China Scholarship Programme 2026/27 by the German Academic Scholarship Foundation – Fully Funded One-Year Academic & Language Study in China
About the China Scholarship Programme 2026/27
The German Academic Scholarship Foundation (Studienstiftung des deutschen Volkes) has announced the China Scholarship Programme 2026/27, for all international students, it offering a offering a fully funded, one-year academic and language immersion in the People’s Republic of China.
This flagship exchange initiative, historically funded by the Alfried Krupp von Bohlen und Halbach Foundation (1986–2024) and now supported by the Federal Ministry of Research, Technology and Space (BMFTR), provides 15 scholarships to highly qualified students from across Germany each year.
Programme Objectives: Why China, Why Now?
From being the “workbench of the world” and evolving in a technological and innovation powerhouse, China’s global significance is unmatched. The programme aims to foster mutual understanding by equipping young scholars with:
In-depth language proficiency
Cultural intelligence through first-hand experience
Insights into China’s political, educational, and societal developments
Exposure to the Chinese university and scientific research ecosystem
This opportunity is ideal for individuals who want to actively contribute to Germany-China relations or planning to start international business with China or living in China in the future.
Overview of the German Academic Scholarship Foundation (Studienstiftung)
The Studienstiftung des deutschen Volkes is Germany’s oldest and most famous scholarship foundation, which was established in 1925. It eventually supports the top 0.5% of students in Germany, selected through a highly competitive process. The foundation startted byaiming to support future leaders who showed academic excellence, social responsibility, and broad intellectual interests.
Key highlights:
Funded by the Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF)
Over 13,000 current scholarship holders
Known for supporting study abroad, research projects, and interdisciplinary learning
Alumni include Nobel Prize winners, federal ministers, and top academics
Participating in a Studienstiftung program helps not only in terms of financial support but also allow the opportunity to learn Chinese language.
Scholarship Benefits at a Glance
🧾 Financial Benefits
Study Allowance: €300 per month
Living Allowance: Up to €855/month (based on BAföG eligibility)
Health & Long-Term Insurance: Subsidy if applicable
International/Foreign Allowance: €350 monthly + additional €100 BAföG foreign supplement
Travel Grant: Up to €1,425 for roundtrip international travel
Tuition Fee Coverage: Entirely waived by the China Scholarship Council (CSC)
Language Preparation: Three-week intensive Chinese language course in March (pre-departure)
Non-Financial Support
Full access to the Studienstiftung educational network
Access to alumni and professional networks
One-on-one academic and logistical advising
Pre-departure seminar and post-return academic support
Continued eligibility for Studienstiftung support after the China program
Detailed Breakdown of Financial Support
Here’s a summarize look for the financial support structure:
| Expense | Covered By | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Study Allowance | Studienstiftung | €300 one-time grant |
| Monthly Living Allowance | Based on BAföG guidelines | Up to €855/month |
| General Overseas Grant | Studienstiftung | €350 |
| International Add-on | For existing scholars | €100/month |
| Travel Grant | Studienstiftung | Up to €1,425 |
| Health & Care Insurance | If applicable | Allowance provided |
| Tuition Fees in China | CSC | 100% covered |
This comprehensive package ensures students can fully focus on learning and cultural exchange without financial stress.
Timeline and Application Process
| Stage | Details |
|---|---|
| 📅 Deadline | October 1, 2025 |
| 📋 Application Mode | Submit application and documents as a PDF via email to [email protected] |
| 📍 Pre-selection | By end of November 2025 – Some external applicants invited to a selection seminar |
| 🇨🇳 CSC Placement | Apply to Chinese universities via the China Scholarship Council in February 2026 |
| 🈴 Language Course | March 2026 – Intensive training in Chinese |
| 🎓 Preparatory Seminar | Late June to Early July 2026 |
| ✈️ Departure | September 2026 – Begin studies in China |
Who Can Apply?
