The Chinese government has announced the launch of its prestigious Chinese Government Scholarship Program 2025-26 for students from Pakistan. The program offers opportunities for undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral students to pursue studies and research at top Chinese universities.
The Higher Education Commission (HEC) of Pakistan, which is the nominating agency for these scholarships, has set a deadline of December 9, 2024, for online applications. Interested candidates are required to apply through the official HEC portal and submit their application before the deadline to be considered for the scholarship.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must be Pakistani or Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) nationals. Dual nationality holders are ineligible for the program. The scholarship is open for students at all academic levels:
- Undergraduate applicants must have completed 12 years of education (e.g., Intermediate/A-level/FA-FSC) and be under 25 years of age.
- Master’s applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree (16 years of education) and be under 35 years of age.
- PhD candidates must have a master’s degree (MS/MPhil) and be under 40 years of age.
Moreover, applicants must be in good health and must not have incomplete degrees on the closing date for applications. A valid HAT (Higher Education Aptitude Test) score is required for master’s and PhD applicants, while USAT scores are mandatory for undergraduate applicants. For consideration, candidates must have obtained a minimum score of 50 out of 100 in either the HAT or USAT.
Application Process
The scholarship provides comprehensive support for the recipient’s academic journey in China. This includes tuition coverage, health insurance, a living stipend, and free dormitory accommodation. However, travel costs must be borne by the scholarship winners themselves.
The application process involves submitting applications via both the HEC online portal and the China Scholarship Council (CSC) portal.
Deadline: Applicants are advised to apply promptly, as the HEC portal will close on December 9, 2024, at 4:00 PM (Pakistan Standard Time).
Required Documents
While no hard copies are required for initial submission, shortlisted candidates must submit various documents, including:
- Signed application forms from both HEC and CSC portals.
- Copies of academic documents, CNIC, and other relevant certificates.
- A research proposal or study plan in English or Chinese.
- A physical examination record (for foreigners).
- Police clearance certificate (not older than six months).
- For graduate programs, two letters of recommendation from professors.
Additionally, applicants for graduate programs are encouraged to secure pre-admission letters from their preferred Chinese universities for a better chance of selection.
Study in China
The Chinese Government Scholarship Program aims to strengthen educational and research ties between China and Pakistan. As part of its broader strategy to enhance international cooperation in higher education, China has long offered scholarships for Pakistani students to study at its universities, with a focus on diverse fields such as technology, engineering, and agriculture.
The Chinese Scholarship Council (CSC), entrusted by the Ministry of Education of the People’s Republic of China, oversees the scholarship’s administration. This initiative is set to play a significant role in furthering educational exchange and fostering deeper ties between the two nations.
For detailed guidelines and application procedures, candidates should visit HEC Scholarship Portal or China Scholarship Council.
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