The Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) has opened **Stage 2** of the Chinese Government Scholarship for the 2026/27 academic year. If you’re a South African citizen aiming for a Bachelor’s, Master’s or PhD in China, this is one of the most comprehensive scholarships available.
At a glance
- Who it’s for: South African citizens applying for Bachelor’s, Master’s or PhD (plus non‑degree Chinese language and scholar programmes)
- What it covers: Full tuition, on‑campus accommodation or subsidy, monthly stipend, medical insurance; DHET adds flights, visa fees and a living supplement
- Service obligation: Return‑to‑SA expectation after studies; awardees sign programme contracts
- Key dates: **Deadline: 5 Jan 2026** • Studies start Sep 2026
- Other notes: Minimum 60% average; age limits differ by level; some programmes require HSK/CSCA
Who’s offering this?
Department of Higher Education & Training (DHET) in partnership with the China Scholarship Council (CSC)
What’s on offer
The scholarship supports South Africans to pursue undergraduate and postgraduate degrees, language study, and scholar programmes at Chinese universities.
- Tuition fees (fully covered)
- Accommodation (free dormitory or subsidy) + comprehensive medical insurance
- Monthly stipend: RMB 2 500 (UG), RMB 3 000 (Master’s/General), RMB 3 500 (Doctoral/Senior)
- DHET support: return airfare, visa fees, allowance top‑up, pre‑departure support
Priority fields
Preference goes to programmes aligned to South Africa’s development priorities.
- Engineering, Computer Science, Space Science & Technology, Telecoms
- Natural & Physical Sciences, Environment & Climate, Agriculture & Biotechnology
- Maritime, Hydrogeological & Energy (incl. Nuclear/Renewables), Chinese Language Studies
Eligibility checklist
- South African citizen; medically fit
- Minimum 60% average in your most recent qualification
- Age limits by level (e.g., under‑26 for Bachelor’s; under‑35 for Master’s)
- HSK required for Chinese‑taught programmes; CSCA for Bachelor’s
- Willing to meet DHET/CSC contractual terms
Documents to prepare
- CSC online application form + host university submission (if required)
- SA ID & passport (valid until at least 1 Mar 2027), certified transcripts & certificates
- HSK/CSCA where applicable; study plan; two references for Master’s/PhD/Scholar
- Medical exam, police clearance; portfolio for arts fields (if applicable)
Key dates
Applications now open (Stage 2). **Deadline: 5 January 2026.** Studies start September 2026. Always confirm on the DHET portal.
How selection and placement work
DHET screens and nominates candidates; final selection by the China Scholarship Council. Preference may be given to priority fields and previously disadvantaged applicants.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Missing language tests (HSK/CSCA) where required
- Unlabelled or uncertified documents
- Applying to non‑recognised programmes
- Waiting until the deadline to submit
How to apply (step-by-step)
- Research suitable programmes at Chinese universities (campuschina.org)
- Complete the **CSC** application online and submit to host university if required
- Email the downloaded CSC form and supporting documents to the DHET address on the call
- Prepare certified academic records, HSK/CSCA (if applicable), references, medical & police forms
- Track communications from DHET/CSC for nomination and placement
After you submit
Monitor your email and the DHET portal. If nominated, follow instructions promptly for visa and travel arrangements.