Students from all academic disciplines (except art and design)
Must have completed at least 2 semesters of undergraduate study
Strong academic track record
No prior Chinese language knowledge required, but it’s welcomed
Both existing Studienstiftung scholars and new applicants may apply
German citizenship preferred; however, international students enrolled in German universities can also check their eligibility
Ineligible Projects
Please note that the following cannot be funded:
Postgraduate study or research after completion of a Master’s or state exam
Study aiming toward a Chinese degree (Bachelor/Master)
One-semester exchange programs
Double degree programs
Internship-only stays
Embracing Diverse Life Experiences
The program especially encourages applicants from underrepresented backgrounds, including but not limited to:
Individuals with chronic illness or caregiving responsibilities
Students from non-academic or economically disadvantaged backgrounds
Individuals with refugee or migration histories
Those with lived experiences of racism, anti-Semitism, or other forms of marginalization
Upcoming Info Sessions (No Registration Required)
Two online Zoom sessions are scheduled where interested students can learn about the program and ask questions.
| Date | Time (CET) | Zoom Meeting ID | Passcode |
|---|---|---|---|
| Monday, Aug 13, 2025 | 5:00 PM – 6:30 PM | 947 7904 5024 | 154731 |
| Monday, Sep 3, 2025 | 5:00 PM – 6:30 PM | 969 5828 6206 | 141951 |
Contact Information
Program Director
Dr. Julia Schütze
📍 Office Berlin
📧 [email protected]
📞 +49 30 20370 448
Coordinator
Rainer Bauck
📧 [email protected]
📞 +49 30 20370 443
📌 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Who can apply for the China Scholarship Programme?
Answer:
All highly qualified students (except in arts/design) who have completed at least two semesters at a German university by October 1, 2025, are eligible. Both current Studienstiftung-funded students and external applicants can apply. Strong academic records and an interest in China are necessary. Although German citizenship will be preferred, but international students in Germany may also be eligible under specific conditions.
2. Is prior knowledge of Chinese language required?
Answer:
No prior knowledge of Chinese is mandatory. To resolve this constraint, selected candidates will attend a three-week intensive language course before departure. A demonstrated willingness to learn Chinese and interest in cultural exchange, however, is important in the selection process.
3. What financial support is provided?
Answer:
The scholarship covers:
€300 study allowance/month
Living expenses up to €855/month
€350/month foreign supplement
Travel grant up to €1,425
Tuition waived by Chinese universities (via CSC)
Health insurance subsidies
This makes it a fully funded opportunity, suitable for students from diverse financial backgrounds.
Top 4 Application Tips
1. Compose a Purpose-Driven Motivation Letter
Personalize your letter to the program: describe your academic objectives, area of interest in Sino-German affairs, and how the experience will connect to your future plans. Authenticity is more important than perfection.
2. Emphasize Interdisciplinary Thinking
The committee prefers applicants who are able to relate their area of study to wide-ranging cultural, political, or technological issues pertinent to China. Think outside the textbooks.
3. Take action towards learning language
Even as a new entrant, demonstrate dedication to learning Mandarin (list language apps, videos, or brief courses you have undertaken). It reflects flexibility.
4. Join the Official Zoom Info Sessions
Take advantage of virtual info sessions on Aug 13 and Sept 3, 2025 to listen directly to organizers and previous scholars. These sessions tend to offer insider advice that fine-tunes your application.
Other Useful Information:
Following below other infomration may help you in deciding for the scholarship application.
About the German Academic Scholarship Foundation
Known as the Studienstiftung des deutschen Volkes, it is Germany’s largest and most prestigious scholarship foundation, supporting over 13,000 outstanding students annually. It emphasizes excellence, civic engagement, and international perspective.
Notable Alumni of the Foundation
Many of Germany’s leading scientists, thinkers, and public figures were recipients of the Studienstiftung’s support, including:
Angela Merkel – Former German Chancellor
Hans-Dietrich Genscher – Former Foreign Minister
Jürgen Habermas – Philosopher and sociologist
Stefan Hell – Nobel Laureate in Chemistry
Frank-Walter Steinmeier – Current President of Germany
Why Study in China?
By rapidly increae in recent decades, now China has over 3,000 universities and colleges spread across provinces
Top World institutions include Tsinghua University, Peking University, and Fudan University
China is also home to over 500,000 international students, including many from Europe and Asia
The country aims to mainly invests heavily in AI, engineering, biotech, economics, and innovation
A unique opportunity to learn Mandarin language proficiency and cross-cultural competencies
Technical Insights & Unique Advantages
Interdisciplinary Edge
China’s rapid development in AI, sustainability, political sciences, economics, and STEM fields makes this programme ideal for students across diverse domains.
