The Chinese Government Scholarship – Type B, also known as the Chinese University Program (CUP), is one of the most prestigious and competitive scholarships offered by the Government of China. It allows international students to pursue Master’s and PhD programs at selected Chinese universities with full financial support.
If you want a scholarship that covers tuition, accommodation, living allowance, and medical insurance, this is one of the best opportunities available.
This guide breaks down everything you need to know for a successful application: eligibility, benefits, documents, procedures, deadlines, and insider tips.
1. What Is the Chinese Government Scholarship – Type B?
The Type B scholarship is administered by the China Scholarship Council (CSC) and awarded directly through Chinese universities, not through embassies.
It is designed to:
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Attract top international students
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Support high-quality graduate education
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Strengthen academic cooperation across the world
Under Type B, applicants apply directly to universities, and each university recommends successful candidates to CSC for final approval.
Who Can Apply?
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International students (non-Chinese citizens)
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Master’s applicants: under age 35
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PhD applicants: under age 40
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Applicants with excellent academic performance
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Applicants who meet university-specific admission criteria
2. Scholarship Coverage (What You Get)
The Type B scholarship is fully funded:
1. Tuition Fees
Covers 100% of tuition for the entire duration of the program.
2. Accommodation
Free university dormitory or accommodation subsidy.
3. Monthly Stipend
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Master’s: 3,000 RMB/month
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PhD: 3,500 RMB/month
4. Comprehensive Medical Insurance
Up to 800 RMB per year.
5. Registration & Laboratory Fees
Covered by CSC and the host university.
3. Eligible Programs & Fields of Study
The Type B scholarship is available for full-time graduate programs:
Master’s Degree (2–3 years)
PhD (3–4 years)
Available fields include:
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Engineering & Technology
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Medicine & Life Sciences
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Business & Economics
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Law & International Relations
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Computer Science & Artificial Intelligence
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Agriculture
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Education
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Arts & Humanities
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Environmental Science
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Architecture & Urban Planning
Most programs are taught in:
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Chinese (Mandarin)
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English (for selected courses)
Applicants for Chinese-taught programs may need HSK level requirements.
4. Top Universities That Offer Type B (Chinese University Program)
Examples of participating universities include:
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Tsinghua University
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Peking University
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Zhejiang University (ZJU)
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Shanghai Jiao Tong University
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Harbin Institute of Technology (HIT)
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Beihang University (BUAA)
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Huazhong University of Science & Technology (HUST)
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Nanjing University
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Shandong University
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Fudan University
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Jilin University
Each university has its own quota, eligibility rules, and application timeline.
5. Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for the Type B scholarship, applicants must meet:
General CSC Requirements
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Must be a non-Chinese citizen
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Must be mentally and physically healthy
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Must meet age requirements
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Should not receive any other Chinese scholarship at the same time
University Requirements
May include:
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GPA requirements (e.g., 3.0–3.5/4.0 minimum)
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Language tests (IELTS, TOEFL, or HSK)
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Passport validity
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Academic research background (especially for PhD)
6. Required Documents
The standard document package includes:
✔ CSC Online Application Form
✔ University application form (if required)
✔ Degree certificates & transcripts (notarized)
✔ Passport (valid for at least 1 year)
✔ Study plan / Research proposal (800–1000 words)
✔ Two recommendation letters
✔ Physical Examination Form (Foreigner’s Medical Exam)
✔ Language proficiency test results
✔ Published articles or research (PhD)
✔ CV/Resume
✔ Non-criminal record certificate
Some universities may request additional documents such as:
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Supervisor acceptance letter (strongly recommended for PhD)
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Portfolio (for arts/architecture students)
7. How to Apply (Step-by-Step Procedure)
Step 1 – Choose Eligible Universities
Visit the official websites of top universities and confirm:
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They offer the Chinese University Program
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Your program of interest is available
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Language requirement and deadlines
Step 2 – Contact Supervisors (Mostly for PhD Programs)
This increases your acceptance rate. Send:
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CV
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Research proposal
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Academic achievements
Step 3 – Apply on the CSC Portal
Go to: https://studyinchina.csc.edu.cn/
Select:
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Type B in the application category
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Enter the agency number of the university
Fill all required information.
Step 4 – Submit the University Application
Many universities require a second application on their portal.
Step 5 – Upload All Documents & Pay Fees (if applicable)
Some universities may charge an application fee.
Step 6 – Wait for University Review
The university evaluates your documents and submits your nomination to the CSC.
Step 7 – Final Selection by CSC
CSC gives the final approval.
Step 8 – Scholarship Result Released (May–August)
Successful applicants receive an:
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Admission Letter
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CSC Scholarship Award Letter
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Visa application documents
8. Deadlines (Typical Timeline)
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University application period: December – April
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CSC portal application: January – April
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University pre-admission results: March – May
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CSC final results: June – August
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Arrival in China: September
Each university has unique deadlines—always verify.
9. Why You Should Apply for the Type B Scholarship
✔ Full financial support
✔ High-quality education and research environment
✔ Access to globally ranked universities
✔ Excellent laboratory and research facilities
✔ Multicultural student community
✔ Post-graduation opportunities in China and internationally
10. Tips to Increase Your Chances of Winning the Scholarship
1. Write a strong study plan or research proposal
Clearly showcase your academic goals and why you chose the university.
2. Secure a supervisor early (for PhD)
This greatly boosts your acceptance chances.
3. Maintain a high GPA
Academic excellence is crucial.
4. Apply early
Do not wait until the deadline.
5. Prepare professional recommendation letters
Choose professors who know your academic strengths well.
6. Submit complete documents
Missing documents can disqualify your application.
7. Apply to more than one university
This increases your chances significantly.
11. Final Thoughts
The Chinese Government Scholarship – Type B (Chinese University Program) remains one of the most attractive opportunities for international students who want to pursue high-quality graduate studies in China without financial stress.
With full funding, access to world-class laboratories, and strong academic networks, the scholarship can be a transformative step in your academic and professional journey.