About the opportunity
The University of Science and Technology of China (USTC) is inviting applications for its International Winter Camp 2027, taking place from December 19, 2026, to January 1, 2027, in Hefei, China. This non-degree program provides international students with an immersive academic and cultural experience at one of China’s premier research institutions. Participants will engage in basic Chinese language courses, attend academic lectures, tour national laboratories, and visit local cultural sites, offering a comprehensive introduction to both cutting-edge scientific research and traditional Chinese lifestyle.
Funding and benefits
- Standard program fee of 3,000 CNY covers tuition, twin-room accommodation, and field trips.
- Outstanding students may receive the USTC Fellowship, which provides full or partial coverage for a travel subsidy, medical insurance, local accommodation, and a stipend.
Who can apply?
- Must be a non-Chinese citizen with a valid foreign passport.
- Must be in good mental and physical health.
- Must have a good command of English.
- Must be a currently registered undergraduate or master's student, or have completed an undergraduate or master's program and wish to pursue further learning at USTC.
- Must not have previously participated in a USTC International Winter or Summer Camp.
Required documents
- Completed online application form
- Supporting documents as required in the online application portal (fields marked with an asterisk)
When to apply
- Application deadline: November 8, 2026 (UTC/GMT+8)
How to apply
- Access the online application portal at https://ustc.17gz.org/lxs/login.do
- Register an account and log in.
- Navigate to: Start Application -> Application -> Non-Degree Programs Application -> Winter Camp.
- Complete the application form and upload all required documents.
- Submit the application online before the deadline.
Additional information
- Program dates: December 19, 2026 – January 1, 2027.
- The standard program fee does not include travel expenses or medical insurance.
- For inquiries, contact the program coordinators via email at visiting@ustc.edu.cn.
Our Take on This Opportunity
This section reflects Open Opportunities’ own analysis of the opportunity from an applicant’s perspective.
You may be a strong fit if…
- Students seeking a short-term, high-impact academic and cultural experience in China during the winter break.
- Undergraduates or master's students interested in exploring state-of-the-art national laboratories and research facilities.
- High-achieving applicants who can compete for the USTC Fellowship to cover travel, stipend, and insurance costs.
What should you think carefully about?
- The standard program fee of 3,000 CNY does not cover travel or insurance, which must be self-funded if a fellowship is not awarded.
- The program runs over the winter holiday period (December 19 to January 1), which may conflict with other seasonal plans.
- Prior participants of USTC winter or summer camps are strictly ineligible to apply.
How could this fit your current goals and plans?
This winter camp is an excellent fit for students aiming to gain international exposure, learn basic Chinese, and explore research opportunities in China. It serves as a low-risk trial to experience the academic environment at USTC, which is highly valuable for those considering future graduate studies or research collaborations in Asia.
Our take
Eligible undergraduate and master's students interested in Chinese culture and scientific research should seriously consider applying, especially if they have strong academic profiles to compete for fellowship funding. It is less suitable for those who require guaranteed full funding or cannot travel during the late December holiday period.
Ready to apply?
Review the opportunity on the official website before applying.
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