King’s College London and China Forge New PhD Scholarship Pathway

A major new scholarship initiative is now accepting applications. The King’s-China Scholarship Council PhD Scholarship Programme for the 2026/2027 academic year opens doors for Chinese doctoral students. This partnership between King’s College London and the China Scholarship Council represents a significant investment in international academic collaboration. The application window closes on January 14, 2026.

This jointly funded programme aims to support high-achieving Chinese students pursuing full-time PhD research. A wide array of academic fields is available for study. According to the official announcement, subject areas range from biomedical sciences and engineering to law, humanities, and social sciences.

Comprehensive Financial Support for Scholars

The financial package offered is substantial. King’s College London will waive the full international tuition fee for successful candidates. The China Scholarship Council provides a comprehensive living support package.

This includes a monthly living allowance, health cover, and airfare. The living allowance is currently set between £1,200 and £1,350 per month. The scholarship is designed to cover the full duration of a PhD programme, up to four years.

Eligibility and Commitment Requirements

Prospective applicants must meet specific criteria to be considered. Candidates must be citizens and permanent residents of the People’s Republic of China. They must hold a valid Chinese passport and intend to commence their PhD studies at King’s in the 2026-27 academic year.

All applicants must also satisfy the CSC’s published criteria. A key requirement is the agreement to return to China upon completion of the degree. This aligns with the CSC’s mission to enhance China’s talent pool with international research experience.

The application process requires careful attention to deadlines and requirements. All supporting documentation must be submitted through the King’s admissions portal by the January 2026 deadline. Applicants must also meet the English language proficiency requirements for their chosen research programme. Securing strong academic references is another critical step for a successful application.

This new King’s China Scholarship Council PhD Programme strengthens global academic ties. It offers a fully-funded route for top Chinese scholars to engage in world-class research. The initiative is poised to foster significant long-term research collaborations between the UK and China.

Thought you’d like to know

What is the application deadline for the King’s-CSC PhD programme?

The application deadline is January 14, 2026, at 23:59 UK time. All supporting documents and references must be submitted by this date to be considered for the scholarship.

Which subjects are covered by this scholarship?

The programme covers a vast range of subjects. These include biomedical sciences, engineering, computer science, law, humanities, and social sciences. Nearly all full-time PhD research areas at King’s are eligible.

What does the scholarship award include?

The award is comprehensive. King’s College waives the full international tuition fee. The CSC provides a living allowance, health cover, return airfare, and visa costs.

Are there any post-study requirements for scholars?

Yes, there is a key requirement. All scholarship recipients must agree to return to China upon completion of their studies and research. This is a standard condition set by the China Scholarship Council.

Who is eligible to apply for this programme?

Eligibility is for Chinese citizens and permanent residents. Applicants must hold a valid Chinese passport and meet the CSC’s criteria regarding age and academic background. They must be starting a full-time PhD at King’s in 2026-27.

Trusted Sources

King’s College London Official Announcement, China Scholarship Council Guidelines, Reuters.