Chinese Government Scholarship (CSC) Application Timeline & Guide

From research to arrival — every step, every deadline, every document. Track your CSC application progress in one place.

📋 Steps: 0 / 0 📄 Documents: 0 / 0

Preparation Phase ▼

Understand the three main Chinese Government Scholarship types and determine which one applies to you. Type A (Bilateral Program) is applied through your home country's embassy. Type B (Chinese University Program) is applied directly through the target university. Type C covers other pathways like provincial or university-specific scholarships. Choosing the right CSC scholarship type is the first step to successfully study in China.

Most applicants choose Type B (University Program) because it gives you more control over which university you attend. Type A depends on your country's quota allocation.
Applies to: Type AType BType C

Research Chinese universities that offer Chinese Government Scholarship (CSC) funding. Check QS rankings, program quality, city location, and CSC scholarship availability. Create a shortlist of 3-5 universities. Verify that your desired program accepts CSC-funded students. Not all universities are authorized to host CSC scholars, so confirm your target university is on the official CSC university list at campuschina.org.

Check if the university has a dedicated International Students Office with English support. This makes a huge difference during your studies.
Applies to: Type AType B

For Master's and PhD applicants, reach out to potential supervisors via email. Introduce yourself, share your research proposal, and ask if they accept CSC-funded students. A supervisor's acceptance letter significantly boosts your application.

Write a concise, professional email. Include: your background, research interest, why you chose this supervisor, and a brief CV attached. Professors receive many emails — keep it under 300 words.
Applies to: Type AType B

If applying for an English-taught program, take IELTS or TOEFL and aim for IELTS 6.0+ or TOEFL 80+. For Chinese-taught programs, you need HSK 3-5 (depending on the program level). Register for tests early — test dates fill up quickly. Language proficiency is a key requirement for the Chinese Government Scholarship, and missing the minimum score is one of the most common reasons for CSC application rejection. Undergraduate applicants should also check if the CSCA (China Scholastic Competency Assessment) is required for their intake year.

Even if you plan to study in English, having basic Chinese (HSK 2-3) gives you a significant advantage. Some universities prefer applicants with some Chinese ability.
Applies to: Type AType BType C

Collect all required documents: passport scan, highest degree certificate, academic transcripts, language test scores, recommendation letters (2 professors), personal statement, study plan, and foreigner physical examination form. Some documents need notarization and/or authentication.

Start notarization early! It can take 2-4 weeks depending on your country. Academic transcripts and degree certificates typically need notarization AND embassy authentication.
Applies to: Type AType BType C

Download the Foreigner Physical Examination Form from the CSC website. Visit a government-approved hospital for the examination. The form must be filled out in English, signed by the doctor, stamped with the hospital seal, and include attached lab reports.

The medical form is valid for 6 months. Don't do it too early! Make sure the hospital stamps every page and the doctor signs the photo section.
Applies to: Type AType BType C
Application Phase ▼

Create an account on the CSC online application system at campuschina.org. Click "Scholarship Application for Students" at the upper right corner. Fill in your personal information accurately. The system will generate an Application Number — save this carefully. You'll need it for the university application as well. The CSC online application portal is the official platform for all Chinese Government Scholarship applications, and your Application Number is required for both Type A and Type B submissions.

For Type B applicants: apply on the CSC portal AND on the university's own application portal. Both are required. Use the same Application Number on both.
Applies to: Type AType B

Complete the CSC online application form on campuschina.org. Upload all required documents in the specified formats (usually PDF). Double-check every field — errors can lead to rejection. The CSC portal typically closes around March 31, but individual university deadlines may be earlier or later.

Type A deadlines vary by country — many embassies set deadlines between February and March. Type B deadlines vary by university — most fall between March and May. Check your specific deadline and don't wait until the last day.
Applies to: Type AType B

Submit separate applications to each target university through their own admission portals. Provide your CSC Application Number. Some universities require additional materials (portfolio, research proposal, etc.). Pay attention to each university's specific deadline.

