Without IELTS Chinese Government Scholarships 2026 Cohort Full List

Every year, thousands of students dream of studying abroad on a fully funded scholarship, but one requirement often stops them cold — the IELTS exam. The fees are high, test slots are limited, and not everyone has access to British Council or IDP centers, especially in developing regions. As a result, brilliant students from Asia, Africa, and Latin America give up their dream of studying overseas — not because they lack merit, but because of a single test.

But here’s the good news: China is rewriting the rules.

For the 2026–2027 academic intake, more than 280 Chinese universities will be accepting international students through fully funded national, provincial, and university scholarships — without requiring IELTS. These programs, funded by the Chinese Ministry of Education, provincial governments, and the Chinese Academy of Sciences, open the door to Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD programs across nearly every field of study.

In this detailed guide, you’ll learn:

• Which Chinese Government Scholarships are available for 2026–2027.
• What English language tests or alternatives are accepted instead of IELTS.
• How to prove English proficiency using a Medium of Instruction (MOI) certificate.
• When and how to apply for fully funded scholarships in China.
• And why China is becoming the world’s most accessible study destination for students who want to study for free and without IELTS.

So, if you’ve been searching for a country that values academic potential over test scores, stay with this article — because China’s 2026 scholarships might just be your next breakthrough.

Why Choose China for Your 2026 Study Abroad Journey?

By 2026, China’s scholarship network will be even broader, covering Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD programs across almost every academic discipline. The scholarships come with life-changing benefits:

• Full tuition fee coverage
• Monthly stipends (up to CNY 7,000/month)
• Free or subsidized on-campus housing
• Comprehensive health insurance
• Research, internship, and cultural exchange opportunities

What sets China apart? You can study for free without IELTS if your previous education was taught in English or if you meet alternative English-language proof requirements.

1. China Government Scholarship (CSC) 2026–2027

The China Government Scholarship (CSC) 2026–2027, administered by the China Scholarship Council under the Ministry of Education, stands as the flagship fully funded scholarship program for international students. This prestigious award supports scholars at over 280 top Chinese universities, covering Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Doctoral degrees in diverse academic fields. It remains one of the most comprehensive funding packages globally, offering full or partial tuition coverage, free or subsidized accommodation, a monthly living stipend, and complete medical insurance.

For language requirements, applicants aiming for English-taught programs are not required to present IELTS or TOEFL scores if they can demonstrate that their previous degree was conducted entirely in English through a valid Medium of Instruction (MOI) certificate, or if they are native English speakers. Meanwhile, those applying for Chinese-taught programs must provide a valid HSK (Chinese Proficiency Test) certificate, typically at Level 4 or 5, depending on the program’s requirements.

Applications for the CSC 2026 intake will officially open in November 2025, with submission deadlines expected to close by April 2026, though exact timelines may vary depending on each university or through the applicant’s home-country Chinese embassy. As a strategic tip, applicants are highly encouraged to secure an acceptance letter from a Chinese supervisor, as it can greatly enhance their selection prospects and demonstrate genuine academic commitment.

2. ANSO Scholarship 2026-2027

The ANSO Scholarship 2026–2027, jointly offered by the Alliance of International Science Organizations (ANSO), the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), the University of Science and Technology of China (USTC), and the University of the Chinese Academy of Sciences (UCAS), is one of China’s most prestigious research-focused programs. It is specifically designed for international Master’s and PhD students in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) disciplines, aiming to attract top global talent to advance cutting-edge research within China’s innovation ecosystem.

This fully funded scholarship provides an exceptional financial support package that includes full tuition fee coverage, a generous monthly stipend ranging from CNY 6,000 to 7,000, on-campus accommodation, and comprehensive medical insurance. Additionally, scholars receive a one-time travel subsidy to cover international transportation expenses. The ANSO program not only supports academic excellence but also fosters global research collaboration, giving students access to China’s state-of-the-art laboratories and world-class research facilities under the supervision of leading scientists from CAS institutes.

In terms of language requirements, applicants are not required to take the IELTS exam. Instead, they can demonstrate their English proficiency by providing proof of English-medium education or an equivalent certificate confirming that their previous degree was taught in English. This policy makes the ANSO Scholarship particularly accessible to students from countries where English is the primary language of instruction.

Applications for the ANSO Scholarship 2026–2027 will open in January 2026, and the submission deadline is expected to fall around March 2026. Interested candidates are encouraged to begin early preparations by identifying potential research supervisors at CAS, USTC, or UCAS, as a professor’s support letter can significantly strengthen their application.

3. CAS–TWAS/UNESCO PhD Scholarship 2026

A global south collaboration program designed for students from developing countries to pursue PhD studies in China.

Benefits:

• Full tuition + research funding
• Living allowance + health insurance
• Supervision under leading Chinese research institutes

Language Requirements:

IELTS is waived for those who can show English or Chinese proficiency through other evidence (e.g., English-instruction certificate or previous English education).

