Are you searching for an exceptional fully funded internship in China that can accelerate your academic and research career? The University of Science and Technology of China (USTC) invites applications for the USTC Research Internship 2026 program. The USTC Research Internship 2026 is prestigious internship opportunity that offers undergraduate, master’s, and PhD students a chance to work on cutting-edge research projects under expert supervision, fully funded by USTC.
Explore this comprehensive guide to understand the program details, eligibility, benefits, application process, and why this opportunity stands out for international students worldwide.
Basic Information about the USTC Research Internship 2026
- Host University: University of Science and Technology of China (USTC)
- Location: Hefei, Anhui Province, China
- Program Duration: 3 to 11 months
- Academic Session: Spring 2026 intake
- Application Deadline: September 30, 2025
- Level A: Jan 1–Mar 31 (fall) | Jul 1–Sep 30 (spring).
- Level B/C or self-financed: Apply ≥3 months before start date.
- Funding Status: Fully funded (tuition, accommodation, stipend, insurance)
- Eligible Applicants: Undergraduate 3rd/4th year students, Master’s, and PhD candidates worldwide
- Application Fee: None (Free application)
This research internship provides a remarkable platform for international students to gain valuable research experience at one of China’s leading technological universities.
Features of the Program
- Research Excellence: Work in top-tier labs with leading professors.
- Academic Advantage: Gain an edge for future studies at USTC.
- Cultural Immersion: Learn basic Chinese and experience Hui culture.
University Details: About USTC
The University of Science and Technology of China (USTC) is a world-renowned research university known for its excellence in science and technology education. Located in Hefei, it is part of China’s elite C9 League, functioning among the best institutions globally for innovative research.
USTC offers a vibrant academic environment with cutting-edge labs, distinguished faculty, and comprehensive resources, making it a favored destination for aspiring scientists and researchers.
Research Field Areas
Interns can engage in research projects across a wide spectrum of academic fields, including but not limited to:
- Chemistry and Materials Science
- Computer Science and Technology
- Earth and Space Sciences
- Engineering Science
- Gifted Young
- Humanities and Social Science
- Information Science and Technology
- Life Sciences
- Management
- Mathematical Sciences
- Physical Sciences
- Public Affairs
- Software Engineering
- NSRL
- SKLFS
- IMR
These fields reflect USTC’s diverse academic strengths and research focus areas, ensuring that applicants from various disciplines can find suitable projects.
USTC Research Internship 2026 Benefits:
The USTC Research Internship scholarship provides extensive financial support, including:
- Full waiver of tuition fees for the internship period
- Comprehensive Medical Insurance
- Free University Dormitory
- Monthly stipend (up to approximately 2,500 RMB or about $350 USD) to cover living expenses
- 2,500 RMB (≈392 USD) per month for Bachelor’s students
- 3,000 RMB (≈470 USD) per month for Master’s students
- 3,500 RMB (≈550 USD) per month for PhD students
- Research training in advanced labs with USTC professors.
- Build academic connections for future Master’s, Ph.D., or post-doc opportunities.
- Free Chinese language & culture classes.
Accommodation:
- Level A/B → on-campus (first-come-first-served).
- Level C/self-financed → off-campus (with assistance).
- Off-campus students must register with local police.
Scholarship (USTC Fellowship)
- Level A: Tuition waiver + insurance + free dormitory + stipend (2,500–3,500 RMB/month).
- Level B: Tuition waiver + insurance + free dormitory.
- Level C: Tuition waiver only.
USTC offers limited scholarships to outstanding students. All applicants will be evaluated.
| USTC Fellowship | Level A | 1. tuition waiver 2. comprehensive medical insurance 3. free university dormitory 4. stipend: 2,500RMB(≈392USD) / month (Bachelor) 3,000RMB (≈470USD) / month (Master) 3,500RMB (≈550USD) / month (PhD) |
| Level B | 1. tuition waiver 2. comprehensive medical insurance 3. free university dormitory | |
| Level C | tuition waiver |
This funding ensures interns can concentrate solely on their research work without financial burden.
Benefits Not Included
While the scholarship covers most core expenses, some costs are not covered, such as:
- Travel expenses to and from China (international airfare)
- Personal expenses beyond the monthly stipend
- Visa application costs
- Optional personal insurance beyond medical coverage
Applicants should plan accordingly for these additional costs.
