Apply Now: UNESCO/People’s Republic of China (The Great Wall) Co-Sponsored Fellowships Programme 2026/2027 (Fully Funded)

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Application Deadline: January 23, 2025

Applications are now open for the UNESCO/People’s Republic of China (The Great Wall) Co-Sponsored Fellowships Programme 2026/2027. This prestigious fellowship offers talented students and researchers from developing countries an exceptional opportunity to pursue advanced studies or research in China—completely funded.

Established to promote human resource development, international cooperation, and global friendship, the program is jointly sponsored by UNESCO and the Government of the People’s Republic of China. It aims to build capacity in education, culture, communication, and science while fostering stronger collaboration among developing nations.

About the Fellowship Programme

For the 2026/2027 academic year, seventy-five (75) fellowships are available. Of these, twenty-seven (27) will be awarded to new candidates from 135 developing countries across Africa, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, the Arab States, and Europe.

These fellowships are tenable at selected Chinese universities and offer participants the chance to pursue postgraduate studies or conduct independent research under the guidance of expert supervisors.

Candidates can apply for one of the following programs:

  • Visiting Scholar Program (General or Senior Scholar) – Duration: 1 year
  • Master’s Degree Program – Duration: 2–3 years
  • Doctoral Degree Program – Duration: 3–5 years

Depending on the university and program, courses may be taught in English or Chinese. Applicants choosing Chinese-taught programs must meet the required language proficiency levels (HSK 3 or 4, depending on the program).

Eligible Countries

The fellowship is open to applicants from 46 African countries, 13 Arab States, and additional countries across Asia, Latin America, and Europe.
African countries include: Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya, South Africa, Ethiopia, Uganda, Zimbabwe, Cameroon, Malawi, Senegal, and many others.

A full list of eligible countries is available in the official guidelines.

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for the UNESCO/China Great Wall Fellowships 2026, candidates must:

  • Be nationals of invited developing Member States.
  • Meet age, educational, and language criteria:
    • General Scholar: High school diploma; under 45 years.
    • Senior Scholar: Master’s degree or associate professor position; under 50 years.
    • Master’s Program: Bachelor’s degree; under 35 years.
    • Doctoral Program: Master’s degree; under 40 years.
  • Demonstrate proficiency in English or Chinese (HSK 3 or 4).
  • Meet the academic and admission requirements of their chosen Chinese university.
  • Be in good physical and mental health.

Application Process

The application process is comprehensive and requires coordination with both UNESCO and your country’s National Commission for UNESCO.

Step 1:
Carefully review the official Application Guidelines for the UNESCO/China Great Wall Fellowship 2026/2027.

Step 2:
Contact the National Commission for UNESCO in your home country for details on the national-level selection process. (Find contact information on UNESCO’s website.)

Step 3:
Submit your application and all required documents through the Chinese Government Scholarship Information System at campuschina.org. Applicants are encouraged to contact their target universities beforehand and attach any admission or pre-admission letters to strengthen their applications.

Step 4:
Submit the completed application form and all documents to your National Commission for UNESCO by 23 January 2026.

Step 5:
If nominated, send your online application form and supporting documents to thegreatwall@unesco.org. Only candidates nominated by their National Commissions will be considered.

Step 6:
National Commissions must submit nomination letters and all required documents to UNESCO by 10 February 2026. Late or incomplete applications will not be accepted.

Benefits of the UNESCO/China Great Wall Fellowship

This is a fully funded fellowship, providing comprehensive financial and academic support for successful applicants. Benefits typically include:

  • Full tuition coverage
  • Accommodation in university dormitories
  • Living allowance/stipend
  • Medical insurance
  • Research and study support
  • Cultural and academic exchange opportunities

Scholars will gain access to China’s world-class research facilities, innovative learning environments, and diverse cultural experiences, empowering them to contribute meaningfully to development in their home countries.

For complete details on eligibility, application procedures, and required documents, CLICK HERE 

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