ANSO–CAS–TWAS/UNESCO PhD Scholarship 2026 for Students from Developing Countries 

Overview

The ANSO–CAS–TWAS/UNESCO PhD Scholarship is a joint initiative between the Alliance of International Science Organizations (ANSO), the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), and the World Academy of Sciences (TWAS/UNESCO). The program aims to train young scientists from developing countries through fully funded PhD studies in China. Up to 40 students will be selected annually, with 10 scholarships prioritised for climate-related research. The scholarship runs for up to four years and supports academic excellence, scientific collaboration, and sustainable development.

Eligibility

Applicants must:

• Be citizens of developing countries in the Global South (as defined by TWAS).

• Not holding Chinese citizenship.

• Be born on or after 1 January 1991.

• Hold a Master’s degree (MSc) or equivalent.

• Be proficient in English or Chinese.

• Meet the admission requirements of either the University of Science and Technology of China (USTC) or the University of Chinese Academy of Sciences (UCAS).

• Not pursuing another PhD in China or holding any other assignment during the scholarship.

• Apply to only one university (either USTC or UCAS).

Benefits

The scholarship covers:

• Tuition waiver for the entire study duration.

• Monthly stipend of 6,000–7,000 CNY (depending on qualification status), up to 48 months.

• Health insurance.

• Application fee waiver.

• One-time international travel allowance (home country to China).

• One-time visa fee support.

Fellowship/Program Components

Awardees will:

• Study at USTC, UCAS, or a CAS-affiliated institute in China.

• Complete coursework, Chinese language and culture training, and conduct research leading to a PhD thesis.

• Engage in interdisciplinary and international research aligned with sustainable development goals (SDGs).

Application Requirements

Applicants must prepare:

• Completed online application form (USTC or UCAS portal).

• Academic transcripts and degree certificates.

• Proof of language proficiency (English or Chinese).

• Research proposal and study plan.

• Two or more recommendation letters.

• Copy of passport.

Selection Criteria

Candidates are evaluated based on:

• Academic excellence and research potential.

• Relevance of the proposed study to the development needs of their home country.

• Alignment with TWAS/UNESCO priority areas (especially for LDCs and women candidates).

• Compliance with CAS and university admission requirements.

Application Process

1. Visit the official USTC or UCAS admissions portal.

2. Select “CAS–ANSO Scholarship” during the application.

3. Check the box for “ANSO–CAS–TWAS/UNESCO PhD Scholarship” to be considered for this category.

4. Submit all documents and ensure referees upload recommendation letters before the deadline.

Important Dates

• Opening Date: 15 October 2025

• Application Deadline: 31 January 2026 (Beijing Time)

• Duration: Up to 4 years

For more information and application: 

Visit the official website of the ANSO–CAS–TWAS/UNESCO PhD Scholarship 2026 for Students from Developing Countries