CSC-UPC Full PhD Scholarships 2026-2027 Now Open for Applications

Chinese students aiming to pursue a full PhD programme or undertake a visiting PhD research stay in Europe now have a major opportunity through the CSC–UPC Scholarships for the 2026–2027 academic cycle. The collaboration between the China Scholarship Council (CSC) and the Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya (UPC) opens the door for highly motivated researchers to study or conduct research at one of Spain’s leading technological universities.

Each year, CSC offers up to 30 full PhD scholarships and up to 30 visiting PhD scholarships, making this one of the most competitive and sought-after pathways for Chinese doctoral applicants.

This article explains what the scholarship offers, who can apply, and most importantly, how candidates can secure the required admission or invitation letters from UPC.

What the CSC–UPC Scholarship Offers?

Through this joint programme, successful candidates will receive:

1. Full sponsorship from CSC for the entire PhD duration or visiting period
2. Funding covering tuition, living expenses, and international mobility
3. The opportunity to study or conduct research at UPC, a globally respected science and engineering university
4. Access to high-level laboratories, professors, and research groups
5. A pathway for long-term academic collaboration between China and Spain

These scholarships enable Chinese researchers to immerse themselves in research excellence in fields such as engineering, architecture, computer science, telecommunications, mathematics, and sustainability.

Scholarship Categories

The CSC–UPC partnership provides two distinct scholarship opportunities:

1. Full PhD Studies at UPC

• Intended for students applying to complete their full doctoral degree at UPC
• CSC fully supports the programme duration
• Applicants must obtain an admission letter from UPC before submitting their CSC application

2. Visiting PhD Research Stays

• For students already enrolled in a PhD programme in China
• Allows them to conduct part of their research at UPC
• Applicants must secure an invitation letter from UPC

Each category awards up to 30 scholarships annually, making early preparation essential.

Important Deadline for Obtaining Letters

To be eligible for the CSC–UPC Scholarship 2026–2027, candidates must request their admission or invitation letter no later than March 25, 2026. This timeline ensures UPC has enough time to review the request and issue the official stamped document required for the CSC application.

Late requests will not be guaranteed processing, so early action is strongly recommended.