Chinese Government Scholarship Ultimate Guide (2026)

What is CGS / CSC?

CGS (Chinese Government Scholarship) is administered by the CSC (China Scholarship Council). It funds international students to study at Chinese universities affiliated with CSC across degree levels (Undergraduate, Master’s, PhD) and some non‑degree language programs.

You apply through:

Type A – your Chinese Embassy/Consulate (Bilateral Program).
Type B – the University’s international office (Chinese University Program).

What the Chinese Government Scholarship covers ?

Full Tuition
On‑campus accommodation
Monthly stipend
- Undergraduate CNY 2,500
- Master’s students : CNY 3,000
- Doctoral students : CNY 3,500
Health Insurence (worth CNY 800 yuan)
Plane Ticket (only available on CGS type A)
For Chinese‑taught admits: some universities include a pre‑sessional language year under CGS.

Eligibility

Degree requirement: Completed previous degree before registration (you can apply with a Hope Certificate if you graduate before arrival).
Age caps (typical, verify): Undergraduate ≤ 25; Master’s ≤ 35; PhD ≤ 40.
Health: Pass the Foreigner Physical Examination with all required reports.
Language: Depends on program; see HSK vs. English Programs below.
Other: Nationality/visa rules and agency‑specific conditions apply.

Tip: If dorm space is tight, apply early and indicate housing preference in the university portal.

Required Documents

Passport (expiry > 18 months beyond start date)
Notarized degree(s) and transcripts or Hope Certificate
Study Plan/Research Proposal (see next section)
2× Recommendation Letters (signed, on letterhead)
China Scholastic Competency Assessment (CSCA) Certificate (2026 Update Read Here!)
Language proof (HSK or English proficiency letter)
Foreigner Physical Examination + lab/imaging reports
Non-Criminal Report

Agent warning: You do not need an agent. If someone asks for money to “guarantee” CGS, that’s a red flag.

If you don’t speak Mandarin (yet), can you apply?

Short answer: Yes. Many CSC/CGS programs are taught in English, and for Chinese‑taught programs some universities offer a language‑prep year under CGS. Policies vary by university, so always confirm on the admissions page.

Choose your path

Path 1 — English‑taught (fastest):

Apply to programs with English as the language of instruction.
If allowed, submit an English Proficiency Letter from your last university instead of IELTS/TOEFL.
Check whether the interview (if any) is conducted in English.

Path 2 — Chinese‑taught (with/without prep year):

Some universities include a foundation language year under CGS; others expect you to arrive with the required level.
Ask whether you may write the thesis in English (this is at the supervisor’s or program’s discretion).
Verify exact HSK or internal language requirements on the program page.

How to Choose the Best CGS Universities (and Maximize Your Chances)

Choosing the right universities is one of the most important steps in your CGS application. Your odds of getting the scholarship improve dramatically when you:

Apply to universities that are actively recruiting international students under CGS;
Have a good academic match with the department and professors;
Build a balanced portfolio: not all highly ranked; include strategic “safe bets.”

1. Understand the Tier System

Chinese universities are generally categorized into three broad tiers:

211/Double First Class Universities – Prestigious, well-funded, competitive.
Non-211 Public Universities – Often more flexible, with solid programs and strong international departments.
Private/Local Universities – Usually not eligible for CGS (confirm on CSC’s list of 279 authorized universities).

2. Follow the 3-Level Strategy

To reduce risk and diversify your options, build a portfolio like this:

1 Reach – A top-tier university (211 or Double First Class). Harder to get into, especially for popular majors. May require an acceptance letter.
1 Match – A university with a solid program in your field, average competition, good international office responsiveness.
1 Safe – A non-211 university that offers your program in English or includes a Chinese prep year. Easier entry and more generous acceptance rates.

This approach helps protect you from overcommitting to only elite schools with low scholarship quotas.

3. Signs of a CGS-Friendly University

Look for schools that:

List the CGS on their international admissions page (with updated deadlines and instructions);
Offer programs in English or provide a 1-year language prep option under the scholarship;
Don’t require application fees or waive them for CGS applicants (nice bonus);
Provide pre-admission letters quickly or let you upload documents before contacting professors;
Have professors willing to respond to supervisor requests (especially for Type B applicants).

4. Target Fit, Not Fame

Instead of focusing only on global rankings, prioritize:

Whether your research topic or major is offered and emphasized.
Whether faculty in that department have recent publications in your area.
Whether past CGS students have attended (you can often find alumni mentions in forums or testimonials).

2026 Intake: Month‑by‑Month Timeline

September–October(2025)

Map your discipline → departments → supervisors. Shortlist 6–8 universities (mix of reach/match/safe).
Draft your Study Plan/Research Proposal outline and email potential supervisors (see template in our “Cold Emailing Professors” guide).

