Shaanxi Normal University CSC Scholarship 2026 in China is a fully funded opportunity for international students to pursue master’s and PhD degrees in Xi’an. With tuition, accommodation, stipend, and medical insurance covered under the CSC High-Level Postgraduate Program. This guide explains eligibility, benefits, required documents, application steps, living costs, and practical tips to help you submit a competitive application in 2026.
Basic information and deadline
The Shaanxi Normal University (SNNU) CSC High-Level Postgraduate Scholarship 2026 is a Chinese Government Scholarship (Chinese University Program) for high-achieving international students who wish to study full-time master’s or doctoral programs in China. The scholarship is fully funded and is open to applicants from all nationalities except Chinese citizens, with most programs starting in September 2026.
- Host country: China (city: Xi’an, Shaanxi Province)
- University: Shaanxi Normal University (SNNU)
- Degree levels: Master’s and PhD (no undergraduate under this specific high-level CSC track)
- Scholarship type: Chinese Government Scholarship – University Program (CSC High-Level Postgraduate Program)
- Duration
- Master’s: 2–3 years
- Ph.D.: 4 years
Application deadline 2026:
Most sources indicate that the deadline for the SNNU CSC High-Level Postgraduate Scholarship 2026 is 23 February 2026, and applicants are strongly advised to complete both CSC and university online systems before this date.
Shaanxi Normal University overview
Shaanxi Normal University is a key national university directly administered by the Ministry of Education of China and is part of the “Double First-Class” initiative, which highlights its strong research and teaching profile. Located in Xi’an, a historic city and former capital of multiple Chinese dynasties, SNNU has two main campuses with modern facilities, international student dormitories, and a growing international community.
The university is especially known for education, humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, and teacher training, but it also offers a wide variety of disciplines at postgraduate level. SNNU actively promotes internationalization through multiple scholarship schemes, including CSC, Shaanxi Provincial Government Scholarship, and its own internal international student scholarships.
Study areas and available programs
Under the CSC High-Level Postgraduate Program at SNNU, international students can apply for a broad range of master’s and PhD programs taught in Chinese or English. Depending on the department. Specific program lists may vary annually, but typical fields include:
- Chinese-taught
- (See attached list)
- English-taught
- Master’s:
- Sinicization of Marxism
- Chinese Philosophy
- Cultural Heritage Conservation & Engineering
- Ph.D.:
- Education
- Chemistry
- Materials Science
- Computer Science & Technology
- Master’s:
Applicants should check the SNNU international admission portal or the latest scholarship brochure to confirm exact program names. And language of instruction for 2026, as some majors may only be available in Chinese.
Shaanxi Normal University CSC Scholarship benefits
The Shaanxi Normal University CSC Scholarship 2026 is fully funded, covering almost all major study-related expenses for the standard duration of the program. Key benefits include:
- Full tuition fee waiver for the entire standard study period of the master’s or doctoral program.
- Free or covered on-campus accommodation in international student dormitories, or a housing subsidy if applicable.
- Monthly living stipend (approximate current rates):
- Comprehensive medical insurance for international students during the scholarship period.
- Application fee exemption for scholarship candidates in many CSC university programs (confirm on SNNU portal for 2026).
These benefits make SNNU CSC one of the most attractive options for students looking for a fully funded master’s or PhD degree in China in 2026.
Benefits not included
Even though the scholarship is fully funded, some costs are not covered and must be handled by students themselves.
- International airfare to and from China
- Visa application fees, residence permit fees, and related legal documents
- Daily personal expenses beyond the stipend
- Books and materials not included in standard tuition
- Any medical costs not covered by the standard student medical insurance package.
Planning a personal budget in addition to the stipend is important to live comfortably while studying in Xi’an.
Eligibility criteria for Shaanxi Normal University CSC Scholarship
Typical eligibility conditions for the Shaanxi Normal University CSC High-Level Postgraduate Scholarship 2026 include academic, age, health, and nationality requirements. While applicants must always confirm the latest official notice, the main criteria are:
- Nationality:
- Non-Chinese citizens; physically & mentally healthy
- Academic background:
- Age limits (typical CSC rules):
- Language requirements:
- Background and conduct:
Meeting the minimum criteria does not guarantee selection, as the scholarship is competitive and merit-based.
Required documents
Most recent guidance for SNNU CSC High-Level Postgraduate Scholarship mentions the following documents. Prepare everything in advance, scanned clearly:
- Passport copy (valid beyond Sept 2026)
- Notarized highest diploma / proof of enrollment
- Academic transcripts (sealed)
- Language certificates (HSK/IELTS/TOEFL)
- Study Plan (1000+ words); PhD plan signed by Chinese supervisor
- Two recommendation letters (prof./assoc. prof.)
- Foreigner Physical Examination Form (valid 6 months)
- Non-criminal record (issued within 6 months)
- Extra research materials (papers, awards, patents, etc.)
