ASEAN-China Young Leaders Scholarship 2026/2027 – Study and Research in China

The ASEAN-China Young Leaders Scholarship (ACYLS) 2026/2027 is now open for applications! Funded by the Chinese government, this prestigious scholarship aims to strengthen ASEAN-China cooperation through educational exchange and leadership development. It offers a unique opportunity for ASEAN citizens to pursue master’s, doctoral, and short-term research studies in China.

 Scholarship Details

This year, ACYLS offers 12 places in total:

• 5 for doctoral studies
• 5 for master’s students
• 2 for short-term research fellows

 Financial Coverage

The scholarship provides comprehensive financial support, including:

• Monthly stipend to cover living expenses
• Tuition waiver and other school fees
• Round-trip airfare
• Accommodation on campus or approved housing
• Medical insurance
• Settlement fee upon arrival in China

Recipients must submit an annual report to maintain scholarship payments for the following year.

 Eligibility Requirements

Applicants must:

• Be a citizen of an ASEAN country
• Be mentally and physically healthy
• Have proficient English skills (IELTS ≥ 6.0 or TOEFL ≥ 80)
• Hold an undergraduate or graduate degree
  • Maximum age: 45 years for master’s or doctoral applicants
• Have at least one year of working experience, preferably in ASEAN-China affairs or related fields
• Not currently receive another Chinese government scholarship
• Meet the admission requirements of the Chinese universities applied to

 Application Process

Applications must be submitted online along with all required documents by March 1, 2026. Applicants are advised to carefully follow submission guidelines to ensure eligibility.

 Why Apply

The ACYLS scholarship provides not only financial support, but also an unparalleled opportunity to:

• Study or conduct research at top Chinese universities
• Gain cross-cultural experience and networks in the ASEAN-China context
• Build expertise in regional cooperation, leadership, and development
• Strengthen ties between ASEAN countries and China