November–March

Create your CSC online profile and each university account.
Secure recommendation letters; brief referees with bullet points and your proposal draft.
Order notarized degree/transcripts (or Hope Certificate) and complete the Physical Examination.
Submit Type B (university) and Type A (embassy) according to their individual deadlines.
Sit for interviews if invited. Keep documents consistent across submissions.

April–May

Follow up courteously with supervisors/universities if appropriate. Avoid excessive emails.
If get rejected from CGS Type B, pivot as soon as possible to another univesities that are still open.

June–July

Results typically roll out. If you get multiple offers, the Council will finalize a placement.

August–September

Apply for X1/X2 visa, prepare arrival docs (JW form, admission, medical), and book travel.
Check‑in at university; finish local medical/registration steps.

Note: Exact dates vary by country and university. Always rely on the current call on your embassy/university site.

Step‑by‑Step: How to Apply Chinese Government Scholarship?

Find the right universities
Identify universities with your department & supervisor and that are CGS‑affiliated.
Contact potential supervisors (optional but helpful)
Send a short, specific email: who you are, one‑paragraph research idea, why their lab, attach CV + 1‑page proposal. Acceptance letters increase odds but are not mandatory.
Create accounts
Set up the CSC profile and each university portal. Use exactly the same name/spellings as your passport.
Prepare core documents
Fill CSC form carefully
Select Type A/B correctly. Use the correct Agency Number for each university/embassy.
Upload & cross‑check
File names clear, pages upright, stamps visible. Remove passwords from PDFs.
Interview (if invited)
Prepare a 2–3 minute pitch, the interview usually took 10 minutes.
Track results
Keep an eye on email/portal. Respond quickly to any requests.
Visa & arrival
Apply for X1/X2 visa as instructed. Carry originals; complete registration/medical on arrival.

Common Mistakes to Avoid in CGS Application

Late or incomplete files; missing seals/notarization.
Inconsistent names across documents (passport vs. transcripts).
Generic copy‑pasted emails to professors.
Over‑claiming results or listing unverifiable publications.
Not reading university‑specific requirements (e.g., extra forms, portfolio, minimum HSK).
Submitting a vague study plan with no method or timeline.
Apply only in Elite Universities

After You Submit: What to Expect

Interviews (some universities): 10–20 minutes, panel or supervisor; focus on fit and feasibility.
Multiple selections: If more than one placement wants you, the Council will finalize the best fit university. Changes are rare once assigned.
If not selected: for type B you can reapply to another University; pivot to another Scholarship (like Provincial Scholarship or others); widen your university mix; re‑apply next cycle.

You’ve got this

CGS can look complex, but the steps are repeatable. Focus on fit, clarity, and clean paperwork. When in doubt, check the current‑year instructions on your embassy/university page—and return to this hub.

FAQs

Q: What are the different categories of CGS (Type A, B, and C)?
A: These refer to the application routes for the scholarship:

Type A – Bilateral Program: Apply through a dispatching authority in your home country, usually the Chinese Embassy/Consulate or your government’s education ministry. This is a government-to-government channel. You can choose up to 2–3 preferred universities in the application.
Type B – Chinese University Program: Apply directly to a Chinese university. Eligible universities can nominate students for graduate (and sometimes undergraduate) studies under CGS. In this route, you apply to the university and through the CSC online system with that university’s agency code.
Type C – Other Programs: This category is for other CGS programs run via specific organizations or international programs. Most individual applicants will use Type A or B, while Type C applies if you are going through one of those special partner schemes.

Q: What are my chances of winning a CGS full scholarship?
A: CGS is competitive – thousands of students apply worldwide each year. Rough estimates suggest the overall acceptance rate is on the order of 15% (i.e. only about 1 in 6 applicants are awarded the scholarship). Your chances depend on factors like your academic record, the strength of your study/research plan, recommendation letters, language skills, and how many scholarships are available for your country or target university. In general, having a strong GPA, relevant achievements, and even a pre-admission or acceptance letter can improve your odds. It’s also noted that applying to less popular universities (e.g. in smaller cities) may face less competition than top-tier universities in Beijing or Shanghai. In short, the opportunity is there, but you should prepare a very good application to stand out.

Q: I’m currently in 12th grade. Can I apply for this scholarship after I graduate high school?
A: Yes, you can apply for an undergraduate CGS after finishing high school – even if you briefly enroll in a local college, you are still eligible as long as you meet the age and education requirements. For an undergraduate (bachelor’s) CGS, you must have a high school diploma and usually be under age 25. You could apply in your senior year of high school or even a year later (gap year), since a gap year doesn’t disqualify you.