Always check 2026 call to see if notarization, translation, or specific formats (PDF, max size) are required.
Shaanxi Normal University CSC Scholarship Application process: step-by-step
The application for Shaanxi Normal University CSC Scholarship 2026 generally involves two online platforms plus document submission. Follow this typical step-by-step guide:
- Check programs and eligibility
- SNNU: https://snnu.17gz.org/
- CSC: https://studyinchina.csc.edu.cn/
- Agency no.: 10718, choose Type B
- Prepare documents
- Fill CSC online application (System 1)
- Apply through SNNU online portal (System 2)
- Submit and pay any required fees (if applicable)
- University review and possible interview
- Nomination to CSC and final result
- Visa and registration
Tips for a successful application (bullet points)
Use these practical tips to increase your chances of winning the Shaanxi Normal University CSC Scholarship 2026:
- Start at least 3–4 months before the deadline to have enough time for translations, notarizations, and recommendation letters.
- Choose a program matching your academic background and clearly show how your previous studies align with the chosen major and research interests.
- Write a clear, original, and well-structured study plan/research proposal that explains your academic goals, proposed research topic, and why SNNU and Xi’an are the right choice.
- Request strong recommendation letters from professors who know your academic performance and research potential. Share your CV and draft study plan with them.
- Ensure your GPA and academic record are presented clearly, with explanations if your university uses a different grading scale.
- Meet or exceed language requirements; if your scores are borderline, consider retaking tests early to improve them before submission.
- Carefully check file names, formats (usually PDF), and photo size to avoid technical rejections in both CSC and SNNU systems.
- Avoid plagiarism in your study plan and essays; universities and CSC highly value academic integrity.
Monthly living expenses in Xi’an (in USD)
Xi’an is generally more affordable than mega cities like Beijing or Shanghai, which helps international students manage costs even with a modest stipend. For 2024–2025, average living costs for international students in China range roughly from USD 350 to USD 850 per month.
For Xi’an specifically, estimates and cost-of-living data suggest:
- University dormitory: Often covered or heavily subsidized by the scholarship. Market value typically around CNY 600–1,200 per month (roughly USD 85–170).
- Food and groceries: Around CNY 1,500–1,800 per month. Which equals roughly USD 210–250 for normal student lifestyle (canteen plus simple cooking).
- Local transportation, mobile, and small expenses: Around CNY 500–800 per month, or USD 70–110.
Overall, a typical SNNU CSC student in Xi’an can live decently on USD 350–500 per month. While the CSC stipend for master’s and PhD students (around CNY 3,000–3,500) is designed to cover these basic living costs.
Why choose this scholarship? (at least 5 reasons)
- Fully funded opportunity in a historic city: The CSC High-Level Postgraduate Scholarship at SNNU covers tuition, housing, stipend, and insurance. Allowing you to focus fully on your studies without major financial stress.
- Strong academic reputation and “Double First-Class” status: SNNU’s recognition by the Ministry of Education and its strong programs in education, humanities, and sciences provide high academic value to your degree.
- Flexible language options (Chinese or English): Many programs offer both Chinese-taught and English-taught tracks. Enabling students with or without Chinese proficiency to study at SNNU.
- Affordable living costs in Xi’an: Compared with first-tier cities, Xi’an offers a lower cost of living while still providing big-city facilities, cultural attractions, and convenient transportation.
- Career and research advantages: Experience in China, exposure to Chinese language and culture, and research connections. With Chinese and international scholars can significantly strengthen your CV and career prospects.
- Multiple scholarship pathways: In addition to CSC, SNNU and Shaanxi Province run other scholarships (like provincial government awards), giving an ecosystem of support for international students.
FAQ: Shaanxi Normal University CSC Scholarship 2026
1. Do I need IELTS or HSK?
Yes, you must provide proof of language proficiency: HSK for Chinese-taught programs and IELTS/TOEFL or equivalent for English-taught programs (exact scores depend on department and program).
2. How do I apply – through CSC or directly to the university?
You must apply through both the CSC online application system (Type B, SNNU agency code) and the Shaanxi Normal University international student application system, then submit all required documents before the deadline.
3. Can I apply for more than one Chinese university with CSC?
CSC normally allows applications to several universities, but you should check current CSC rules; SNNU sources note that students can also apply to other universities under the same CSC intake.
4. When will I know the result?
After university and CSC review, final scholarship and admission results are typically released around June–July 2026, and successful candidates are contacted via email or portal message.
5. Is there any application fee?
Some CSC university programs waive application fees for scholarship applicants, though policy can change; always confirm SNNU’s 2026 instructions on the admission website.
6. Can family members accompany me?
CSC scholarships generally do not cover dependents, and additional living, visa, and housing costs must be arranged independently if family members accompany you.
Deadline
- February 23, 2026
