Author: Michael | Published: August 6, 2026
CAS-TWAS President’s PhD Fellowships
The CAS-TWAS President’s Fellowship Program supports doctoral candidates from developing nations who wish to pursue research in China. Jointly managed by the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) and The World Academy of Sciences (TWAS), the program funds up to 200 PhD students annually. Fellows conduct research at the University of Chinese Academy of Sciences (UCAS), the University of Science and Technology of China (USTC), or CAS institutes.
CAS-TWAS President’s PhD Fellowships Funding Package
- Tuition Waiver: No tuition or application fees.
- Monthly Allowance:
- 6,000 RMB before passing the qualification exam.
- 7,000–8,000 RMB after passing, depending on university rules.
- Travel Support: One international economy round-trip or one-way ticket from home country to China.
- Insurance and Visa Support: Comprehensive health insurance for 48 months and a 65 USD visa allowance.
- Accommodation: Dormitories available at UCAS, USTC, or CAS institutes at student rates.
CAS-TWAS President’s PhD Fellowships Eligibility Requirements
- Must be from a developing country. Chinese citizens are not eligible.
- Must be Under 35 years old by December 31 of the application year.
- Must have completed master’s degree before September 1 of the intake year.
- Cannot hold residency in a developed country.
- Not already registered in a PhD program in China.
- IELTS, TOEFL, or HSK scores accepted. Alternatively, proof of English-medium instruction from prior university.
CAS-TWAS President’s PhD Fellowships Required Documents
- Certified transcripts (Bachelor’s and Master’s).
- Notarized degree certificates.
- Academic CV with publications and lab experience.
- Research proposal.
- Two reference letters (not from host supervisors).
- Supervisor acceptance form from UCAS, USTC, or CAS institute.
- Passport copy.
CAS-TWAS President’s PhD Fellowships Application Process
- Identify a Host Advisor: Search UCAS or USTC faculty directories.
- Contact Supervisors: Email with CV, transcripts, and draft research plan. Reference their recent publications.
- Secure Acceptance: Obtain a signed supervisor agreement.
- Register Online: Create an account on UCAS or USTC admissions portal.
- Complete Forms: Upload documents and referee details.
- Supervisor Upload: Ensure your host uploads their signed approval.
- Submit by Deadline: March 31 each year.
Application Pointers
- Legalize degrees: Some departments require embassy authentication of foreign Master’s diplomas. Begin this process months before departure.
- Write targeted emails: Mention specific faculty research and connect it to your thesis work. Avoid generic mass emails.
- Check housing early: Dorms in central Beijing are competitive. Confirm with your host lab whether rooms are reserved for international students.
Access the Official Application Websites and directory lists using the links below:
The World Academy of Sciences (TWAS)
University of Chinese Academy of Sciences (UCAS)
University of Science and Technology of China (USTC)
Next Steps: How to Start Your Application
Download the list of CAS institutes and review open positions. Draft a research plan aligned with ongoing projects. Update your CV and contact supervisors at least two months before the March 31 deadline. Once you secure a host, complete the online application and upload all required documents.
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