Eligibility Criteria for the USTC Research Internship 2026
To qualify for the internship program, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Non-Chinese citizens holding valid passports
- Currently enrolled as a 3rd or 4th-year undergraduate, Master’s, or PhD student
- In good physical and mental health
- No criminal record.
- Good English skills.
- Proficient in English or Chinese (IELTS, TOEFL, HSK, or equivalent may be required depending on the program)
- Obtain a pre-acceptance or support from a USTC professor (mandatory prerequisite)
This ensures the selection of highly motivated candidates likely to succeed in USTC’s research environment.
Required Documents for Application
Candidates must prepare and submit the following documents:
- Copy of valid passport (minimum one-year validity)
- Curriculum Vitae (CV) or resume
- Study or Research proposal outlining research interests and objectives
- Official academic transcripts and certificates
- Letter of acceptance or pre-approval from a USTC professor
- At least one letter of recommendation from a university professor or associate professor
- Proof of English or Chinese language proficiency (if applicable)
Documents not in English or Chinese should be accompanied by an official translation.
USTC Research Internship 2026 Application Process: Step-by-Step Guide
- Identify Research Interest: Visit USTC’s website to find professors working in your field and contact them to secure pre-acceptance.
- Create an Account: Register on the USTC online application portal.
- Complete the Application Form: Fill out personal, academic, and research details as requested.
- Upload Required Documents: Submit all verification documents, including CV, transcripts, proposal, and recommendation letters.
- Choose Fellowship Level: Select the appropriate scholarship level (Level A with full support or Level B partial support).
- Submit Application: Verify all information and submit your application before the deadline (September 30, 2025 for Spring intake).
- Await Notification: Regularly check your email for updates and further instructions from USTC admissions.
Tips for a Successful USTC Internship Application
- Start Early: Contact potential supervisors well in advance to secure research agreement.
- Strong Research Proposal: Clearly define your research goals and align them with the professor’s expertise.
- Tailor Recommendations: Choose recommenders familiar with your academic capabilities and research potential.
- Language Preparation: Prepare and submit recognized language proficiency scores if required.
- Complete Documentation: Ensure all documents are accurate, translated if necessary, and submitted timely.
- Follow Up: Monitor your application status and respond promptly to any additional requests from USTC.
Monthly Living Expenses for International Students in China
While USTC provides a stipend, here is an overview of typical living costs (in USD) for international students in China, especially in Hefei:
- Accommodation in university dormitory: $150 – $400/month
- Food and groceries: $150 – $250/month
- Transportation (public transit): $20 – $40/month
- Utilities and internet: $30 – $60/month
- Miscellaneous and entertainment: $50 – $100/month
Overall, students can manage comfortably with a budget of approximately $400 to $800 per month depending on lifestyle choices. The stipend from USTC (about $350) covers a significant portion of basic costs.
Why Choose the USTC Research Internship 2026?
- Fully Funded Program: Covers tuition, accommodation, stipend, and insurance, reducing financial barriers for international students.
- Prestigious University: USTC is a top-ranked Chinese university with global recognition in science and technology research.
- Diverse Research Areas: Offers broad fields of study suiting various academic interests and career goals.
- Mentorship by Experts: Collaborate directly with USTC professors renowned in their fields.
- Cross-Cultural Experience: Live and study in China’s vibrant and historic city Hefei, enriching personal and professional growth.
These advantages make USTC’s internship a standout opportunity for aspiring researchers globally.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Who can apply for the USTC Research Internship?
A1: Undergraduate (3rd/4th year), Master’s, and PhD students from any country are eligible.
Q2: Is there any application fee?
A2: No, the application process is free of charge.
Q3: What is the duration of the internship?
A3: The research internship lasts from 3 to 11 months.
Q4: Do I need to know Chinese to apply?
A4: Proficiency in English or Chinese is required depending on your chosen research program.
Q5: When is the application deadline?
A5: For Spring 2026 intake, apply by September 30, 2025.
Q6: Are travel expenses covered?
A6: No, travel costs are the responsibility of the applicant.
Q7: How to get acceptance from a USTC professor?
A7: Review professor profiles on USTC’s website and contact those whose research matches your interests for pre-approval.
Official Link:
The USTC Research Internship 2026 in China offers an unparalleled opportunity to advance academic careers, experience cutting-edge research, and immerse in a rich cultural environment with full financial support. Interested applicants should start their preparation now and submit applications before the deadline on September 30, 2025.