The Confucius Institute Scholarship (CIS) is a fully funded scholarship designed to promote Chinese language and culture by supporting international students to study in China. Established by Hanban, the Confucius Institute Headquarters, the scholarship aims to foster cultural exchange and enhance mutual understanding between China and the rest of the world.

Who Can Apply

• Nationality:Non-Chinese citizens.
• Age:16-35 years old (45 for in-service Chinese language teachers).
• Health:Good physical and mental health.

Eligibility

• Language Proficiency:Varies by program. Generally, HSK (Chinese Proficiency Test) and HSKK (Chinese Speaking Test) scores are required.
• Academic Record:Must provide diplomas and academic transcripts.
• Letters of Recommendation:One or two letters depending on the program, signed by the recommending institution’s responsible person.

The Confucius Institute Scholarship (CIS) offers several categories of scholarships aimed at promoting Chinese language and culture among international students. Each category has specific requirements, including language proficiency, academic background, and other criteria. Here’s a comprehensive breakdown:

Scholarship Categories and Requirements

Scholarship for One-Academic-Year Study

• Programs:Chinese Language and Literature, Chinese History, and Chinese Philosophy.
• Language Proficiency:Minimum HSK level 3 with a score of 270, and HSKK level Intermediate with a score of 60.
• Other Requirements:Completed at least one year of study in a non-Chinese country before applying.

Scholarship for One-Semester Study

• Programs:Same as above.
• Language Proficiency:Minimum HSK level 3 with a score of 180, and HSKK level Beginner with a score of 60.
• Other Requirements:No prior experience of studying in China.

Scholarship for Four-Week Study

• Programs:Chinese Language and Literature, Chinese History, Chinese Philosophy, and Chinese Medicine.
• Language Proficiency:No HSK requirement, but applicants must be able to provide proof of a Chinese language learning background.
• Other Requirements:Organized and applied for by Confucius Institutes. Participants must come in groups and should not have any study experience in China.

Scholarship for Bachelor’s Degree in Teaching Chinese to Speakers of Other Languages (BTCSOL)

• Language Proficiency:Minimum HSK level 4 with a score of 210, and HSKK level Intermediate with a score of 60.
• Academic Requirements:High school diploma or equivalent.

Scholarship for Master’s Degree in Teaching Chinese to Speakers of Other Languages (MTCSOL)

• Language Proficiency:Minimum HSK level 5 with a score of 210, and HSKK level Intermediate with a score of 60.
• Academic Requirements:Bachelor’s degree or equivalent.
• Other Requirements:A written commitment stating the intent to become a Chinese language teacher after graduation.

Scholarship for Ph.D. in Teaching Chinese to Speakers of Other Languages (DTCSOL)

• Language Proficiency:Minimum HSK level 6 with a score of 200, and HSKK level Advanced with a score of 60.
• Academic Requirements:Master’s degree in a related field.

Application Policy and Documents Required

1. Online Application:Register and complete the application form on the Confucius Institute Scholarship website.
2. University Application:Apply to the specific Chinese university offering the program.
3. Documents Required:
   • Scanned copy of passport.
   • A letter of recommendation signed by the person in charge of the Confucius Institute from your country or host university (depending on your program)
   • HSK and HSKK score reports or Chinese proficiency Certificate. (Check your required score for the specific program you are applying)
   • Highest diploma (notarized).
   • Academic transcripts.
   • Recommendation letters (one or two, depending on the program from your previous Institute or Current institute).
   • Personal statement or study plan (minimum 800 words).
   • Foreigner Physical Examination Form. (All field should cover with stamp & Sign by the Doctor)
   • No criminal record certificate (From your home country)
   • For BTCSOL and MTCSOL: proof of work experience and future employment plans if available.

Application Process: Step by Step

1. Choose Programs and Universities: Select preferred Host universities and programs during the online application.
2. Prepare Documents: Gather all necessary documents including transcripts, HSK/HSKK scores, and recommendation letters.
3. Online Application: Submit the application on the Confucius Institute Scholarship website.
4. Submit Documents: Send physical documents to the designated Confucius Institute or Chinese embassy.
5. Interview: Attend an interview if required.
6. Results Announcement: Results are typically announced three months before the program starts.
7. Visa Application: Process your student visa with the help of documents provided by the scholarship program. you may check How to Get a Student Visa for China: A Comprehensive 2025 Guide

Scholarship Benefits

• Tuition: Full coverage.
• Accommodation: Free accommodation in university dormitories.
• Monthly Stipend:
  • CNY 2,500 for one-academic-year and one-semester students.
  • CNY 3,000 for master’s degree students.
  • CNY 3,500 for doctoral students.
• Medical Insurance: Comprehensive coverage.
• Other Benefits: Rental assistance and flight coverage for some students.

Deadline

Every Year in the month march Confucius starts taking application from all around the world. But the application  typically close by May 15 for September Intake each year and Applications close by October 31 by March Intake each year.

How to Start and Prepare for Applying CI Scholarship from earlier

1. Start preparing at least a year before the application deadline.
2. Take the HSK and HSKK exams early to meet the required scores.
3. Participate in Confucius Institute activities to strengthen your application.
4. Gather and notarize all required documents well in advance.
5. Write a compelling personal statement explaining your study plan and future goals.
6. Secure strong recommendation letters from academic or professional contacts.
7. Complete the Foreigner Physical Examination Form and ensure you have all necessary medical records.
8. Submit your application on the Confucius Institute Scholarship website and the respective university’s application portal.

Unlock your potential with the Confucius Institute Scholarship 2024! This fully funded program offers a unique chance to delve into Chinese culture and language at top universities in China. Ensure you meet the eligibility criteria, prepare your documents meticulously, and apply online before the deadline. Stay engaged with your local Confucius Institute and start your application process early for the best chances of success. Visit the official Confucius Institute Scholarship website to begin

For more information and to apply, visit the official website Confucius Institute Scholarship website