Chinese Government Scholarship (CGS)

The Chinese Government Scholarship (CGS) — also known as the CSC Scholarship — is a fully funded scholarship program established by the Ministry of Education (MOE) of the People’s Republic of China. It is administered by the China Scholarship Council (CSC), a non-profit organization responsible for the enrollment and management of international students under government sponsorship.

Purpose and Goals

The CSC Scholarship aims to:

• Promote mutual understanding and friendship between China and other countries;
• Develop educational and cultural exchange;
• Attract outstanding international students, researchers, and professionals to pursue higher education in China;
• Support China’s universities in becoming more international and globally competitive.

Types of Programs Covered

The scholarship supports studies at different levels of higher education, including:

• Undergraduate programs (Bachelor’s degree)
• Master’s degree programs
• Doctoral (Ph.D.) programs
• Non-degree programs (such as Chinese language training, exchange, or research visits)

Scholarship Benefits

Most CSC scholarships are fully funded, meaning they typically cover:

• Tuition fees
• Accommodation (free dormitory or housing subsidy)
• Monthly living stipend
  • Bachelor’s: RMB 2,500/month
  • Master’s: RMB 3,000/month
  • Doctoral: RMB 3,500/month
• Comprehensive medical insurance

Application Channels

There are three main ways to apply:

1. Chinese Embassy or Consulate (Bilateral Program) – for applicants nominated by their home government.
2. Chinese Universities (University Program) – for applicants applying directly to universities with CSC slots.
3. Other Special Programs – such as the Silk Road Program, ASEAN Program, or MOFCOM Scholarship for government officials and professionals.

Application Period

Applications usually open between December and April each year, depending on the specific program and university.

Eligibility Requirements

Applicants must generally:

• Be non-Chinese citizens in good health;
• Meet age and academic requirements for the desired degree level;
• Have strong academic records and language proficiency (Chinese or English, depending on the program);
• Not hold any other Chinese scholarship simultaneously.

Administration and Selection

All applications are evaluated by the China Scholarship Council, which reviews academic qualifications, language ability, and recommendation letters. Successful candidates receive an official Admission Notice and JW201 or JW202 form for the student visa application.