2026 China Link Scholarship call open for research stays in China

China continues to establish itself as one of the world's leading hubs for research and innovation. In this context, the China Scholarship Council (CSC) has launched the China Link Short-term Scientific Exchange Scholarship program, an opportunity for the UPC community to strengthen their international careers in collaboration with prestigious Chinese universities.

Who is it for?

The call is open to various profiles who maintain their affiliation with UPC throughout the stay:

• General Scholars: Current undergraduate or master's students (up to 45 years old).

Note: these scholarships are only available to UPC students with an academic mobility placement in China for the 2026-2027 academic year, processed through the International Relations Office of their respective UPC School.

• Senior Scholars: PhD candidates or Faculty and Research Staff (PDI) (up to 50 years old).

Funding and benefits of the scholarship

This is a full scholarship covering the main expenses during the stay:

• Full tuition fee waiver.

• Free accommodation on the host university campus.

• Comprehensive medical insurance.

• Monthly stipend for living expenses (CNY 3,000 for students and CNY 3,500 for researchers/faculty).

Program details

• Duration: From one month to a maximum of one academic year.

• Fields of study: All disciplines.

• Working language: English or Chinese, depending on the host institution.

• Deadline: The application portal is open year-round, although the stay must begin before August 31, 2027.

How to apply?

General Scholars

The process consists of two main steps:

• Pre-admission: The applicant must have been admitted by the Chinese host university for the mobility placement assigned to them through the exchange program for the 2026-2027 academic year. This university must be one of the partners associated with the China Link program. (Check the list of host universities.)

• Online application: Once admission is secured, you must register at the Chinese Government Scholarship Information System portal.

It is important to note that host universities must submit nominations to the CSC at least two months before the scheduled arrival of the student in China.

Senior Scholars

The process consists of two main steps:

• Pre-admission: Applicants must first contact one of the partner Chinese universities to obtain an admission or invitation letter. Check the list of host universities.

An academic contact in China is essential. If you do not have one, the International Relations Bureau can provide guidance in your search; however, securing a contact is not guaranteed.

• Online application: Once admission is secured, you must register at the Chinese Government Scholarship Information System portal.

It is important to note that host universities must submit nominations to the CSC at least two months before the scheduled arrival of the researcher in China.

More information: To access the application guide, you can visit the official program website.

Step-by-step procedure: Check the infographic we have prepared with all the details of the process. (Catalan)