Applications are now open for the 2026 Shanghai Jiao Tong University (SJTU) Scholarships, offering outstanding international students the chance to pursue master’s and doctoral degrees in one of China’s most prestigious universities. Established in 1896, SJTU has built a global reputation for excellence in education, research, and innovation. Ranked among the top 50 universities in the world, the institution attracts exceptional scholars from across the globe to study in a dynamic, multicultural environment at the heart of Shanghai.
Overview of Programs
SJTU offers a wide range of graduate programs across multiple disciplines, including Engineering, Science, Medicine, Economics, Law, Management, Humanities, and Interdisciplinary Studies. The university provides both English- and Chinese-taught programs to accommodate diverse academic backgrounds. Master’s degree programs typically last between two and three years, while doctoral programs extend for three to four years, depending on the field of study and research requirements.
Scholarship Opportunities
To support talented international students, SJTU provides several scholarship options covering tuition, accommodation, health insurance, and living stipends. These include:
- Chinese Government Scholarship (CGS) – This fully funded scholarship is available through two channels: directly via SJTU (Type B) or through a Chinese Embassy or Consulate (Type A). It covers tuition fees, on-campus accommodation, monthly stipends, and comprehensive medical insurance.
- Shanghai Government Scholarship (SGS) – Offered by the Shanghai Municipal Government, this award provides either full or partial funding. It includes tuition coverage, a living allowance, and health insurance for selected students.
- SJTU University Scholarships – Funded by the university, these awards may offer full or partial tuition waivers based on academic merit, research performance, and overall application strength.
- Departmental or Faculty Awards – Some schools or research institutes within SJTU offer additional funding or assistantship opportunities to exceptional applicants.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for admission and scholarship consideration, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Must be a non-Chinese citizen holding a valid foreign passport.
- Should be in good physical and mental health, with no criminal record.
- Must comply with Chinese laws and university regulations.
- Master’s applicants must hold a recognized bachelor’s degree or equivalent.
- Doctoral applicants should possess a relevant master’s degree, although exceptional bachelor’s graduates may be directly admitted into PhD programs.
- Must meet the language requirements for the chosen program (English proficiency for English-taught courses and HSK certification for Chinese-taught programs).
Required Application Documents
Applicants are required to upload the following materials through the online SJTU admission portal:
- Degree certificates and official transcripts (Bachelor’s for Master’s programs; both Bachelor’s and Master’s for PhD programs).
- Proof of English or Chinese language proficiency.
- A scanned copy of a valid passport.
- A recent passport-sized photograph.
- A personal statement and detailed study or research plan.
- Two academic recommendation letters from professors or associate professors.
- In some cases, a supervisor’s acceptance letter may also be required.
Application Procedure
Applicants can apply through two main channels:
1. Applying via SJTU (Type B):
Create an account on the SJTU application portal, complete the online form, upload all necessary documents, and pay the non-refundable application fee of RMB 800 (approximately USD 120). Applicants selecting “Apply for Scholarship through SJTU (Type B)” will automatically be considered for the Chinese Government Scholarship, Shanghai Government Scholarship, or university scholarships based on eligibility and merit.
2. Applying via Chinese Embassy or Consulate (Type A):
Applicants can also apply for the Chinese Government Scholarship through their local Chinese embassy or consulate. After submission, they must also complete the SJTU online application to be considered for admission.
Key Application Deadlines (Beijing Time)
- Application Opens: October 15, 2025
- First Round (CGS via SJTU): December 15, 2025
- Final Round (CGS via SJTU): February 15, 2026
- Shanghai Government & SJTU Scholarships: March 31, 2026
- Self-Funded Applicants: May 31, 2026
- Enrollment Date: September 2026
Why Choose SJTU?
Shanghai Jiao Tong University provides a world-class learning environment, cutting-edge research facilities, and extensive networking opportunities in one of Asia’s most vibrant cities. International students benefit from a global community, mentorship by top scholars, and pathways to impactful research and career development.
The SJTU scholarship program is not only a gateway to academic excellence but also a life-changing opportunity to experience China’s cultural and technological growth firsthand.
