Chinese Government Scholarship 2026 for South African Students

The Chinese Government is offering scholarships for South African students to study at Chinese institutions starting in the 2026/27 academic year. The Department of Higher Education (the Department) is responsible for nominating candidates. The scholarship is offering undergraduate (Bachelors) studies and postgraduate (Master’s or PhD) studies in a variety of study fields, as well as non-degree Chinese language studies.

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

Scholarship

The Chinese government offers the following:

• Tuition
• Accommodation
• Stipend
• Medical Insurance

The South African government offers the following:

• Return economy airfare
• Midterm economy airfare
• Monthly stipend/allowance
• Once-off settlement allowance
• Visa costs
• A compulsory orientation programme before departure
• Psychosocial Support service
• Research support

Successful scholarship applicants will be required to sign a contract and return to South Africa upon completion of their studies.

Eligibility

• Open to South African citizens in good health (a medical check will be required for successful applicants).
• Strong academic record with a minimum 60% average in previous studies.
• Availability to study in China from September 2026.
• Demonstrated interest in China and commitment to the development of South Africa.

How To Apply

Supporting Documents Checklist (in PDF format):

• Completed the DHET application form
• Copy of South African ID
• Copy of Passport (valid until at least Dec 1, 2026. Applicants without a valid passport can still apply, however, a passport will be required for submission to the Chinese Government when the call opens later in the year.
• Academic records/transcripts
• Degree certificates (for Master’s or PhD applicants)
• Motivational letter (1 page)
• Reference letters (2 letters from teachers or supervisors)
• Foreigner Physical Examination Form (for health clearance)
• Non-criminal record report (issued within the last 6 months)

Submit all required documents via email to [email protected] by 30 September 2025. Documents must be clearly named, e.g., SurnameNamePassport, SurnameNameMatric, SurnameNameAcademicRecord, etc. The email subject line should be Chinese Scholarship Application, [Your Surname]

For more information, visit Chinese Government Scholarship.

Application Deadline: September 30, 2025

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