Q: Is the CGS open to all fields of study, and can I change my major when applying for a higher degree?
A: The scholarship is generally open to all academic disciplines offered at the participating universities (there are 279 designated universities). Whether you studied sciences, engineering, arts, or languages in your previous degree does not bar you from applying – you just need to find Chinese universities that offer your desired program for the next degree. It’s possible to switch to a different field for your graduate studies, though you should be able to justify why you want to change and how your background prepares you for the new field. There is no explicit rule against changing majors between bachelor’s and master’s, for example. Just ensure the field you choose is offered to international students under CGS at your target universities. (It’s worth noting that some specialized programs, like clinical medicine, might have additional requirements). But in principle, yes, all majors can apply, and a bachelor’s in one field can pursue a master’s in another if the university finds your preparation acceptable.

Q: My GPA is below 3.5 and I did not graduate with any honors (cum laude). Can I still earn a scholarship like CGS for my master’s? How would I go about it?
A: Yes, it’s still possible to get a CGS even if your GPA is not 3.5+. CGS does not set a strict GPA cutoff like 3.5 – applicants just need a diploma and a “competitive academic record”. Of course, higher grades strengthen your case, but a lower GPA can be offset by other factors. To improve your chances, focus on putting together a strong application: a clear and convincing study plan, strong recommendation letters highlighting your strengths, relevant research or work experience, and good language test scores (IELTS/TOEFL or HSK) if needed. Emphasize any academic projects or achievements beyond just your GPA. In summary, while you should have decent grades (and some universities might have internal preferences for higher GPAs), not having a 3.5 or honors distinction does not automatically disqualify you. Many scholarship awardees are ordinary graduates with solid but not perfect GPAs. The key is to showcase your motivation, potential, and preparedness for the program you’re applying to.

Q: Do I need certain extracurricular or research experience to be eligible?
A: There is no formal requirement to have held organizational leadership roles or done research, but having such experiences can strengthen your application. CGS selection committees value well-rounded candidates. Participation in student organizations, volunteer work, competitions, research projects, or relevant job experience can demonstrate your leadership, initiative, and interest in your field. While not mandatory, including these experiences in your CV or study plan may give you an edge, especially if your academic record is average. In short, lack of extracurriculars won’t disqualify you, but having them could help. Focus on any experiences that show your strengths or tie into your proposed field of study (for example, a research project in your undergrad or a work project related to what you want to study in China).

Q: I graduated one year ago (I’m in a gap year). Am I still eligible to apply?
A: Yes, you are absolutely eligible after a gap year. As long as you meet the age limits and have the required diploma, a gap of a year or more since graduation does not prevent you from applying. Many applicants spend time working or preparing and then apply. Just ensure you can provide all the required documents (diploma, transcripts, etc.), and perhaps explain productively what you’ve done during the gap if asked.

Q: Is a TOEFL iBT required, or is TOEFL ITP (Institutional TOEFL) acceptable?
A: For proof of English proficiency, TOEFL iBT or IELTS (or other internationally recognized tests) are usually preferred and often required by universities. TOEFL ITP (Institutional Testing Program) is generally not accepted for admissions, because it’s a localized test and not considered a standardized international score. If the university’s requirement states a certain TOEFL or IELTS score, they mean iBT (internet-based TOEFL) or IELTS Academic. Some universities may accept an academic English proficiency letter or certificate from your previous university if you studied in English, but many top programs explicitly ask for IELTS/TOEFL scores. In summary, plan to take the official TOEFL iBT or IELTS if you need to prove English ability – ITP is unlikely to be accepted unless a particular university says so (you can just ask them directly).

Q: Do I need an HSK certificate (Chinese language exam) to apply, especially for undergraduate (S1) programs?
A: If you are applying for a Chinese-taught program, having an HSK certificate is a must and often required at a certain level. For undergraduate programs taught in Chinese, typically HSK Level 4 or 5 is required. However, if you do not have the required HSK level yet, it is still possible to apply. In many cases, the scholarship will include one extra year of Chinese language training (a preparatory year) before you start your degree, to bring you up to the required level. This means if your Chinese is not sufficient, the university may admit you on the condition that you first spend one year in a Mandarin language program (funded by the scholarship) and pass the language exam. If you fail to reach the required language proficiency by the end of that prep year, the scholarship can be terminated.

Q: If I choose a Chinese-medium class, does that mean I automatically get one year of language classes first?
A: Usually, yes. If you are not already fluent in Chinese or don’t have the required HSK level, the standard CGS arrangement is to give you one year of Chinese language study before starting the degree program. During that year, you’ll attend a university (or designated language institute) to learn Mandarin intensively. After passing the required language exam, you proceed to your main course. If you already meet the language requirement (say you have HSK 4+), you might start your degree immediately without the prep year. In summary: for Chinese-taught degrees, plan for a 1-year language class (funded by CGS) unless you’re already proficient. The scholarship covers that preparatory year as part of the total duration.

