University of Chinese Academy of Sciences (UCAS) Scholarships 2026 Process Explained
The University of Chinese Academy of Sciences (UCAS) — one of China’s most prestigious research institutions — has officially opened its 2026 intake for the UCAS Scholarship for International Students. This announcement marks a new chapter for global researchers and scholars eager to study in China’s most advanced scientific ecosystem.
With over 100 affiliated research institutes and a direct connection to the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), UCAS offers a truly world-class platform for Master’s and Doctoral candidates looking to blend academic excellence with innovative research. The 2026 call aims to attract outstanding talent from across the globe — empowering future scientists, engineers, and thought leaders to pursue fully funded graduate education in China.
Funding Package Announcement for the 2026 Batch
For the 2026 academic year, UCAS has unveiled an exceptionally generous funding package that covers nearly every cost associated with studying and living in China.
Under the Full Scholarship, successful applicants will enjoy a complete tuition waiver, with PhD candidates exempted from tuition fees worth RMB 40,000 per year and Master’s candidates from RMB 30,000 per year. Each student will also receive a monthly stipend — Doctoral students will earn no less than RMB 3,500, and Master’s students no less than RMB 3,000, inclusive of a research assistantship allowance funded by UCAS and the host institute.
Students based in Beijing will be offered free on-campus accommodation, while those studying at CAS institutes outside Beijing will receive housing assistance or financial support from their host institutes. Additionally, the package includes medical insurance valued at RMB 800 per year and a waiver of the RMB 600 application fee.
The scholarship duration is capped at 36 months for Master’s and Doctoral students, and 6 to 24 months for visiting students participating in joint or exchange programs. A Partial Scholarship option is also available, covering tuition, medical insurance, and application fees for students requiring partial support.
Eligibility Requirements for New Applicants
The UCAS Scholarship 2026 is open to international students of all nationalities, provided they do not hold Chinese citizenship. Applicants must demonstrate academic excellence, strong research potential, and a genuine interest in contributing to global scientific collaboration.
Candidates must possess proficiency in English or Chinese to ensure active participation in lectures and research projects. The program sets clear age guidelines: PhD applicants must be born on or after January 1, 1991, and Master’s applicants on or after January 1, 1996. For Senior Visiting Students, the date is January 1, 1981, and for Regular Visiting Students, January 1, 1986. There are no age restrictions for joint program applicants.
Applicants currently pursuing a Master’s or PhD degree in China are not eligible to apply for the same level of study again. Additionally, each applicant may only apply under one supervisor; applying with multiple supervisors will lead to disqualification.
Successful applicants are expected to abide by Chinese laws, UCAS regulations, and academic ethics while maintaining full-time study status throughout their scholarship period.
Application and Selection Process
All applications for the UCAS Scholarship 2026 must be submitted online through the UCAS Admission Portal for International Students. Interested candidates should first review the official Call for 2026 Master’s/Doctoral Degree Programs and Visiting Students Programs to ensure they meet the admission and documentation requirements.
Applicants are required to upload academic transcripts, degree certificates, a detailed research proposal, recommendation letters, and proof of language proficiency. When filling the online form, applicants must select “UCAS Scholarship for International Students” under the funding options.
Late or incomplete applications will not be accepted, and shortlisted candidates may be contacted for additional evaluation or interviews by their prospective supervisors or institutes.
Application Deadline for UCAS Scholarship 2026
The application window for the UCAS Scholarship for International Students 2026 is now open.
The deadline for Master’s and PhD programs is January 31, 2026 (Beijing Time).
For Senior and Regular Visiting Students, there is no fixed deadline, allowing rolling submissions throughout the year depending on institute availability. Applicants are advised to apply early to secure their placement and supervisor confirmation before the deadline.
A Future-Shaping Opportunity in China
The UCAS Scholarship 2026 is more than a funding program — it’s a gateway to join China’s rapidly expanding scientific community and engage in global research that impacts the world. As a UCAS scholar, you’ll gain hands-on experience in world-class laboratories, collaborate with leading scientists, and contribute to transformative discoveries in disciplines ranging from artificial intelligence to environmental sustainability.
If you’re ready to shape your future in one of the world’s leading research environments, now is the time to act.
The last date to apply for the UCAS Scholarship for International Students 2026 is January 31, 2026.
Applications for financial assistance under the same program are also due by January 31, 2026.
Apply Now
Visit the official page to learn more and submit your application https://english.ucas.ac.cn/index.php/admission/international-students/financial-aid/6658-ucas-scholarship-for-international-students-2026-call-for-applications.