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Students preparing scholarship applications

China Scholarship Council

CSC Application Guide

Work through these seven steps in order. Each one includes practical guidance, tips, and links to the templates you'll need. Not sure where you fit yet? Get your bearings on the Start Here page first.

CSC Path is independent: we are not affiliated with the China Scholarship Council or any university, no one can guarantee selection, and applying through official portals is always free.

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Figures based on China Scholarship Council program information. Always verify current details on campuschina.org and your target university's admissions page.

  1. 1

    Choosing universities & programs

    Build a realistic, balanced shortlist of universities and programs matched to your background, budget, and the CSC funding channels.

  2. 2

    Contacting professors / getting an acceptance letter

    Reach out to potential supervisors professionally and request a pre-admission or support letter where that route expects one.

  3. 3

    Recommendation letters

    Secure two strong academic recommendation letters that speak credibly and specifically to your ability to succeed in graduate study.

  4. 4

    English proficiency certificate

    Prepare acceptable English-language proof: a registrar's medium-of-instruction certificate, IELTS/TOEFL, or HSK for Chinese-taught programs.

  5. 5

    Physical examination form

    Complete the Foreigner Physical Examination Form correctly and time it precisely - errors and expiry are among the most common causes of rejected applications.

  6. 6

    Study plan / research proposal

    Write a compelling study plan (Master's) or research proposal (PhD) of at least 800 words that proves clear goals, genuine fit, and readiness.

  7. 7

    Online application & document submission

    Submit accurately and on time through CGSIS and your university's own system, using the correct agency number, then track your result to visa and arrival.