Apply to multiple universities to maximize your chances. Each university reviews CSC applications independently, so you can receive offers from several.
Applies to: Type BType C

For Type A (Bilateral Program) applicants: submit your application through the Chinese Embassy or Consulate in your home country. Each country has its own deadline and process — some countries close as early as February, others accept applications until March. Contact the education office of the embassy for specific instructions.

Type A quotas are allocated per country. Some countries have very few slots. Apply early and make sure your embassy recommends you — their endorsement is crucial. Check with your embassy as early as possible.
Applies to: Type A
Review & Interview Phase ▼

Universities review your application, academic qualifications, and documents. Some programs require an online interview or written test. The university makes a preliminary selection and recommends candidates to CSC. This process typically takes 1-2 months.

Some universities may contact you for an online interview via Zoom or WeChat. Prepare for questions about: your motivation, study plan, academic background, and why China.
Applies to: Type AType BType C

Some universities conduct online interviews or written assessments for shortlisted candidates. Prepare a self-introduction, research proposal presentation, and answers about your academic goals. Interviews are usually 15-30 minutes.

Test your internet connection and have a backup plan (mobile hotspot). Dress professionally. Have your documents ready to share on screen if asked.
Applies to: Type BType C

The China Scholarship Council (CSC) reviews all university-recommended candidates and makes the final decision. CSC evaluates: academic merit, program relevance, university recommendation strength, and bilateral agreements (for Type A).

CSC approval rates vary by country and program. PhD programs are generally more competitive than Master's. Having a strong supervisor recommendation letter helps significantly.
Applies to: Type AType B
Result & Admission Phase ▼

Successful Chinese Government Scholarship applicants receive two key documents: (1) CSC Scholarship Approval Notice from the China Scholarship Council, and (2) Admission Notice from the university. These documents are typically sent via email and/or the online portal between June and July. Once you receive both notices, you are officially a CSC scholar and can proceed with visa application and travel preparations to study in China.

Check your spam folder regularly! Some universities send important documents via email. Also check the CSC portal and university portal for status updates.
Applies to: Type AType BType C

Log into the CSC system and confirm your acceptance. Register with the university according to their instructions. You may need to pay a reservation fee or submit additional forms. Failure to confirm by the deadline will result in your scholarship being revoked.

Some universities require you to confirm within 7-10 days of receiving the offer. Don't delay — these deadlines are strict.
Applies to: Type AType BType C
Pre-Departure Phase ▼

With your Admission Notice and JW201/JW202 form, apply for an X1 student visa at the Chinese Embassy/Consulate in your home country. The X1 visa is for stays longer than 180 days. Processing typically takes 4-5 business days.

You need: valid passport, Admission Notice, JW201/JW202 form, completed visa application form (visaforchina.org), passport photos, and the Foreigner Physical Examination Form.
Applies to: Type AType BType C

Book your flight to China. Most universities provide airport pickup service on specific dates — check with your university. If university accommodation is included, confirm your room assignment. If not, research off-campus housing near your university.

Arrive 1-2 weeks before registration day. This gives you time to settle in, open a bank account, get a SIM card, and explore the campus area.
Applies to: Type AType BType C

Download essential apps (WeChat, Alipay, Baidu Maps, DiDi). Exchange some currency to CNY. Pack essentials and important documents in your carry-on. Join your university's international student WeChat group if available. Review the university's registration guide.

VPN services are restricted in China. Set up a reliable VPN before you arrive. Also, bring a few passport photos — you'll need them for residence permit, student ID, etc.
Applies to: Type AType BType C

Required Documents Checklist

Missing or incorrect paperwork is the #1 reason applications get rejected. Use this checklist to make sure nothing slips through the cracks. All documents must be scanned clearly and uploaded through the CSC application portal.

🪪 Identity Documents (2 items)
High

A scanned copy of your valid passport information page. Must be valid for at least 1-2 years beyond your expected study period.

💡 Scan in color at 300 DPI. Ensure all details are clearly readable.
⚠️ Passport must be valid beyond the expected graduation date.
High

Recent white-background passport photos (35mm x 45mm). Typically 4-6 photos required.

💡 Bring 8-10 extra photos to China — you'll need them for residence permit, student ID, library card, etc.
🎓 Academic Documents (4 items)
High

Scanned copy of your highest educational degree certificate. Must be notarized and authenticated.

