CSC Scholarship: studying in China with a Chinese government scholarship

China has become one of the world's major study destinations, and it attracts more and more Tunisian students, notably thanks to its scholarships. The best known is the Chinese Government Scholarship, managed by the China Scholarship Council (hence its common name: CSC scholarship). It can cover most of the costs of a full degree. Here is how the CSC scholarship works, who can apply and how to build a strong application.

Rules and timelines are set every year by the CSC, universities and embassies. Our advisors check the conditions for the current year for you.

What the CSC scholarship covers

Depending on the type of scholarship (full or partial), it can include:

• a tuition fee waiver;

• accommodation in a university residence (or a housing allowance);

• a monthly stipend, the amount of which varies by level (bachelor's, master's, doctorate);

• the compulsory health insurance in China.

Flight tickets are generally not included. The full scholarship is the most sought after and therefore the most selective.

For which levels of study?

• Bachelor's, often in Chinese after a language year, sometimes in English.

• Master's and doctorate, with a large offer in English, notably in engineering, computer science, economics and sciences.

• Short research or language programmes, depending on the year.

For medicine in English (MBBS), certain universities are authorised to accept international students: always check that the degree is recognised in the country where you want to practise.

The two main application routes

1. The bilateral route (via your country's authorities or the Chinese embassy)

Under the agreements between China and Tunisia, a number of scholarships are offered each year. Applications go through the designated authorities in Tunisia and/or the Chinese embassy. The number of places is limited and the timeline is set locally.

2. The university route (Chinese universities programme)

Many Chinese universities are authorised to select CSC scholarship holders directly. You apply both on the CSC online portal (with the university's code) and to the chosen university. This is often the most accessible route for motivated students, provided they choose their university and programme carefully.

Applications generally take place between the beginning of the year and spring for a September intake. Each university sets its own deadline, sometimes very early: find out from the autumn onwards.

The usual requirements

• Be a national of a country other than China and in good health.

• Hold the required diploma: bac for a bachelor's, bachelor's for a master's, master's for a doctorate.

• Respect the age limits set for each level.

• Have a good academic record (grades are a central criterion).

• Prove the required language level: HSK for programmes in Chinese, an English test or certificate for programmes in English.

The application file

The documents most often requested:

• CSC online application form;

• valid passport;

• diplomas and transcripts, translated (English or Chinese) and certified;

• study plan or research proposal (master's and doctorate);

• two recommendation letters from professors (master's and doctorate);

• foreigner physical examination form, completed by a doctor;

• police clearance certificate;

• language certificate (HSK, IELTS, TOEFL or equivalent);

• for some programmes, a pre-admission letter from a professor or the university.

Tips for a successful application

1. Target the right universities: the most prestigious receive a huge number of applications. Solid but less well-known universities often offer better chances.

2. Take care over the study plan: clear objectives, a link with your background, value for your career.

3. Contact a professor for research master's and doctorates: an acceptance letter is a real plus.

4. Prepare translations early: this is often what delays applications.

5. Consider other scholarships: provincial scholarships, university scholarships or language scholarships (Confucius Institutes), which can complement or replace the CSC.

Living in China as a Tunisian student

The cost of living varies greatly between the big cities (Beijing, Shanghai, Shenzhen) and provincial cities, which are much more affordable. Daily life revolves heavily around mobile apps (payment, transport, messaging): be ready to install them as soon as you arrive. Learning the basics of Chinese, even for a programme in English, makes integration much easier and is a professional asset.

Recommended timeline

1. September – November: choice of universities and programmes, contacting professors for research.

2. November – January: translations, medical examination, police clearance certificate, recommendation letters, study plan.

3. January – April: submitting applications on the CSC portal and to the universities, before their respective deadlines.

4. Spring – summer: possible interviews, results.

5. Summer: receiving the admission letter and visa form, student visa, departure.

Some universities' deadlines fall at the very beginning of the year: do not wait until spring to get organised.

Key takeaway: the CSC scholarship rewards above all a good academic record and a clear plan. Choose realistic universities, prepare translations and the medical examination in advance, and respect each university's deadline.

Our support

Worldwide Studies helps you choose universities and programmes suited to your profile, prepare the study plan, letters and translations, and follow both applications (CSC and university). To compare with other full scholarships, read Türkiye Bursları and Stipendium Hungaricum.

👉 Each university has its own dates: talk to an advisor to find out which scholarships in China match your grades and your plans.