Fellowship Eligibility and Application

Qualified applicants for the Chinese Language Fellowship will:

  • Be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident.
  • Be a PhD student, with a focus on China and policy.
  • Demonstrate an intermediate Chinese language ability (e.g., through course transcripts and/or the results of language assessment tests) and a clear commitment to expand these language skills. The fellowship is NOT intended to help beginner students of Chinese.
  • Desire to advance public policy toward China through improved expertise and understanding, or to contribute to scholarly research and teaching on China in order to develop future generations of China specialists.

In addition to the qualifications above, qualified applicants for the Prospective PhD track of the Chinese Language Fellowship will:

  • Have recently graduated from a master’s program or be currently enrolled in a master’s program.
  • Demonstrate a strong interest in pursuing a PhD, with a focus on China and policy.

To apply, candidates must submit:

  • A two-page summary resume (full academic CVs will not be reviewed).
  • A two-page letter that addresses how their proposed Chinese language program will contribute to their language training, doctoral studies, and future plans.*
  • A letter of recommendation from an academic supervisor or professor.**
  • A letter of recommendation from a recent Chinese language teacher.
  • Electronic transcripts from all educational institutions you are currently attending or from which you received a degree.
  • A complete application form, answering questions about academic experiences, Chinese language skills, and Chinese language classes taken.

*If you are applying to the Prospective PhD track, please explain your plans to pursue a PhD program in your cover letter.

** If you are applying to the Prospective PhD track, please ask your academic supervisor or professor to address your aptitude for a PhD program in his/her letter of recommendation.

APPLICATION

Application is now open for the 2024–25 academic year and will remain open until February 19, 2024. Apply through NBR’s application website: Apply here.

SELECTION PROCESS

The Chinese Language Fellowship Program team will review all applications and make recommendations to an independent selection committee that will meet and make decisions. Awards will be conferred and announced prior to the registration deadlines for universities in Taiwan and China offering intensive language programs.

CONTACT

For any questions, contact [email protected].