💡 If you haven't graduated yet, provide a pre-graduation certificate from your university. Submit the final certificate before enrollment.
⚠️ Must be notarized AND authenticated by the Chinese Embassy.
High

Complete academic transcripts from your most recent educational institution. Must be notarized.

💡 Transcripts should show all courses, grades, and credits. If not in English or Chinese, provide a certified translation.
⚠️ Must be notarized. Some universities require transcripts from all previous institutions.
High

A detailed study plan (for Bachelor/Master) or research proposal (for PhD). Should include: objectives, methodology, timeline, and expected outcomes. Typically 800-2000 words.

💡 For PhD: include a literature review and clearly state how your research contributes to the field. Align your proposal with the supervisor's research area.
High

The China Scholastic Competency Assessment (CSCA) score report, required for undergraduate applicants starting from 2026. The CSCA evaluates academic aptitude and is administered by CSC. Check the CSC online application portal for test dates, registration, and preparation materials.

💡 The CSCA is a new requirement for CSC undergraduate applicants. Register early and prepare using the official study materials on campuschina.org.
⚠️ This requirement applies to CSC undergraduate scholarship applicants starting from the 2026 intake. Check the latest CSC guidelines for any updates.
🗣️ Language Proficiency Certificates (2 items)
High

HSK test score certificate. For Chinese-taught Bachelor's: HSK 3 (score 180+) or HSK 4. For Master's: HSK 4 (score 180+) or HSK 5. For PhD: HSK 5 (score 180+). Some top universities may require higher scores. If you don't meet the HSK requirement, you may first enroll in a 1-year Chinese language preparatory course.

💡 HSK scores are valid for 2 years. Schedule your test early — results take 4-6 weeks to arrive. Starting from 2026, undergraduate applicants may also need to take the CSCA (China Scholastic Competency Assessment).
⚠️ Some universities accept HSK 3 (180+) for Bachelor's with a supplementary Chinese course. Requirements vary — always check the specific university's policy.
High

IELTS (Academic) or TOEFL score report. Most universities require IELTS 6.0+ or TOEFL 80+. Some top universities require IELTS 6.5+ or TOEFL 90+.

💡 Check each university's specific language requirements — they vary significantly. Some accept Duolingo English Test as an alternative.
⚠️ Some universities waive this for native English speakers from certain countries.
🏥 Health & Medical Documents (1 items)
High

The official CSC medical examination form, completed by a government-approved hospital. Must include: general examination, blood tests (HIV, syphilis, etc.), chest X-ray, and ECG.

💡 The form must be in English, signed by the examining physician, stamped with the hospital's official seal. Lab reports must be attached.
⚠️ Valid for 6 months only. Don't do it too early! Must be from a government-designated hospital.
✉️ Recommendation Letters (1 items)
High

Two letters from professors or associate professors. Letters should comment on your academic ability, research potential, and suitability for the program.

💡 Choose recommenders who know you well, not just those with the highest titles. Provide them with your CV and study plan so they can write a detailed, specific letter.
⚠️ Must be signed by the recommender, on official letterhead, with contact information.
💰 Financial Documents (1 items)
Low

Proof of financial capacity. Some programs require a bank statement showing sufficient funds, even for scholarship applicants. Typically not required for CSC applicants but may be needed for the visa application.

💡 CSC scholarship covers your expenses, but the embassy may still ask for proof of funds for the visa application.
📎 Other Documents (4 items)
High

A comprehensive academic CV including: education history, research experience, publications, awards, work experience, skills, and references.

💡 Keep it to 2-3 pages. Use a clean, professional format. Highlight research experience and any China-related activities.
High

An official acceptance or willingness letter from a professor at the target university who agrees to supervise your studies. Extremely important for PhD applications.

💡 Not all universities require this, but having one dramatically increases your chances. Start contacting supervisors 3-4 months before the deadline.
⚠️ Some universities issue a pre-acceptance letter through their portal after the supervisor approves.
Medium

A certificate from your home country's police or relevant authority confirming no criminal record. Required by some universities and for the residence permit application.

