Chinese Government Scholarship (CSC) for Pakistani Students: HEC Route, Age Limits and Tests
Quick facts
- Funded by: China Scholarship Council (CSC)
- Two routes: Type A through HEC (agency number 5861) or Type B directly through Chinese universities
- Age limits: under 25 (bachelor’s), under 35 (master’s), under 40 (PhD)
- Last HEC deadline: 5 January 2026 for 2026–27. Expect a similar winter timeline for 2027–28.
China is now one of the most popular study destinations for Pakistani students, especially in engineering, computer science, agriculture and sciences. The Chinese Government Scholarship pays for tuition, accommodation, insurance and a monthly stipend.
What the scholarship covers
- Full tuition
- University dormitory or a housing subsidy
- Comprehensive medical insurance
- A monthly living stipend (amount depends on level)
International airfare is usually not covered under the HEC route, so budget for your ticket.
Route 1: Type A through HEC
HEC nominates Pakistani candidates to the CSC. In the 2026–27 round there were 75 seats: 35 bachelor’s, 25 master’s and 15 PhD.
Tests and eligibility
| Level | Test required (2026–27 round) | Age limit |
|---|---|---|
| Bachelor’s | USAT (minimum 50/100) and China Scholastic Competency Assessment (CSCA) | Under 25 |
| Master’s | HAT (minimum 50/100) | Under 35 |
| PhD | HAT (minimum 50/100) | Under 40 |
Chinese-taught master’s and PhD programmes require HSK level 4. English-taught programmes need proof of English.
How to apply
- Register on the HEC e-portal and apply for the Chinese Government Scholarship when it is advertised.
- Register on campuschina.org, choose Type A, and enter agency number 5861.
- Upload documents: degrees, transcripts, passport, test results, study plan or research proposal, two recommendation letters, and a foreigner physical examination form.
- Submit both applications before HEC’s deadline.
Route 2: Type B through universities
Many Chinese universities nominate students directly to the CSC. Deadlines usually fall between December and April. You apply on campuschina.org with the university’s agency number, plus the university’s own portal. Getting a pre-acceptance letter from a professor improves your chances a lot for master’s and PhD.
Tips to win
- Contact supervisors early for master’s and PhD with a short, specific email and your CV.
- Write a focused study plan or research proposal (800–1,000 words) that connects your past work with the programme.
- Prepare the medical form carefully. Incomplete forms are a common reason for rejection.
- Apply through both routes if eligible, but follow each route’s rules.
Sources: Higher Education Commission (HEC) advertisement for 2026–27; China Scholarship Council / Campus China. Confirm the 2027–28 call on hec.gov.pk.
