Professionals in government, public-sector, research, and senior organisational roles who want to build high-level postgraduate expertise abroad should take a close look at the China MOFCOM Scholarship–CSC Programme 2026. This scholarship supports Master’s and PhD studies in China and is geared towards applicants with relevant work experience who can use the opportunity to strengthen cooperation, policy capacity, and technical leadership.
At a glance
Sponsor/host: Ministry of Commerce of the People’s Republic of China (MOFCOM), implemented with the China Scholarship Council (CSC)
Opportunity type: International postgraduate scholarship
Who it’s for: South African citizens with relevant academic background and at least 3 years of work experience, especially public officials, senior managers, academic staff, and researchers
Location: China
Study level: Master’s (1–2 years) and PhD (3 years)
Closing date: 6 June 2026
Last verified: 23 April 2026
High-value notes (read this first)
This is not a general-entry student scholarship. It is aimed at experienced professionals with a strong academic and work profile who can apply their training in public administration, trade, agriculture, education, health, technology, and related sectors. Applicants are strongly encouraged to submit by 20 May 2026 to allow enough time for review and recommendation, even though the final closing date is 6 June 2026.
The scholarship includes tuition, accommodation, a stipend, medical insurance, research support, and return airfare. Applicants must also be in good physical and mental health and must not already be studying in China or holding another Chinese government scholarship.
About the sponsor
The programme is funded by the Ministry of Commerce of the People’s Republic of China and implemented with the China Scholarship Council. It is designed to build high-end and interdisciplinary talent from developing countries while strengthening international cooperation and capacity in key sectors.
Source Link: DHET International Scholarships
What it covers
- Full tuition fees
- Teaching materials and research costs
- Dissertation supervision
- Monthly stipend
- On-campus accommodation
- Medical insurance
- Once-off resettlement allowance
- Round-trip international airfare, including annual home visits
Eligibility
- Must be a South African citizen
- Must be in good physical and mental health
- Must be under 45 years old
- Must have at least 3 years of relevant working experience
- Must hold a Bachelor’s degree for Master’s applications, or a Master’s degree for doctoral applications
- Must have relevant educational background or work experience related to the chosen programme
- Target group includes public officials, senior management staff, academic staff, and researchers
- Must be proficient in English
- Must not currently be studying in China or holding another Chinese government scholarship
Documents to prepare
- Completed application form (online and printed copy)
- Certified academic qualifications and transcripts
- Study plan or research proposal
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Two recommendation letters (one employer and one academic reference)
- Foreigner Physical Examination Form
- Proof of English proficiency
- Valid passport copy
- Police clearance certificate issued within the last 6 months
Closing date
6 June 2026. Early submission by 20 May 2026 is encouraged.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Applying without the required 3 years of work experience
- Submitting without a proper study plan / research proposal
- Leaving out the required employer and academic references
- Applying while already holding another Chinese government scholarship
- Waiting too long and missing the recommended early-submission window
How this opportunity was verified
Verified against the current DHET International Scholarships listing for the China MOFCOM Scholarship–CSC Programme 2026, including the closing date, eligibility rules, coverage, and application process.
How to apply
- Review the programme details and identify a suitable Master’s or PhD option through the AIBO / university listings.
- Apply online through the CSC Study in China portal.
- Select Programme Category: Type A and Agency Number: 00010.
- Submit the required documents to your chosen university and copy the application documents to the address indicated on the DHET page.