Hey future innovators and global explorers! Are you a young South African, not currently working or studying, dreaming of an amazing international education?
Well, get ready because the DHET China Youth NEET Programme Bursary is here to make that dream a reality! This incredible opportunity lets you study a fully-funded 3-year vocational diploma in China, covering almost everything. If you’re looking to gain valuable skills and experience a new culture, keep reading!
The Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) is offering this fantastic scholarship for South African students who are currently Not in Employment, Education, or Training (NEET). You’ll get to study at the Changchun Technical University of Automobile in China, starting in the October 2025 academic year. It’s an English-taught programme designed to equip you with a 3-year higher vocational education diploma in a priority field.
Who Can Apply?
- You must be a South African citizen in good health.
- You need to have a high school graduate (Matric) certificate or a vocational secondary education diploma (or equivalent).
- You must be available to study in China from October 2025.
- Proof of English proficiency is required, but don’t worry – DHET will provide a waiver letter since English is a medium of instruction and examination in South Africa.
- You should show a genuine interest in China and be committed to contributing to South Africa’s development upon your return.
- Applicants must be between 18 and 29 years old.
- During your first year of study, you will be required to learn and pass the Chinese language (HSK4) as the 3-year diploma will be delivered in Chinese.
This scholarship is specifically for a three-year diploma in the **Hydrogen Energy Technology Application Major**.
What Does It Cover?
This fully funded bursary programme is super generous and covers a lot, so you can focus on your studies:
- Full tuition fees for your entire 3-year diploma.
- One return economy airfare to China at the start of your studies.
- One return mid-term economy airfare during your programme.
- A monthly stipend to help with your living costs.
- A once-off settlement allowance when you arrive.
- Your visa costs will be covered.
- You’ll attend a compulsory orientation programme before you depart.
- Access to psychosocial support services throughout your journey.
Successful candidates will need to sign a contract, agree to the scholarship rules, and commit to returning to South Africa after completing their studies.
How to Apply?
Ready to jump on this opportunity? Here’s how you can apply:
- First, you need to apply directly to the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) using their dedicated application form, which you can find on the International Scholarships website.
- Once your application form is complete, you’ll need to submit it along with all the supporting documents (listed below) to internationalscholarships@dhet.gov.za by the closing date of **5 September 2025**.
Supporting Documents Checklist (All documents must be in PDF format and named accordingly):
- Your completed application form.
- A copy of your South African ID.
- A clear scanned copy of your Passport Home Page. Make sure your passport is valid later than September 1, 2026. (If you don’t have a passport yet, you can still apply and submit it by no later than 15 September 2025).
- A copy of your South African National Senior Certificate (NSC) or a vocational secondary education diploma (or equivalent).
- A resume with accessible references.
- A police clearance certificate (non-criminal record) obtained from either the South African Police Services or Postlink for quicker turnaround time. **Applications without a police clearance will not be considered.**
- A recently taken passport photo with a white background.
- A Chinese Foreigner Physical Examination form, fully completed and stamped by a professional medical officer, including all medicals as requested by the Chinese government. **It’s crucial to familiarise yourself with medical conditions excluded by the Chinese government. Applications without the Foreigner Physical Examination Form will not be considered. Medical tests can be done at any registered public or private medical facility.**
For more detailed information and to access the application form, visit the Official Webpage of the DHET China Youth NEET Programme: DHET International Scholarships Website.
If exploring the world, gaining cutting-edge skills in Hydrogen Energy Technology, and launching your career sounds like your jam, then this bursary is calling your name! Don’t let this incredible DHET China Youth NEET Programme Bursary pass you by. Get your application ready, smash that submit button, and let’s get you funded! Good luck, future leaders!
