Study in China 2026: Fully Funded Undergraduate Scholarships Without IELTS

Study in China 2026: Get a fully funded undergraduate spot in China 2026—no IELTS needed. Compare scholarships, required documents, and apply via official links today. China has become one of the world’s most exciting study destinations—massive research investments, globally ranked universities, and thousands of scholarships that cover tuition, housing, stipends, and medical insurance. The best part? Many routes do not strictly require IELTS. You can often use Duolingo, TOEFL, PTE, internal university tests, or an English-medium study waiver—and if you choose Chinese-taught programs, you’ll typically submit HSK instead of any English exam.

This guide breaks everything down for 2026 intakes: scholarship types, eligibility, documents, timelines, and direct application links so you can apply confidently.

1) Quick Snapshot: What “Without IELTS” Really Means

“Without IELTS” doesn’t mean “without English.” Chinese universities accept multiple proofs of language (TOEFL, Duolingo, PTE, A-level English, WAEC/WASSCE English in some cases, or university-run placement tests). For English-taught degrees, elite schools like Tsinghua state you must demonstrate strong English—IELTS/TOEFL/others are accepted (and yes, “others” includes alternatives such as Duolingo or PTE; always verify on the program page).

For Chinese-taught degrees, IELTS isn’t needed; you’ll show HSK proficiency. Provincial/municipal and university scholarships then fund your studies.

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2) THE SCHOLARSHIP LANDSCAPE (Fully Funded Routes You Can Target)

Note: The application links below are official or university-owned pages. Follow each program’s instructions carefully.

A. National Scholarships (Central Government)

• Chinese Government Scholarship (CGS/CSC – Bilateral or University Track)
  The flagship, fully funded award for international students. Coverage typically includes tuition, on-campus housing or housing subsidy, medical insurance, and a monthly stipend. Apply either via your country’s Chinese Embassy (Bilateral Program) or directly to designated universities (University/Independent Enrollment Program). Embassy information confirms the official portal.
  • Apply on the official portal: CampusChina → campuschina.org Chinese Embassy in the USA

B. Municipal/Provincial Scholarships

• Shanghai Government Scholarship (SGS)
  For bachelor’s, master’s, and PhD at institutions in Shanghai. You apply centrally via the Study in Shanghai portal, then follow your chosen university’s timeline.
  • Official guidance + portal: Study in Shanghai application page (see “Application Guide”) edu.sh.gov.cn
  • City page with pointers and FAQs: Shanghai Government Shanghai Government

• Beijing Government Scholarship (BGS)
  Administered through Beijing universities; typically provides tuition waivers (levels vary).
  • City page: Beijing Government Scholarships overview Beijing Government Portal
  • Example university page (BNU): Beijing Normal University — BGS info admission-is.bnu.edu.cn

• Zhejiang Government Scholarship (ZJS)
  Popular through Zhejiang University (and others in the province); awards often combine with university funding.
  • Zhejiang University page: ZJS application instructions Zhejiang University International
  • ZJU bachelor scholarship list: ZJU Bachelor’s Scholarships overview Zhejiang University International

C. University Scholarships (Often Generous, Sometimes Full)

• Xi’an Jiaotong-Liverpool University (XJTLU) — Entry Scholarships (up to 50% tuition/year, renewable) with multiple English qualification pathways and pre-sessional options if you’re just below the threshold.
  • Scholarships page: XJTLU Fees & Scholarships Xi’an Jiaotong-Liverpool University
  • English requirements & accepted alternatives: XJTLU Entry Requirements and Guide Xi’an Jiaotong-Liverpool University+1
  • Pre-sessional English: PSE at XJTLU Xi’an Jiaotong-Liverpool University

• University of Nottingham Ningbo China (UNNC) — Numerous undergraduate awards with a high success rate among international admits.
  • Scholarships page: UNNC International Undergraduate Scholarships Nottingham University

