The Shanghai Government Scholarship (SGS) 2025-26 is a prestigious opportunity for international students looking to study in China. This fully-funded scholarship is available for students pursuing undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral degrees at 34 top universities in Shanghai. If you dream of studying in China and want to benefit from financial support covering tuition, accommodation, and more, the Shanghai Government Scholarship is a golden opportunity for you. In this blog post, we will explore the details of the SGS 2025-26, eligibility criteria, benefits, and how to apply.
Overview of Shanghai Government Scholarship
The Shanghai Government Scholarship (SGS) was initiated in 2006 with the aim of attracting outstanding international students to study in Shanghai, one of China’s most vibrant and educationally advanced cities. It is open to international students from all over the world and is available for undergraduate, master’s, and PhD degree programs. The scholarship not only provides funding for tuition fees but also covers living expenses, medical insurance, and accommodation costs.
This year, the scholarship program is open for the academic session 2025-2026, and students from all nationalities are eligible to apply. A total of 34 Chinese universities are participating in the SGS, making it a highly sought-after opportunity for international students.
Participating Universities
The Shanghai Government Scholarship is offered through 34 prestigious universities in Shanghai. Some of the prominent participating universities include:
- Fudan University
- Shanghai Jiao Tong University
- Tongji University
- East China Normal University
- Shanghai University of Finance and Economics
- Shanghai University
- Shanghai Institute of Technology
- NYU Shanghai
- China Europe International Business School (CEIBS)
- Shanghai Academy of Social Sciences
Each university has different programs and eligibility requirements, so it is essential to check their specific admission guidelines and requirements.
For the full list of participating universities, please visit the official Shanghai Government Scholarship website.
Scholarship Coverage
The Shanghai Government Scholarship offers full financial support, covering all major expenses associated with studying abroad. Below is a breakdown of the financial benefits for students under different programs:
For Undergraduate Students:
- Tuition: Ranges from ¥20,000 to ¥45,000 depending on the university and class type.
- Accommodation: Ranges from ¥8,400 to ¥12,000 annually.
- Living Expenses: Ranges from ¥30,000 to ¥42,000 per year.
- Medical Insurance: ¥800 annually.
For Master’s Students:
- Tuition: Ranges from ¥25,000 to ¥34,000 depending on the class type.
- Accommodation: Ranges from ¥8,400 to ¥12,000 annually.
- Living Expenses: Ranges from ¥36,000 to ¥42,000 annually.
- Medical Insurance: ¥800 annually.
For PhD Students:
- Tuition: Ranges from ¥33,000 to ¥45,000 annually.
- Accommodation: Ranges from ¥12,000 to ¥15,000 annually.
- Living Expenses: Ranges from ¥42,000 to ¥45,000 annually.
- Medical Insurance: ¥800 annually.
This scholarship provides comprehensive coverage, ensuring that students can focus on their studies without worrying about financial constraints.
Eligibility Criteria
- Non-Chinese Citizen: Applicants must be non-Chinese citizens in good health.
- Age and Educational Background:
- For Undergraduate programs: Applicants should have completed high school and be no more than 25 years old.
- For Master’s programs: Applicants must have a bachelor’s degree and be no more than 35 years old.
- For PhD programs: Applicants must hold a master’s degree, demonstrate academic research ability, and be no more than 40 years old.
- Language Proficiency: Applicants should meet the language requirements of the university. Typically, a Chinese proficiency level of HSK 4 or above is required, but English proficiency may also be acceptable for certain programs.
- Academic Excellence: Applicants should have an outstanding academic record and meet the entry requirements of the university and the program they are applying for. Please ensure that you have not received other scholarships from Chinese government bodies, as this disqualifies you from applying for SGS.
Required Documents
The following documents are required for applying for the Shanghai Government Scholarship:
- Photocopy of Passport.
- Attested Copies of Academic Degrees and Transcripts.
- Certificate of Physical Exam (Medical exam).
- Language Proficiency Certificate (Chinese or English).
- Study Plan or Research Proposal.
- Letter of Intent or Motivation Letter.
- Acceptance Letter from the selected university (optional).
It’s essential to ensure all documents are translated into English or Chinese and that they meet the specific requirements of the university.
Application Process
The application for the Shanghai Government Scholarship is done in two steps:
- Online Application at SGS Portal: First, you need to apply through the official SGS portal at http://study.edu.sh.gov.cn/apply/.
- University Application: After applying through the SGS portal, you must apply on the selected university’s portal. Each university may have its own online application process.
- Submit Documents: Finally, submit two copies (one original and one photocopy) of all required documents to the university in hard copy.
Ensure that you follow the specific guidelines of the university and meet all deadlines to increase your chances of securing the scholarship.
Application Deadline
The application deadline for the Shanghai Government Scholarship 2025-26 is March 31, 2025. Apply well in advance to give yourself ample time and avoid any last-minute rush.
Why Apply for the Shanghai Government Scholarship?
- World-Class Education: Shanghai is home to some of the best universities in China, offering high-quality education and research opportunities.
- Cultural Experience: Studying in Shanghai allows you to experience China’s rich cultural heritage, a rapidly growing economy, and a blend of modernity and tradition.
- Financial Support: This scholarship offers full financial support, making it easier for students to study abroad without worrying about the cost of living or tuition fees.
- Global Networking: You will have the opportunity to meet students from all around the world, fostering an international network for your career development.