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The Chinese Government offers fully funded scholarships for South African students to study in China starting in the 2026/27 academic year. Scholarships cover undergraduate, postgraduate, and Chinese language studies, with priority fields like engineering and biotechnology. No prior Chinese language proficiency is needed for Bachelor’s programs; postgraduate programs are taught in English. Applications must be submitted to the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) by 30 September 2025. The scholarship includes tuition, accommodation, stipend, and additional support from the South African government.

Overview

The Chinese Government Scholarship for South African students is a fantastic opportunity to pursue higher education in China without financial burden. Managed by the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET), this scholarship supports undergraduate (Bachelor’s), postgraduate (Master’s or PhD), and non-degree Chinese language studies starting in September 2026. It covers tuition, accommodation, a stipend, and medical insurance, with additional benefits like airfare and visa costs provided by the South African government. This guide simplifies the application process, eligibility, and benefits to help you seize this opportunity.

Who Can Apply?

Eligible applicants must be South African citizens with a strong academic record (minimum 60% average) and a commitment to South Africa’s development. The scholarship prioritizes postgraduate students, previously disadvantaged individuals, and those applying in key fields like agriculture and technology. No Chinese language proficiency is required for Bachelor’s programs, making it accessible to many.

What Does the Scholarship Offer?

The scholarship provides comprehensive support, including tuition (RMB 20,000–45,000/year), accommodation, a stipend (RMB 30,000–42,000/year), and medical insurance. The South African government adds return airfare, a settlement allowance, and psychosocial support. This ensures you can focus on your studies and cultural experience in China.

How to Apply

To apply, complete the DHET application form and submit it with required documents (e.g., ID, academic records, motivational letter) to chinaapplications@dhet.gov.za by 30 September 2025. Shortlisted candidates will apply through the China Scholarship Council (CSC) portal in November 2025. Start preparing early to meet all requirements.

Chinese Government Scholarship for South African Students 2025

The Chinese Government Scholarship for South African students offer a life-changing opportunity to study in China during the 2026/2025 academic year. Administered by the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET), this fully funded scholarship supports undergraduate (Bachelor’s), postgraduate (Master’s or PhD), and non-degree Chinese language studies. With no Chinese language proficiency required for Bachelor’s programs and postgraduate courses taught in English, this scholarship is accessible to a wide range of South African students. This comprehensive guide covers eligibility, fields of study, benefits, application steps, and more to help you apply successfully.

What is the Chinese Government Scholarship for South African Students?

The Chinese Government Scholarship is a prestigious program aimed at fostering educational and cultural exchange between China and South Africa. For the 2026/2025 academic year, it offers South African students the chance to pursue:

• Undergraduate (Bachelor’s) degrees: Taught in Chinese, with a preparatory language course included.
• Postgraduate (Master’s or PhD) degrees: Taught in English, ideal for advanced studies.
• Non-degree Chinese language studies: Perfect for those interested in learning Mandarin.

The scholarship covers tuition, accommodation, a stipend, and medical insurance, with additional support from the South African government, including airfare and visa costs. Successful applicants must return to South Africa after their studies to contribute to national development.

Eligibility Requirements for the 2026/27 Scholarship

To qualify for the Chinese Government Scholarship for South African students, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Be a South African citizen in good health (a medical check is required for successful applicants).
• Have a minimum 60% average in previous studies.
• Be available to study in China from September 2026.
• Show interest in China and commitment to South Africa’s development.

Preference is given to:

• Postgraduate applicants.
• Previously disadvantaged individuals.
• Applicants in priority fields (listed below).

Education and Age Requirements:

Applicants with degrees from outside South Africa need SAQA verification. No Chinese language proficiency certificate is required for Bachelor’s programs, making this scholarship accessible to many.

Available Fields of Study

The Chinese Government Scholarship supports a variety of fields, with priority given to areas critical to South Africa’s development. Available fields include:

• 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

Choosing a priority field may increase your chances of selection, so align your application with your career goals and South Africa’s needs.