• Beihang University (BUAA) — English-taught bachelor programs with clearly stated eligibility (language options vary by program).
  • Programs page: BUAA English-taught Undergraduate is.buaa.edu.cn

Tip: Many other universities (ECUST, NPU, XJTU, SHU, etc.) publish their external English options (Duolingo, TOEFL, PTE accepted) and internal placement/interview routes—and they often run separate university scholarships alongside provincial and CGS funding.
• ECUST English alternatives: ECUST 2025 English-taught requirements ies.ecust.edu.cn
• NPU accepted proofs: NPU 2025 English options incl. Duolingo studyat.nwpu.edu.cn
• SHU (Shanghai University) CGS flow: SHU scholarship page SHU Application

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3) Who Qualifies (Undergraduate 2026)?

Most Chinese scholarships ask for:

• Citizenship: Non-Chinese citizens, in good health and with a clean record (standard across China).

• Education: Senior secondary/high school diploma (or final-year status) with strong grades.

• Age: Typically ≤ 25 for undergraduate CGS; provincial and university schemes may vary.

• Language:

  • English-taught: Proof via IELTS/TOEFL/others; many accept Duolingo and PTE. Some universities offer exemptions if you completed prior schooling in English or pass their internal assessment/interview. Check your target program’s wording.

  • Chinese-taught: HSK (Level defined by program; HSK 4–5 is common for undergrad entry).

• Program-specific criteria: Math/Science prerequisites for engineering, portfolios for design, etc.

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4) The IELTS-Free Pathways You Can Use

Think of “no IELTS” as a strategy. Here are the cleanest routes:

1. Apply to Chinese-taught (HSK route):
   Skip English exams entirely; provide HSK. Your scholarship application then focuses on grades + HSK. (CGS and many provincial awards have Chinese-taught quotas.)

2. Apply to English-taught programs that accept alternatives:
   Many universities list TOEFL iBT, Duolingo, PTE as valid. Some accept regional English proofs (e.g., WASSCE English) or run internal tests/interviews or pre-sessional English. Always verify on the school’s admissions page.

3. Request an English-medium education waiver (where allowed):
   If your high school was fully English-medium, some universities accept official letters/transcripts as proof (policy varies by school; elite universities tend to prefer standardized tests).

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5) Where to Apply 

• Chinese Government Scholarship (CGS/CSC) → campuschina.org (create account and follow your Embassy/University Track flow). Chinese Embassy in the USA

• Shanghai Government Scholarship (SGS) → Study in Shanghai portal (central application). edu.sh.gov.cn

• Beijing Government Scholarship → City overview here; apply through your target Beijing university (example BNU’s page here). Beijing Government Portal+1

• Zhejiang Government Scholarship (ZJU example) → ZJU scholarship page + Bachelor’s list. Zhejiang University International +1

• XJTLU Entry Scholarships → XJTLU Fees & Scholarships (tick ‘Scholarship’ while applying). Xi’an Jiaotong-Liverpool University

• UNNC (University of Nottingham Ningbo China) → UNNC Undergraduate Scholarships. Nottingham University

• ECUST English-taught programs (alt-English accepted) → ECUST 2025 requirements. ies.ecust.edu.cn

• NPU (Duolingo accepted) → NPU 2025 requirements. studyat.nwpu.edu.cn

• BUAA English-taught undergrad → Beihang programs & eligibility. is.buaa.edu.cn

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6) 2026 Timeline (Africa/Lagos time zone reference)

Most portals open December–April for autumn (September) start dates.

• CGS (Embassy Track): Embassy announcements usually drop Dec–Feb, with deadlines Feb–April 2026. Prepare early; you’ll need a Pre-admission Letter from a Chinese university for many Embassy routes. Portal: campuschina.org.

• SGS: The Study in Shanghai site indicates applications run Feb–April (confirm yearly).

• University scholarships: Rolling from Dec–June depending on the school; some close earlier for competitive majors (CS, AI, Finance).

