The Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET), in partnership with the China Scholarship Council (CSC), has officially opened Stage 2 of applications for the Chinese Government Scholarship (CGS) for the 2026/27 academic year.
This prestigious scholarship programme supports South African citizens to pursue undergraduate, postgraduate, doctoral, language, and research studies at accredited universities in China, while strengthening long-standing educational cooperation between South Africa and China.
About the Scholarship Programme
The Chinese Government Scholarship aims to:
- Promote academic and cultural exchange between South Africa and China
- Build high-level skills aligned with South Africa's development priorities
- Support talented students and scholars to access world-class education and research facilities
Studies under this programme will commence in September 2026.
Study Levels Available
Applicants may apply for the following study options:
- Undergraduate (Bachelor's degrees)
- Postgraduate (Master's and PhD degrees)
- Non-degree Chinese language studies
- General Scholar programmes
- Senior Scholar programmes
Application Deadline
5 January 2026
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet the following minimum requirements:
- Be a South African citizen in good physical and mental health
- Have achieved at least 60% academic average in their most recent qualification
- Meet the age and qualification criteria below (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 & Additional Requirements
- HSK Level 3: Required for Chinese-taught undergraduate, general, or senior scholar programmes
- HSK Level 4: Required for Chinese-taught Master's or PhD programmes
- CSCA (China Scholastic Competency Assessment): Required for Bachelor's degree applicants (see www.csca.cn)
- Applicants under 18 must submit legal guardian documentation
Priority Fields of Study
While applications across disciplines are welcome, priority will be given to fields aligned with South Africa's national development goals, 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
- Telecommunications
- Chinese Language Studies
Note: Applicants for professional degrees (e.g. engineering) must verify recognition with the relevant South African professional body.
Previously disadvantaged individuals and postgraduate applicants will receive priority consideration.
What the Scholarship Covers
Chinese Government (CSC) Contribution
- Full tuition fees
- Free university dormitory accommodation or housing 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 per year)
South African Government (DHET) Support
Successful applicants will also receive:
- Return international airfare (and mid-term travel where applicable)
- Monthly living allowance top-up
- Once-off settlement allowance
- Visa fees
- Pre-departure orientation and psychosocial support
- Research support (where applicable)
Recipients are required to sign a return-to-South-Africa contract upon completion of their studies.
How to Apply: Stage 2 Process
All applicants must submit documents both online and via email.
Step 1: Online Application
Complete the Chinese Government Scholarship application at:
👉 www.campuschina.org
Step 2: Host University Submission
Submit your application to the host university (if required).
Step 3: Email Submission
Email the downloaded application form, supporting documents, and proof of submission to:
📧 [email protected]
Required Documents (PDF Format)
- Completed CSC online application form
- South African ID copy
- Valid passport (minimum validity: 1 March 2027)
- Highest qualification certificate or proof of enrolment
- Certified academic transcripts
- HSK certificate (if applicable)
- CSCA score report (Bachelor's applicants only)
- Study plan / motivation letter:
- Bachelor's: 300-500 words
- Master's: 500-800 words
- Doctoral: 800-1,000 words
- Scholars: 500-700 words
- Two academic reference letters (for postgraduate and scholar applicants)
- Foreigner Physical Examination Form
- Police clearance certificate (issued within the last 6 months)
- Portfolio (for art/design applicants, if applicable)
Important Notes
Applicants are responsible for ensuring that:
- Their chosen institution and qualification will be recognised in South Africa
- Studies are completed within the approved scholarship duration
Where discrepancies exist, the sponsor's official information takes precedence.
Contact Information
For further inquiries:
📧 [email protected]