Scholarship Duration and Benefits

The scholarship duration varies by program, often including a preparatory Chinese language course:

Benefits Provided by the Chinese Government:

• Tuition: RMB 20,000–45,000 per year, depending on the program.
• Accommodation: RMB 8,400–12,000 per year.
• Stipend: RMB 30,000–42,000 per year.
• Medical Insurance: RMB 800 per year.

Additional Support from the South African Government:

• Return economy airfare.
• Midterm economy airfare.
• Monthly stipend/allowance.
• Once-off settlement allowance.
• Visa costs.
• Compulsory pre-departure orientation program.
• Psychosocial support services.
• Research support.

Successful applicants must sign a contract to return to South Africa after completing their studies, ensuring they contribute to the country’s growth.

Step-by-Step Application Process for the Chinese Government Scholarship

Applying for the Chinese Government Scholarship for South African students involves a two-stage process. Here’s how to get started:

1. Complete the DHET Application Form:
   • Download the form from the DHET International Scholarships website.
   • Fill it out accurately, ensuring all required fields are completed.
2. Prepare Supporting Documents:
   • All documents must be in PDF format and clearly named (e.g., SurnameNamePassport.pdf).
   • Required documents include:
     • Completed DHET application form.
     • Copy of South African ID.
     • Copy of Passport (valid until at least December 1, 2026; applicants without a valid passport can apply but must obtain one later).
     • Academic records/transcripts.
     • Degree certificates (for Master’s or PhD applicants; SAQA verification for foreign degrees).
     • Motivational letter (1 page, explaining your interest in the scholarship and field of study).
     • Two reference letters (from teachers, lecturers, or supervisors, on official letterhead with contact details).
     • Foreigner Physical Examination Form (for health clearance).
     • Non-criminal record report (issued within the last 6 months).
3. Submit Your Application:
   • Email all documents to chinaapplications@dhet.gov.za by 30 September 2025.
   • Use the subject line: “Chinese Scholarship Application, [Your Surname]”.
4. Await Shortlisting:
   • DHET will screen applications for eligibility.
   • Shortlisted candidates will receive instructions to apply through the China Scholarship Council (CSC) online portal in November 2025.

Tips for Success:

• Start gathering documents early to avoid last-minute stress.
• Ensure all PDFs are clear and properly labeled to prevent delays.
• For postgraduate applicants, securing admission documents (e.g., pre-admission letters from Chinese universities) can boost your chances.

How the Selection Process Works

DHET reviews all applications to ensure they meet the minimum eligibility criteria. Shortlisted candidates will be notified and guided to submit applications via the CSC online portal, which opens in November 2025. The China Scholarship Council makes the final selection of candidates and assigns host institutions in China. Applicants with admission documents from Chinese universities will receive priority.

Key Dates to Remember

Monitor your email for updates from DHET, as shortlisted candidates will receive further instructions.

Contact Information

For inquiries, email chinaapplications@dhet.gov.za. You can also visit the DHET International Scholarships website for additional details and the application form.

Why the Chinese Government Scholarship is a Great Opportunity

The Chinese Government Scholarship for South African students is more than financial support—it’s a chance to grow academically and culturally. Studying in China offers:

• World-Class Education: Access cutting-edge facilities and expertise in fields like engineering, biotechnology, and renewable energy.
• Cultural Immersion: Experience China’s rich history and modern advancements while learning Mandarin, a valuable global skill.
• Career Opportunities: Gain skills in priority fields that align with South Africa’s development needs.
• Global Networking: Build connections with international students and professionals.

Upon returning to South Africa, you’ll bring back knowledge and perspectives to contribute to fields like agriculture, technology, and climate change solutions.

Conclusion

The Chinese Government Scholarship for South African students is a unique opportunity to pursue fully funded studies in China for the 2026/27 academic year. With comprehensive support from both the Chinese and South African governments, this scholarship enables you to focus on your education and cultural experience. Start preparing your application now, ensure all documents are ready by 30 September 2025, and take the first step toward an exciting academic journey in China.