Q: If I get the scholarship but then my grades drop during my studies in China, will the scholarship be taken away?
A: The CGS is awarded for the full study period, but it comes with the expectation that you maintain satisfactory academic progress each year. There is an annual evaluation of each scholarship student. If a student fails exams or performs extremely poorly, or violates university rules, the scholarship can indeed be suspended or canceled. For example, if you fail the required examinations in the preparatory language year or fail too many courses, the scholarship may be terminate. Also, disciplinary issues (like breaking laws or serious violations of campus rules) can cause cancellation of the scholarship. On the other hand, if your grades “drop” slightly but you still pass all required courses, you will generally retain the scholarship. It’s not taken away for a single low score – it’s only if you consistently fail to meet academic requirements. In practice, as long as you pass your courses each year and don’t break any major rules, your scholarship will continue to be renewed annually until you graduate.

Q: For documents like my diploma and transcripts, do they need to be translated by a sworn/certified translator? My school already issued an English version – can I use that?
A: The general rule is: all documents must be in Chinese or English (the two working languages for applications). If your originals are in another language, you must provide a certified/notarized translation to Chinese or English. If your high school or university has already given you an official English-language diploma and transcript, that typically counts as an acceptable original in English – you wouldn’t need an additional translation. Just make sure it’s the official version (with signatures or stamps as required). If the English version is issued by the school and has the school’s seal, it’s as valid as the original. No need for a sworn translator in that case. On the other hand, if you only have documents in your local language, you should get them translated by an authorized translator and notarized to certify their accuracy.

Q: What about the Police Clearance Certificate (like Indonesia’s SKCK)? Does it need to be from the national police headquarters (Mabes Polri) or just a local police station?
A: Applicants are required to submit a Non-Criminal Record Certificate (police clearance). The official instructions say it should be a certificate issued by the relevant local public security authority, usually issued within 6 months of your application. In practice, for international use, many Indonesian students obtain the SKCK that is intended for overseas purposes (which is often issued by the National Police Headquarters and can be in English). It’s recommended to get the version that is in English or bilingual if possible, since you’ll be submitting it to Chinese authorities. If your local police station only issues it in Bahasa Indonesia, you might need to have it translated to English (and notarized).

Q: Where do I get the “Foreigner Physical Examination Form”? Is it different per university?
A: The Foreigner Physical Examination Form is a standard medical form used for student visa/scholarship applications to China. It’s the same form nationwide, usually a one-page document with sections for a doctor to record your health tests (blood work, chest X-ray, etc.) and certify your fitness. You can find it here.

Q: How do I complete the medical examination form? There are many tests listed – do I have to do them all one by one and have the doctor fill it in? What’s the procedure?
A: Yes, you will need to undergo all the tests listed on the Foreigner Physical Examination Form and have a physician fill out the results for each item. The form typically includes sections for height/weight, blood pressure, vision, as well as tests like HIV, syphilis, blood routine, chest X-ray, ECG, and abdominal ultrasound, among others. The procedure is: go to a qualified hospital or medical center (ideally one that has experience with visa medical exams), bring the blank form, and tell them you need a complete medical check for studying abroad in China. They will guide you through the required exams (some might be done the same day, others like X-ray might be a different department – but usually it’s all within the same hospital visit). Once all tests are done, a doctor will fill in the form with your results, sign it, affix the hospital’s official stamp or seal, and attach your passport-sized photo (which also must be stamped or signed partially by the doctor). It’s important that everything is filled out and the form is properly signed and stamped; incomplete forms (missing a test, no signature or stamp, or no photo verification) are not accepted.

Q: Is there a specific format or template for the recommendation letters, or can my referees write them freely?
A: There is no universal mandatory template from CSC for recommendation letters – they can be in a standard letter format, written by your professors or other qualified referees. The letters must be in either English or Chinese, and should be signed by the recommender (with their contact info provided). Generally, they should be on official letterhead of the institution or have the recommender’s professional stamp, if available. Some universities provide an optional template or form (for example, certain schools give an “Expert Recommendation Form” that the professor can fill in, but this is not universally required – a normal detailed letter is perfectly acceptable. The content should cover how the referee knows you and their evaluation of your abilities, character, and potential for graduate study. It’s good for the letter to mention your academic performance, research skills, and why you’d benefit from studying in China (or any specific qualities relevant to your field).

