Introduction
Planning to learn Chinese while studying in China with full financial support? The Confucius Institute Scholarship (CIS) 2026–2027 is now open for international students interested in Chinese language, culture, and teaching programs. This scholarship is ideal for students, future educators, and researchers who want high-quality education in China without financial burden.
Scholarship Overview
The Confucius Institute Scholarship is a fully funded Chinese government scholarship that supports international learners at more than 150 universities across China. The program focuses on promoting Chinese language education and cultural exchange worldwide.
It is highly competitive and attracts students from diverse countries each year.
Host Country
- China
Study Level
Depending on the program, applicants can study at:
- Short-term language programs
- One-semester or one-year courses
- Bachelor’s degree (BTCSOL)
- Master’s degree (MTCSOL)
Benefits
The Confucius Institute Scholarship provides comprehensive financial coverage, including:
- Full tuition fee waiver
- Free university dormitory accommodation (shared room)
- Basic medical insurance
- Monthly living allowance
- Possible international airfare support (varies by country)
Monthly Stipend Details
- 2,500 RMB/month for Chinese language and culture programs or BTCSOL
- 3,000 RMB/month for MTCSOL students
- Optional off-campus housing support of 700 RMB/month (if approved)
For programs longer than one year, academic performance is reviewed annually to maintain funding.
Eligible Nationalities
- Open to non-Chinese citizens from all countries
- Applicants must be in good physical and mental health
Available Fields of Study
The scholarship mainly supports:
- Chinese Language Studies
- Chinese Culture Programs
- Teaching Chinese as a Foreign Language
- Research stays and academic exchange
- Selected doctoral and conference participation programs
Scholarship Categories & Duration
Chinese Language & Culture Programs
- One Academic Year: 11 months (September–July or March–January)
- One Semester: 5 months (Winter or Summer term)
- Four-Week Programs: Short-term courses during summer or winter breaks
Teacher Training Programs
- BTCSOL (Bachelor’s): 4 academic years
- MTCSOL (Master’s): 2 academic years
- Combined Program: 1 year language study + 2 years MTCSOL
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet the following conditions:
- Aged 16–35 years (up to 45 for in-service Chinese teachers)
- Undergraduate applicants must be under 20 years old
- No Chinese nationality
- Meet required HSK language scores based on the chosen program
- Educational qualifications:
- High school certificate (language courses & BTCSOL)
- Bachelor’s degree (MTCSOL)
- Strong academic background and interest in Chinese studies
Apply Also:
Required Documents
Prepare the following documents for your application:
- Valid passport
- Passport-size photo
- Academic certificates and transcripts
- HSK and HSKK/BCT results (if required)
- Recommendation letter(s) from Confucius Institute
- Motivation statement (around 300 words)
- Certified translations (if documents are not in English or Chinese)
Application Process (Step-by-Step)
Follow these steps to apply successfully:
- Register on the Confucius Institute Scholarship online system
- Select your preferred program and universities (choose up to two)
- Upload all required documents
- Submit your application before the deadline
- Submit printed documents to:
- Your local Confucius Institute, or
- Chinese Embassy/Consulate, or
- Approved education centers linked to Hanban
- Wait for results and visa documents
Application Deadline
- For September intake: Early May (usually May 1)
- For March intake: Early November
Official Application Link
👉 Apply via the official CIS portal:
http://www.chinesetest.cn
