The ASEAN-China Young Leaders Scholarship (ACYLS) 2025/2026 is a fully funded scholarship program designed for outstanding students from ASEAN member countries who wish to pursue Master’s, PhD, or Postdoctoral research at top universities in China.
This prestigious scholarship aims to strengthen academic and cultural exchanges between ASEAN countries and China, providing scholars with a unique opportunity to gain world-class education, leadership training, and research experience.
Applications are now open, with a deadline of March 23, 2025.
About the ASEAN- China Young Leaders Scholarship (ACYLS)
The ASEAN-China Young Leaders Scholarship (ACYLS) is an initiative supported by the Chinese government in collaboration with ASEAN to promote regional cooperation through education and research.
The scholarship provides full financial support to exceptional young leaders who are eager to develop expertise in priority areas of mutual interest, including science, technology, economics, international relations, and sustainable development.
This program aims to:
- Enhance academic collaboration between ASEAN and China.
- Support students in developing leadership skills and regional expertise.
- Foster cross-cultural understanding and cooperation in critical fields.
- Provide access to high-quality education and advanced research opportunities in China.
Through ACYLS, scholars will gain valuable knowledge, engage in global networking, and contribute to regional progress.
Key Details of the Scholarship
- Eligible Degrees: Master’s, PhD, and Postdoctoral programs.
- Funding Type: Fully funded, covering:
- Full tuition fees for the entire program.
- Monthly stipend for living expenses.
- Accommodation support.
- Medical insurance for international students.
- Round-trip international airfare.
- Research funding and conference travel grants (for PhD and Postdoctoral researchers).
- Eligible Courses: Selected disciplines offered by participating universities in China.
- Application Deadline: March 23, 2025.
- Eligible Nationalities: Open to students from ASEAN member countries, including:
- Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam.
- Scholarship Location: Universities across China.
Why Apply for the ASEAN -China Young Leaders Scholarship?
The ACYLS program provides exceptional academic, professional, and cultural benefits to young leaders from ASEAN countries.
1. Full Financial Support
- Covers tuition fees, accommodation, health insurance, and research funding.
- Provides a monthly stipend for living expenses throughout the program.
- Includes international airfare, making the program financially accessible.
2. World-Class Education at Top Chinese Universities
- Study at renowned Chinese universities, many of which are ranked among the best in Asia and the world.
- Gain access to cutting-edge research facilities and experienced faculty.
- Engage in multidisciplinary learning with a focus on regional development and cooperation.
3. Leadership and Professional Development
- Participate in seminars, conferences, and workshops focused on leadership and policy-making.
- Enhance your expertise in regional trade, technology, environmental sustainability, and governance.
- Build strong diplomatic and professional networks across ASEAN and China.
4. Cultural Exchange and Regional Cooperation
- Experience Chinese culture, language, and traditions while studying in a vibrant academic environment.
- Develop cross-cultural communication skills and international collaboration experience.
- Contribute to strengthening ASEAN-China relations through research and policy initiatives.
5. Career Opportunities and Global Impact
- Graduates of the program gain highly valuable skills and credentials recognized internationally.
- Opportunities to work in government agencies, research institutions, multinational corporations, and NGOs.
- Strengthens career prospects in trade, diplomacy, economics, technology, and international relations.
This scholarship is ideal for future leaders who want to expand their academic horizons, build regional partnerships, and contribute to ASEAN-China relations.
ASEAN – China Young Leaders Scholarship Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the ASEAN-China Young Leaders Scholarship (ACYLS) 2025/2026, applicants must meet the following requirements:
1. Nationality Requirement
- Must be a citizen of an ASEAN member country (Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam).
- Must not hold Chinese citizenship.
2. Academic Qualifications
- Master’s applicants: Must have a bachelor’s degree with strong academic performance.
- PhD applicants: Must hold a master’s degree and have relevant research experience.
- Postdoctoral applicants: Must have completed a PhD program and demonstrate research excellence.
3. Age Limit
- Master’s applicants: Must be under 35 years old.
- PhD applicants: Must be under 40 years old.
- Postdoctoral applicants: Must be under 45 years old.
4. Research and Leadership Potential
- Must have a strong academic record and interest in research aligned with ASEAN-China development goals.
- Leadership experience in community service, research, governance, or international collaboration is an advantage.
5. English or Chinese Language Proficiency
- Must meet the language requirements of the host university (English-taught and Chinese-taught programs available).
- Some universities may require IELTS, TOEFL, or HSK (Chinese proficiency test).
6. Health and Fitness
- Applicants must be in good physical and mental health to study and research in China.
7. Letters of Recommendation
- Submit two or more letters of recommendation from academic professors or research supervisors.
How to Apply for the ASEAN-China Young Leaders Scholarship
Follow these steps to apply for the ASEAN-China Young Leaders Scholarship (ACYLS) 2025/2026:
Step 1: Identify Your Program and University
- Choose a master’s, PhD, or postdoctoral program from the list of participating universities in China.
- Review the program requirements and research focus areas.
Step 2: Prepare Required Documents
- Academic transcripts and degree certificates (Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD).
- Updated resume (CV) detailing academic achievements, research experience, and leadership roles.
- Research proposal (for PhD and Postdoctoral applicants).
- Personal statement, covering:
- Academic and career goals.
- Interest in ASEAN-China cooperation.
- How the scholarship will benefit your professional aspirations.
- Letters of recommendation from professors, research advisors, or employers.
- Proof of language proficiency (IELTS, TOEFL, or HSK if required).
Step 3: Complete the Online Application
- Visit the ASEAN-China Young Leaders Scholarship (ACYLS) application portal.
- Fill out the application form with accurate details.
Step 4: Submit Your Application Before the Deadline
- Ensure all required documents are complete and submitted before March 23, 2025.
Step 5: Await Selection Results
- Shortlisted candidates may be invited for interviews or further assessments.
- Final scholarship recipients will be notified by the selection committee.
Tips for a Successful Application
- Start early: Gather documents and research universities in advance.
- Showcase leadership potential: Highlight achievements in community service, research, or policy engagement.
- Write a strong personal statement: Explain how the scholarship aligns with your career goals.
- Submit a well-structured research proposal: Clearly define your objectives and research contributions.
- Secure strong recommendations: Ask academic advisors or professionals who can speak about your potential.
The ASEAN-China Young Leaders Scholarship (ACYLS) 2025/2026 is an outstanding opportunity for talented students from ASEAN countries to gain a world-class education in China. With full financial support, leadership training, and global networking opportunities, this scholarship equips young scholars with the skills needed to drive regional development and international cooperation.
For more details and application guidelines, visit the ASEAN-China Young Leaders Scholarship (ACYLS) official webpage.