Cultural Competency
Understanding China’s political and educational systems which is entirely change from Eurpoe democaracy will help Germany build future leaders in diplomacy, business, and science collaboration.
Access to Elite Chinese Universities
The program places students in top-tier institutions (like Tsinghua, Peking University), providing exposure to global research and technology hubs.
Alumni Network = Lifelong Resource
Past participants have gone on to careers in foreign service, think tanks, international journalism, and academic research—you gain a career-defining network.
China’s Growing Appeal to International Students
Over the past decade, China has emerged as a top global destination for higher education. According to UNESCO and the Ministry of Education of China:
Over 492,000 international students were studying in China befoce Covid19, and numbers are increasing rapidly over the years after panademic.
China ranks among the top 5 host countries globally, driven by its expanding number of world-class universities, especially in STEM and political science.
Programs in Mandarin and English are also now offered at top-tier institutions such as Tsinghua University, Fudan University, and Peking University.
What makes China stand out:
High-tech research environments (especially AI, biotech, and clean energy)
Strong funding support through bilateral government programs like the China Scholarship Council (CSC)
Rising global influence in political and economic spheres
Why the China Scholarship Programme Matters
The China Scholarship Programme 2026/27 offers more than just a year abroad—it opens doors to academic prestige, language mastery, and cross-border career opportunities:
1. Career Acceleration
Graduates with Mandarin skills and intercultural competence are highly selected in international diplomacy, multinational business, and academia.
Based on previous track, Alumni from this program have bright chances to secure positions in think tanks, EU-China advisory roles, or PhD tracks in global studies.
2. Academic Enrichment
Scholars gain first-hand exposure to China’s higher education system, including top Chinese universities and research institutes.
Unique chance to initiate bilateral research, particularly in fields like international relations, public health, sustainability, and tech ethics.
3. Cultural Literacy
Through structured immersion, participants deepen their understanding of Chinese society, governance, and media landscapes—critical for those entering global-facing roles.
4. Lifelong Network
Participation builds ties with fellow scholars, German and Chinese faculty, and the Studienstiftung alumni community.
Past participants often return to China for extended research or collaborative projects.
University Options in China for Scholarship Recipients
While final univerities will be assign after coordinated through the China Scholarship Council (CSC), however typical host institutions include China’s top-ranked universities, such as:
Tsinghua University (Beijing) – Ranked #1 in Asia, strong in engineering and policy studies
Fudan University (Shanghai) – Elite humanities and social sciences programs
Peking University (Beijing) – Top for political science, law, and philosophy
Shanghai Jiao Tong University – Known for technology and environmental research
Renmin University – Ideal for economics, public policy, and international relations
These institutions provide access to:
Modern campuses with global facilities
World-class research labs
Exchange opportunities with other international students
Language Preparation and Support
All selected scholars begin with an intensive Chinese language course at the University of Trier before departure. The course includes:
Reading, writing, and speaking fundamentals
Chinese culture and history sessions
Preparatory workshops on intercultural communication
Specialized vocabulary for academic and technical fields
This ensures that scholars arrive in China with functional Mandarin proficiency, giving them confidence in navigating daily life, coursework, and research activities.
How This Scholarship Enhances Future Opportunities in Global Research & Policy
With China’s growing role in climate policy, technology, and global governance, this scholarship positions scholars to:
Contribute to Germany’s China strategy through informed research and analysis
Lead international climate or trade negotiations with contextual knowledge
Launch careers in development economics, international law, or education diplomacy
Students return with not only language skills but also geopolitical insight, cultural empathy, and academic depth.
Final Thoughts
The China Scholarship Programme 2026/27 can be an immersive journey into one of the world’s most dynamic countries. If you are dreaming of becoming a policymaker, researcher, entrepreneur, or cultural bridge-builder, this prestigious programme can equips you with the tools, networks, and experiences to thrive.
Apply maximum by October 1, 2025, and click below for further details.
