Confucius Institute Scholarship (CIS) 2027

Overview

The Confucius Institute Scholarship funds international students who want to study Chinese language, teaching Chinese as a foreign language, or related cultural fields at Chinese universities. Open to citizens of all countries with a Confucius Institute presence (most African nations qualify). Around 5,000 awards per year globally. The 2027 cycle closes 1 April 2027.

Benefits

• Full tuition fees at the host Chinese university.
• Free on-campus accommodation.
• Monthly stipend: CNY 2,500 to CNY 3,500 depending on programme level.
• Comprehensive health insurance.
• Programme duration from 4 weeks (summer) to 4 years (Bachelor + Masters).

Eligibility

• Non-Chinese citizen aged 16 to 35.
• Holding (or scheduled to obtain) a HSK certificate at appropriate level for chosen programme (HSK 3 for Bachelor, HSK 4 for Masters, HSK 5 for teaching Chinese internationally).
• Recommended by a Confucius Institute, Chinese Embassy, partner university, or organisation.
• Strong academic record at most recent qualification.
• Not currently enrolled at a Chinese university.

How to apply

1. Open the CIS portal at the source link to register an account.
2. Identify a recommending body (Confucius Institute, Chinese Embassy, or partner university).
3. Submit the online application: academic transcripts, HSK certificate, two recommendation letters, study plan, and the recommending body’s nomination.
4. Submit before 1 April 2027.
5. Final scholars are announced by July 2027 for September 2027 entry.