The CAS-ANSO Scholarship is a global scholarship program launched to support talented students in science and technology. ANSO, the Alliance of National and International Science Organizations for the Belt and Road Regions, works to promote scientific cooperation and human development. The scholarship is funded mainly by the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) and partially by TWAS and UNESCO for some categories. It helps students pursue master’s and PhD programs in China.
About the Scholarship
The CAS-ANSO Scholarship trains young scientists from around the world. It started in 2019 and supports both degree and non-degree programs. The degree program allows around 100–200 master’s students and 300 PhD students to study at top Chinese institutions like USTC, UCAS, and CAS research institutes. There is also a special ANSO-CAS-TWAS/UNESCO PhD scholarship for students from developing countries, especially women and students from Least Developed Countries (LDCs), with a focus on climate research.
Host Country
China
Host University
University of Science and Technology of China (USTC) University of Chinese Academy of Sciences (UCAS) Institutes of the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) across China
Scholarship Type
Fully funded degree scholarship for master’s and PhD programs
Degree
Master’s and PhD
Eligibility Criteria
Must NOT hold Chinese citizenship
Proficient in English or Chinese
Master’s applicants: born after 1 January 1996
PhD applicants: born after 1 January 1991
Must meet the international admission requirements of USTC or UCAS
Cannot hold other jobs or scholarships during the program
Students currently studying in China for the same degree are not eligible
Cannot apply for both USTC and UCAS simultaneously
Fields of Study
Science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and other related disciplines are offered at USTC and UCAS
Scholarship Benefits
Full tuition waiver
Monthly stipend: 3,000 CNY for master’s, 6,000–7,000 CNY for PhD (depending on qualifications)
Health insurance
Application fee waiver
International travel allowance to China
One-time visa/residence permit allowance
Required Documents
Completed application form
Passport copy
Academic transcripts and degrees
Recommendation letters
Research proposal or study plan
English or Chinese language proficiency proof
Application Process
Open for applications: 15 October 2025
Deadline: 31 January 2026 (Beijing Time)
Apply via the USTC or UCAS online system
Choose “CAS-ANSO Scholarship” in your application
Optional: check ANSO-CAS-TWAS/UNESCO PhD Scholarship box if eligible
USTC application portal: link UCAS application portal: link
Registration Deadlines
Application opens: 15 October 2025
Application closes: 31 January 2026
Selection Process
Applications are reviewed by USTC or UCAS
Candidates meeting eligibility are assessed based on academic merit and research potential
Special consideration for LDCs and women under the ANSO-CAS-TWAS/UNESCO PhD category
Tips to Succeed
Prepare all documents carefully and early
Write a clear and detailed research proposal or study plan
Make sure recommendation letters are strong and relevant
Meet language requirements
Follow all application instructions strictly
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I apply if I am currently studying in China? No
Can I apply for both USTC and UCAS? No
Are scholarships available for part-time study? No, only full-time
Are women and students from developing countries prioritized? Yes, especially in ANSO-CAS-TWAS/UNESCO PhD program
Why Choose This Scholarship
It provides full support for top-tier education in China, exposure to world-class research, and opportunities to collaborate internationally. It is ideal for students seeking to become future leaders in science and technology.
Career and Future Opportunities
Graduates can pursue careers in research, academia, industry, and international organizations. CAS-ANSO alumni often work in global research centers, universities, or scientific institutions.
Student Experiences
Students report high-quality education, access to advanced labs, strong mentorship, and opportunities to participate in international conferences. Learning Chinese language and culture is also an important part of the experience.
The CAS-ANSO Scholarship offers a great opportunity for talented international students to study in China with full financial support. It promotes academic excellence, research opportunities, and global collaboration. Interested students should prepare carefully and apply before the deadline to take advantage of this prestigious program.
