The University of Science and Technology of China (USTC) has opened applications for its prestigious International Winter Camp 2026, inviting global students to spend ten unforgettable days exploring China’s academic excellence, scientific innovation, and cultural depth.
Held from December 22 to December 31, 2025, the camp offers an immersive blend of academic lectures, Chinese language learning, national laboratory tours, and cultural excursions — all hosted at one of Asia’s top-ranked universities. For students eager to broaden their international perspective, this program provides the perfect gateway into China’s scientific community and vibrant modern life.
A Gateway to Academic and Cultural Discovery
USTC’s International Winter Camp is more than a short-term exchange — it’s a comprehensive experience that combines education, culture, and research exposure. Participants attend expert-led lectures, join interactive lab visits inside world-class national facilities, and take part in Chinese language courses designed for beginners.
Alongside academics, the camp includes guided cultural site visits across Hefei — one of China’s fastest-growing technology hubs. From exploring historical landmarks to tasting authentic local cuisine, students gain a real sense of the country’s innovation-driven lifestyle.
Courses and Activities
Each day at the Winter Camp unfolds through a carefully balanced program that encourages both learning and exploration.
- Basic Chinese Language Courses: Daily sessions help participants build essential language skills for communication and cultural understanding.
- Academic Lectures: Delivered by USTC professors and researchers, the lectures introduce key developments across science, engineering, and innovation.
- Laboratory Tours: Participants visit national research centers and technology labs to witness China’s advanced scientific infrastructure.
- Cultural Excursions: Organized field trips offer first-hand experiences of China’s cultural heritage and modern urban transformation.
This dynamic mix ensures that participants leave not only with new academic insights but also with global friendships and cultural fluency.
Program Details
Duration: December 22 – December 31, 2025
Location: Hefei, Anhui Province, China
Application Deadline: Thursday, November 20, 2025 (UTC/GMT+8)
The full program fee is 3,000 CNY, which includes tuition, accommodation in a shared twin room, and all field trips.
USTC Fellowship and Scholarships for Winter Program
Outstanding international applicants may qualify for the USTC Fellowship, which can partially or fully cover:
- Travel subsidies
- Local accommodation
- Medical insurance
- Living stipends
This scholarship initiative reflects USTC’s mission to make world-class learning experiences accessible to talented students from all backgrounds. Selected fellows will benefit from both financial assistance and recognition as ambassadors of academic exchange.
Eligibility Criteria
To apply for the Winter Camp, students must meet the following requirements:
- Non-Chinese citizens with a valid foreign passport, in good physical and mental health.
- Demonstrated proficiency in English, as it will be the language of instruction.
- Must be a current undergraduate or master’s student, or a recent graduate who wishes to pursue further study at USTC.
Applicants who have previously participated in a USTC International Winter or Summer Camp are not eligible to reapply, ensuring that new participants can experience the opportunity.
How to Apply?
The entire application process is completed online through the USTC International Student Portal.
Here’s how to get started:
- Register on the USTC application platform.
- Navigate to Start Application → Non-Degree Programs → Winter Camp.
- Complete the online application form, upload all required materials (fields marked with an asterisk are mandatory), and submit before the deadline.
It is recommended to prepare your documents in advance, including academic transcripts, proof of enrollment, and a brief personal statement highlighting your motivation for joining the program.
Why Join the USTC International Winter Camp 2026?
For students around the world, the USTC Winter Camp is a unique opportunity to witness the future of science and technology firsthand. Participants learn within a truly international environment — one that unites young scholars from diverse countries through shared curiosity and collaboration.
The program also serves as an ideal stepping stone for future academic pathways at USTC, which consistently ranks among China’s most prestigious research universities. Alumni of past camps have gone on to pursue full-degree scholarships, joint research projects, and exchange programs under the USTC umbrella.
Moreover, the Winter Camp allows students to experience China’s multicultural blend of tradition and innovation — from mastering the basics of Mandarin to observing experiments at cutting-edge research facilities. It’s a short program that leaves a lifelong academic and cultural impact.
Application Deadlines
The application deadline for the USTC International Winter Camp 2026 is November 20, 2025 (UTC/GMT+8). All interested applicants must complete and submit their online applications with the required documents before this date to be considered for selection.
The program will take place from December 22 to December 31, 2025, offering participants a ten-day academic and cultural immersion experience at the University of Science and Technology of China (USTC) in Hefei, China.