International Chinese Language Teachers Scholarship 2026 (Formerly Confucius Institute Scholarship) – Fully Funded Study in China
The International Chinese Language Teachers Scholarship (previously known as the Confucius Institute Scholarship, offered by Hanban) is a prestigious, fully funded scholarship for international students. This program promotes global Chinese language education and cultural exchange by allowing recipients to study at over 150 top universities in China.
Now managed by the Center for Language Education and Cooperation (CLEC), this scholarship supports short-term programs, one-year language studies, and full degree programs in Teaching Chinese to Speakers of Other Languages (TCSOL). It’s an excellent opportunity for aspiring Chinese language teachers and cultural ambassadors.
Why Apply for the International Chinese Language Teachers Scholarship 2026?
- Study Chinese language and culture at leading universities in China
- Experience complete cultural immersion and firsthand insights into Chinese society
- Build rewarding careers in education, diplomacy, translation, international business, and more
- Enjoy a fully funded program that eliminates financial barriers
- Participate in cultural activities, language immersion, and real-world exposure
Host Country: China Host Universities: Over 150 universities across China Opportunity Type: Bachelor’s, Master’s, Short-term Training Fields of Study: Chinese Language, Chinese Linguistics and Literature, Teaching Chinese to Speakers of Other Languages (TCSOL) Eligible Countries: International students (non-Chinese citizens) Financial Coverage: Fully Funded
Scholarship Benefits
Recipients receive comprehensive support, including:
- Full tuition waiver
- Free on-campus accommodation (shared dormitory)
- Monthly living allowance:
- 2,500 RMB for Chinese language studies, BTCSOL (Bachelor’s in TCSOL), and one-semester/one-year programs
- 3,000 RMB for MTCSOL (Master’s in TCSOL)
- Comprehensive medical insurance
- Off-campus housing allowance (700 RMB/month, if approved)
- In some cases, round-trip international airfare (varies by country)
- Annual review for multi-year programs based on academic performance
Note: Short-term (four-week) programs do not include a monthly allowance.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must:
- Be non-Chinese citizens in good physical and mental health
- Be committed to Chinese language teaching and cultural promotion
- Meet age requirements:
- Generally 16–35 years old (as of September 1 for fall intake)
- Up to 45 years for in-service Chinese language teachers
- Under 25–30 years for some undergraduate programs (varies by host institution)
- Hold required HSK (Chinese proficiency) and HSKK (oral) scores (specific levels depend on program)
- Academic qualifications:
- High school diploma for language programs or BTCSOL
- Bachelor’s degree for MTCSOL
- Provide recommendation letters:
- 1 letter for language/BTCSOL programs
- 2 letters for MTCSOL
- Priority for MTCSOL applicants with confirmed post-graduation teaching positions
- No prior study in China required for short-term programs
Application Deadlines for 2026 Intake
Deadlines vary by program start date (Beijing time):
- July 2026 start: April/May 2025
- September 2026 start: May 2025
- December 2026 start: September 2025
- March 2026 start: October 31, 2025
Check the official portal for exact dates and apply early!
How to Apply
- Visit the official application portal: cis.chinese.cn
- Create an account and complete the online application form
- Select recommending institutions (e.g., local Confucius Institute, HSK test center, or Chinese embassy)
- Upload required documents (passport, HSK scores, recommendation letters, etc.)
- Choose up to 3 preferred host universities