CAS-TWAS President’s PhD Fellowship Programme 2026
Thinking about doing a PhD in China, fully funded, with world-class mentorship? The CAS-TWAS President’s PhD Fellowship Programme 2026 could be the opportunity you’ve been waiting for. Designed for students from developing countries, this prestigious fellowship offers a chance to study in one of the most research-intensive environments globally with full financial support.
Imagine conducting cutting-edge research, collaborating with top scientists, and immersing yourself in a culturally rich environment while tuition, travel, accommodation, and living expenses are fully covered. This guide explains everything you need to know about the fellowship, including benefits, eligibility, application steps, and tips to make your application stand out.
About the Programme
The CAS-TWAS President’s PhD Fellowship Programme is a collaboration between the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) and The World Academy of Sciences (TWAS). Its mission is to strengthen scientific capacity in developing countries by providing high-quality PhD training in China.
Key highlights:
- Up to 200 students selected each year
- Study at top-tier institutions affiliated with CAS
- Access to international research collaboration and networking
- Mentorship from world-class scientists
Key Benefits
The fellowship provides comprehensive support for international students:
- Fully funded tuition: All fees covered
- Monthly stipend: RMB 7,000–8,000 depending on qualifications
- Travel support: One-time reimbursement for flights to China
- Visa reimbursement: Up to USD 65
- Health insurance: Full coverage during the fellowship
- Chinese language and cultural training in the first year
This allows students to focus entirely on research and academic growth.
Fellowship Duration and Structure
| Year | Activities |
|---|---|
| Year 1 | Coursework, Chinese language and cultural training (minimum 4 months), general academic training |
| Years 2–4 | Intensive research, data collection, and PhD thesis completion under expert supervision |
The fellowship lasts a maximum of four years with no extensions.
Eligible Host Institutions
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences (UCAS): Over 100 research centers, located in Beijing, with access to world-class labs
- University of Science and Technology of China (USTC): Known as the “Cradle of Scientific Elites,” member of C9 League
- CAS Institutes: Specialized research institutions across China covering multiple scientific disciplines
Fields of Study
The fellowship covers a wide range of STEM disciplines:
- Natural sciences
- Environmental sciences
- Physics and chemistry
- Engineering and materials science
- Biological sciences
- Computer science
- Mathematics
- Earth and space sciences
- Medical sciences
- Agricultural sciences
If your research focuses on innovation, sustainability, or technology, there is likely a place for you.
Fellowship Coverage Table
| Benefit | Details |
|---|---|
| Tuition Fees | Fully covered by CAS |
| Monthly Stipend | RMB 7,000–8,000 |
| Application Fee | Waived |
| International Travel | One-time reimbursement |
| Visa Fee | USD 65 reimbursement |
| Accommodation | Covered within monthly stipend |
| Health Insurance | Included |
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet the following:
- Age 35 or younger by December 31, 2026
- Must not be Chinese citizens
- Hold a Master’s degree before program start (September 2026)
- Intent to return to home country after PhD
- Cannot be employed or studying elsewhere during the fellowship
- Applicants already enrolled in a PhD program in China are ineligible
- Only one host institution can be selected (UCAS or USTC)
- Only one TWAS program application per year is allowed
Language Requirements
Most programs are conducted in English, and the fellowship includes Chinese language training in the first year. Accepted proofs:
- IELTS or TOEFL scores
- English-language degree from a recognized university
- Certificate from previous supervisor or department head
Application Process Overview
The process involves two main applications: fellowship and university admission. Steps include:
- Check eligibility
- Find a CAS-affiliated supervisor
- Submit CAS-TWAS fellowship application online
- Apply for admission to UCAS or USTC
- Upload supporting documents
- Obtain two reference letters
- Supervisor submits Comment Page
- Wait for results
Required Documents
- Highest degree certificate (notarized)
- Transcripts of highest education (notarized)
- Undergraduate diploma and transcript
- Passport copy
- Study plan or research proposal
- Two recommendation letters from referees
- Health report
- English proficiency certificate
- Police clearance certificate
- Acceptance letter (if available)
All documents must be in English or Chinese. Notarized translations required if in another language.
Tips for Securing a Supervisor
- Research supervisors aligned with your research interests
- Customize emails mentioning their work and connection to your research
- Include CV, research proposal, academic transcripts, and publications
- Maintain professional language and formatting
- Follow up politely after seven to ten days if no response
Rules and Regulations
- Failing the qualification test twice leads to termination
- Only one application per supervisor or institution allowed
- Applicants already studying in China are ineligible
- Original documents must be presented upon arrival to retain the fellowship
Important Dates
- Application Deadline: March 31, 2026
- Selection Results: June to July 2026
- PhD Program Start: September 2026
Contact Information
UCAS Applicants: Ms. Xie Yuchen, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, 80 Zhongguancun East Road, Beijing 100190, China Phone: +86 10 82672900 Email: president-fellowship@ucas.ac.cn
USTC Applicants: Ms. Lin Tian (Linda Tian), University of Science and Technology of China, 96 Jinzhai Road, Hefei, Anhui 230026, China Phone: +86 551 63600279 Email: presidentfellow@ustc.edu.cn
Always copy your supervisor in official correspondence.
Partner Institutions Overview
- Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS): China’s premier science organization, 12 branches, 100+ research institutes, 200+ national labs
- UCAS: Graduate education arm of CAS, 40,000+ postgraduate students
- USTC: Founded in 1958, member of C9 League, renowned for science and engineering
- TWAS: Promotes scientific excellence in developing countries, headquartered in Trieste, Italy
Conclusion
The CAS-TWAS President’s PhD Fellowship Programme 2026 is a full-ride doctoral opportunity providing mentorship, top-tier research facilities, and a launchpad for a career in science and innovation. Motivated students from developing countries should apply before March 31, 2026, with a strong research proposal and complete documentation.
