India and China have a complicated relationship, but education cooperation is one area where things function reasonably well. Indian students have been going to China on CSC scholarships for years, particularly in medicine, engineering, and the sciences. The numbers are smaller than Pakistan or Bangladesh, but the opportunity is real.
Here is the full picture for Indian applicants in 2026.
How many slots does India get?
India typically receives around 25-50 CSC slots per year through the embassy channel. This is a smaller allocation compared to some neighboring countries, which makes the embassy route more competitive. The university channel (Type B) has no country cap and is where most Indian students find success.
Application channels
Type A (Embassy): Apply through the Chinese Embassy in New Delhi.
Type B (University): Apply directly to Chinese universities. Given India’s smaller embassy allocation, this route is often the more practical option.
Required documents
- Valid Indian passport
- Degree certificates and mark sheets (attested)
- Study plan or research proposal
- Two recommendation letters from academic referees
- English proficiency proof (IELTS, TOEFL, or medium-of-instruction certificate)
- Foreigner Physical Examination Form
- Police clearance certificate
- Acceptance letter from a Chinese professor (strongly recommended)
Tips for Indian applicants
The university channel is your best bet. With limited embassy slots, Indian students should focus energy on the Type B route. Contact universities directly, secure acceptance letters from professors, and let the university nominate you.
Language programs deserve consideration. Most Indian students want English-taught programs, which is understandable. But Chinese-taught programs (with one year of language training included) are less competitive and still fully funded. If you are open to learning Mandarin, this route gives you better odds. Our HSK vs English programs comparison goes into the pros and cons.
Pick your major strategically. The field you apply to affects your chances. STEM fields generally have more openings than humanities. Read our guide on picking a major for CSC success for data-backed advice.
Consider non-top-10 universities. Everyone applies to Tsinghua and Peking. Acceptance rates at those institutions are extremely low. Universities ranked 50th-150th in China still offer excellent education and have much higher acceptance rates. Our safe schools guide explains this strategy.
MBBS is hugely popular but very competitive. Indian students make up a significant portion of international medical students in China. CSC funding for MBBS is limited, though. If medicine is your goal, apply broadly and consider self-funded options as backup.
Chinese embassy in India
Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in India
- Address: 50-D, Shantipath, Chanakyapuri, New Delhi
- Phone: +91-11-26112345
- Education Section: Check embassy website for current details
Frequently asked questions
Is IELTS mandatory?
No. Most Indian universities use English as the medium of instruction. A certificate confirming this from your university is accepted by Chinese institutions.
Can I study MBBS on CSC scholarship?
Yes, but the number of CSC-funded MBBS seats is limited. Many Indian medical students in China are self-funded. If you only want CSC funding, have backup program choices ready.
Do I need to speak Chinese?
Only if you are applying to a Chinese-taught program. English-taught programs have no Mandarin requirement. Some universities offer optional Chinese language classes even for English-medium students.
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