Description

The Shenzhen University (SZU) PhD Scholarships 2025 are now open for international students seeking fully funded opportunities to pursue a Doctoral (PhD) degree in China. With a deadline of May 15, 2025, these scholarships provide financial benefits such as tuition waivers, monthly living stipends, accommodation support, and research funding. The program is available to non-Chinese citizens from around the world, making it an excellent chance for global scholars to study in Shenzhen, China’s innovation hub.

Why Choose Shenzhen University for Your PhD?

• World-Class Education: Shenzhen University ranks among the top universities in China for research and innovation.
• Scholarships Available: Multiple funding options including Guangdong Government Scholarship, Liyuan International Scholarship, and Shenzhen Universiade Scholarship.
• Strategic Location: Located in Shenzhen, China’s tech and business hub, offering excellent academic and professional opportunities.
• Diverse Research Fields: SZU offers PhD programs in science, engineering, liberal arts, medicine, and more.
• Affordable Tuition & Living Costs: Competitive tuition fees compared to other global institutions, with on-campus accommodation options.

Degree Level

SZU offers PhD programs in multiple disciplines. The duration of the PhD program is typically 3 to 4 years, with a maximum of 5 years. Students must pursue full-time study and comply with university and Chinese regulations.

Available Subjects

Following subject are available to study under this scholarship program.

• All Subjects

Benefits

Available Scholarships for PhD Students at SZU

Provincial & Municipal Scholarships

• Guangdong Government Outstanding International Student Scholarship: 30,000 RMB per year.
• Shenzhen Universiade Scholarship: 40,000 RMB per year.

Liyuan International Scholarship (Fully Funded)

• First Class: Tuition waiver + 6,000 RMB/month living allowance.
• Second Class: Tuition waiver + 5,000 RMB/month living allowance.
• Third Class: Tuition waiver + 4,000 RMB/month living allowance.
• Research Funding: Supervisors provide an annual allowance of 12,000 RMB for academic research and conferences.

Scholarships are applicable for the first extended year of study but are not available from the second extended year.

Why Study in Shenzhen, China?

• Innovation Hub: Shenzhen is home to leading tech companies and research institutes, providing excellent career and networking opportunities.
• Multicultural Environment: The city has a large international community with students from around the world.
• Affordable Living Costs: Compared to other major cities in China, Shenzhen offers a high-quality lifestyle at a reasonable cost.
• Top Research Facilities: Shenzhen University has cutting-edge laboratories, research centers, and industry collaborations.

Eligible Nationalities

Open for students of all nationalities.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible, applicants must meet the following criteria:

Non-Chinese Citizens 

• Applicants must hold a valid foreign passport and be in good physical and mental health.

Academic Qualification 

• Applicants must hold a Master’s degree or be in the final year of their Master’s program. An expected graduation certificate can be submitted, but the official degree must be provided before enrollment.

Age Limit 

• Applicants must be under 40 years old at the time of application.

Language Proficiency Requirements

• For Chinese-taught programs: HSK 4 with a minimum score of 180 (Science & Engineering) or HSK 5 with a minimum score of 180 (Liberal Arts, Medicine, Arts).
• For English-taught programs: Must provide proof of English proficiency (TOEFL, IELTS, or equivalent).
• Native English or Chinese speakers may be exempted from language certification.

Application Procedure

Application Timeline for Shenzhen University PhD Programs

• Application Start Date: January 1, 2025
• Application Deadline: May 15, 2025

Application Procedure

Step 1: Find a Supervisor

• Contact potential supervisors from the list of SZU PhD advisors and request a Letter of Recommendation.

Step 2: Register Online

• Visit the SZU Online Application Portal and complete the registration process.

Step 3: Submit Required Documents

Applicants must upload the following documents online:

• Master’s Degree Certificate (or pre-graduation certificate for final-year students).
• Transcripts of all postgraduate courses.
• Two Letters of Recommendation (from professors or associate professors).
• Personal Statement (1500 words) – Including intended research area, supervisor, academic achievements, and career goals.
• Copy of Passport and Passport Photo.
• Letter of Recommendation from Potential Supervisor.
• Language Proficiency Certificate (HSK or TOEFL/IELTS for non-native speakers).
• Resume (CV) covering education history from primary school to the present.
• Foreigner Physical Examination Form (for visa purposes).
• Non-Criminal Record Report (with notarized Chinese translation).
• Scholarship Application Form (for those applying for scholarships).

Note: Documents not in English or Chinese must be translated and notarized. Incomplete applications will not be processed.

Selection & Admission Process

• Document Review: Applications will be reviewed by the SZU admissions panel.
• Interviews: Shortlisted candidates may be invited for an online or face-to-face interview.
• Pre-Admission Results: Results will be sent via email in June 2025.
• Final Admission Offer: Successful applicants will receive an admission letter and JW202 visa application form in July 2025.
• Visa & Registration: Admitted students must apply for an X1 visa at the nearest Chinese Embassy and convert it into a Residence Permit within 30 days of arrival.

Conclusion

Shenzhen University offers a unique opportunity for international PhD students to study in one of China’s most dynamic cities with financial support through fully funded scholarships. Whether you are looking to advance your research career, collaborate with leading scholars, or gain global exposure, SZU provides an excellent academic environment with cutting-edge research facilities and funding support.

Apply now before the May 15, 2025 deadline to secure your spot in the Shenzhen University PhD Program for international students.