Chinese Government Scholarship (CSC): Complete Guide for International Students

Studying in China has become a popular option for international students, especially because of the Chinese Government Scholarship (CSC). This fully funded scholarship covers tuition, accommodation, and a monthly stipend, making higher education in China affordable and accessible.

This guide explains application fees, agency numbers, work rules, age limits, benefits, required documents, and universities with no application fee.

Do Chinese Universities Charge an Application Fee?

Most Chinese universities charge an application fee. However, many universities waive this fee if you apply under the Chinese Government Scholarship – Chinese University Program (CSC Type B).

Some universities allow you to submit your application without paying the fee initially and request payment only after CSC results are announced.

An updated list of Chinese universities without an application fee is provided later in this article.

What Is the Agency Number for the Chinese Government Scholarship?

The Agency Number is a unique code assigned to every public university or authority in China.

In simple terms:

• Each Chinese university has one unique agency number
• This number is mandatory when applying through the CSC online system
• It helps CSC identify the institution you are applying to

For example:

• Zhejiang University agency number: 10335
• Scholarship type for universities: Type B

You must enter the correct agency number, or your application may be rejected.

Can International Students Work While Studying in China?

Yes, international students can now work legally while studying in China, but certain conditions apply.

Requirements to Work Part-Time

To work legally, you need:

• A valid student (X) visa
• A No Objection Certificate (NOC) from your academic supervisor
• Approval from the International Student Office (ISO) or Foreign Student Office (FSO)

Once approved, your residence permit will be updated to include part-time work permission.

Work After Graduation

According to official policy, students who graduate with a Master’s degree or higher from a Chinese university (or a recognized foreign university) may:

• Apply for a work permit
• Legally work in China after graduation

Can I Study and Work at the Same Time in China?

Yes. Before 2023, international students were not allowed to work while studying. This policy has now changed.

Today, students can:

• Work part-time
• Take internships
• Teach English or do other approved jobs

As long as you follow the legal process and obtain permission, studying and working in China is allowed.

X Visa Types for Students in China

There are two types of student visas:

• X1 Visa: For programs longer than 6 months
• X2 Visa: For programs shorter than 6 months

Only students with an X-series visa are eligible to apply for part-time work permission.

CSC Scholarship Age Limit Requirements

• Undergraduate: Under 25 years
• Master’s: Under 35 years
• Doctoral: Under 40 years

CSC Scholarship Categories (Type A, B, C)

There are three main CSC categories:

• Type A – Apply through an embassy
• Type B – Apply directly through a Chinese university
• Type C – Apply through other approved organizations

Most students applying directly to universities choose Type B.

Benefits of the Chinese Government Scholarship

CSC is a fully funded scholarship. Benefits include:

• Free tuition
• Free accommodation or housing allowance
• Monthly stipend
• Comprehensive medical insurance

Monthly Stipend Amounts

• Undergraduate: CNY 2,500
• Master’s: CNY 3,000
• Doctoral: CNY 3,500

What Is an English Proficiency Certificate?

An English Proficiency Certificate confirms that your previous degree was taught in English.

How to Get It

• Visit the registrar’s office of your last college or university
• Request a certificate stating that the medium of instruction was English

This certificate can often replace IELTS or TOEFL (subject to university rules).

Best Doctoral Programs in Education in China

China offers strong doctoral programs, especially at top-ranked universities. Popular options include:

• Educational Leadership
• Business and Management
• Digital Marketing
• Online and blended doctoral programs

List of Documents Required for CSC Scholarship

Some key documents include:

• Study plan or research proposal
• Recommendation letters
• Foreigner Physical Examination Form
• English Proficiency Certificate or IELTS (optional)
• Passport copy
• Acceptance or pre-admission letter
• CSC online application form
• University online application

(Students should prepare documents early, as some are valid for only six months.)

Chinese Universities Without an Application Fee (Selected List)

Some universities that do not charge an application fee include:

• Chongqing University
• Nanjing University
• Sichuan University
• Shandong University
• Wuhan University
• Harbin Engineering University
• Renmin University of China
• Zhejiang Sci-Tech University

Policies can change, so always confirm on the official university website.

Example: CSC Type B at Zhejiang University (2026)

Zhejiang University offers CSC Type B scholarships for Master’s and PhD programs.

• Application deadline: December 31, 2025
• Application fee: RMB 800 (non-refundable)
• Scholarship coverage: tuition, accommodation, stipend, medical insurance
• Final results: July–August 2026

Highly Competitive Universities (Type B Example)

Applying through top universities like Tsinghua University is extremely competitive. Applicants usually need:

• Pre-admission
• Strong academic background
• Supervisor recommendation

Final Thoughts

The Chinese Government Scholarship is one of the best fully funded scholarships in the world. With updated policies allowing part-time work, generous stipends, and many universities waiving application fees, China remains a strong study destination for international students.

If you plan carefully, choose the right category, and submit complete documents, your chances of success increase significantly.