The ANSO Scholarship 2026 is one of the most prestigious opportunities available for international students who want to pursue postgraduate studies in China. Officially known as the CAS-ANSO Scholarship (Degree Program), this program is offered by the Alliance of National and International Science Organizations for the Belt and Road Regions. ANSO was founded in 2018 as a non-profit and non-governmental scientific organization aiming to advance global scientific development, improve human wellbeing, and strengthen international cooperation. The organization was established by the Chinese Academy of Sciences along with 36 partner universities, scientific institutions, and global organizations.
Since its launch in 2019, the CAS-ANSO Scholarship has supported hundreds of young scholars from all around the world in pursuing Master’s and PhD studies at top Chinese institutions, including the University of Science and Technology of China, the University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, and various CAS research institutes across the country. Every year, the degree program offers funding for 100 to 200 Master’s students and 300 PhD students, making it one of the largest fully funded scholarship schemes in China.
In 2022, the ANSO-CAS-TWAS/UNESCO PhD Scholarship was introduced as a special sub-category of the degree program. Under this initiative, TWAS/UNESCO selects up to 40 doctoral students from developing countries each year, with at least 10 awards reserved for scholars working on climate-related research. Priority is also given to applicants from Least Developed Countries and women, reflecting the program’s commitment to inclusivity and global scientific equality.
Funded primarily by the Chinese Academy of Sciences, with additional support from TWAS and UNESCO, the ANSO Scholarship continues to grow as a global platform for scientific talent. The scholarship not only provides financial support but also promotes academic collaboration, cross-cultural exchange, and scientific innovation among students across the Belt and Road regions and beyond.
Scholarship Coverage
The CAS-ANSO Scholarship offers extensive benefits to ensure that scholars can focus entirely on their academic and research journey in China. While the exact coverage may differ slightly based on whether a student receives the standard award or the ANSO-CAS-TWAS/UNESCO PhD Scholarship, the overall package provides generous financial support designed to cover academic, living, and research needs.
All awardees receive tuition waiver for the entire duration of their program. They are also provided with free university accommodation or a housing subsidy, along with monthly living allowances to cover basic expenses such as food, transportation, and study materials. Master’s and PhD students receive different amounts depending on their level of study.
In addition to this, eligible scholars may receive medical insurance, research support, and travel subsidies under specific conditions. TWAS/UNESCO covers selected items for the ANSO-CAS-TWAS/UNESCO PhD Scholarship, while the Chinese Academy of Sciences funds all benefits for standard ANSO scholars. One important note is that applicants who are already inside China at the time of applying will not be eligible for travel subsidies.
Once awarded, students must complete required coursework, Chinese language training, cultural education classes, and all research activities under the supervision of their host university or institute. Scholars are expected to follow the laws of China and the regulations of their institution. Failure to meet academic standards or annual assessments may result in termination of the scholarship.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the ANSO Scholarship 2026, applicants must meet several conditions. The scholarship is open to students from all over the world except citizens of China. English or Chinese language proficiency is required, depending on the instruction language of the chosen program.
For Master’s applicants, candidates must be born on or after 1 January 1996. For PhD applicants, the birthdate requirement is on or after 1 January 1991. This ensures that the scholarship supports young and early-career scientists who still have a long professional path ahead of them. Applicants must also satisfy the admission requirements of USTC or UCAS, where they plan to enroll.
A key rule is that applicants cannot hold another assignment or employment during the scholarship period. Students who are currently enrolled in a Master’s program in China are not allowed to apply for the ANSO Master’s Scholarship. Similarly, those enrolled in a PhD program in China cannot apply for the ANSO PhD Scholarship. Failing to disclose this will result in disqualification.
Additionally, applicants must choose only one institution—USTC or UCAS. Applying to both universities under the ANSO Scholarship will lead to immediate disqualification.
Application Procedure
Applications for the ANSO Scholarship 2026 will open on 15 October 2025. Both USTC and UCAS manage their own application portals, and applicants must check these websites for specific details on deadlines. The final deadline for applicants and referees is 31 January 2026, Beijing time.
Students must prepare and upload all required documents to the USTC or UCAS online admission system. These documents usually include academic transcripts, degree certificates, personal statement, research proposal, recommendation letters, and proof of language proficiency. Applicants should carefully review the guidelines on each university’s official website.
When filling out the online form, candidates must select the CAS-ANSO Scholarship option. PhD applicants who wish to be considered for the ANSO-CAS-TWAS/UNESCO Scholarship must check the specific box in the application system.
Once submitted, the application will undergo evaluation by the host university and the scholarship selection committee. Successful candidates will be notified along with their admission results.