💡 Apply for this early — processing can take 2-4 weeks. Some countries call this a "Certificate of Good Conduct" or "Background Check".
⚠️ Must be authenticated by the Chinese Embassy in some cases.
Medium

List of published academic papers, research achievements, or creative portfolio (for art/design programs). Not always required but strengthens PhD applications significantly.

💡 Include DOI links or PDF copies of your best publications. This demonstrates research capability to potential supervisors.

💰 Estimated Upfront Costs

The scholarship covers tuition, housing, and a monthly stipend — but getting there isn't free. Here's what you'll actually spend before the scholarship kicks in.

ExpenseEstimated Cost (CNY)Notes
Passport & Photos¥200–¥500Varies by country
Document Notarization¥500–¥1,5002-4 weeks processing
Embassy Authentication¥300–¥800Per document
Language Test (IELTS/TOEFL)¥1,500–¥2,200One-time fee
HSK Test (if applicable)¥350–¥550Per level
Medical Examination¥500–¥1,500Government-approved hospital
Visa Application¥300–¥600X1 visa fee
Flight to China¥3,000–¥8,000One-way, varies by country
Total Estimated¥6,650–¥15,650Before scholarship starts

Scholarship Types — Compare & Choose

Not sure which CSC type to apply for? Here's a side-by-side comparison of coverage, stipends, and who qualifies for each.

Chinese Government Scholarship — Type A (Bilateral Program) Type A — Bilateral Program

Type A Chinese Government Scholarships are offered through bilateral agreements between China and other countries. Applicants apply through the Chinese Embassy/Consulate in their home country. Each country receives a specific quota allocation. The embassy nominates candidates, and CSC makes the final decision. This is the most common route for students whose countries have formal educational cooperation agreements with China.

Must be a citizen of a country that has a bilateral agreement with China. Age limits: under 25 for Bachelor's, under 35 for Master's, under 40 for PhD. Non-degree language students: under 45.
Tuition Fee Covered Accommodation Covered Monthly Living Stipend Medical Insurance One-time Settlement Allowance
CSC Scholarship Monthly Stipend Amount by Degree Level
Degree ProgramMonthly Stipend (CNY)
Bachelor's Degree¥2,500 / month
Master's Degree¥3,000 / month
PhD Degree¥3,500 / month
Chinese Government Scholarship — Type B (Chinese University Program) Type B — University Program

Type B is the most popular Chinese Government Scholarship pathway for international students who want to study in China. Applicants apply directly through designated Chinese universities. Over 280 universities participate in this CSC program. You apply on both the CSC online application portal (campuschina.org) and the university portal. The university reviews applications and recommends qualified candidates to CSC for final approval.

Open to all international students. Age limits: under 25 for Bachelor's, under 35 for Master's, under 40 for PhD. Non-degree language students: under 45. Must apply through a participating university.
Tuition Fee Covered Accommodation Covered Monthly Living Stipend Medical Insurance One-time Settlement Allowance
CSC Scholarship Monthly Stipend Amount by Degree Level
Degree ProgramMonthly Stipend (CNY)
Bachelor's Degree¥2,500 / month
Master's Degree¥3,000 / month
PhD Degree¥3,500 / month
Chinese Government Scholarship — Type C (Other Sources) Type C — Other Sources

Type C covers scholarships provided through other channels, including provincial government scholarships, municipal scholarships, and university-specific CSC-funded programs. Application processes vary by provider.

Requirements vary by program and provider. Check the specific program details for eligibility criteria.
Tuition Fee Covered Accommodation Covered Medical Insurance
Belt and Road Scholarship BRI — Belt and Road

A special CSC initiative for students from Belt and Road Initiative partner countries. Provides full coverage similar to Type A/B. Designed to strengthen educational ties between China and BRI nations.

Citizens of Belt and Road partner countries. Check the official list of eligible countries on the CSC website.
Tuition Fee Covered Accommodation Covered Monthly Living Stipend Medical Insurance One-time Settlement Allowance
CSC Scholarship Monthly Stipend Amount by Degree Level
Degree ProgramMonthly Stipend (CNY)
Bachelor's Degree¥2,500 / month
Master's Degree¥3,000 / month
PhD Degree¥3,500 / month
Provincial Government Scholarship Provincial Scholarship

Many Chinese provinces offer their own scholarships for international students. Coverage and amounts vary by province. Common provinces offering scholarships: Zhejiang, Jiangsu, Hubei, Sichuan, Beijing, Shanghai, Guangdong.

