Last checked: 7 October 2026. Dates and rules change, so confirm on the official pages linked below.
The Chinese Government Scholarship (CSC) funds bachelor’s, master’s and PhD study in China, and Pakistan is one of the largest sending countries. The official 2027-28 round for the HEC route had not been announced when we checked in late September 2026, so use this guide to prepare, then follow HEC for the exact dates.
Two ways to apply
| Type A (HEC route) | Apply through HEC as the nominating agency, and also on the CSC online system. In the last round HEC offered about 75 seats and used the CSC agency number 5861. Confirm the number in the new call. |
|---|---|
| Type B (university route) | Apply directly to a designated Chinese university and on the CSC system. Sources report the CSC portal opening around December and university deadlines between January and April. |
The two-portal rule (Type A)
HEC states that both applications are mandatory, and that missing either one leads to disqualification:
- Apply on scholarship.hec.gov.pk under “Learning Opportunities Abroad”.
- Apply on campuschina.org, choose Program Category Type A and enter the HEC agency number.
- Keep signed printed copies of both forms.
In the last round the HEC deadline was 5 January 2026, and undergraduate applicants had to take the CSCA assessment test. After HEC closes, the Chinese Embassy in Pakistan reviews candidates and CSC makes the final decision, which can change your university or subject.
Typical documents
- Passport
- Degree certificates and transcripts (often attested)
- Study plan or research proposal
- Two recommendation letters
- Medical examination and police clearance if selected
- Language certificate (Chinese or English, depending on the programme)
Preparation checklist
- Choose three suitable Chinese universities and programmes.
- Write a study plan that links your goals to the programme. Use our scholarship essay guide for structure.
- Read HEC’s note about travel: in a recent call, international travel was stated as the awardee’s responsibility. Confirm in the new call.
How to choose universities and programmes in China
- Check that the programme is listed for the scholarship category you are applying under.
- Confirm the teaching language. English-taught programmes are limited for some subjects.
- Compare each university’s research strengths with your own field.
- Look for a supervisor’s profile if you are applying for a research degree.
- Choose a mix of top-ranked and less competitive universities so you have realistic options.
What a strong study plan includes
- Your background: degree, key subjects and results.
- Why this field: the problem you want to solve.
- Why China and this university: specific laboratories, courses or supervisors.
- What you will do: a short plan by semester or year.
- What happens next: how you will use the degree after you return.
A simple preparation timeline
- Now to December: shortlist universities, gather transcripts and passport copies.
- December to January: draft the study plan and request two recommendation letters.
- When HEC or CSC opens the call: complete both portals and print signed copies.
- After submission: prepare for the possibility of an interview or document check.
Common mistakes
- Submitting on only one of the two portals
- Choosing a programme that is not offered in English when you only have English proof
- Leaving the study plan generic
- Forgetting that selected candidates must complete medical and other checks
Chinese Government Scholarship: frequently asked questions
Is the CSC fully funded?
It generally covers tuition, accommodation and a monthly stipend, but read the call for exactly what is included.
Do I need to speak Chinese?
Many programmes are taught in English. Chinese-taught programmes need a language certificate.
Which other scholarships have a similar timeline?
See our full scholarship calendar.
Official sources: HEC and Campus China.
