The UCAS Scholarship for International Students 2026 offers full funding for Master’s and PhD studies in China, including tuition, stipends, accommodation, and medical insurance. Apply by 31 January 2026.
The UCAS Scholarship for International Students 2026 is now open, presenting a significant opportunity for outstanding international students seeking fully funded postgraduate education in China. Administered by the University of Chinese Academy of Sciences (UCAS) in collaboration with its affiliated Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) institutes, the scholarship supports a wide range of academic pathways, including Master’s degrees, Doctoral studies, joint programs, and visiting research appointments.
As one of Asia’s leading research-intensive institutions, UCAS is globally recognised for excellence in science, engineering, technology, and interdisciplinary research. Through this scholarship, the university aims to attract talented students from around the world and strengthen international academic collaboration.
Overview of the UCAS Scholarship 2026
The UCAS Scholarship for International Students is a full scholarship designed to remove financial barriers to advanced study and research. It is open to students applying for Master’s and PhD programmes, as well as joint training and visiting scholar programmes hosted at UCAS campuses and CAS research institutes across China.
Successful applicants benefit from comprehensive financial and academic support, enabling them to focus fully on their studies and research contributions.
Host Institution and Study Locations
The scholarship is hosted by the University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, together with its extensive network of CAS institutes, many of which are located in Beijing and other major research hubs across China. These institutes are internationally respected for cutting-edge research in fields such as natural sciences, engineering, medicine, environmental studies, and emerging technologies.
Eligible Programmes
The UCAS Scholarship 2026 supports the following academic tracks:
- Master’s Degree Programmes
- Doctoral (PhD) Degree Programmes
- Joint Programmes between UCAS and international partner institutions
- Research and Academic Visiting Programmes (senior or regular visiting students)
Both coursework-based and research-intensive programmes are included, provided they are hosted by UCAS or an affiliated CAS institute.
Financial Coverage and Benefits
The UCAS Scholarship offers full financial coverage, making it one of the most competitive funding opportunities for international postgraduate students in China.
Key benefits include:
1. Tuition Waiver
- RMB 40,000 per year for PhD students
- RMB 30,000 per year for Master’s students
2. Monthly Living Stipend
- PhD students receive no less than RMB 3,500 per month
- Master’s students receive no less than RMB 3,000 per month
These stipends may include income from research assistantships or institutional support.
3. Accommodation Support
- Basic student accommodation is provided, primarily in Beijing, subject to availability.
4. Medical Insurance
- Comprehensive medical insurance for international students during the study period.
5. Application Fee Waiver
- Applicants are exempt from paying the UCAS application fee.
Duration of Funding
The length of funding depends on the type of programme:
- Master’s and PhD Programmes: Up to 36 months
- Visiting Student Programmes: Between 6 and 24 months, depending on the research arrangement
Application Process
The application process for the UCAS Scholarship is structured and competitive. Prospective students are encouraged to begin preparations early.
Step 1: Identify a Supervisor
Applicants are strongly encouraged to identify and contact a suitable UCAS faculty member or CAS institute supervisor whose research aligns with their academic interests. Securing a willing host supervisor significantly strengthens an application.
Step 2: Online Application
Applicants must submit their application through the UCAS Online Admission System for International Students. During the application process, candidates must select the option “UCAS Scholarship for International Students.”
Step 3: Document Submission
All required academic and personal documents must be uploaded and submitted before the deadline. Incomplete or late applications are generally not considered.
Application Deadlines
- Master’s and PhD Programmes:
31 January 2026 (Beijing Time) - Senior and Regular Visiting Programmes:
Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, with no fixed deadline.
Applicants are advised to confirm programme-specific requirements and timelines, as some departments may have additional internal review processes.
Why Study at UCAS?
UCAS offers a unique academic environment that combines advanced coursework with direct access to China’s leading national research institutes. Students benefit from world-class laboratories, internationally recognised supervisors, and exposure to large-scale research projects addressing global scientific and societal challenges.
In addition to academic excellence, international students gain cultural exposure, professional networks, and experience in one of the world’s most dynamic research ecosystems.
Final Thoughts
The UCAS Scholarship for International Students 2026 represents a rare and valuable opportunity for motivated scholars seeking high-quality, fully funded postgraduate education in China. With generous financial support, flexible study options, and access to premier research institutions, the programme is well suited to students with strong academic backgrounds and clear research goals.
Prospective applicants are encouraged to begin preparations early, identify suitable supervisors, and submit complete applications well before the January 2026 deadline.
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