Q: How do I obtain a strong recommendation letter?
A: You should reach out to professors or academic mentors who know you well and can speak about your accomplishments. Typically, these would be professors who taught you major courses or supervised your thesis/research in your most recent degree. Ask them politely (ideally well in advance of the deadline) if they would be willing to recommend you for the CGS and your intended program. Provide them with helpful information to write the letter: your CV, academic records, a draft of your study plan, and details about the scholarship/program so they can tailor the letter. Make sure to emphasize any particular achievements you’d like them to mention. If you graduated a while ago and have been working, one of the two letters could potentially come from an employer or supervisor, but at least one academic reference is strongly preferred (and some universities insist on both being academic). The key is to approach people who can genuinely endorse your strengths. Once they agree, give them any needed guidelines (e.g., letter in English, on letterhead, signed, etc.). Some recommenders might even ask you to draft something for them to review – just ensure the final letter is honest and signed by the referee themselves.

Q: I graduated a couple of years ago and have been working since. Can one of my recommendation letters be from my employer (e.g., manager or HR), or do they strictly need to be academic (from professors)?
A: While academic references are generally preferred (especially for academic scholarships), in cases where you have significant work experience after graduation, it’s acceptable to include one professional recommendation. The official requirement for graduate programs is “two recommendation letters from professors or associate professors”, which implies academic references. However, if you’ve been out of school for some time, you could ask one professor who knew you (or your academic advisor) and one supervisor from your job. Many scholarship alumni have used one work reference without issues – just make sure the person can comment on qualities relevant to study (such as your work ethic, skills, research or leadership ability). If possible, you might still want to get at least one letter from your university lecturer/professor (you can even approach your thesis supervisor or a professor who remembers you and provide them an update on your current work to help them write it). But if that’s not feasible, a well-written letter from a senior manager or employer will do. It should be on company letterhead and explain your role, performance, and potential for master’s/PhD studies.

Q: Does my Study Plan / Research Proposal need to target each of the universities I apply to, or just one? (For example, if I have three choices in Type A, do I write about all three?)
A: You only write one Study Plan or Research Proposal and upload the same document for the scholarship application, even if you have multiple university choices. Therefore, your study plan should be written broadly enough to be relevant to any of your preferred universities, or focused on your top choice in a way that still applies generally. You do not submit separate statements per university in the CSC system. A good approach is to discuss the field you want to study, why it interests you, your academic/professional background, your research ideas or study objectives, and why China is a suitable place for this study. You can mention your preferred university (especially the first choice) and how its program aligns with your goals, but avoid referencing only one school if you have listed multiple – keep it flexible. The plan should meet the minimum length requirement (usually at least 800 words for postgraduates, 200 for undergrad).

Q: Is an acceptance letter or pre-admission letter mandatory to apply?
A: It is not strictly mandatory to have a pre-admission or acceptance letter, but it has become increasingly important and sometimes required depending on the scholarship channel. In general CSC guidelines, a pre-admission letter from a university is optional – applications without it will still be sent to universities for consideration. However, having one means your application goes directly for confirmation at that university, which significantly boosts your chances. In some cases, certain programs or embassies now expect applicants to secure an admission letter or at least an invitation from a professor. For instance, the Chinese Embassy in Indonesia’s 2025 scholarship instructions stated that all applicants must provide a pre-admission document (which could be a pre-admission notice from the university or an invitation letter from a professor). This suggests that for that bilateral program, it was effectively mandatory to have one. Generally speaking, having a pre-admission or acceptance letter is a big plus – it indicates a university is willing to take you, and CSC will almost always place you there if you have it. If you don’t have one, CSC may assign you to any university with available slots that matches your study area (and not necessarily one of your top choices). Also note: a professor’s acceptance letter (an informal letter/email saying they’ll supervise you) is helpful but not the same as an official pre-admission notice from the university’s admissions office. The latter carries more weight. To summarize: technically, you can apply without an acceptance letter, but you should try to get one because many successful applicants have it, and some programs now require it as part of the application.

Q: Does the application deadline depend on the university I’m applying to?
A: Yes, if you are applying through Type B (direct to universities), each university sets its own deadline for scholarship applications. You must check the specific university’s admissions notice for the CGS or contact their international office. Deadlines for Type B typically range from early March to late April, but vary by school. By contrast, if you apply through Type A (Embassy), the deadline is set by the embassy. For example, the Chinese Embassy might have an earlier deadline (late January or February) so they can process nominations. In summary: Type A – one deadline (ask your embassy; e.g., end of Feb), Type B – different deadlines per university (often around March). Always verify on the university’s official scholarship page; don’t rely solely on the general CSC site info, because universities will list their exact cutoff date, which can change year to year.

Q: For Type B (university application), do I need to apply on the university’s own website/portal first, or just through the CSC online system?
A: In almost all cases for Type B, you are expected to apply to the university directly (via their online application system or by sending documents) in addition to filling the CSC scholarship online form. The CSC online application alone is not sufficient because the university needs to review your documents and possibly give you a pre-admission offer. Many universities have a two-step process: first, submit the university’s application (sometimes paying an application fee), and once you get a pre-admission or at least complete that, you then submit the CSC application with that university’s agency code. Some universities require you to upload the CSC form or number into their system too.

