Introduction

If you’re from a Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) country and looking to pursue a fully funded Master’s degree in China, the CAS “The Belt and Road” Master Fellowship Programme 2026 is the opportunity you’ve been waiting for. Funded by the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) and hosted by the University of Chinese Academy of Sciences (UCAS), this prestigious fellowship opens the door to advanced education and research at one of China’s most elite institutions.

With full tuition waivers, a monthly stipend, visa support, and access to world-class labs and supervision, this program is tailored to young scholars with strong academic records and a passion for science and technology. Read on to discover everything you need to know—from eligibility and benefits to a step-by-step application guide.

About the Fellowship Programme

The CAS “The Belt and Road” Master Fellowship Programme is an initiative launched under CAS’s International Outreach framework. It aligns with China’s broader Belt and Road Strategy, designed to enhance academic and cultural cooperation with developing countries across Asia, Africa, Eastern Europe, Latin America, and the Pacific.

By providing access to high-quality education and cutting-edge research training, the fellowship contributes to mutual understanding, talent development, and innovation in partner countries.

Who is Offering the Scholarship?

This program is administered by:

  • Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) – The national science think tank and academic research powerhouse in China.

  • University of Chinese Academy of Sciences (UCAS) – A research-intensive university based in Beijing, ranked among the top graduate institutions in China.

Through this partnership, CAS and UCAS aim to empower future scientific leaders from BRI nations by nurturing their academic and research capabilities.

Number of Scholarships and Programme Duration

For 2026, the fellowship will support up to 120 students from Belt and Road countries. It is a three-year fully funded Master’s program, divided into two main stages:

  1. Year 1: Core coursework + 4 months of mandatory Chinese language and cultural studies

  2. Years 2–3: Thesis research under the supervision of a CAS-affiliated professor at UCAS or its research institutes

📌 Note: The scholarship cannot be extended beyond 3 years, and students must pass all evaluations and defense sessions on time to graduate.

Fellowship Coverage and Financial Benefits

This is a comprehensive fellowship that provides financial and academic support throughout the full duration of your studies. Here’s what’s included:

Benefit Details
🎓 Tuition Waiver All tuition and application fees are waived by UCAS
💵 Monthly Stipend RMB 4,000/month (RMB 3,000 from UCAS + RMB 1,000 from supervisor’s institute)
🏠 Accommodation On-campus housing covered
🩺 Health Insurance Basic medical insurance during the study period
🌐 Language & Culture Training Includes 4-month mandatory course on Chinese Language & Culture
📜 Visa Support Admission letter, JW202 form, and other visa documents provided

This level of funding allows scholars to focus entirely on their academic and research responsibilities without the burden of financial constraints.

Available Master’s Programs at UCAS

The fellowship covers all UCAS Master’s programs offered to international students. Programs span multiple scientific disciplines, such as:

  • Physical Sciences (Physics, Chemistry, Materials Science)

  • Life Sciences & Biomedicine

  • Computer Science & Artificial Intelligence

  • Engineering & Robotics

  • Environmental & Earth Sciences

  • Mathematics, Statistics & Data Science

  • Space Science & Astronomy

Programs are delivered in English (or in Chinese for those proficient), and include lectures, lab sessions, thesis development, and mentorship by leading Chinese scientists.

For a full list of programs, visit the UCAS Master’s Program Page.

Eligibility Criteria for Applicants

To be eligible for the CAS “The Belt and Road” Master Fellowship 2026, you must meet all of the following criteria:

✅ Citizenship: Must be a non-Chinese citizen from a Belt and Road country
✅ Age: Must be 30 years old or younger by December 31, 2026
✅ Education: Hold a Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) in a relevant field
✅ Academic Performance: Must demonstrate excellent academic records and strong interest in scientific research
✅ Supervisor Approval: Must receive pre-acceptance from a UCAS-affiliated supervisor
✅ Language Proficiency:

  • TOEFL iBT: 90+

  • IELTS (Academic): 6.5+

  • Or proof that your undergraduate degree was taught in English/Chinese

  • Or HSK Level 5 (for programs taught in Chinese)

📌 Important: You must also meet other UCAS program-specific admission requirements.

Accepted English Proficiency Proofs

To ensure academic success, UCAS requires proof of English or Chinese proficiency. You can fulfill this requirement through one of the following:

  • ✅ TOEFL iBT score of 90 or higher

  • ✅ IELTS (Academic) score of 6.5 or higher

  • ✅ Native English speaker

  • ✅ Undergraduate degree taught entirely in English or Chinese (must be stated clearly in transcripts or an official letter)

  • ✅ Passed HSK Level 5 (with a score of over 200) for Chinese-taught programs

📌 Note: If your proof is not in English or Chinese, submit a notarized translation alongside the original.

Step-by-Step Application Process

Applying for this prestigious fellowship may seem overwhelming, but here’s a step-by-step guide to simplify it:

1. Check Your Eligibility

  • Make sure you meet all the requirements: age, degree, nationality, academic performance, and language skills.

  • Double-check that your country is part of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).