Requirements vary by province. Generally open to all international students applying to universities in that province.
Tuition Fee Covered Accommodation Covered
University-Specific Presidential Scholarship University Scholarship

Many top Chinese universities offer their own presidential or excellence scholarships for outstanding international students. These are separate from CSC but can sometimes be combined with partial CSC funding.

High academic achievers. Requirements and coverage vary by university. Contact the International Students Office for details.
Tuition Fee Covered Accommodation Covered

FAQ

What is the CSC scholarship?

It's a fully funded scholarship from China's Ministry of Education for international students. Covers tuition, accommodation, a monthly stipend (¥2,500–¥3,500 depending on degree level), medical insurance, and a one-time settlement allowance.

How do I apply?

Register on the CSC portal, fill out the form, upload your documents, and submit via Type A (through your embassy) or Type B (directly to the university). The timeline above walks you through each step.

What's the deadline for 2026?

Type A deadlines vary by country but usually fall in February–March 2026. Type B deadlines depend on the university, typically March–May 2026. Check campuschina.org for exact dates.

What documents do I need?

Passport, passport photos, notarized degree certificates and transcripts, language scores (HSK/IELTS/TOEFL), two recommendation letters, a study plan or research proposal, the Foreigner Physical Examination Form, and a police clearance certificate. Undergraduate applicants may also need a CSCA score report.

Type A vs. Type B vs. Type C — what's the difference?

Type A: Apply through your country's Chinese embassy based on bilateral agreements.
Type B: Apply directly to the university — the route most students choose.
Type C: Provincial, municipal, and university-specific programs with their own rules.

How much is the monthly stipend?

Undergraduates get ¥2,500/month, Master's students ¥3,000/month, and PhD students ¥3,500/month. On top of that, tuition, accommodation, insurance, and a settlement allowance are all covered.

Is it hard to get?

It's competitive, but doable with solid preparation. Your academic record, study plan, and (for grad programs) a supervisor's acceptance letter matter most. PhD is generally tougher than Bachelor's. See our detailed guide on CSC success rates for more.

2 Comments

  1. Alex Duong says:

    ‌As a prospective international student coming to China, I find this CSC Application Timeline & Guide highly valuable as it provides an intuitive cost overview. Based on the content you provided, I offer the following suggestions:
    1.‌Add interactivity and personalized prompts to the timeline. For example: In “Step 3: Contact Potential Supervisors,” add links to email templates and advice on handling common replies. In “Step 8: Submit CSC Online Application,” use color coding to highlight the different deadlines for ‌Type A (Embassy Channel)‌ and ‌Type B (University Channel)‌ to avoid confusion.
    ‌Reason‌: The current timeline’s explanations for Type A/B differences are scattered. An interactive design helps users quickly locate key milestones for their specific application path.
    2.‌Enhance the document checklist with “pitfall avoidance” tips. For example:‌
    Notarization & Authentication‌: Note “Both notarization AND embassy authentication are required. Notarization alone is invalid.”
    Medical Examination Form‌: Remind “The hospital must stamp every page, lab reports must be attached, and it’s valid for only 6 months.”
    ‌Recommendation Letters‌: Suggest “Recommender’s email should avoid Gmail; use an institutional email instead.”
    ‌Reason‌: The attachment repeatedly emphasizes that “document errors are a common reason for rejection,” but the current checklist only lists requirements, lacking error-prevention guidance.

    Reply
  2. Joe Lonkoe says:

    Would you add ‌Integrate key links and tools? Add a “Quick Toolkit” in the page sidebar or top section to centralize the following resources:
    1.CSC Official Portal.
    2.Foreigner Physical Examination Form Download Link.
    3.Directory of Chinese Embassy Education Offices.
    4. HSK/CSCA Test Registration Portal.
    ‌Reason‌: Users need to search across multiple websites for resources. Integrating these links improves efficiency.

    Reply

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