Applications are now open for the 2026-2027 UNESCO/China Co-Sponsored Fellowships. Eligible candidates from invited Member States can apply for Master’s, Doctoral, and Visiting Scholar programmes in China. Apply by 23 January 2026.
UNESCO/China Co-Sponsored Fellowships 2026-2027: Advancing Education, Research, and Global Collaboration
The UNESCO/The People’s Republic of China – The Great Wall Co-Sponsored Fellowships Programme for 2026-2027 represents a unique opportunity for students and researchers from developing countries to access high-quality education and research in China. Launched as part of UNESCO’s commitment to human resource development, international collaboration, and knowledge exchange, the programme offers advanced study opportunities across a broad range of academic fields, including education, culture, communication, science, and technology.
Programme Overview
The 2026-2027 edition of this fellowship programme will co-sponsor seventy-five (75) fellowships, of which twenty-seven (27) are newly available for candidates from 135 developing Member States spanning Africa, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, Europe, and the Arab region. The fellowships are intended to strengthen international academic cooperation, develop local expertise, and foster sustainable socio-economic development in participant countries.
Fellows can pursue Master’s and Doctoral degrees or participate as Visiting Scholars (General or Senior) at selected Chinese universities. The duration of study varies: Master’s and Doctoral programmes range from 2 to 5 years, while Visiting Scholar programmes typically last one year. Depending on the programme and university, courses may be taught in English or Chinese, with Chinese-taught programmes requiring proficiency levels of HSK 3 or 4, depending on the applicant’s level of study.
UNESCO places a particular emphasis on gender equality, Africa, and Small Island Developing States (SIDS). Women candidates and applicants from African nations and SIDS are strongly encouraged to apply.
Eligible Member States
The fellowship programme is open to candidates from a diverse range of regions:
- Africa: 46 countries, including South Africa, Nigeria, Kenya, Ghana, Uganda, Zambia, Tanzania, and Zimbabwe.
- Asia and the Pacific: 38 countries, including India, Indonesia, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Vietnam, and Fiji.
- Arab States: 13 countries, including Egypt, Morocco, Tunisia, and Yemen.
- Latin America and the Caribbean: 26 countries, including Brazil, Mexico, Colombia, and Argentina.
- Europe: 12 countries, including Albania, Serbia, and Poland.
This wide-reaching inclusion ensures that a diverse pool of talented individuals from developing nations can access China’s world-class educational institutions.
Programme Benefits and Opportunities
The UNESCO/China Fellowships provide comprehensive support for scholars pursuing advanced studies or research, offering an unparalleled opportunity to develop academic and professional skills, enhance cross-cultural understanding, and contribute to global sustainable development. Fellows gain access to:
- Advanced academic programmes at selected Chinese universities.
- Mentorship and guidance from experienced supervisors and scholars.
- Opportunities to conduct independent research or study under structured programmes.
- A multicultural academic environment, facilitating exchange with peers from across the globe.
- Exposure to cutting-edge research, innovation, and best practices in diverse fields.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet specific requirements depending on the programme level:
Visiting Scholar Programmes:
- General Scholars: Must hold a high school diploma and be under 45 years old.
- Senior Scholars: Must hold a Master’s degree or an Associate Professor position (or above) and be under 50 years old.
- English proficiency is required; Chinese-taught programmes require HSK Level 3.
Degree Programmes:
- Master’s Degree: Bachelor’s degree holders under 35 years old.
- Doctoral Degree: Master’s degree holders under 40 years old.
- English proficiency is required; Chinese-taught programmes require HSK Level 4.
- Applicants must meet academic admission requirements of their chosen Chinese universities.
- Applicants must be in good physical and mental health.
How to Apply
The UNESCO/China Co-Sponsored Fellowship has a structured application process that requires close coordination with the applicant’s National Commission for UNESCO:
- Review the Application Guidelines: Candidates should thoroughly read the official guidelines to understand programme requirements and submission procedures.
- Consult the National Commission: Applicants must submit applications through their home country’s UNESCO National Commission. These commissions provide guidance on national procedures and pre-selection.
- Contact Target Universities: Candidates are encouraged to communicate with their preferred Chinese universities to obtain pre-admission or acceptance letters. Applications with pre-admission documents may be prioritized.
- Online Application: Submit all necessary documents via the Chinese Government Scholarship Information System at Campus China.
- Submission to National Commission: Applications must be sent to the National Commission by 23 January 2026. Only applications endorsed by the National Commission will be considered.
- Nomination to UNESCO: National Commissions submit nominations to UNESCO by 10 February 2026. Only endorsed candidates are accepted by UNESCO.
Supporting documents typically include academic transcripts, degree certificates, proof of language proficiency, health certificates, and pre-admission letters where applicable.
Selection and Evaluation
The selection process considers academic merit, leadership potential, and alignment with UNESCO’s development priorities. Chinese universities evaluate nominated candidates, and UNESCO approves selections, taking into account gender equality and diversity. National Commissions are informed of selected candidates to facilitate their preparation for study in China.
Conclusion
The UNESCO/China Co-Sponsored Fellowships Programme 2026-2027 provides a transformative opportunity for young scholars, researchers, and visiting academics from developing nations. By combining financial support, academic mentorship, and international exposure, the programme not only fosters individual academic growth but also contributes to the socio-economic and scientific development of participating countries. Aspiring scholars with the vision to advance knowledge, promote cultural exchange, and build sustainable development solutions are strongly encouraged to apply.
Application Deadlines:
- National Commission Submission: 23 January 2026
- Official Nomination by National Commissions: 10 February 2026
For detailed information, applicants should consult the official UNESCO Fellowship Guidelines and their National Commission.
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