Pro tip: Submit two tracks in parallel (e.g., CGS + Provincial or CGS + University) where rules permit, to maximize chances (avoid double-funding conflicts; if you win one, you may need to decline the other).

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7) Required Documents (What Reviewers Expect)

• Valid passport (≥ 18–24 months’ validity beyond start date)

• High school diploma or proof of graduation year

• Transcripts (with grading scale; notarized if required)

• Two recommendation letters (counselors, teachers, head of school)

• Study plan / personal statement (why China, program fit, career path)

• Language proof

  • English-taught: TOEFL/IELTS/Duolingo/PTE/“others” accepted per program page (Tsinghua/XJTLU/ECUST examples above).

  • Chinese-taught: HSK certificate (level as required)

• Non-criminal record (police clearance)

• Medical form (Foreigner Physical Examination)

• Portfolio (if applying to design/architecture/arts)

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8) How to Apply (Step-by-Step Game Plan for 2026)

1. Map your target city + program language
   Decide Shanghai/Beijing/Zhejiang/other, and English-taught vs. Chinese-taught (HSK route).

2. Pre-screen language requirement
   If going IELTS-free, shortlist universities that explicitly accept Duolingo/PTE or internal placement/pre-sessional English. Use the university pages provided above (XJTLU/ECUST/NPU examples).

3. Create accounts on the right portals

   • CGS: campuschina.org (choose Embassy or University track)

   • SGS: Study in Shanghai (central site; then your university site)

   • University-only scholarships: Apply inside each university’s application system (see links in Section 5).

4. Secure a Pre-admission Letter (if needed)
   Many Embassy Track CGS applications are stronger (or required) with Pre-admission from your chosen university. Begin contacting universities by December–January.

5. Upload documents early
   Notarization or police clearance can delay you. Start now.

6. Submit multiple but non-conflicting applications
   It’s common to apply CGS + one provincial/university award. If you win overlapping awards, you’ll accept one (schools will guide you).

7. Track results & visa
   Admission + scholarship results usually arrive May–July. Then complete JW201/JW202 and X1 visa steps via the Chinese Embassy/Consulate.

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9) Cost & Funding Snapshot (Bachelor, 1st Year)

Funding logic:

• CGS aims for full coverage (tuition + housing + stipend + insurance). Chinese Embassy in the USA

• Provincial/municipal awards often waive tuition fully or partly; some add stipends. Beijing Government Portal+1

• University scholarships range from partial to full; strong grades can renew each year (XJTLU example). Xi’an Jiaotong-Liverpool University

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10) Smart IELTS-Free Targeting (Examples You Can Model)

• Shanghai route (English-taught):
  Apply SGS → shortlist XJTLU/UNNC/ECUST programs that accept Duolingo/PTE or pre-sessional English. Submit SGS + University Scholarship in parallel. ies.ecust.edu.cn+3edu.sh.gov.cn+3Xi’an Jiaotong-Liverpool University+3

• Beijing route (Chinese-taught):
  Strengthen HSK → apply BGS through a Beijing university (BNU/BUAA) + consider CGS University Track at the same school. Beijing Government Portal+2admission-is.bnu.edu.cn+2

• Zhejiang route (mixed):
  Apply ZJS via Zhejiang University + explore ZJU’s targeted English-taught scholarships (engineering, dual degrees). Zhejiang University International +1

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11) Mistakes That Sink Applications

• Assuming “IELTS-free” = no proof at all: Most English-taught programs still need proof, just not IELTS specifically. Alternatives (Duolingo/TOEFL/PTE) or internal tests are common.

• Missing Pre-admission for CGS Embassy Track: Reduces your competitiveness (or blocks you in some countries).

• Late medicals/police reports: Plan weeks ahead.

• Applying to only one scholarship: Use at least two compatible routes to diversify outcomes.

• Ignoring renewal rules: Some university/provincial awards require a GPA threshold each year (e.g., XJTLU renewals are performance-based).

