Fully Funded Chinese Government Scholarship (CGS) 2025/26 | Study in China for Free

By Scholarshipalert4u / October 31, 2025

Description

If studying in China has been on your radar, the Chinese Government Scholarship (CGS) 2025/26 is one of the most comprehensive opportunities available right now. Managed by the China Scholarship Council (CSC), this program supports thousands of international students each year, helping them pursue undergraduate, master’s, and PhD degrees at top Chinese universities — completely tuition-free and with a monthly stipend.

Let’s walk through what this scholarship actually offers, who can apply, and how to make your application stand out.

What is the Chinese Government Scholarship (CGS)?

The Chinese Government Scholarship (CGS) is a fully funded program established by the Ministry of Education of China to promote international education exchange and strengthen mutual understanding between China and other countries.

It’s available to students from all over the world who want to study in China, either in Chinese-taught or English-taught programs, across a wide range of fields — from engineering, medicine, and computer science to economics, international relations, and art.

This scholarship supports more than 270 Chinese universities, including prestigious institutions like:

• Tsinghua University
• Peking University
• Zhejiang University
• Fudan University
• Harbin Institute of Technology

What Does the CGS 2025/26 Cover?

Here’s what makes the CGS one of the most generous government scholarships in the world:

• Full tuition fee coverage – no cost for your degree program.
  • Accommodation – either free university dormitory housing or a monthly housing allowance.
  • Monthly stipend for living expenses:
    • Bachelor’s: CNY 2,500/month
    • Master’s: CNY 3,000/month
    • PhD: CNY 3,500/month
  • Comprehensive medical insurance (covering hospitalization and medical services).

Some programs may also assist with visa processing and international travel arrangements (check embassy guidelines for your country).

Eligibility Criteria

To apply for the CGS 2025/26, you should meet these general requirements:

• Be a non-Chinese citizen and in good health.
• Meet the age and academic qualifications for your desired level:
  • Undergraduate: under 25 years old, with a high school diploma.
  • Master’s: under 35 years old, with a bachelor’s degree.
  • PhD: under 40 years old, with a master’s degree.
• Demonstrate strong academic performance and research interest.
• Meet the language requirements (HSK for Chinese-taught programs, IELTS/TOEFL for English-taught ones).
• For embassy-based programs, meet the criteria of your local Chinese Embassy or Consulate.

How to Apply for the CGS 2025/26

The application process depends on which type of scholarship you apply for — usually through either:

1. Chinese Embassy or Consulate (Type A)
   • You apply via your local embassy’s website or scholarship portal.
   • This route is suitable for applicants who don’t yet have a confirmed university offer.
2. Chinese University (Type B)
   • Apply directly through a participating university that has a CGS quota.
   • You’ll need to fill out the CSC online application form and the university’s internal portal.
3. Other channels (Type C)
   • Includes agreements between governments, organizations, or universities.

Important Deadlines

The application window for the 2025/26 intake opened in late October 2025 and typically closes between January and February 2026, depending on your country or university.

You’ll find results published around June or July 2026, with classes starting in September 2026.

Required Documents

Before you start, prepare the following materials (always verify with your local embassy or university):

• Completed CSC Online Application Form
• Valid passport copy
• Highest diploma and transcripts (notarized)
• Study plan or research proposal
• Two recommendation letters (for postgraduate applicants)
• Medical examination form (Foreigner Physical Exam)
• Language proficiency certificate (HSK/IELTS/TOEFL)
• Non-criminal record certificate

Tip: Keep all files clear, translated, and properly labeled — messy documentation is a common reason for rejection.

Why You Should Apply

If you’re aiming to build a global academic or professional profile, this is one of the most strategic scholarships to apply for.

• You’ll earn a degree recognized worldwide, especially valuable in research and technology fields.
• You’ll experience China’s growing academic ecosystem, research funding, and global networks.
• You’ll gain language and cross-cultural experience that sets you apart in any career.

Plus, the scholarship covers nearly everything — meaning your focus stays on your studies, not your expenses.

Popular Fields of Study

The CGS offers flexibility across almost every discipline, including:

• Engineering and Information Technology
• Medicine and Public Health
• Economics and International Business
• Environmental Science
• Chinese Language and Culture
• Law, Public Policy, and International Relations

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the Chinese Government Scholarship (CGS)?

The Chinese Government Scholarship (CGS), managed by the China Scholarship Council (CSC), is a fully funded program that allows international students to study for bachelor’s, master’s, or PhD degrees in China. It covers tuition fees, accommodation, medical insurance, and provides a monthly living stipend, making it one of the most generous scholarships available worldwide.

2. Who is eligible for the CGS 2025/26 program?

To qualify for the CGS 2025/26, applicants must:

• Be non-Chinese citizens in good health.
• Hold the required degree level (high school, bachelor’s, or master’s).
• Meet the age limit — under 25 for bachelor’s, under 35 for master’s, and under 40 for PhD programs.
• Demonstrate academic excellence and research potential.
• Meet the language requirements (HSK for Chinese-taught or IELTS/TOEFL for English-taught programs).

3. What does the Chinese Government Scholarship cover?

The CGS is fully funded, which means it includes:

• Full tuition fee waiver
• Free on-campus accommodation or housing allowance
• Monthly stipend:
  • CNY 2,500/month for undergraduates
  • CNY 3,000/month for master’s students
  • CNY 3,500/month for PhD students
• Comprehensive medical insurance

Some students may also receive relocation or travel support, depending on embassy guidelines.

4. How can I apply for the CGS 2025/26?

You can apply through one of the following routes:

1. Embassy Track (Type A): Apply via your local Chinese Embassy or Consulate, which then recommends candidates to Chinese universities.
2. University Track (Type B): Apply directly to a Chinese university that participates in the CGS program.
3. Other Channels (Type C): Through international organizations or bilateral agreements.

Applications are submitted through the CSC Online Application System.

5. What documents are required for the CGS application?

Commonly required documents include:

• Completed CSC Online Application Form
• Valid passport copy
• Highest diploma and transcripts (notarized)
• Two recommendation letters
• Study or research plan
• Language certificate (HSK, IELTS, or TOEFL)
• Medical examination form
• Non-criminal record certificate

Always check your embassy’s or university’s website for updated requirements.

6. What is the application deadline for CGS 2025/26?

The CGS 2025/26 application period usually starts in October 2025 and closes between January and February 2026, depending on your country or the university you’re applying to. Results are typically announced around June or July 2026, and the academic year begins in September 2026.

Conclusion

The Chinese Government Scholarship (CGS) 2025/26 isn’t just a financial award — it’s a gateway into one of the world’s fastest-advancing education systems. With full funding, robust academic support, and an expanding global network, it’s designed for students who want to combine education, research, and cross-cultural experience.

So if you’ve ever imagined studying in China, now is the time to act. Check your local embassy’s site or visit the official CSC portal (campuschina.org) to start your application.

Disclaimer:

ScholarshipAlert4U.com provides scholarship information solely for educational and informational purposes. We are not affiliated with any official scholarship body or university. While we strive for accuracy, details may change without notice. Always verify information from the official scholarship source before applying.