4. China Provincial & Municipal Government Scholarships 2026

The Chinese Municipal and Provincial Government Scholarships 2026 offer remarkable opportunities for international students to pursue undergraduate and postgraduate studies at leading universities across China. These scholarships, funded by local city and provincial governments, are designed to promote educational exchange, attract global talent, and support outstanding students seeking affordable, high-quality education in China.

List of Some Chinese Provincial Scholarship Programs Opening Admissions in 2026:

• Shanghai Government Scholarship
• Jiangsu Jasmine Scholarship
• Zhejiang Provincial Government Scholarship
• Nanjing Municipal Scholarship
• Guangdong Government Scholarship
• Henan, Hubei, Fujian, and Sichuan Scholarships
• And so on.

In terms of language requirements, most municipal and provincial scholarships do not require IELTS. Applicants can qualify for an exemption if they provide a Medium of Instruction (MOI) certificate from their previous institution confirming that their prior studies were conducted in English. Students from English-speaking countries are also automatically exempt from submitting standardized English test scores. For those who wish to provide additional proof of English proficiency, many universities accept alternative tests such as the Duolingo English Test (minimum score of 100), TOEFL (minimum score of 80), or other recognized equivalents.

The application timeline for these scholarships generally begins in February 2026 and runs until May 2026, though the exact deadlines may vary depending on the specific province or city. Interested applicants are advised to check the respective university or provincial education authority’s website for precise dates and eligibility details to ensure timely submission of their applications.

5. Chinese University-Specific Scholarships

Many top universities offer jointly funded scholarships (University + CSC + Provincial). Examples include:

• Shanghai University Scholarship
• Zhejiang University of Technology Scholarship
• Fudan University and Peking University Excellence Awards
• Hebei Normal University Provincial Scholarship and so on.

Language Requirements:

For English-taught programs offered under Chinese universities sponsored scholarship schemes, IELTS or TOEFL is usually optional if you can show:

• Proof of prior English-medium education, or
• Proof of English proficiency from your previous university.

English Language Tests Accepted for Scholarships in China

Here’s a clear breakdown of what’s accepted for the 2026–2027 intake in Chinese Universities:

In short: If your previous studies were conducted in English, a simple Medium of Instruction certificate can replace IELTS or TOEFL — making China one of the most accessible study destinations in 2026.

Universal Application Timeline for 2026 Scholarships

How to Apply for China Scholarships Without IELTS — Step-by-Step

Applying for a fully funded Chinese Government Scholarship in 2026 without IELTS is completely possible — as long as you know how to use the Medium of Instruction (MOI) route effectively. Below is a clear, step-by-step process to help you secure admission and funding without taking the IELTS exam.

Step 1: Choose the Right Scholarship Program
Start by selecting the scholarship that best fits your academic goals. The most popular options include the China Government Scholarship (CSC), ANSO Scholarship, and Provincial or Municipal Government Scholarships. Each of these programs offers full or partial funding, accommodation, health insurance, and living stipends.

Step 2: Select Your Target University
Go through the official CSC-approved university list and shortlist institutions that offer programs in your field of study. Make sure your preferred university accepts MOI certificates as proof of English proficiency.

Step 3: Prepare Essential Documents
Gather all required documents early to ensure a smooth application process. You’ll typically need:

• • Completed scholarship application form
  • Passport copy (valid for at least one year)
  • Academic transcripts and degree certificates
  • Medium of Instruction (MOI) certificate — this replaces IELTS by confirming your previous studies were in English
  • Study plan or research proposal (for postgraduate programs)
  • Two recommendation letters from professors or supervisors
  • Medical form (Foreigner Physical Examination Form) signed and stamped by a registered physician

Step 4: Contact a Supervisor (For Master’s & PhD Applicants)
If you’re applying for postgraduate scholarships such as CSC or ANSO, reach out to potential supervisors at your target university. Securing a pre-acceptance letter can significantly improve your chances of being selected.

Step 5: Submit Your Application Online
Apply through your chosen university’s international admissions portal or directly via the China Scholarship Council (CSC) online system. Double-check that you select the correct program type (A, B, or C) depending on whether you’re applying through the embassy, university, or other channels.

Step 6: Track Your Results
Once submitted, most scholarship results are announced between May and July 2026. Successful applicants will receive an Admission Notice and Visa Application Form (JW201/JW202) to begin their study journey in China.

Final Thoughts: Study in China Without IELTS in 2026

China is reshaping global education — offering thousands of fully funded seats to international students each year. With the IELTS exemption policy across most major scholarships, it’s easier than ever to earn a world-class degree without the language exam stress.

Whether you aim for a research-driven PhD under ANSO, a government-funded CSC Master’s, or a city-level scholarship in Shanghai or Zhejiang, one fact remains: you can study in China for free without IELTS in 2026.

So, start preparing early — gather your documents, secure your Medium of Instruction certificate, and apply to multiple programs. Your next academic milestone could be in Beijing, Shanghai, or Hangzhou, fully funded and IELTS-free.