YES CHINA Master Programme
The Chinese Government established the “Scholarship for Youth of Excellence Scheme of China” (YES CHINA) Master Programme to enhance relationships between China and developing countries, provide exceptional academic opportunities to talented youth globally, and offer necessary financial aid. The program aims to develop students’ skills, help them excel in their careers, and promote mutual understanding.
Program Details
The YES CHINA Master Programme is open to students from 56 developing countries who wish to pursue a Master’s degree in China. The program duration is one or two years (1 + 1). The China Scholarship Council administers the program to encourage and financially support talented youth with multicultural backgrounds, leadership qualities, and a global vision.
For the 2025-2026 academic year, 200 students can apply for the YES CHINA Master Programme. The program is fully funded and taught in English. The duration of the program is one year, with some subprograms following a “1+1” model. Students complete coursework, research, and dissertation preparations in the first year in Chinese institutions. In the second year, students work in their home countries and complete their dissertations before returning to China to defend them.
Coverage
The scholarship covers:
- Exempted fees: internship and tuition fees
- On-campus accommodation
- Comprehensive medical insurance
- Living allowance
- Settlement subsidy after registration
- One-way air ticket to China after registration
- One-way air ticket from China to the home country after completing studies
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the YES CHINA Master Programme 2025-2026:
- Must be a non-Chinese citizen with good physical and mental health.
- Age must not exceed 45 years.
- Must possess a Higher or Bachelor’s degree.
- Requires a minimum of 3 years of work experience and relevant experience in a discipline related to the chosen Master’s program.
- Applicants must fall into one of four categories: senior manager, government official, international organization experience, or administrator of a research institution or university.
- Pre-admission letter from the institution is necessary, which should not mention any scholarships from the Chinese government.
Application Process
Before applying, students need a pre-admission letter from one of the 72 subprograms. To apply for the YES CHINA Master Programme 2025-2026:
- Log in to http://studyinchina.csc.edu.cn/#/login for online application.
- Fill out the application form and upload required documents.
- Insert correct Program Category and Agency Number: Type A for “Scholarship Type,” Agency number 1563, and select “Youth of Excellence Scheme of China.”
- Submit the application through email to the Chinese Embassy in South Africa at qiaofenghe@gmail.com, copying the Department of Higher Education and Training at Internationalscholarships@dhet.gov.za.
Required Documents
Applicants must submit the following documents:
- Photocopy of the passport
- Higher or Bachelor’s degree certificates
- Academic transcripts
- Proof of work experience or certificate of employment
- Language proficiency certificates
- Personal statement
- Two recommendation letters from professors
- Certificate of non-criminal record (valid for 6 months)
- Photocopy of Foreigner Physical Examination Form (results valid for 6 months)
Closing Date
The application deadline is April 30.
Contact Details
For inquiries, contact the Chinese Embassy:
- First Secretary Chinese Embassy: Education
- Contact person: Mr. Fenghe Qiao
- Email: qiaofenghe@gmail.com
- Tel: +27 12 431 6761
