Shenzhen University Fully Funded Scholarships 2026 Available to International Students

The global race for academic excellence just got more exciting — Shenzhen University (SZU) has officially opened applications for its Doctoral Programs for International Students (March 2026 Intake), offering fully funded scholarships to the brightest minds worldwide. Nestled in the heart of China’s tech capital, Shenzhen — often dubbed the “Silicon Valley of Asia” — SZU is inviting ambitious scholars to dive into cutting-edge research and innovation with tuition waivers, monthly stipends, and elite supervision.

From October 10 to November 30, 2025, passionate researchers from across the globe have the chance to secure one of China’s most coveted PhD spots — a fully funded opportunity that promises not just education, but transformation. If you’ve been waiting to launch your research career on a global stage, this is your moment to join SZU’s world of innovation, discovery, and academic excellence.

Available Programs and Study Duration

SZU offers a wide range of PhD programs across multiple disciplines under the March 2026 intake. Interested candidates are advised to consult the SZU PhD Programs for International Students (March 2026 Intake) list for detailed academic options.

All programs are full-time and typically last 3 to 4 years, with a maximum study duration of 5 years depending on the field and research progress.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must meet the following key requirements:

1. Citizenship and Health – Only non-Chinese citizens with valid foreign passports, in good health and with sound moral standing, are eligible.
2. Educational Background – Applicants must possess a Master’s degree or higher and be under 40 years old at the time of application. Those still completing their Master’s degree can apply with a pre-graduation certificate but must present the official diploma upon enrollment.

3. Language Requirements –

   Program Type	Field of Study	Required Language Test	Minimum Score / Requirement	Exemption Criteria
   Chinese-taught Programs	Science & Engineering	HSK Level 4	Minimum score of 180	Native Chinese speakers may be exempted upon SZU’s verification
   Chinese-taught Programs	Liberal Arts, Medicine, Arts	HSK Level 5	Minimum score of 180	Native Chinese speakers may be exempted upon SZU’s verification
   English-taught Programs	All Fields	Proof of English Proficiency	Valid English language test result (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL, etc.)	Native English speakers may be exempted upon SZU’s verification

SZU Scholarship Application Procedure (March 2026 Intake)

Application Window:
Shenzhen University (SZU) will begin accepting online applications for its Doctoral Programs for International Students (March 2026 Intake) from October 10, 2025 to November 30, 2025. Candidates are strongly encouraged to apply early, as incomplete or late applications will not be reviewed.

Step 1: Contact a Potential Supervisor

Before beginning the online application, applicants must identify and contact a potential PhD supervisor from their intended research area. This is a crucial step, as SZU requires all doctoral candidates to secure a Letter of Recommendation from a potential supervisor who agrees to guide their research.

• Review the list of potential supervisors provided by SZU for your selected program.
• Send a well-written email introducing your academic background, research interests, and intended research proposal.
• Request the supervisor’s endorsement.
• Once the supervisor confirms support, include this signed recommendation letter in your application package.

Step 2: Register Online via SZU’s Application Portal: After securing your supervisor’s recommendation, you must complete your official registration online.

• Visit the College of International Exchange (CIE) portal at http://lxs.szu.edu.cn.
• Click on the “Apply Now” section for international doctoral admissions.
• Create a personal account and fill in your basic personal information, academic background, and intended program of study.
• Enter your visa and passport details accurately, as they will be required for the student visa process later.

Step 3: Upload Required Documents: Once registered, log in to the system to upload all the required supporting materials in PDF format. Each document must be clear, properly labeled, and, if not in English or Chinese, accompanied by a notarized translation.

Key documents include:

• Degree certificates and academic transcripts.
• Letters of recommendation (including one from your SZU supervisor).
• A detailed personal statement or study plan (approximately 1500 words).
• Passport copy, photo, resume, physical examination form, and non-criminal record certificate.

Incomplete or unclear uploads may lead to disqualification, so applicants should ensure all materials are accurate and complete before submission.

Step 4: Pay the Application Fee: Before final submission, applicants must upload proof of payment for the application fee of 400 RMB (or 60 USD).

• The fee must be paid via bank wire transfer to the designated SZU account.
• The payment is non-refundable, even if the applicant is not admitted.
• Applications without payment confirmation will not be processed or reviewed.

After uploading your payment voucher, review your entire application, confirm submission, and await a confirmation email.

Step 5: Application Review and Next Steps: Once the application period closes on November 30, 2025, SZU’s expert review committee will evaluate all submissions. Shortlisted candidates may be invited for an online or in-person interview.

• Pre-admission results will be released in December 2025 via email.
• Official admission confirmations and digital acceptance letters will be sent in January 2026.

By following this structured application guide, prospective international PhD candidates can ensure a smooth and complete submission to Shenzhen University’s Doctoral Program for March 2026 Intake — one of China’s most competitive and research-driven academic opportunities

List of Scholarships Available at Shenzhen University for March 2026 Intake

SZU provides multiple scholarship opportunities for exceptional doctoral students:

Additionally, supervisors provide annual allowances of at least 12,000 CNY for academic research or exchange purposes.

The SZU Doctoral Scholarship Programs for International Students (March 2026 Intake) offer a golden opportunity for ambitious scholars to immerse themselves in China’s dynamic academic environment. With generous scholarships, international supervision, and research opportunities in Shenzhen — the “Silicon Valley of China” — this program stands out as a gateway to global academic success.