Q: If I apply through CSC Type B (direct university), do I have to pay an application fee? I saw some universities mention a fee in their admission guide.
A: This depends on the university – some do charge an application fee even for scholarship applicants, while others waive it. Many of China’s top universities (and quite a few others) have a standard application fee, often around 400 to 800 CNY (approximately $60-$120). If the university requires it for admission, you typically need to pay it when you submit your application on their portal, regardless of applying for a scholarship. However, there are also many universities (especially less high-ranked ones) that do not charge any fee for international applications.

Q: Can I apply to the same university through both Type A and Type B simultaneously to increase my chances?
A: In general, yes, you are allowed to apply through multiple channels in the same year, as long as you don’t accept two scholarships at once. The CSC’s current policy allows each applicant to submit up to 3 applications in one year: a maximum of 2 Type A (for example, through two different nominating agencies, if applicable) and 1 Type B. This means you could apply via your country’s embassy (Type A) listing University X as a preference, and also apply directly to University X (Type B). There is no rule forbidding it – and many candidates do apply through both to maximize their chances. Ultimately, if you get recommended by both, CSC will detect the duplicate and you will only be awarded one scholarship.

Q: In Type A (embassy) application, I can choose 3 universities and majors. Can those be different majors at each university, or do they have to be the same?
A: You are free to choose different majors at different universities in the Type A application. The CSC application form will have you input your preferences like: Choice 1 – University A, Major X; Choice 2 – University B, Major Y; Choice 3 – University C, Major Z. There is no requirement that all three choices have the exact same major or field, though it’s wise to keep them somewhat related to show a coherent academic interest. For instance, it’s okay to put “Mechanical Engineering” at one university and “Electrical Engineering” at another if you are interested in both and have academic justification. The system does not restrict this. Just ensure your study plan or research proposal can cover why you’re interested in the field(s) you listed. If your choices are drastically different (say, Economics at one and Biology at another), that might confuse evaluators about your focus.

Q: When filling the CSC form, what is the “Agency Number” ?
A: The Agency Number is a unique code that identifies the receiving institution of your application (each university and each embassy has its own code). In the CSC online system, you must enter the Agency Number so that your application is sent to the right place. For Type A (embassy) applications, you use the code for the Chinese embassy/consulate in your country. For example, the Chinese Embassy in Indonesia’s agency number is 3602. (Embassy agency codes can sometimes be found in the scholarship notice or by contacting the embassy’s education office.) For Type B, you use the university’s agency code (which is typically a five-digit number, e.g., Peking University is 10001). If you apply through an embassy, do not use a university’s code on that application – use the embassy’s code. Conversely, if applying directly to a university, use that university’s code. In short:

Q: Do I need to contact professors or get a supervisor’s acceptance first when applying for Type B?
A: It’s not an official requirement to contact professors beforehand, but it can be very helpful for graduate (Master’s/PhD) applicants. Many students applying through Type B will reach out to potential supervisors via email to inquire about acceptance. If a professor is interested in supervising you, they might provide an acceptance letter (a signed note indicating they’d accept you into their group). This acceptance letter is not mandatory to apply – you can absolutely apply without ever contacting a professor and still get the scholarship if the university admits you.

Q: After submitting my application, do I need to send physical (hard copy) documents as well? If yes, where – to the university or the embassy?
A: This depends on the instructions of the specific embassy or university, and it has changed over time. Many applications are now handled entirely online. For instance, the Chinese Embassy in Indonesia explicitly stated that there is no need to send paper materials to the embassy for the 2025/2026 intake everything was online. Most universities also initially review applications online via the CSC system (and/or their own system) without requiring hard copies at the first stage.

Q: If I apply through the embassy (Type A), will CSC assign me to a random university, or do I go to the university I chose?
A: If you are nominated by the embassy for the CGS, the China Scholarship Council will attempt to place you at one of the universities you listed on your application whenever possible. You list your preferences (up to 3 institutions) and those are considered first. If you have a Pre-admission Letter from a particular university, you will almost certainly be placed at that university. If you do not have any pre-admission and none of your preferred universities accept you due to limited slots or eligibility, CSC may then consider sending your file to a different university that has capacity in your field. In that sense, there’s a chance you could end up at a university you didn’t specifically choose, but it’s not “random” – it would be a considered placement based on where openings exist for your study program and academic background. So: best case, you get one of your top 3 (especially if one gives you an offer); worst case, if all three turn you down, CSC might assign you to another university willing to take you, or you might not get a placement at all.

