commitment to South Africa’s development.
Field of Study: While all fields except medicine are considered, preference is given to specific disciplines (listed below).

Language Proficiency: Bachelor’s degree candidates must hold an HSK Level 5 certificate and be willing to study in Chinese.

Eligible Fields

Priority will be given to postgraduate applicants, previously disadvantaged individuals, and students applying to study in the following fields:

Agriculture

Biotechnology
Chinese Language Studies
Environment and Climate Change

Engineering Sciences
Maritime Studies
Natural and Physical Sciences

Nuclear and Renewable Energy
Space Science and Technology
Statistics

Telecommunication

Additionally, applicants must meet the minimum academic requirements for admission to equivalent programs at South African universities.

Benefits of the Scholarships

The Chinese Government Scholarship offers a range of benefits, ensuring that students can focus on their academic pursuits:

Tuition Fees: Fully covered.
Accommodation: Provided by the host university.
Monthly Stipend: To cover living expenses.

Medical Insurance: Ensures comprehensive health coverage.

The South African Government supplements this support, subject to available funds, with:

A return economy airfare.

A quarterly stipend.
A one-time settlement allowance.
Research funding for postgraduate students.

Visa costs.
A compulsory orientation program before departure.

Selected applicants will be required to sign a contract agreeing to return to South Africa upon completing their studies.

Program Duration

The duration of the scholarship varies depending on the program level:

Program	Study Duration (Years)	Chinese Language Prep (Years)	Total Duration (Years)
Chinese Language Studies	1–2	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

How to Apply

Application Deadline: 24th January 2025

To apply, candidates must complete two applications:

DHET Application Form: Submit the form and required documents to chinaapplications@dhet.gov.za by the deadline. Use the subject line: Chinese Scholarship Application, [Your Surname].
Chinese Government Online Application: Start the process at Campus China.

Required Steps:

Review all application requirements on the program webpage.
Ensure all supporting documents are included before submission.

This scholarship is a gateway for South African students to gain international experience and advanced education while contributing to the country’s development. Don’t miss this incredible opportunity—apply today!

CLICK HERE TO APPLY