Confucius Institute Scholarship (CIS)

Overview

A scholarship funded by the Center for Language Education and Cooperation (CLEC, formerly Hanban) supporting international students studying Chinese language and culture, Teaching Chinese to Speakers of Other Languages (TCSOL), or related degree programs at partner Chinese universities and Confucius Institutes worldwide.

Funding

Full tuition, accommodation, a monthly living stipend, comprehensive medical insurance, and international airfare for some recipients

Eligibility

• Non-Chinese citizens generally aged 16-35 (up to 45 for in-service Chinese-language teachers), in good health
• Must hold a minimum HSK (and HSKK, where required) language score depending on the program type
• Typically requires recommendation by a Confucius Institute/Classroom, or direct application through the CIS online system where permitted
• Available for degree, non-degree, one-academic-year, and one-semester study options

Application Deadline

Applications generally close around early May for the September intake and early November for the March intake (varies by host institution) Always confirm exact dates on the official site before planning your application, since deadlines shift year to year.

How to Apply

1. Contact a local Confucius Institute/Classroom or identify a CIS-eligible Chinese university/program
2. Register and complete the application on the official CIS online application system
3. Upload scanned documents including passport, photo, HSK/HSKK certificates and academic records
4. Obtain any required recommendation from the nominating Confucius Institute
5. Submit before the relevant intake deadline and await the host institution's admission and scholarship decision