The Canada-China Scholars’ Exchange Program (CCSEP) is a premier bilateral scholarship established in 1973 to facilitate academic and cultural exchange between Canada and China. Managed by Global Affairs Canada and the Chinese Ministry of Education, it provides comprehensive funding for Canadian citizens—including students, researchers, and professionals—to pursue studies or research at participating Chinese institutions. The scholarship covers tuition, international travel, medical insurance, and a monthly stipend ranging from 2,500 to 3,500 Yuan depending on the scholar’s level. Applicants must focus on “China Studies” across various disciplines and meet specific linguistic requirements. The primary application deadline is January 12, 2026.
Canada-China Scholars’ Exchange Program Summary Table
| Detail | Value |
|---|---|
| Host Organizations | Global Affairs Canada & Ministry of Education (China) |
| Target Audience | Canadian Citizens (Students, Faculty, Professionals) |
| Reward Coverage | Full Tuition, Travel, Stipend, & Insurance |
| Monthly Stipend | 2,500 – 3,500 Yuan |
| Study Period | 2026-2027 Academic Year |
| Primary Deadline | January 12, 2026 |
Canada-China Scholars’ Exchange Program Details
The Canada-China Scholars’ Exchange Program (CCSEP) represents over five decades of diplomatic and academic synergy. Founded by Pierre Elliott Trudeau and Zhou Enlai, the program has enabled over 1,400 Canadians to engage in transformative educational experiences in China.
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The initiative is designed to develop a generation of Canadian leaders with deep expertise in China, fostering long-term professional and academic ties. Whether pursuing intensive Mandarin training, doctoral research, or mid-career professional development, CCSEP scholars contribute to the “China Studies” body of knowledge, enhancing Canada’s understanding of one of the world’s most influential nations.
Fully Funded Canada-China Scholars’ Exchange Program 2026 Benefits
Tier 1: Full Institutional & Travel Support (Premium)
- Global Affairs Canada Travel Grant: Fully covers the most cost-effective round-trip airfare between the scholar’s point of origin and their destination in China.
- Chinese Government Tuition Waiver: Complete coverage of all tuition fees at designated participating Chinese institutions.
Tier 2: Monthly Living Stipends and Health Security
- Doctoral/Senior Scholar Stipend: 3,500 Yuan per month for advanced research and leadership projects.
- Master’s/General Scholar Stipend: 3,000 Yuan per month to support post-graduate academic pursuits.
- Comprehensive Medical Insurance: Full health coverage provided through the Chinese government scholarship framework.
Tier 3: Accommodation and Undergraduate Support
- Housing Provisions: On-campus accommodation or a specialized subsidy for off-campus living (where permitted).
- Undergraduate Stipend: 2,500 Yuan per month for younger scholars pursuing Chinese language or degree studies.
Eligibility Requirements for the Fully Funded Canada-China Scholars’ Exchange Program 2026
- Academic/Leadership: Applicants must demonstrate a strong academic or professional record and a clear rationale for how their study plan contributes to “China Studies.”
- Study Status: Open to undergraduate/graduate students, full-time teaching/research staff, and mid-career professionals.
- Visa Status/Citizenship: Applicants must hold valid Canadian citizenship.
- Program Admission: Must be available to reside and study in China for the duration of the 2026-2027 academic year.
How to Apply for the Fully Funded Canada-China Scholars’ Exchange Program 2026 (Step by Step)
Step 1: My EduCanada Portal (Deadline: Jan 12, 2026)
- Apply for Program: Register an “Individual” account on the My EduCanada portal and select CCSEP.
- Document Upload: Submit proof of citizenship, CV (max 6 pages), two letters of recommendation, letter of intent, study proposal, and official transcripts.
- CSC Proof: You must upload a screenshot showing you have initiated an application on the CSC portal.
- Final Submission: Validate, save, and submit before the 11:59 p.m. EST deadline to receive a reference number.
Step 2: China Scholarship Council Portal (Deadline: Mar 1, 2026)
- CSC Portal Entry: Create an account on the CSC online application portal and select “Type A” program category.
- Agency Data: Input Agency Number 1241 to ensure the application is routed to the correct bilateral office.
- Institutional Choice: Select three preferred institutions; indicating an unwillingness to consider alternatives may result in withdrawal if the chosen sites are full.
- Eligibility Assessment: Complete all “General” or “Senior” scholar fields and save a copy of the final submitted form for your records.
Application Deadline: January 12, 2026
CHECK BELOW TO APPLY
Step 1: Apply on the My EduCanada portal
Step 2: Apply on the China Scholarship Council (CSC) portal
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Is the CCSEP open to permanent residents of Canada?
No, applicants must hold Canadian citizenship to be eligible for this specific bilateral program.
2. What disciplines are covered under “China Studies”?
Eligible fields include history, arts, journalism, politics, international relations, business, law, public health, architecture, and environmental studies, provided they focus on China.
3. Do I need to speak Chinese to apply?
Proficiency requirements depend on the language of instruction. If studying in Chinese, you need HSK Level 3 for undergraduate or HSK Level 4 for graduate levels.
4. What is the value of the monthly stipend for a PhD student?
Doctoral students and senior scholars receive a monthly stipend of 3,500 Yuan.
5. Does the scholarship cover my flight to China?
Yes, Global Affairs Canada covers the cost of round-trip travel via the most cost-effective route.
6. Where will I live while in China?
The scholarship provides on-campus accommodation or a subsidy for off-campus housing if the host institution allows it.
7. Can I apply if I am already a working professional?
Yes, the program explicitly welcomes mid-career professionals and full-time research or teaching staff.
8. What are the two different deadlines?
You must apply to the My EduCanada portal by January 12, 2026, and to the CSC portal by March 1, 2026.
9. How are applications evaluated?
The committee looks at academic merit, the feasibility of your research plan, and your commitment to sharing your findings with the Canadian public.
10. Can I choose any university in China?
You must choose from the designated learning institutions listed on the official “Campus China” website.
