Shenzhen University PhD Scholarships 2026 , China (Fully Funded)

Shenzhen University (SZU) is now inviting applications from international students for its Doctoral (PhD) programs under the March intake. Located in China’s most innovative city, SZU offers world-class research facilities, international supervisors, and generous scholarship opportunities for students from all over the world. This program is ideal for students seeking a PhD in China with scholarship, fully funded doctoral programs, and high-quality research supervision in English or Chinese.

Shenzhen University is a major public research university located in Shenzhen, one of China’s most dynamic and innovative cities. Established in 1983, the university has grown rapidly alongside Shenzhen’s development into a global technology and business hub, giving it strong links to industries such as electronics, finance, engineering, and entrepreneurship. Shenzhen University offers a wide range of undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral programs across disciplines including science, engineering, business, law, medicine, humanities, and social sciences. Known for its modern campus, international outlook, and emphasis on applied research and innovation, it provides students with excellent opportunities in one of China’s most forward-looking regions.

International PhD students at Shenzhen University can apply for multiple Chinese government and university scholarships, including:

1. Guangdong Government Outstanding International Student Scholarship

• 30,000 CNY per year

2. Shenzhen Universiade Scholarship

• 40,000 CNY per year

3. Liyuan International Scholarship

• First Class: Full tuition waiver + 6,000 CNY/month living allowance
• Second Class: Full tuition waiver + 5,000 CNY/month
• Third Class: Full tuition waiver + 4,000 CNY/month

Supervisor Allowance

Every international PhD student also receives:

• Minimum 12,000 CNY per year from their supervisor for research and academic activities

These make SZU one of the best choices for fully funded PhD in China.

• Doctoral Degree (PhD)

Study Mode & Duration

• Full-time
• 3 to 4 years (maximum 5 years)

PhD programs are available in multiple disciplines including:

• Engineering
• Computer Science & Technology
• Business & Economics
• Law
• Education
• Medicine
• Life Sciences
• Arts & Design
• Physical Education
• Liberal Arts
• Science & Technology

(Both Chinese-taught and English-taught programs are available.)

Open to all non-Chinese international students with a valid foreign passport.

Applicants must:

• Be non-Chinese citizens
• Hold a Master’s degree
• Be under 40 years old
• Be in good physical and mental health
• Meet language requirements

Language Requirements

For Chinese-taught programs:

• Science & Engineering → HSK 4 (180+)
• Liberal Arts, Medicine, Arts → HSK 5 (180+)

For English-taught programs:

• Valid English proficiency certificate

(Native English or Chinese speakers may be exempted after approval.)

• Contact a potential supervisor and obtain a recommendation letter
• Register online at SZU application portal
• Upload documents and submit application
• Attend interview (if required)
• Receive admission and visa documents

Deadlines

Shenzhen University opens its PhD application period every year for the March intake.

The exact deadlines vary each year, so applicants should always check the official SZU portal for the latest dates.

Required Documents

Applicants must submit:

• Master’s degree certificate & transcripts
• Two academic recommendation letters
• Supervisor’s recommendation letter
• Research proposal / personal statement
• Passport & photo
• Language certificate
• Resume
• Physical examination form
• Police clearance certificate
• Scholarship forms (if applicable)
• Annual Tuition

Annual Tuition

• Liberal Arts: 34,000 CNY
• Science & Engineering: 40,000 CNY
• Medicine / Arts / Physical: 52,000 CNY

Accommodation & Insurance

• Campus dormitories available
• Cost: 750 – 8,000 CNY per semester
• Insurance: 800 CNY per year

Why Choose Shenzhen University for PhD?

• Located in China’s innovation hub
• Fully funded scholarships available
• English-taught PhD programs
• Strong international research environment
• Affordable living costs
• Excellent career and post-study opportunities