CSC-Khalifa University Joint PhD Scholarship 2027
Between Cycles
Overview
The CSC-Khalifa University Joint PhD Scholarship is a fully funded PhD at Khalifa University for Chinese nationals who receive approval from the China Scholarship Council. Khalifa University and the CSC share the funding. It covers tuition, a monthly stipend from the university plus an additional stipend from the CSC, accommodation or housing assistance, medical insurance and return flights between China and Abu Dhabi. It lasts up to four academic years. For the full list of benefits, see what the scholarship covers.
What to know before applying
You must be a citizen of the People’s Republic of China when you apply and be admitted to a full-time PhD in Engineering or Science at Khalifa University. The scholarship has two steps. First apply to the Khalifa University PhD programme. After you receive the admission offer, apply to the CSC for funding and an employer reference at apply.csc.edu.cn. You need official CSC approval before your first registration.
To keep the award, register full-time every semester including summer and maintain a CGPA of at least 3.5 out of 4. If you are not eligible for this route, see the Khalifa University PhD Scholarship. You can also look at the KAIST International Scholarship and more PhD scholarships.
Timeline notes
Applications are accepted for the Fall semester only. The official page gives 10 February as the application deadline, without naming a year, so confirm the date for your intake with the university. See the application deadline section for the current status
About the CSC-Khalifa University Joint PhD Scholarship
The CSC-Khalifa University Joint PhD Scholarship is a fully funded scholarship offered by Khalifa University and the China Scholarship Council (CSC) for study in United Arab Emirates (Khalifa University, Abu Dhabi). The scholarship supports students pursuing PhD studies in Engineering and Science. Recipients receive Monthly stipend of AED 9,200 from Khalifa University, plus an additional stipend from the CSC (amount not stated) for a duration of Up to four academic years.
Eligible applicants: Chinese nationals only. You must be a citizen of the People's Republic of China at the time of applying. Academic standing: Maintain a minimum CGPA of 3.5 out of 4 to keep the scholarship.
If you meet the eligibility requirements and align with the CSC-Khalifa University Joint PhD Scholarship selection criteria, this represents a life-changing opportunity to study with full financial support. Read the sections below carefully to understand the benefits, eligibility, application process, and deadline before applying.
Scholarship Benefits & What's Covered
Selected recipients of the CSC-Khalifa University Joint PhD Scholarship receive a comprehensive funding package. Here's what the scholarship covers:
- Stipend and allowances: Monthly stipend of AED 9,200 from Khalifa University, plus an additional stipend from the CSC (amount not stated)
- Tuition fees: Yes, full coverage of Khalifa University tuition fees
- Accommodation: Yes, free university accommodation, or up to AED 2,000 per month in assistance if housing is unavailable
- Airfare / travel: Yes, round-trip flights between China and Abu Dhabi, provided by the CSC
- Health insurance: Yes, for full-time international students sponsored by Khalifa University
- Family / dependants: Not communicated
- Program duration: Up to four academic years
- Number of awards per year: Up to 30 Chinese students each year, according to the 2019 launch announcement
The scholarship is classified as Fully Funded. This means recipients receive complete financial coverage throughout their study period, allowing them to focus entirely on their academic and research goals without financial burden.
Eligibility Requirements
To be considered for the CSC-Khalifa University Joint PhD Scholarship, applicants must meet the following requirements. Applications from ineligible candidates are automatically rejected, so review these carefully before applying.
Academic requirements
- Minimum degree level: Admission to a full-time PhD in Engineering or Science at Khalifa University
- Academic standing: Maintain a minimum CGPA of 3.5 out of 4 to keep the scholarship
- Academic background: Unconditional admission to a Khalifa University PhD programme and official approval of a scholarship award from the CSC before first registration
- Fields of study: Engineering and Science
Nationality & residency
- Eligible countries: Chinese nationals only. You must be a citizen of the People's Republic of China at the time of applying
- Residency: Not communicated
Language requirements
- Language of instruction: English
- Language test: Yes, the English requirement for Khalifa University PhD admission applies (TOEFL iBT 91 or academic IELTS 6.5)
- Minimum score: IELTS 6.5 overall or TOEFL iBT 91
Other requirements
- Age: Not communicated
- Gender: Not communicated
How to Apply for the CSC-Khalifa University Joint PhD Scholarship
Applications for the CSC-Khalifa University Joint PhD Scholarship are submitted through the official channels of Khalifa University and the China Scholarship Council (CSC). Follow these steps to submit a strong application:
Step 1: Verify eligibility. Confirm you meet every requirement listed above, particularly nationality, academic level, and language proficiency. Applications from ineligible candidates are automatically rejected without review.
Step 2: Prepare required documents. You will need to submit: Online application to the Khalifa University PhD programme. After the admission offer, a separate CSC application and employer reference through apply.csc.edu.cn. Scholars must register full-time every semester including summer. Prepare each document carefully, reviewers typically shortlist based on document quality and completeness.
Step 3: Secure reference letters. Not communicated. Contact your referees early. References take time to prepare.
Step 4: Submit the application. Complete the application on the official portal before the deadline. The application deadline for this scholarship is To be announced. Late or incomplete applications are not considered.
Step 5: Await response. Shortlisting typically takes 4–8 weeks after the deadline. Successful candidates are invited to interview or additional assessment. Final decisions are announced 3–6 months after the application deadline.
Application Deadline
The application deadline for the CSC-Khalifa University Joint PhD Scholarship is To be announced. Application window: To be announced.
We strongly recommend starting your application at least 6–8 weeks before the deadline to allow sufficient time for document preparation, reference letter requests, and revisions to your personal statement. Rushed applications are visibly weaker and reduce your chance of shortlisting.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the CSC-Khalifa University Joint PhD Scholarship fully funded?
The scholarship is classified as Fully Funded. This means it covers all or most major costs — see the Benefits section above for a full breakdown.
Who can apply for the CSC-Khalifa University Joint PhD Scholarship?
Applicants must be from Chinese nationals only. You must be a citizen of the People's Republic of China at the time of applying. Additionally, applicants must hold Admission to a full-time PhD in Engineering or Science at Khalifa University. Full eligibility criteria including language, age, and academic requirements are detailed in the Eligibility section above.
What is the application deadline?
The application deadline for the CSC-Khalifa University Joint PhD Scholarship is To be announced. Late applications are not accepted, so aim to submit at least 2 weeks in advance.
Is there a bond or return obligation?
Not communicated.
Where do I apply?
Apply directly on the official portal: Application Link. ScholarshipSpace does not process applications on their behalf.