Scholarships in China
100+ Institutions·1,000+ ProgramsKey Takeaways
- Minimum proof of funds required for visa: 20,000 RMB (~$3,000) in a bank account
- Monthly stipend amounts: CNY 2,500 (undergraduate), CNY 3,000 (master's), CNY 3,500 (doctoral)
- Estimated monthly living costs: 2,000–4,000 RMB (~$300–$600) per month
- Health insurance premium covered by many scholarships: 400–800 RMB (~$60–$120) per year
- Typical government scholarship application window: early April deadline for government-level awards
Scholarships in China
China offers three main scholarship types for international students: government, university, and private. Each type has different eligibility rules, coverage, and application steps. Many awards cover tuition, accommodation, health insurance, and a monthly stipend, but do not cover international airfare or visa fees. For current listings you can search our scholarship listings.
Government Scholarships
Overview
- Provided at national or provincial level.
- Often targeted at degree studies and research.
Typical coverage
- Tuition and on-campus accommodation.
- Health insurance premium (many awards cover 400–800 RMB per year).
- Monthly stipend for living costs.
Stipend examples
- Undergraduate: CNY 2,500 per month.
- Master's: CNY 3,000 per month.
- Doctoral: CNY 3,500 per month.
Eligibility and documents
- Nationality criteria may apply.
- Academic transcripts and degree certificates.
- Proof of language proficiency where required.
- Admission letter from a host university.
- JW202/JW201 form for visa processing.
- Proof of funds: 20,000 RMB in a bank account is the immigration minimum.
Deadlines and timing
- Government-level awards commonly use an early April deadline.
How to apply (step-by-step)
- Check government or provincial application portal.
- Secure an admission letter from a Chinese university.
- Complete the scholarship application form and attach transcripts.
- Obtain the JW202/JW201 form from your host university.
- Submit before the published deadline and track confirmation.
University Scholarships
Overview
- Offered by individual universities or university alliances.
- Amounts and rules vary by institution.
Typical coverage
- Tuition waivers or reductions.
- Partial or full accommodation support.
- Possible monthly stipend and insurance.
Eligibility and documents
- Completed application form from the university.
- Academic transcripts and reference letters.
- Proof of language proficiency if required.
- Admission letter in many cases.
Deadlines and timing
- Deadlines vary by university; some university-linked awards use a January 31 deadline.
How to apply (step-by-step)
- Search the host university's international student pages.
- Match your program to the scholarship criteria.
- Prepare transcripts, statement of purpose, and references.
- Submit the university application and scholarship form together if required.
- Follow up with the international office for required visa documents.
Private and External Scholarships
Overview
- Offered by foundations, companies, or external bodies.
- Rules and coverage are inconsistent.
Typical coverage
- May cover tuition partially or fully.
- May include monthly living support and insurance.
Eligibility and documents
- Requirements set by each funder.
- Common requirements: CV, academic transcripts, employer or academic references.
Deadlines and timing
- Deadlines vary widely. Check funder pages early.
How to apply (step-by-step)
- Identify private funders aligned with your field or country.
- Note application deadlines and document checklists.
- Tailor your CV and personal statement to the funder’s priorities.
- Submit all materials by the deadline and keep proof of submission.
Required Documents and Visa Checklist
Prepare these documents early. Immigration and scholarship offices will ask for most of them.
- Admission letter from a Chinese university.
- Completed scholarship application form (where required).
- Academic transcripts and diplomas.
- Proof of language proficiency (Chinese or English as required).
- Passport copy and passport photos.
- JW202 or JW201 form for certain visas.
- Proof of funds: 20,000 RMB in a bank account (immigration minimum).
- Any medical or insurance forms requested by the scholarship or university.
Visa-specific notes
- Scholarships often cover health insurance costs (400–800 RMB per year).
- Scholarships do not usually cover international airfare or visa fees.
- Keep receipt copies for all scholarship award letters and payments.
Application Checklist and Timeline
Start early and follow deadlines.
- 6–12 months before start: research universities and scholarship types.
- 3–6 months before start: request transcripts and references.
- 2–3 months before start: complete language tests if needed.
- 1–2 months before start: obtain admission letter and JW202/JW201 form.
- Before visa appointment: ensure proof of funds (20,000 RMB) is accessible.
Quick checklist
- Match eligibility to the award.
- Gather documents and certified translations.
- Use the host university’s guidance for the JW202/JW201 form.
- Keep copies of all submissions and receipts.
One-sentence Tip for a Strong Application
Show clear academic fit: match your transcripts, research interests, and statement of purpose to the program and the scholarship criteria.
Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to live in China as a student?
Estimated living costs run about 2,000–4,000 RMB per month. Health insurance premiums are typically 400–800 RMB per year; many scholarships cover that cost.
What financial proof do I need for a Chinese student visa?
Immigration requires 20,000 RMB (~$3,000) in a bank account as proof of funds. You also need an admission letter and the JW202/JW201 form for certain visa categories.
What do scholarships usually cover in China?
Scholarships commonly cover tuition, on-campus accommodation, health insurance, and a monthly stipend. They usually exclude international airfare and visa fees.
How large are monthly stipends for scholarship recipients?
Typical stipends are CNY 2,500 per month for undergraduates, CNY 3,000 for master's students, and CNY 3,500 for doctoral students.
When should I apply for scholarships in China?
Government-level awards often use an early April deadline. Some university-linked scholarships use a January 31 deadline; check each funder’s timetable early.
