The University of Science and Technology of China (USTC), one of China’s leading research universities, has opened applications for the USTC Fellowship 2026 for international students seeking to pursue Master’s degree programmes. This Chinese fully funded USTC fellowship provides exceptional global applicants with the opportunity to study in China’s dynamic academic environment under generous financial support.
Overview of USTC Fellowship Levels
The USTC Fellowship offers two distinct funding levels to accommodate different types of applicants and academic excellence:
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Level A: This is the fully funded category, supported by the Ministry of Education (Chinese Government Scholarship), Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS-ANSO Scholarship), or USTC itself. It covers full tuition fees, comprehensive medical insurance, on-campus accommodation or subsidy, and a monthly stipend of 3,000 RMB.
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Level B: This category is partially funded by USTC and includes a tuition waiver. In addition, students can apply for Teaching Assistant (TA) or Research Assistant (RA) subsidies after enrollment to support their studies.
Applicants may apply for both Level A and Level B simultaneously; however, only one scholarship can be awarded per student based on the university’s comprehensive evaluation.
Do you qualify for fully funded USTC fellowship of 2026 batch?
To qualify for the USTC Fellowships for the class of 2026, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Nationality: Non-Chinese citizens with valid passports, and in good physical and mental health.
- Educational Background: Applicants must hold a Bachelor’s degree or an equivalent qualification by July 2026. Those awaiting graduation must submit a pre-graduation certificate.
- Age Limit: Must be under 35 years old as of September 1, 2026.
- Language Proficiency:
- For Chinese-taught programmes, applicants must pass HSK Level 4 or above.
- For English-taught programmes, valid IELTS, TOEFL, or equivalent proof of English proficiency is required.
- Applicants whose previous education was conducted in Chinese or English may request test exemptions.
- Admission Requirements: Applicants must satisfy USTC’s general criteria for international students.
- Employment Restrictions: Awardees cannot hold any other employment during the fellowship period.
Application Timeline
The application period for the USTC Fellowship 2026 runs from October 16, 2025, to January 31, 2026. Interested candidates are strongly encouraged to apply early to ensure all documents are processed before the deadline.
How to Apply?
- Create an Account: Visit the USTC Online Application System and register for an account.
- Select Fellowship Level(s): Choose either Level A, Level B, or both when applying.
- Upload Documents: Submit all required materials electronically through the system.
- Interviews: Applicants who meet initial requirements will be contacted via email for online interviews organized by USTC’s departments.
Required Application Documents:
- Valid passport copy (minimum one-year validity).
- Study plans or Research Proposal (at least 1000 words).
- Curriculum Vitae (CV).
- Two recommendation letters from professors or associate professors.
- Foreigner Physical Examination Form.
- Language proficiency certificates (HSK/IELTS/TOEFL or equivalent).
- Degree certificates and transcripts notarized by the Ministry of Education or equivalent authority.
- Official proof of student status (if still enrolled) or employment status (if currently working).
All documents not in English or Chinese must include notarized translations. Please note that submitted materials will not be returned, regardless of the outcome.
Why Apply for the USTC Fellowship?
USTC stands as a global hub for innovation, hosting top-tier faculties and research facilities in science, engineering, and technology. The fellowship provides international students the chance to study alongside world-class researchers, gain access to advanced laboratories, and develop a global career in academia or industry.
If you aspire to pursue a Master’s degree in China with full or partial funding, the USTC Fellowship 2026 is your gateway to an exceptional academic experience.
The application deadline for the USTC Fellowship 2026 for Master’s Degree Programmes is January 31, 2026. The application period officially opens on October 16, 2025, and will remain active until the deadline date.