China offers several scholarship pathways. Here are the major ones you should know:
Chinese Government Scholarship (CGS / CSC Scholarship)
The most popular and competitive option. It includes:
- Full Scholarship (tuition + stipend + accommodation)
- Available for undergraduate, master’s, PhD, and language students
You can apply through:
- Your local Chinese embassy (popular route)
- Participating Chinese universities
- Specialized programs like Silk Road, Great Wall, etc.
Bilateral Program Scholarships
These come from agreements between China and your home country.
Great for students who want:
- Full funding
- Embassy-based screening
- Wide university choices
University-Specific Scholarships
Hundreds of Chinese universities offer:
- Presidential Scholarships
- Freshman Scholarships
- Talent Scholarships
These are good alternatives if you:
- Miss CSC deadlines
- Want better chances
- Prefer applying directly to a university
Special Scholarships
Silk Road Scholarship
Targeted at certain countries along the Belt & Road.
Ideal for engineering, mining, tech, and business fields.
UNESCO–China Great Wall Fellowship
Best for postgraduate students, researchers, and visiting scholars.
International Chinese Language Teachers Scholarship (ICLTS)
For students planning to teach or study Chinese language & literature.

