The Chinese Government is offering scholarships for South African students to study at Chinese institutions starting in the 2025/26 academic year. The Department of Higher Education and Training is responsible for nominations
Application Deadline: 24th January 2025
Eligible Countries: South Africa
To be taken at (country): China
About the Award: The scholarship is offered for undergraduate (Bachelors) in the identified scarce skills, postgraduate (Masters or PhD) or non-degree Chinese language studies. Bachelor’s degree scholarships are taught in
Chinese and will only be awarded to applicants who already have the required level of Chinese proficiency (HSK 5 or above). Preference is given to applications for postgraduate studies.
Type: Undergraduate (Bachelors), Postgraduate (Masters or PhD)
Eligibility:
South African citizens in good health (medical check will be required for successful applicants);;
– Strong academic record with a minimum 65% average in previous studies;
– Availability to study in China from September 2025;
– Demonstrated interest in China and commitment to the development of South Africa;
– Applications in all fields of study except medicine will be considered;
– Preference will be given to postgraduate applicants, previously disadvantaged applicants and
applications in the following fields:
– Applicants must meet the minimum academic requirements for entry into a similar programme at a
South African university.
– Bachelor’s applicants must have HSK 5 certificate and be willing to study in Chinese.
Number of Awards: Not specified
Value of Award:
The Chinese Government provides the following:
The South African Government provides the following (subject to the availability of funds):
– One return economy airfare;
– Quarterly stipend;
– Once-off settlement allowance;
– Research funding (postgraduate only)
– Visa costs;
– Compulsory orientation programme before departure
Successful scholarship applicants will be required to sign a contract and return to South Africa upon
completion of studies
Duration of Programme:
| Chinese language studies | 1-2 | None | Up to 2 |
| Doctoral degree | 3-4 | 1-2 | 3-6 |
| Master’s degree | 2-3 | 1-2 | 2-5 |
| Bachelor’s degree | 4-5 | 1-2 | 4-7 |
How to Apply: Complete BOTH the DHET application form and start the Chinese Government online application on http://www.campuschina.org.
Submit the DHET application form with supporting documents listed here to chinaapplications@dhet.gov.za by 24 January 2025. Use the subject line: Chinese Scholarship Application, [Your surname].