Contact Information
Different departments handle inquiries related to the ANSO Scholarship. For questions about applications, students applying to USTC may contact Ms. Xiaoyan Peng or Ms. Wenjia Wang through the provided email addresses. UCAS applicants may reach Ms. Yuchen Xie for PhD inquiries or Ms. Lisha Zhou for Master’s program inquiries. For program management, applicants may contact the ANSO Secretariat or the TWAS/UNESCO office for PhD-related matters.
About the Organizations
ANSO focuses on promoting scientific collaboration and sustainable development, especially across the Belt and Road Regions. It aims to support future leaders in Science, Technology, Innovation, and Capacity Building, and the CAS-ANSO Scholarship serves as one of its major initiatives for nurturing scientific talent worldwide.
The Chinese Academy of Sciences plays a central role in scientific research in China and is the leading founder of ANSO. It runs a comprehensive network of research institutes and educational systems aimed at advancing innovation and global scientific cooperation.
TWAS/UNESCO contributes to scientific development in the Global South by promoting excellence in research, funding education, and supporting young scholars. Through joint efforts with ANSO and CAS, it enhances the scholarship’s impact and global reach.
The University of Science and Technology of China is one of China’s top-ranked institutions known for scientific and technological excellence. It provides world-class facilities, advanced laboratories, and strong mentorship for young researchers.
The University of Chinese Academy of Sciences is China’s largest graduate education institution. With strong integration between research and teaching, UCAS offers unique opportunities for students to work alongside leading scientists in CAS institutes across China.
Conclusion
The ANSO Scholarship 2026 remains one of the best opportunities for international students interested in pursuing high-level research in China. With full financial support, access to cutting-edge scientific facilities, and world-class supervision, scholars gain invaluable experience that prepares them for academic, research, and industry careers worldwide.
By attracting young talents from around the globe, the program continues to strengthen international collaboration, scientific innovation, and sustainable development across regions. Students who meet the eligibility criteria and aspire to study in China are highly encouraged to prepare early and submit strong applications before the January 2026 deadline.
FAQs About the ANSO Scholarship 2026
What is the ANSO Scholarship?
The ANSO Scholarship is a fully funded program for international students who want to pursue Master’s or PhD studies in China. It is offered by the Alliance of National and International Science Organizations, with support from the Chinese Academy of Sciences, TWAS, and UNESCO. The scholarship aims to promote scientific cooperation and build global research talent.
Who can apply for the ANSO Scholarship 2026?
The scholarship is open to all international applicants except Chinese citizens. Applicants must meet academic requirements, follow age limits, and demonstrate proficiency in English or Chinese. They must also satisfy the admission criteria of either USTC or UCAS.
Is the ANSO Scholarship fully funded?
Yes, the scholarship covers tuition, accommodation, monthly allowance, health insurance, and other research-related costs. Travel subsidies may be provided to eligible applicants who are not already in China at the time of application.
Can I apply to both USTC and UCAS at the same time?
No. Applicants are allowed to apply to only one university. Applying to both will result in automatic disqualification.
Do I need to speak Chinese to apply?
No. Many programs are taught in English. Applicants simply need to show proficiency in either English or Chinese depending on program requirements.
What is the deadline for the ANSO Scholarship 2026?
The application deadline for both applicants and referees is 31 January 2026, Beijing time. Each university may open its application portal slightly earlier or later.
How many applicants are selected each year?
The CAS-ANSO Scholarship selects 100 to 200 Master’s students and 300 PhD students annually. The ANSO-CAS-TWAS/UNESCO PhD Scholarship selects up to 40 additional PhD students from developing countries.
What documents are required for the application?
Documents typically include academic transcripts, degree certificates, research proposal, personal statement, recommendation letters, and proof of language proficiency. Additional materials may be required depending on the university.
Is work allowed while studying under the ANSO Scholarship?
No. Awardees are not allowed to take any employment or outside assignments during the scholarship period.
Can current students in China apply for this scholarship?
Students currently enrolled in a Master’s or PhD program in China cannot apply for the same level under this scholarship. Doing so will lead to disqualification.
What happens if I fail the annual assessment?
Students who do not meet academic or research standards may have their scholarship terminated. They may receive a certificate of attendance instead of a formal degree.
How do I apply for the TWAS/UNESCO PhD category?
Applicants must select the ANSO-CAS-TWAS/UNESCO option in the application system when applying for a PhD program. Only eligible candidates from developing countries will be considered.
Where will I study under the ANSO Scholarship?
Scholars will study at the University of Science and Technology of China, the University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, or affiliated research institutes under the Chinese Academy of Sciences.