2. Find a Host Supervisor

  • Visit UCAS’s list of supervisors affiliated with UCAS faculties or CAS institutes.

  • Choose a professor whose research aligns with your interest.

  • Email them with your CV, research proposal, and a polite message indicating your intent to apply for this fellowship.

📌 You must get a confirmation from your host supervisor before proceeding.

3. Prepare Your Application Documents

Scan and prepare all documents in color, in high quality, and preferably as PDFs.

📑 Required Documents:

  1. Highest Degree Certificate (Notarized copy)
  2. Transcripts of Highest Education (Notarized copy)
  3. Undergraduate Diploma
  4. Undergraduate Transcript
  5. if you are in china Then the most recent visa or residence permit in China (Upload Passport Home page again in this option on University Portal)
  6. A Study Plan or Research Proposal
  7. Two Recommendation Letters
  8. Passport Copy
  9. Economic proof
  10. Physical Examination Form (Health Report)
  11. English Proficiency Certificate (IELTS is not Mandatory)
  12. No Criminal Certificate Record (Police Clearance Certificate Record)
  13. Acceptance Letter (Not Mandatory)

📌 All documents must be in English or Chinese, or include a notarized translation.

4. Submit Your Application Online

📌 Application system opens around December 1, 2026

5. Supervisor’s Comment Submission

Your supervisor must complete and submit the Supervisor’s Comment Page to the UCAS faculty or CAS institute they’re affiliated with—before the deadline.

📌 Note: Only one supervisor and one institute can be selected. Multiple applications are not allowed.

Important Application Guidelines

Before submitting, keep these key notes in mind:

  • Incomplete applications will not be processed.

  • Do not apply to more than one supervisor or institute.

  • Only one submission is accepted per applicant—choose wisely.

  • Do not send hard copies unless specifically requested.

  • Be honest: false information = disqualification.

  • Application processing fee is waived for this fellowship.

Application Deadline and Timeline

Mark your calendar:

Stage Date
Application Portal Opens December 1, 2026
Application Deadline March 31, 2026
Selection & Notification May – June 2026
Offer Letters & Visa Documents Issued June – July 2026
Expected Arrival & Registration August – September 2026

📌 Tip: Apply early—processing your supervisor’s recommendation and university documents takes time.

Visa Application & Arrival in China

Once admitted, awardees must apply for a student visa (X1 or X2) using the following documents:

  • Passport (same as application)

  • Admission Notice from UCAS

  • JW202 Visa Application Form

  • Physical Examination Record

  • Original medical test reports

🎯 Important: Do not apply for a tourist visa. You will need your original admission documents for visa and registration.

Additional Rules for Awardees

  • You must register on time at the location and date stated in your admission notice.

  • Fellowship starts from the day of registration.

    • Register before the 15th of the month: full stipend

    • Register after the 15th: half stipend

  • You must:

    • Follow university rules

    • Attend qualifying exams

    • Maintain good academic standing

Failure to do so could result in suspension or termination of the fellowship.

📚 Acknowledgment Requirement: Any publications during your fellowship must state:
“Sponsored by CAS ‘The Belt and Road’ Master Fellowship Program and CAS President’s International Fellowship Initiative (PIFI).”

Contact Information

For help and questions, contact:

📍 International Students Office
University of Chinese Academy of Sciences
No. 80 Zhongguancun East Road, Haidian District, Beijing 100190, China

Why Choose the CAS “Belt and Road” Fellowship?

  • 🌍 Exclusive to BRI countries – a focused opportunity tailored for your region

  • 🧠 World-class research environment – UCAS is among the top research universities in Asia

  • 💸 Fully funded – tuition, stipend, housing, and insurance covered

  • 📈 Career acceleration – boosts your academic and professional trajectory

  • 🤝 Global networking – become part of an international scientific community

Conclusion

The CAS “The Belt and Road” Master Fellowship Programme 2026 is a powerful opportunity for talented students from developing nations. It’s not just about studying abroad—it’s about joining a global network, learning from the best, and making a difference in your country through advanced education and research.

The competition is fierce, but the rewards are immense. Start preparing now, reach out to your supervisor, and apply early. Your future in global science, innovation, and leadership could start here.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

1. Can I apply to more than one UCAS institute or supervisor?
No. You are allowed to apply to only one supervisor and one CAS/UCAS institute. Multiple applications will lead to disqualification.

2. I don’t have TOEFL or IELTS. Can I still apply?
Yes, if your undergraduate degree was taught in English or Chinese, or you have HSK Level 5 (for Chinese programs). Otherwise, you’ll need TOEFL (90+) or IELTS (6.5+).

3. Can I submit hard copies of my documents?
No. Only scanned, high-quality digital copies are accepted during the application phase. Hard copies may be requested later for verification.

4. Can I change my major or supervisor after getting admitted?
Very unlikely. UCAS rarely allows changes to major, supervisor, or institute after enrollment.

5. What happens if I arrive in China late?
If you miss the registration period without approved extension, your scholarship may be canceled. Always arrive on time or apply for a deferment.