Chinese Government Scholarship 2026/2027 for South African Students

If you're a South African student aspiring to pursue higher education abroad, the Chinese Government Scholarship (CGS) 2026/2027 presents a fully funded opportunity to study in China. Administered in partnership with South Africa's Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET), this scholarship supports undergraduate, master's, doctoral, and non-degree Chinese language studies across various disciplines. Applications are now open and will close on September 30, 2025.

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🎓 Scholarship Summary

• Location: China

• Host Institutions: Chinese universities under the China Scholarship Council (CSC)

• Study Levels: Undergraduate (Bachelor's), Master's, Doctoral, Non-degree Chinese language studies

• Target Group: South African citizens

• Funding: Full tuition, accommodation, monthly stipend, medical insurance, return and midterm airfare, settlement allowance, visa costs, pre-departure orientation, psychosocial support, research support

• Duration: Varies by program level (Up to 6 years)

• Application Deadline: September 30, 2025

• Start Date: September 2026

• Eligibility: South African citizens in good health with strong academic records

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📘 Scholarship Overview

The CGS 2026/2027 aims to strengthen educational ties between China and South Africa by offering comprehensive scholarships to South African students. The program covers a wide range of academic fields, emphasizing priority areas crucial to both nations' development goals. While bachelor's programs are taught in Chinese, no prior proficiency is required, as preparatory language courses are provided. Postgraduate programs are offered in English.

📚 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

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🏆 Scholarship Benefits

Chinese Government Covers:

• Tuition Fees: ¥20,000–¥45,000 per year, depending on the program level

• Accommodation: ¥8,400–¥12,000 per year

• Monthly Stipend: ¥30,000–¥42,000 per year

• Medical Insurance: ¥800 per year

South African Government Covers:

• Return economy airfare

• Midterm economy airfare

• Monthly stipend/allowance

• Once-off settlement allowance

• Visa costs

• Compulsory pre-departure orientation

• Psychosocial support services

• Research support

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✅ Eligibility Criteria

• Citizenship: South African

• Health: Good health (medical examination required)

• Academic Performance: Minimum 60% average in previous studies

• Availability: Able to commence studies in China from September 2026

• Interest: Demonstrated interest in China and commitment to South Africa's development

🛑 Age Limits (as of September 2026):

• Non-degree Chinese Language Studies: Under 35

• Bachelor's Degree: Under 25

• Master's Degree: Under 35

• Doctoral Degree: Under 40

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📄 Application Procedure

Application Steps:

1. Complete the DHET application form.

2. Submit all required documents via email to chinaapplications@dhet.gov.za by September 30, 2025.

3. Use the email subject line: Chinese Scholarship Application, [Your Surname].

📂 Required Documents (PDF format, clearly named):

• Completed DHET application form

• Copy of South African ID

• Copy of passport (valid until at least December 1, 2026)

• Academic records/transcripts

• Degree certificates (for master's or PhD applicants)

• Motivational letter (1 page)

• Two reference letters (from teachers or supervisors)

• Foreigner Physical Examination Form

• Non-criminal record report (issued within the last 6 months)

Note: Applicants without a valid passport can still apply but must obtain one before the Chinese Government's application portal opens in November 2025.

📌 Additional Information

• Shortlisted candidates will receive further instructions when the Chinese Government's online application portal opens in November 2025.

• Successful applicants must sign a contract and return to South Africa upon completion of their studies.

• Applicants are responsible for ensuring that their chosen qualifications will be recognized in South Africa.

🔗 OFFICIAL CALL LINK

Chinese Government Scholarship 2026/2027 for South African Students

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