Discover the Chinese Language Fellowship Program, including eligibility, funding of up to $50,000, fellowship tracks, application process, and how to apply by the 16 February 2026 deadline.
The Chinese Language Fellowship Program (CLFP) is one of the most significant U.S. initiatives dedicated to strengthening national expertise on China. Created by the National Bureau of Asian Research (NBR), the Chinese linguistic Fellowship Program supports American graduate students who require advanced Chinese linguistic program skills to conduct high-level academic research and inform future U.S. policy. As geopolitical dynamics continue to evolve, the United States increasingly depends on scholars who possess deep, evidence-based knowledge of contemporary China’s politics, society, international relations, and modern history.
To meet this need, the Chinese Language Fellowship Program provides substantial financial support—up to $50,000per fellow—to allow qualified PhD students and prospective PhD students to undertake a full year of intensive language training at institutions in China or Taiwan. This immersive experience enables scholars to build the linguistic foundations necessary to analyze primary sources and conduct field research at a professional level.
The program is designed not only to strengthen academic capacity but also to cultivate the next generation of experts who will shape public policy, contribute to academic understanding of China, and lead informed public discourse.
About the Chinese Language Fellowship Program
The Chinese Language Fellowship Program funds full-time language study for U.S. graduate students in programs that are directly relevant to China studies. Fellows commit to one academic year (typically nine months) of intensive training in approved institutions in China or Taiwan. The fellowship covers tuition, housing, living expenses, flights, and miscellaneous academic needs, allowing students to focus exclusively on linguistic program acquisition without financial burden.
The fellowship is made possible through support from Carnegie Corporation of New York, which has a long history of advancing education, global security, and informed public policy.
More information about NBR’s broader research agenda can be found at:
https://www.nbr.org
Tracks Offered by the Chinese Language Fellowship Program
The Chinese Language Fellowship Program provides two distinct fellowship pathways:
1. PhD Track (up to $50,000)
This track supports currently enrolled PhD students whose research depends heavily on Chinese-linguistic program materials. Fellows spend nine months in intensive coursework followed by a summer term of one-on-one instruction. The summer component allows students to work with primary sources directly related to their dissertation research.
2. Prospective PhD Track (up to $40,000)
This track assists master’s students who intend to pursue a PhD and require advanced linguistic preparation. Applicants must be enrolled in a master’s program or have recently completed one. Like the PhD track, fellows complete nine months of immersive study in Taiwan or China.
More detailed eligibility criteria are available here:
https://www.nbr.org/program/chinese-language-fellowship-program
Why the Chinese Language Fellowship Program Matters
The Chinese Language Fellowship Program plays a crucial role in U.S. research and policy development. Scholars trained through this initiative become key contributors across sectors, including academia, government, security studies, diplomacy, journalism, and international organizations.
The program helps ensure that future China specialists possess:
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High-level linguistic program proficiency
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Direct exposure to Chinese academic and cultural environments
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The ability to evaluate primary sources
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A strong foundation for policy-relevant research
NBR’s work on East Asia and U.S. strategic policy can be explored here:
https://www.nbr.org/topics
Application Process
Applicants to the Chinese Language Fellowship Program must prepare a detailed submission demonstrating academic merit, clear research goals, and a strong rationale for intensive linguistic program study. Required materials typically include:
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A statement of purpose
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Academic transcripts
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Letters of recommendation
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A research description (especially for PhD applicants)
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A proposed study plan
Applications are reviewed by an advisory council of senior scholars specializing in China studies and U.S.–Asia policy.
Deadline and How to Apply
Applications for the 2026–27 Chinese Language Fellowship Program are officially open.
Application Deadline:
16 February 2026
Official Application Link:
https://www.nbr.org/program/chinese-language-fellowship-program
Interested candidates may also consult directly with NBR staff by contacting:
fellowships@nbr.org
Additional Program Resources
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CLFP Fellows:
https://www.nbr.org/program/chinese-language-fellowship-program-clfp-fellows -
Eligibility and Requirements:
https://www.nbr.org/publication/chinese-language-fellowship-program-eligibility-and-application -
Program FAQs:
https://www.nbr.org/publication/chinese-language-fellowship-program-faq
These resources provide insight into what the program looks for in applicants, how fellows are selected, and what the fellowship year entails.
Final Thoughts
The Chinese Language Fellowship Program is one of the most competitive and rewarding funding opportunities available to aspiring China specialists in the United States. Its combination of generous financial support, immersive linguistic program training, and academic focus makes it an essential stepping stone for graduate students preparing for a career in research or policy. Applicants committed to expanding their linguistic skills and developing expert knowledge of China are strongly encouraged to apply before the deadline.
For more international career opportunities, visit Opportunities For Youth:
https://fundsdigest.com/