Q: If I win the CGS, will there be any guidance or group travel for departure to China, or do I have to travel on my own?
A: Generally, you will be travelling independently to China. The scholarship does not include organized group flights or guided travel arrangements. In fact, the CGS does not cover airfare at , so you will have to book your own flight and make your way to the university. Typically, after you’re awarded the scholarship, you’ll download your admission documents (Admission Notice and a JW201 visa form) and you’ll use those to apply for a Chinese student visa (X1 visa) in your home country. Once you have your visa, you make your own travel plans to arrive at the university by the date they specify. That said, you won’t be totally without support: the university’s international office usually provides an arrival guide, and some schools have a pickup service on certain dates or at least volunteers to help new students at the campus or nearest airport. But there is no mandatory group departure – some countries’ embassies might gather awardees for an orientation briefing, but they won’t physically travel with you. Many students coordinate informally (e.g., find fellow awardees through social media) if they want to travel together, but officially, you are responsible for your travel from home to the campus. So be prepared to fly by yourself (or with other students if you arrange it) and navigate to the university. The good news is universities will have staff to receive new international students when you arrive to help you settle in, but you won’t have a chaperone from your country’s side.

Q: Are plane tickets covered by the scholarship?
A: No, international airfare is not covered under the standard Chinese Government Scholarship. The scholarship benefits include tuition, accommodation, stipend, and insurance, but explicitly do not include the cost of travel to and from China. You will need to pay for your own flight tickets (both when coming to start your studies and when returning after graduation or holidays). There have been very limited specific programs in the past that included a one-time travel allowance, but for the main CGS programs (Type A, B, etc.), you should assume you’ll bear the flight costs. Make sure to budget for your ticket and any travel-related expenses like baggage or transit.

Q: Will there be an interview as part of the CGS selection? If so, what is it like and what kind of questions will be asked?
A: The need for an interview depends on the channel and sometimes on the university. For Type A (embassy) applications, some embassies conduct interviews or tests to shortlist candidates after reviewing documents. For example, an embassy might invite you to an online or in-person interview to assess your motivation, language ability, and study plan understanding. Not all embassies do this, but many do have an interview stage. For Type B (universities), most do not have a formal interview for the CGS specifically – they make decisions based on your application documents. However, certain programs (especially at the master’s/PhD level) or specific universities might reach out for an interview or require one if they see fit. It can vary. Now, what is asked: Typically, questions revolve around your background and motivation: for instance, “Please introduce yourself,” “Why did you choose this major and why in China?”, “What is your research proposal about?” (for research students), “What are your career plans?” and possibly some technical questions related to your field to gauge your knowledge. They may also ask about your adaptability to living in China, your language skills (some portion might be in English or Chinese depending on program language), and any current affairs or basic knowledge about China if relevant. If it’s for a research-focused program, expect a few questions testing your understanding of your proposed research area. If it’s an undergraduate interview, it might be more general/personal. There usually isn’t a formal written exam for CGS (aside from language tests like HSK/IELTS you provide), but a few universities might have placement tests after arrival. In summary: be prepared for a possible interview (especially via embassy), where you should confidently explain your study plans, interest in China, and academic background. It’s often a 10-20 minute conversation. Many students report that embassy interviews cover things like your study plan, knowledge of your field, and sometimes your basic Chinese or English proficiency. If you applied for a Chinese-taught program, an interview might also test a bit of Chinese speaking ability.

Q: What kind of questions were you asked in the interview (if you had one)? Was there any test related to your major?
A: While I can’t speak for every interview, common questions include: “Tell us about yourself”, “Why did you choose this program/university?”, “What do you plan to research or study in detail?”, “Why do you want to study in China?”, and “What are your future goals after graduation?”. They may also ask about your academic background, like a favorite project or thesis you worked on, to see your depth of knowledge. Interviewers may pose a simple question related to your major to gauge your understanding (for example, a business major might be asked about an economic trend, or a biology major about their lab experience). If the program is Chinese-medium, they might switch to Chinese for a few basic questions to test your language. No formal written major exam is given during the selection, but you should be ready to discuss your field intelligently. One tip is to review the basics of your field and be ready to explain your study plan’s technical aspects in simple terms. The interview, if any, is more like a scholarship/college admission interview rather than a rigorous oral exam. They want to assess your communication skills, motivation, and preparedness.

Q: How many scholarship slots are available for applicants from my country (for example, how many Indonesians get CGS)?
A: The number of slots can vary each year and by channel. Some Chinese embassies announce a fixed number of scholarships for the bilateral program. For instance, the Chinese Embassy in Indonesia announced 20 places for the 2025/2026 intake under the China-Indonesia Bilateral Higher Education Scholarship Program. These might be earmarked for certain priority fields (like marine, medical, etc. in that case). Apart from the embassy quota, additional Indonesian students can win scholarships directly from universities (Type B) or other programs, which are not limited by country quota but by university allotments. It’s hard to pin an exact total, but generally dozens of Indonesian students (and similarly for other countries) receive CGS each year through various channels. For example, if the embassy gives 20 and then maybe another, say, 30-50 get through university admissions, you might have on the order of 50+ Indonesians on CGS in a given year (this is a rough guess; the actual number could be more). The key point: the embassy channel is limited (often tens of slots), whereas the university channel depends on how many each university accepts. Top universities may take only a few per country, while some other universities might have multiple.