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12) FAQs About Language Proofs (Without IELTS)

Q1: Can I submit Duolingo instead of IELTS?
A: Many Chinese universities accept Duolingo; always confirm on the program page (ECUST/NPU examples explicitly list Duolingo).

Q2: My high school was English-medium. Can I skip tests?
A: Some universities offer English-medium education waivers or internal tests; elite schools often still want standardized scores. Check your target program’s “Language Requirements.”

Q3: I plan to study in Chinese—do I need any English proof?
A: Usually no; you’ll submit HSK at the level your program requires.

Q4: Can I add a pre-sessional English course?
A: Yes—schools like XJTLU run pre-sessionals to bridge small score gaps.

Q5: Is “no IELTS” accepted for all scholarships?
A: Scholarships don’t set language rules by themselves; universities and programs do. If your program accepts Duolingo/TOEFL/PTE or waivers, your scholarship application aligns with that policy. Always match your language proof to the program’s requirement.

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13) Action Checklist 

• Choose city + language path (English-taught vs. Chinese-taught).

• Shortlist 3–5 universities that fit your profile and language proof.

• Create accounts and bookmark:

  • CGS: campuschina.org Chinese Embassy in the USA

  • SGS: Study in Shanghai edu.sh.gov.cn

  • University pages: XJTLU Scholarships,

• Draft your study plan, request recommendation letters, and prepare transcripts.

• If Embassy Track is your route, email target departments now for Pre-admission.

• Submit at least two applications (e.g., CGS + SGS or CGS + University).

• Track results and complete visa steps promptly.

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Conclusion

Studying in China on a fully funded undergraduate scholarship in 2026 is realistic—even without IELTS—if you understand the framework: pick the right program language, align with accepted alternatives (Duolingo/TOEFL/PTE or internal tests), and apply methodically across CGS, provincial, and university routes. Use the official links above, apply early, and keep your documentation immaculate. That’s how you turn a scholarship dream into your arrival in Shanghai, Beijing, Hangzhou—or whichever city becomes your new campus home.

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FAQs

1) Which scholarship is best for a first-time applicant in China?
If you want maximum coverage, start with CGS (Bilateral/Embassy Track) via campuschina.org, then add a provincial (e.g., SGS) or university scholarship for redundancy.

2) Do I need a Pre-admission Letter for CGS for China scholarship?
Embassy Track commonly requires or strongly favors it. Contact target universities early (Dec–Jan) to secure it.

3) Can I combine scholarships in China?
You can apply to several, but double-funding isn’t allowed. If you win more than one, you’ll accept one per your award instructions. (SGS explicitly notes no stacking with other government awards.)

4) Is Duolingo really accepted for China application?
Yes, many universities list Duolingo among accepted proofs (e.g., ECUST, NPU). Always verify the current score thresholds on the program page.

5) What if my English score is slightly below the requirement for scholarship in China?
Look for pre-sessional English options (e.g., XJTLU). On successful completion, your offer typically becomes unconditional.

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Direct Application Links for China Scholarship (Click to Apply):

• Chinese Government Scholarship (CGS/CSC): campuschina.org Chinese Embassy in the USA

• Shanghai Government Scholarship (SGS): Study in Shanghai portal edu.sh.gov.cn

• Beijing Government Scholarship (overview): Beijing city page (apply via your Beijing university page e.g., BNU’s BGS page) Beijing Government Portal+1

• Zhejiang Government Scholarship (ZJU example): ZJS at ZJU Zhejiang University International

• XJTLU Entry Scholarships: Apply via XJTLU Xi’an Jiaotong-Liverpool University

• UNNC Undergraduate Scholarships: Apply via UNNC Nottingham University

• ECUST English-taught (alt-English accepted): ECUST 2025 ies.ecust.edu.cn

• NPU (Duolingo accepted): NPU 2025 studyat.nwpu.edu.cn

• Beihang (BUAA) English-taught Undergrad: BUAA 2025 is.buaa.edu.cn