The CAS-ANSO Scholarships 2026 in China offer an extraordinary chance for outstanding international students to pursue fully funded master’s and PhD degrees at top Chinese institutions. Powered by the Alliance of National and International Science Organizations (ANSO) and the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), this program promotes scientific innovation and international collaboration in research and knowledge advancement.

Basic Information about the Scholarships

The CAS-ANSO Scholarship 2026 supports 200 master’s and 300 PhD students annually. Applications are accepted from applicants worldwide, with a deadline of 31 January 2026 (tentative final deadline: February 2026). The scholarship includes the ANSO-CAS-TWAS/UNESCO sub-program for about 40 doctoral positions emphasizing sustainability, climate, and global research collaboration.

• ​Application opens: 15 October 2025
• Deadline: 31 January 2026 (Beijing Time)

University and Institution Details

Scholars study at:

• University of Science and Technology of China (USTC) – globally ranked for advanced engineering, quantum technology, and computer science research.
• University of Chinese Academy of Sciences (UCAS) – an elite research university excelling in medical sciences, natural sciences, and applied technology.
• More than 40 CAS Institutes across China – offering access to high-caliber research laboratories and scientific facilities such as FAST Telescope, LAMOST Observatory, and Hefei Light Source.
• ​

ANSO (Alliance of National and International Science Organizations for the Belt and Road Regions)

• Founded in 2018; non-profit, non-governmental international organization.
• Founding members: Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) + 36 other institutions worldwide.
• Aims: Promote science & technology (S&T), human well-being, and international cooperation.

CAS-ANSO Scholarship

• Launched in 2019 to train and support young scientists globally.
• Two categories:
  • Degree Program (Master’s & PhD)
  • Non-degree Program
• Supports about 100–200 Master’s and 300 PhD students annually.
• Host institutions:
  • University of Science and Technology of China (USTC)
  • University of Chinese Academy of Sciences (UCAS)
  • CAS institutes across China.

ANSO-CAS-TWAS/UNESCO PhD Scholarship (sub-category)

• Started in 2022.
• Up to 40 PhD students selected yearly by TWAS/UNESCO.
• 10 awards prioritized for climate-related research.
• Priority groups:
  • Applicants from Least Developed Countries (LDCs)
  • Women researchers
• Funding: CAS (main sponsor) + TWAS/UNESCO (partial funding).

Available Study Areas

Students can choose programs in:

• Natural Sciences (Physics, Chemistry, Biology)
• Environmental Sciences (Renewable Energy, Sustainable Development)
• Technology and Engineering (Electrical, Mechanical, and Computer Engineering)
• Medical Sciences (Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences)
• Information Technology, Data Science, and Management.​

CAS-ANSO Scholarships Benefits

The CAS-ANSO Scholarship 2026 covers:

• Tuition fees and registration charges
• Monthly stipends: 3,000 CNY for Master’s and 6,000–7,000 CNY for PhD students (approximately USD 410–950)
• Comprehensive medical insurance
• International one-way travel subsidy
• Accommodation allowance
• Visa and residence permit fees
• Conference and field research support where applicable.
• ​Application and registration fees

Benefits Not Included

• Family or dependent support allowances
• Domestic travel within China
• Personal expenses unrelated to study or research (entertainment, personal electronics, etc.)
• Post-study employment guarantees.​

Eligibility Criteria for the CAS-ANSO Scholarships

Applicants must:

1. Must NOT hold Chinese citizenship.
2. English or Chinese proficiency required.
3. Age limits:
   • Master’s: Born on/after Jan 1, 1996
   • PhD: Born on/after Jan 1, 1991
4. Must meet USTC/UCAS international student criteria.
5. No other work or assignments during the scholarship.
6. Ineligible if currently studying in China for the same degree level.
7. Cannot apply to both USTC and UCAS simultaneously.

Notes:

• TWAS/UNESCO funds items 5–6 for ANSO-CAS-TWAS/UNESCO PhD awardees.
• CAS funds all items for other ANSO scholars.
• No travel subsidy for those already in China during application.
• Scholars must complete:
  • Chinese language & culture training
  • Research work & thesis
• Failing annual assessments can result in:
  • Termination of scholarship
  • Discontinuation of study
  • Certificate of attendance only (no degree)
• Must follow Chinese laws and USTC/UCAS rules.

Required Documents for Application

Applicants must upload:

• Valid passport copy and photo
• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree certificate (or pre-graduation proof)
• Academic transcripts
• Two recommendation letters
• Study plan or research proposal (minimum 800 words)
• Proof of English or Chinese proficiency
• Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• Motivation letter
• Foreigner Physical Examination form
• HSK certificate (for Chinese-medium programs)
• Any award, publication, or proof of work experience.​

CAS-ANSO Scholarships Application Process (Step-by-Step Guide)

1. Select a Host Institution: Choose UCAS or USTC for your preferred degree.
2. Check Eligibility: Review your field’s program requirements carefully.
3. Prepare Documents: Gather all documents listed above.
4. Create Online Accounts: Register on UCAS or USTC portals and on the ANSO Scholarship Platform.
5. Complete Application Forms: Select “ANSO Scholarship for Young Talents” as your funding option.
6. Upload Documents and Submit: Ensure everything is complete before the deadline.
7. Await Review and Offer: Shortlisted candidates receive conditional or unconditional offers by email.​

Tips for a Successful Application

• Prepare early and contact potential supervisors in your research area.
• Write a focused research proposal highlighting innovation and global relevance.
• Ensure all documents are officially translated and verified.
• Emphasize your research experience, publications, or leadership activities.
• Double-check details such as date of birth and eligibility restrictions.
• Avoid submitting identical applications to both UCAS and USTC.​

Monthly Living Expenses in China (Estimated in USD)

City	Average Monthly Cost (USD)	Notes
Beijing	600–900	Includes housing near UCAS campus
Hefei	400–600	Affordable living near USTC
Shanghai	800–1,000	Premium lifestyle costs
Shenzhen/Guangzhou	700–900	Modern city standards
Nationwide Average	600	Moderate cost including food and utilities ​

Why Choose This Scholarship?

1. Fully Funded International Opportunity: Covers all key costs for up to 4 years.
2. Global Research Competitiveness: Offers access to high-impact research environments and facilities.
3. Career Prospects: 90% employability within six months after graduation.
4. Cultural Enrichment: Experience life in China’s top academic and technological cities.
5. Networking and Collaboration: Participate in forums like the ANSO Global Science Forum with scholars worldwide.​

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Do I need IELTS to apply?
No. Applicants can submit proof of English-medium study instead of IELTS or TOEFL.​

2. Can I apply to both USTC and UCAS?
No. Candidates can only apply to one participating institution.​

3. What is the duration of the scholarship?
Master’s programs last up to 36 months, while PhD programs last up to 48 months.​

4. Are married students eligible?
Yes, but the scholarship does not include dependent support.​

5. Is a research proposal mandatory?
Yes, a research proposal (minimum 800 words) is essential for selection.​

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With its generous funding, advanced facilities, and cross-cultural exposure, the CAS-ANSO Scholarship 2026 in China remains one of the most prestigious opportunities for emerging global researchers eager to make scientific impact worldwide.