The University of Science and Technology of China (USTC) is inviting applications for the 2026 USTC Fellowship for Master’s Programs, designed to support high-achieving international students in pursuing their graduate studies in China. This fellowship is ideal for students aiming to gain advanced knowledge in cutting-edge fields, benefit from a vibrant academic environment, and immerse themselves in Chinese culture. The fellowship offers full or partial financial support, including tuition, stipend, accommodation, and insurance, creating a globally encouraging platform for ambitious students.

About USTC

Founded in 1958, USTC is a premier research university under the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS). It is internationally recognized for excellence in science, engineering, and technology disciplines. USTC consistently ranks among the top universities in China and Asia, offering state-of-the-art research facilities, interdisciplinary programs, and a strong focus on innovation and academic rigor.

The fellowship provides international students the opportunity to join a dynamic learning environment, collaborate with leading faculty, and acquire practical research skills while studying in a globally diverse setting.

USTC Fellowship 2026 Overview

Parameter	Details
Scholarship Name	USTC Fellowship for Master’s Programs
Host University	University of Science and Technology of China (USTC)
Type	Master’s Fellowship
Duration	2-3 years (depending on program)
Level	Level A (Fully Funded), Level B (Partial Support)
Coverage	Tuition waiver, monthly stipend (3,000 RMB for Level A), medical insurance, accommodation subsidy, Teaching/Research Assistantship for Level B
Eligible Countries	All non-Chinese citizens
Application Period	16 October 2025 – 31 January 2026
Language Requirements	HSK Level 4+ for Chinese-taught programs; IELTS/TOEFL for English-taught programs

Fellowship Benefits

Level A (Fully Funded)

• Tuition waiver for the entire master’s program
• Monthly stipend of 3,000 RMB
• Comprehensive medical insurance
• Accommodation subsidy

Level B (Partially Funded)

• Tuition waiver
• Teaching or Research Assistance subsidy available after enrollment

This fellowship ensures that students can focus entirely on their studies without financial concerns. Level A is particularly competitive, supporting academically outstanding applicants, while Level B offers flexible support for students demonstrating strong potential.

Eligibility Criteria

• Non-Chinese citizens with valid passports
• Applicants for master’s programs must have a bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) and submit a Pre-graduation Certificate if still completing their degree
• Must be under 35 years of age by 1 September 2026
• Language proficiency:

1. Chinese-taught programs: HSK Level 4 or above
2. English-taught programs: IELTS/TOEFL proof required

• Must meet USTC’s international student admission criteria
• Applicants cannot hold other scholarships or assignments during the fellowship period

Application Process

• Step 1: Online Application: Create an account in the USTC Application System
  • Select the fellowship level(s) you wish to apply for
• Step 2: Document Preparation: Photocopy of passport (valid at least one year)
  • Study or research proposal (minimum 1,000 words)
  • Curriculum Vitae (CV)
  • Two recommendation letters from full or associate professors
  • Foreigner Physical Examination Form
  • Proof of language proficiency (HSK for Chinese programs; IELTS/TOEFL for English programs)
  • Photocopy of bachelor’s degree certificate and transcripts (notarized translation in Chinese or English if needed)
  • For current students: official certificate showing student status and expected graduation date
  • For employed applicants: proof of employment and release permission
• Step 3: Submission and Review: Upload all documents to the online portal
  • Schools and departments will review applications and conduct interviews
  • Professors will select candidates based on documents and interview performance
• Step 4: Admission and Scholarship Decision: Only one fellowship per applicant will be awarded
  • Decisions are based on academic merit, research potential, and interview performance

Comparison of USTC Fellowship vs CAS-ANSO Scholarship

Feature	USTC Fellowship (Master’s)	CAS-ANSO Scholarship
Host University	USTC	USTC/UCAS
Duration	2-3 years	Master’s: 36 months
Monthly Stipend	3,000 RMB	3,000 RMB
Coverage	Tuition waiver, medical insurance, accommodation, TA/RA (Level B)	Tuition waiver, monthly stipend, insurance, travel allowance
Eligibility	Non-Chinese, under 35	Non-Chinese, age criteria varies
Language Requirement	HSK 4 / IELTS/TOEFL	HSK 4 / English proficiency
Application Portal	USTC Apply	CAS-ANSO Apply

FAQs About USTC Fellowship 2026

1. Can I apply for both Level A and Level B simultaneously?
   Yes, but only one scholarship will be awarded based on your overall application strength.
2. Is prior research experience required?
   While not mandatory, a strong research proposal and academic performance significantly improve selection chances.
3. Can I apply if I am completing my bachelor’s in 2026?
   Yes, submit a Pre-graduation Certificate to confirm degree completion by July 2026.
4. Are USTC Fellowship recipients required to stay in China full-time?
   Yes, the scholarship requires full-time enrollment and residency in China.
5. Can I apply if I already hold another scholarship?
   No, applicants cannot take up other scholarships or assignments during the fellowship.
6. What documents are needed for English-taught programs?
   IELTS or TOEFL score, CV, research proposal, passport copy, degree certificate, transcripts, recommendation letters, and physical examination form.
7. Is accommodation provided?
   Yes, Level A includes an accommodation subsidy.
8. Are interviews conducted online or in person?
   Interviews are generally organized online by the school/department.
9. Can students from any country apply?
   Yes, all non-Chinese citizens meeting eligibility criteria can apply.
10. Are the documents returned after submission?
    No, submitted documents will not be returned, regardless of the application outcome.

Important Notes

• Candidates must abide by USTC regulations and Chinese laws
• Applicants failing to meet academic or assessment criteria risk scholarship termination
• Ensure all documents are complete and submitted before 31 January 2026

Take this opportunity to join USTC, one of China’s top research universities, and advance your academic and professional career with full financial support. Apply early to maximize your chance of receiving the 2026 USTC Fellowship. APPLY NOW. Visit the offcial website for complete Scholarship Info.

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