Imagine spending your weekends hiking the Great Wall, exploring the Forbidden City, or diving into the tech hub of Zhongguancun—all while earning a world-class degree.
Now, imagine doing it without the heavy burden of tuition fees.
If you have been looking for a sign to take your education international, this is it. The Beijing Government Scholarship (BGS) is officially open, and it is designed to bring the best global talent to the heart of China.
Whether you are looking for a PhD, a Bachelor’s degree, or just a year to master the Chinese language, here is everything you need to know to secure this opportunity.
What is the Beijing Government Scholarship 2026 Cohort?
The BGS is a fully or partially funded scholarship established by the Beijing Municipal Government. It aims to attract excellent international students and scholars to study at Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) located specifically in Beijing.
Important: You cannot hold this scholarship if you are already awarded the Chinese Government Scholarship (CSC).
Which Category Are You?
The scholarship covers various levels of study. Check below to see where you fit:
- Degree Seekers (Undergraduate, Master’s, PhD): Coverage for up to 4 academic years.
- Chinese Language Students & Senior Scholars: Coverage for 1 academic year.
- General Scholars: Coverage for 1 academic year.
- Exchange Students: Coverage for 1 academic year.
Eligibility: Do You Make the Cut?
To apply, you must be a non-Chinese citizen in good health. You also need to meet specific age and education requirements depending on your program:
| Program Level | Educational Requirement | Age Limit |
| Undergraduate | Senior High School Diploma | Under 30 |
| Master’s | Bachelor’s Degree | Under 35 |
| Doctoral (PhD) | Master’s Degree | Under 40 |
| General Scholar | Bachelor’s (or 2 years of undergrad) | Under 50 |
| Senior Scholar | Master’s or Associate Professor title | Under 50 |
| Language Studies | Senior High School Diploma | Under 60 |
When and How to Apply?
Unlike some scholarships where you apply to a central government portal, for the BGS, you apply directly to the University.
- Choose your University: Pick a Higher Education Institution (HEI) in Beijing eligible to enroll scholarship students.
- Check the Deadline: Applications generally close by the end of February 2026.
Note: Specific dates vary by university, so contact your target university immediately. - Submit Your Application: Send your documents directly to the university’s international student office.
List of Universities Offering Beijing Government Scholarships in 2026
The Beijing Government Scholarship is offered through selected universities across the capital, enabling international students to study in one of China’s top academic hubs. Below is a streamlined list of key Beijing universities currently offering this scholarship.
| University | Notes |
|---|---|
| Beijing Normal University (BNU) | Actively offers the Beijing Government Scholarship for international students across multiple programs. |
| Beijing Institute of Technology (BIT) | Provides the BGS for admitted international students at undergraduate and postgraduate levels. |
| Beijing University of Chemical Technology (BUCT) | Participates in the Beijing Government Scholarship scheme for new international students. |
| Beijing University of Posts and Telecommunications (BUPT) | Offers BGS funding support for selected international applicants. |
| Beijing University of Technology (BJUT) | Included among universities administering the scholarship for international students. |
The Essential Document Checklist
Gather these documents early. Missing paperwork equals immediate disqualification!
- Application Form: https://english.beijing.gov.cn/studyinginbeijing/scholarshipapplications/202006/t20200617_1926391.html
- Notarized Diploma & Transcripts: Must be the highest degree held.
- Foreigner Physical Examination Form: Required if studying for 6+ months.
- Study plan/Research Plan: Degree/Research students: Minimum 400 words (Study plan) or 800 words (Research plan).
- Art/Music Portfolio: Required only for arts applicants (submit your own works).
- Guardian Documents: Required if you are under 18.
Note: Submit everything truly and correctly. Application documents are not returned, regardless of the outcome.
What Happens After You Apply?
- Selection: The university assesses your application.
- Notification: If successful, you will receive your Admission Notice and Visa Application Form (JW201) roughly three months before the semester begins.
- Visa: Take your original Admission Notice, JW201 form, Physical Exam form, and passport to the Chinese Embassy to apply for an X Visa.
- Registration: You must register at the university on time. If you are late without permission, you forfeit the scholarship.
Pro-Tip for Success
This scholarship is competitive. Your “Study Plan” is your chance to shine—don’t just copy a template. Explain why Beijing, why that specific university, and how your research will contribute to your field.
The deadline is approaching fast (End of February 2026). Start your application today!