The University of Science and Technology of China (USTC) invites ambitious international students to apply for its fully funded Research Internship Program 2026. This prestigious opportunity allows undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral students to engage in cutting-edge research projects under the guidance of leading USTC professors.
Designed to foster academic excellence and cross-cultural exchange, this internship provides invaluable experience that strengthens your profile for future graduate studies and research careers, all within the dynamic environment of a top-ranked global university.
Program Overview
- University: University of Science and Technology of China (USTC)
- Program Duration: 3 to 12 months
- Financial Support: Fully Funded
- Eligible Nationality: All Nationalities
- Application Deadline: September 30, 2025
Financial Benefits and Fellowship Levels
USTC offers a tiered fellowship system to support its interns:
| Fellowship Level | Coverage |
|---|---|
| Level A (Fully Funded) | • Full Tuition Waiver • Free University Dormitory • Comprehensive Medical Insurance • Monthly Stipend: – Bachelor’s: 2,500 RMB/month – Master’s: 3,000 RMB/month – PhD: 3,500 RMB/month |
| Level B | • Full Tuition Waiver • Free University Dormitory • Comprehensive Medical Insurance |
| Level C | • Full Tuition Waiver |
Key Features of the Internship
- Research Excellence: Work in state-of-the-art laboratories on pioneering research projects.
- Academic Advantage: Build a strong relationship with USTC faculty, giving you a competitive edge for future Master’s, PhD, or postdoctoral applications at the university.
- Cultural Immersion: Opportunity to enroll in free Chinese language and culture classes to learn basic Mandarin and understand local traditions.
Available Research Fields
Internships are available across a wide range of disciplines, including:
- Physical Sciences
- Life Sciences
- Chemistry and Materials Science
- Engineering Science
- Information Science and Technology
- Computer Science and Technology
- Mathematical Sciences
- Earth and Space Sciences
- Management
- Humanities and Social Science
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet all of the following requirements:
- Be a citizen of a country other than the People’s Republic of China and hold a valid passport.
- Be in good physical and mental health.
- Be between 18 and 40 years of age.
- Be enrolled in or have graduated from a bachelor’s, master’s, or PhD program. (Third- and fourth-year undergraduates are especially encouraged).
- Possess a strong academic background and proficiency in English.
- Have a clean criminal record.
Application Deadline
The deadline to apply for the USTC Research Internship Program 2026 is September 30, 2025.
How to Apply For USTC Research Internship Program in China
The application process requires proactive engagement with potential supervisors.
- Identify and Contact a Supervisor (Most Critical Step):
- Visit the USTC website to research professors and their research interests in your field.
- Send a professional email to a potential supervisor, expressing your interest in their work and inquiring about internship opportunities under their guidance.
- You must secure preliminary approval from a USTC professor before you can submit your formal application.
- Prepare Your Application Documents:
- Curriculum Vitae (CV) / Resume
- Academic Transcripts
- A Research Proposal or Statement of Purpose
- Passport Copy
- Proof of English Proficiency (if applicable)
- Any other documents required by your prospective supervisor.
- Complete the Online Application:
- Once you have a professor’s approval, complete the official online application form on the USTC website.
- Upload all required documents before the deadline.
Conclusion
The USTC Research Internship Program 2026 is a premier opportunity for talented students worldwide to accelerate their research careers. With its full financial support, access to top-tier facilities, and the chance to collaborate with leading academics, this program is a significant stepping stone for any aspiring researcher. Interested candidates are strongly advised to begin reaching out to potential supervisors immediately to secure a placement before the application deadline.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Is the IELTS/TOEFL test mandatory for application?
While the program requires strong English abilities to conduct research, a formal test score like IELTS or TOEFL is not always mandatory. The requirement may be waived if you can demonstrate proficiency through your academic background or if your prospective supervisor confirms your language capability is sufficient.
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Can I apply if I am in the second year of my bachelor’s degree?
The program strongly encourages applications from third and fourth-year undergraduate students, as they have a more solidified academic foundation. However, exceptional second-year students with relevant research experience may also be considered.
