If you’ve ever dreamed of studying in one of the world’s most dynamic research environments, this is your moment. The University of Chinese Academy of Sciences (UCAS) — the educational arm of China’s top research body, the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) — has officially opened applications for the UCAS Scholarship for International Students 2026-2027.
This prestigious scholarship is designed to attract talented students, researchers, and future innovators from all over the world. It provides international students with the financial support, institutional resources, and academic environment to pursue a Master’s or Doctoral degree, or to engage in research, joint study, or academic visits at UCAS colleges and CAS institutes.
With over 100 top-tier research institutes across China, UCAS is the perfect destination for those seeking advanced education coupled with hands-on research exposure — and this scholarship makes that dream attainable.
UCAS 2026-2027 Scholarship Overview: Two (2) Tiers of Support
The UCAS Scholarship for International Students consists of two types of awards — the Full Scholarship and the Partial Scholarship. Each is tailored to meet different academic and financial needs of international applicants, ensuring that brilliant minds worldwide have an opportunity to study at UCAS.
Sponsorship Package of UCAS Scholarship for 2026 Cohort
The Full Scholarship offers comprehensive financial assistance that allows international students to focus entirely on their studies and research. It includes a complete tuition fee waiver, ensuring that Doctoral students are exempted from an annual tuition fee of RMB 40,000, while Master’s students are exempted from RMB 30,000 per year.
In addition to tuition support, UCAS provides a monthly stipend that guarantees a sustainable lifestyle during the study period. Doctoral students receive a total stipend of no less than RMB 3,500 per month, while Master’s students are entitled to RMB 3,000 per month. The stipend is jointly supported by UCAS, the student’s host supervisor, and the faculty or institute, with research assistantship opportunities offered based on academic performance.
Accommodation is another major advantage. UCAS provides basic on-campus accommodation to awardees studying at Beijing-based faculties and institutes. For students placed at CAS institutes outside Beijing, accommodation is arranged either directly by UCAS during concentrated study periods or by the local host institute throughout the scholarship duration.
The scholarship also includes medical insurance worth RMB 800 per year, covering essential health expenses, and students are exempted from the RMB 600 application fee. The total duration of funding under the full scholarship is up to 36 months, with no possibility of extension.
Partial UCAS Scholarship Benefits
The Partial Scholarship is suitable for students who require partial financial assistance. It covers the tuition waiver, medical insurance, and application fee waiver, providing significant relief for scholars already receiving other forms of funding.
The duration remains the same — up to 36 months for Master’s and Doctoral students, and between 6 to 24 months for visiting students participating in joint academic or research programs.
Eligibility Criteria for UCAS Scholarship for 2026-2027
The UCAS Scholarship welcomes applications from talented international candidates who are eager to conduct research or pursue postgraduate studies in China. Applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Nationality: Must not hold Chinese citizenship and must have a valid foreign passport.
- Language Proficiency: Must be proficient in English or Chinese.
- Age Limits:
- PhD applicants: born on or after January 1, 1991
- Master’s applicants: born on or after January 1, 1996
- Senior visiting students: born on or after January 1, 1981
- Regular visiting students: born on or after January 1, 1986
- Academic Standards: Must meet UCAS admission criteria for international students.
- Commitment: Cannot take up other assignments or enroll in another full-time program during the scholarship period.
Step by Step Process to Apply for UCAS 2026 Scholarship
Applying for the UCAS Scholarship is a completely online process designed to make your application smooth and efficient. Follow these steps carefully to maximize your chances:
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Prepare Required Documents:
Review the official UCAS “Call for 2026 Master’s/Doctoral Degree Programs for International Students” or the “Call for Visiting Students Programs” to ensure you have all required materials, including academic transcripts, research proposal, and reference letters. -
Access the UCAS Online Admission System:
Visit the UCAS Online Admission System for International Students and create an account. Choose “UCAS Scholarship for International Students” as your preferred funding option. -
Complete the Application Form:
Fill out your personal, academic, and research details accurately, upload all required files, and ensure your host supervisor/institute confirms your application. -
Submit Before the Deadline:
For the 2026 intake, the deadline for both Master’s and PhD programs under the UCAS Scholarship is January 31, 2026 (Beijing Time). Applicants for the Senior Visiting and Regular Visiting Programs have more flexibility since there is no fixed deadline, and applications are accepted on a rolling basis throughout the year.