How can Pakistani students apply for the China scholarship program 2025-26?

 China has launched its Scholarship Program for the academic year 2025-26, offering Pakistani students from Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) and Pakistan the opportunity to pursue higher education and conduct research at Chinese universities.

The Higher Education Commission (HEC) has announced that the deadline for submitting online applications is Monday, December 9, 2024.

To be eligible for the Chinese Government Scholarship Program 2025-26, applicants must have already obtained a valid Higher Education Aptitude Test (HAT) score (valid if obtained after December 9, 2022) or a valid Undergraduate Studies Admission Test (USAT) score (valid if obtained after December 9, 2023). These test scores must be submitted through the HEC portal for consideration.

Applications must be submitted online via the China Scholarship Council’s portal under Category A (Agency No. 5861). Visit campuschina.org or https://www.csc.edu.cn/laihua for the application form.

The Chinese Scholarship Council (CSC), under the Ministry of Education of the People’s Republic of China, oversees the enrollment and administration of this scholarship program. Pakistani students can apply for undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral (PhD) programs in various fields of study.

Eligibility Criteria:

1. Nationality: Applicants must be Pakistani or AJK nationals. Dual nationality holders are not eligible.
2. Health: Applicants must be in good health.
3. Educational Qualifications:
   • Undergraduate/Bachelor’s Program: Applicants must have completed 12 years of education (Intermediate/A-level/FA-FSC) and be under 25 years of age.
   • Master’s Program: Applicants must have a Bachelor’s degree (16 years of education) and be under 35 years of age.
   • PhD/Doctoral Program: Applicants must have a Master’s degree (MS/MPhil) and be under 40 years of age.
4. Test Scores: Applicants must submit a valid HAT (for Master’s/PhD) or USAT (for undergraduate) score. A minimum score of 50 out of 100 is required to be considered for the scholarship.

The scholarship includes coverage for education and administrative costs, health insurance, and activities at the host university. Additionally, awardees will receive free dormitory accommodation or an accommodation subsidy, along with a stipend as per the China Government Scholarship policy.

Interested candidates should apply online at HEC’s official scholarship portal. After registering and completing the profile, applicants must select “Learning Opportunities Abroad” and submit their application.

Once submitted, applicants should print and sign the application. The HEC portal will close at 4:00 PM Pakistan Standard Time on December 9, 2024.

This scholarship program aims to strengthen educational ties between Pakistan and China while offering students the chance to study at prestigious Chinese institutions.