Chinese Government (CSC) Scholarship for South African Students 2026 Eligibility & How to Apply

Are you a South African student with dreams of studying in China? 

The Chinese Government International Scholarship (CGIS) could be the perfect opportunity to turn those dreams into reality. 

This prestigious scholarship program offers South Africans full financial support to pursue undergraduate, postgraduate, or non-degree Chinese language studies at accredited universities in China.

About the Scholarship

The scholarship is a collaboration between the South African Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) and the China Scholarship Council (CSC). 

DHET handles the nomination process, and final selections are made by the CSC based on academic merit and national development alignment.

Fields of Study Funded

The scholarship covers a wide array of fields, with particular preference for:

1. Agriculture, Biotechnology, Computer Science
2. Engineering, Environment & Climate Change
3. Food Science, Hydrogeological Engineering, Maritime Studies
4. Natural & Physical Sciences, Nuclear & Renewable Energy
5. Space Science & Technology, Telecommunications, Chinese Language
   Postgraduate applications, previously disadvantaged applicants, and those applying in priority fields receive preferential consideration.

Eligibility Criteria

You must satisfy all of the following:

1. Be a South African citizen in good health
2. Have a minimum average of 60% in your most recent qualification
3. Be available to begin your studies in China by September 2026
4. Demonstrate a genuine interest in China and commitment to South Africa’s development
5. Age limits:
   • Non-degree Chinese language studies: under 35
   • Bachelor’s degree: under 25
   • Master’s degree: under 35
   • Doctoral degree: under 40

What the Scholarship Covers

Chinese Government (CSC) provides:

• Tuition (RMB 20,000–45,000/year)
• Accommodation (up to RMB 12,000/year)
• Monthly stipend (RMB 30,000–42,000/year)
• Medical insurance (RMB 800/year)

South African Government (via DHET) provides:

1. Return and mid-term economy airfare
2. Monthly living allowance
3. One-time settlement allowance
4. Visa costs
5. Pre-departure orientation and psychosocial support

How to Apply

1. Submit the DHET application form with certified supporting documents for initial nomination.
2. If shortlisted, you will be invited to apply online via the CSC’s portal when it opens in November 2025

Required Documents

Prepare the following scanned or certified documents:

1. DHET application form
2. South African ID and passport copy
3. Academic transcripts and certificates
4. Motivation letter (max 1 page)
5. Two signed reference letters
6. Non-criminal record certificate
7. Foreigner Physical Examination Form (medical check)
8. Research proposal (for postgraduate applicants)

Closing Date

All applications must be submitted by 30 September 2025. 

Shortlisted applicants will receive instructions regarding the CSC online application in November.

Contact Details

For further guidance, contact DHET or the Chinese Embassy in South Africa. 

The DHET scholarship portal announcement page may provide relevant contact information.