Q: I only want to go to China to learn Mandarin (non-degree language program). Can CGS cover that?
A: Yes but slot i super limited, there is a category of CGS for Chinese language study as a general scholar (non-degree) program. CGS supports not only degree-seeking students but also non-degree students, including those who want to do a Chinese language training program for up to two years. In practice, you would apply as a “General Scholar” and indicate the program is Chinese language study. Many universities in China have one-year Chinese language programs for foreigners, and some of those universities can accept students on CGS.

Q: If I study in China as an international student without any scholarship (self-funded), will I still be allowed to stay in the dormitory on campus?
A: Yes, absolutely. University dormitories for international students are generally available to all international students – both scholarship holders and self-funded students – as long as there’s space. In fact, universities typically reserve dormitory blocks for international students and you have the option to rent a room there by paying the accommodation fee (if you’re not on a scholarship that provides free housing). But there’s no rule that dorms are only for scholarship students – you will have the same right to apply for a dorm room. You’ll just have to cover the cost (which can range roughly from CNY 500 to 1500 per month depending on the city and room type).

Q: Can scholarship agencies or agents who promise to handle my application be trusted? I’m worried about scams or even things like human trafficking.
A: You’re right to be cautious. There are many “education agents” or consultancies out there that offer to help students apply to Chinese universities or even guarantee scholarships for a fee. Be very careful with such services. While some legitimate education consultants exist, there has been a rise in scholarship scams – agents who charge high fees and “guarantee” a CGS scholarship or admissionNo one can guarantee you a CGS except the official process, because it’s a merit-based competition. Red flags include asking for large sums of money, promising 100% success, or offering a scholarship in exchange for payment. Never pay someone for a scholarship itself (application fees to universities are normal, but paying an agent thousands of dollars for a “guaranteed scholarship” is not). Some agents might actually submit your application if you pay them, but they can’t change the outcome, and if they’re fraudulent, they might disappear with your money. Worse, there have been unrelated scams (though rare) luring students with fake offers – so stick to official channels. The CGS application can be done by yourself online – the process might seem complex but all information is publicly available.

Q: Is the monthly stipend provided by CGS enough to live on in China?
A: The stipend for CGS (currently CNY 2,500 for undergrads, 3,000 for master’s, 3,500 for PhD per month is generally enough to cover basic living expenses, especially if you live on campus. To give perspective, CNY 2,500 is roughly USD $340 (and 3,000 CNY ≈ $400, 3,500 CNY ≈ $470). If your accommodation is free (dorm provided) and tuition is covered, your main expenses will be food, transportation, and personal necessities. In many Chinese cities (except perhaps the very largest ones), around 2,500–3,000 CNY can be sufficient for a frugal student lifestyle: dorm meals and campus canteens are affordable (you might spend 600–1000 CNY/month on food if eating mostly at the cafeteria or cooking), plus phone bill, insurance (already covered), etc. If you are in Beijing, Shanghai or other expensive cities, the stipend is a bit tighter but still manageable with budgeting – many students in Beijing live on ~2,500-3,000 by eating at dining halls and using student discounts. The stipend won’t cover luxury or extensive travel/shopping, but it’s meant to cover day-to-day costs. In smaller cities or inland provinces, the cost of living is lower, so the stipend goes a long way (some say 2,500 CNY in a city like Nanjing or Chengdu is comfortable for a student). If you want extras (like frequent restaurant outings, buying gadgets, or traveling around China on holidays), you might need personal savings. But thousands of CGS students live on the stipend alone. Additionally, dorms being free is a huge help; if you choose to live off-campus, you’d have to pay rent which could eat a lot of the stipend.

Q: Is the CGS really worth it?
A: (Adding a closing note as an answer) The Chinese Government Scholarship is a fantastic opportunity if you are keen on international education and experiencing China. It provides a fully-funded pathway to earn a degree (or language training) in a country with a rapidly developing education system and lots of cultural and research opportunities. With tuition and accommodation covered and a living stipend, it significantly lowers the financial barrier to studying abroad. Of course, it comes with challenges: the application process is competitive, there may be cultural or language adjustments once you’re there, and academic quality can vary by university. But many alumni will attest that it’s worth it for the global experience, the networking, learning Chinese, and obtaining a degree without incurring debt. If you’re interested in China’s field of study or simply want a unique academic adventure, CGS is worth striving for. Just ensure you prepare your application diligently, meet the requirements, and have realistic expectations. Good luck with your application!

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