The Youth of Excellence Scheme of China (YES China Scholarship) is a fully funded program by the Chinese Government designed to cultivate global governance talents. The scholarship primarily offers a Master’s degree, lasting 12 months, or following a “1+1” model. The full funding covers tuition, accommodation, living stipends, and travel costs. Eligible applicants must be non-Chinese citizens, under the age of 45, and hold a bachelor’s degree with at least three years of work experience. Preference is given to high-level professionals.A pre-admission letter from a subprogram is required for the application, which is submitted online using Agency Code 1563 before March 31, 2026 (GMT+8).
YES China Scholarship 2026 Summary Table
| Detail | Value |
|---|---|
| Host Country | China |
| Study Abroad | Study in Asia |
| Category | Postgraduate Scholarships | Masters Scholarships |
| Eligible Countries | All Countries (International Students) |
| Reward | Full Scholarship |
| Key Criteria | Under 45, Bachelor’s + 3 Yrs Work Exp., Leader/Manager Status |
| Application Deadline | March 31, 2026 (23:59 GMT+8) |
The Youth of Excellence Scheme of China (YES) Scholarship is a prestigious, fully funded international scholarship opportunity offered by the Chinese Government. The primary goal of the program is to foster global governance talents equipped with a broad international perspective, exceptional leadership skills, and a strong multicultural background. The curriculum generally leads to a Master’s degree and lasts 12 months, though some programs follow a “1+1” paradigm involving full-time study in the first year and dissertation preparation thereafter.
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Benefits and Specific Scholarship Awards of the YES China Scholarship
The YES Scholarship is awarded as a Full Scholarship, ensuring all major costs associated with the study program are covered for the entire duration.
Tier 1: Full Financial Coverage (Tuition and Living Support)
The scholarship provides comprehensive financial coverage for all selected candidates, making it one of the most generous offerings in China.
- Full Tuition: Full exemption from all tuition fees for the Master’s degree program.
- Accommodation: Coverage for the cost of accommodation during the entire program duration.
Tier 2: Monthly Stipends and Travel Costs
In addition to academic and living costs, the scholarship provides direct financial support and covers travel.
- Monthly Living Stipends: Provision of monthly living stipends to cover daily expenses.
- Travel Costs: Coverage for the necessary travel costs associated with the student’s program.
Tier 3: Program Structure and Scope
The scholarship’s focus is on developing leadership and practical skills related to global governance.
- Program Focus: Designed to train global governance talents in specialized Master’s degree programs.
- Duration: In principle, the curriculum lasts 12 months, though some programs may follow a “1+1” paradigm where students complete coursework and research in the first academic year and finish dissertations later.
Eligibility Requirements for YES China Scholarship 2026
The YES Scholarship targets high-potential, experienced young professionals with existing leadership experience.
- Academic/Leadership: Must have a bachelor’s degree or higher degree. Must have at least three years of work experience. Preference is given to those with professional training or work experience related to the proposed program.
- Study Status: Must receive a pre-admission letter from one of the subprograms before submitting the application. The pre-admission letter must contain all necessary registration information and cannot mention having received or been promised any other Chinese government scholarship.
- Visa Status: Must be a citizen of a country other than the People’s Republic of China. Must be in good health both mentally and physically.
- Professional Experience (Must fall into one category):
- A government official at the division chief level (or equivalent level) or above.
- A senior manager of an institution or enterprise.
- An administrator of a university or scientific research institution.
- Those who have relevant employment or internship experience in international organizations.
- Age Limit: Must be under the age of 45 (inclusive) as of the application deadline.
How to Apply for Youth of Excellence Scheme of China Scholarship (Step by Step)
The application process is centralized through the Chinese Government Scholarship System and requires careful attention to the required codes and pre-admission documentation.
- Obtain Pre-Admission: Applicants must first receive a pre-admission letter from one of the subprograms offered under the YES Scholarship.
- Access System: Log on to the Chinese Government Scholarship System for online application through the provided link below.
- Complete Application:
- Choose “Type A” for “Scholarship Type” when applying online.
- The agency code is 1563.
- Ensure you find the correct scholarship: “Youth of Excellence Scheme of China.”
- Submit Materials: Complete the application form and submit all application materials before the deadline. The China Scholarship Council (CSC) accepts individual applications directly for review.
Application Deadline: March 31, 2026 at 23:59 (GMT+8)
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Is the YES China Scholarship fully funded?
Yes, the YES China Scholarship is a full scholarship that covers tuition, accommodation, living stipends, and travel costs for the entire duration of the program.
2. What is the maximum age limit for applicants?
Applicants must be under the age of 45 (inclusive) as of the application deadline to be considered for the YES Scholarship.
3. Is a pre-admission letter required before applying for the scholarship?
Yes, applicants must have received a pre-admission letter from one of the subprograms at least when they apply for the scholarship online.
4. What is the minimum work experience requirement?
Applicants must have at least three years of work experience after obtaining their bachelor’s degree or higher.
5. What are the key professional categories targeted by this scholarship?
The scholarship targets high-level professionals, including government officials (division chief level or above), senior managers, university administrators, and those with experience in international organizations.
6. What is the typical duration of the program?
In principle, the curriculum leads to a Master’s degree and lasts 12 months, though some programs may follow a “1+1” model.
7. Which Scholarship Type and Agency Code should be used for the online application?
Applicants must choose “Type A” for “Scholarship Type” and use the agency code 1563 when applying through the Chinese Government Scholarship System.
8. Does the pre-admission letter need to mention the scholarship?
No, the pre-admission letter cannot contain any information about having received or been promised a Chinese government scholarship.
9. What happens after the application is submitted?
The application materials undergo a preliminary examination by the China Scholarship Council (CSC), followed by a second examination by a panel of experts, after which the final enrollment results are announced.
10. Can I apply if I only have a bachelor’s degree and three years of work experience?
Yes, having a bachelor’s degree or higher and at least three years of work experience are the minimum academic and professional requirements for eligibility.
