Notre Dame-China Scholarship Council Joint Program 2024: Eligibility, Benefits & Application Steps

Scholarship Description:

The University of Notre Dame, in collaboration with the China Scholarship Council, is delighted to introduce the Joint Scholarship Program for the 2024/2025 academic session. This initiative aims to support Chinese students pursuing doctoral degrees at the University of Notre Dame. The program, recognizing the university's status as a "New Ivy" and its commitment to academic excellence, offers 40 fully-funded scholarships annually. 

Eligible candidates include outstanding master’s and undergraduate students, as well as working professionals, with specific age and academic criteria for each degree level. Besides covering tuition, the scholarship provides for living expenses, health insurance, travel, and visa fees, with additional funding and support for exceptional doctoral candidates. Applications are now open and require various supporting documents and adherence to English language requirements. Successful applicants will begin their academic journey in the United States with substantial financial and academic support, marking a significant opportunity for educational and professional advancement.

Degree Level:

Notre Dame-China Scholarship Council Joint Program 2024: Eligibility, Benefits & Application Steps is available to undertake Masters level programs at University of Notre Dame USA.

Available Subjects:

Following subject are available to study under this scholarship program.

Scholarship Benefits:

The benefits of the University of Notre Dame-China Scholarship Council Joint Program include:

1. Full Funding: Scholarships cover all tuition costs for both doctoral and master’s students.
2. Living Expenses: A stipend is provided to cover the cost of living in the United States.
3. Health Insurance: Scholars receive health insurance, ensuring they have access to medical care during their studies.
4. Travel Support: The program includes round-trip travel expenses from China to the United States.
5. Visa Fees: Any visa-related costs for studying in the USA are covered.
6. Additional Funding for Doctoral Students: Exceptional doctoral candidates may receive additional support and funding for a fifth year based on performance.
7. Comprehensive Education: A chance to study at one of the United States' prestigious "New Ivy" universities, known for its academic excellence and research contributions.
8. Global Network and Exposure: Students will have the opportunity to engage in impactful research and become part of a global academic community.
9. Professional Development: The program offers a unique platform for personal and professional growth in a diverse and dynamic environment.

Eligibility Criteria:

The eligibility criteria for the University of Notre Dame-China Scholarship Council Joint Program are as follows:

1. Nationality: Applicants must be Chinese nationals.
2. Age Requirements:
   • For the Doctoral Degree: Candidates should not be more than 35 years old.
   • For the Master’s Degree: Applicants should not be more than 45 years old.
3. Academic Background:
   • For Doctoral Degree: Applicants should be outstanding master’s students, recent master’s graduates, or recent undergraduate graduates with strong research capabilities.
   • For Master’s Degree: Candidates should be exceptional recent undergraduate graduates or working professionals holding a bachelor’s degree.
   • For Joint Training of Doctoral Students: Applicants must be outstanding full-time doctoral students from domestic universities or research institutions in China.
4. Language Proficiency: Applicants must meet the English language requirements of the University of Notre Dame. This may include having a bachelor’s degree in English, studying in an English-speaking country, passing language proficiency tests like TOEFL or IELTS, or participating in advanced English training classes.
5. Supporting Documents: Candidates must prepare and submit the necessary documents as specified by the China Scholarship Council, which may include a CV, transcripts, a copy of the highest academic qualification/degree certificate, a personal statement of research interest, a valid Resident Identity Card of the People’s Republic of China, and a certificate of foreign language proficiency.
6. Admission Requirements: Applicants must possess an undergraduate degree before applying for admission at the university.

Meeting these criteria is essential for eligibility, but it's also important for candidates to ensure they provide a complete and compelling application to maximize their chances of being selected for this prestigious scholarship program.

Application Procedure:

Here is a step-by-step guide to applying for the University of Notre Dame-China Scholarship Council Joint Program, based on the information provided by the China Scholarship Council and the University of Notre Dame:

Step 1: Check Eligibility

• Ensure you meet all the eligibility criteria mentioned previously, including nationality, age, academic background, and language proficiency.

Step 2: Prepare Required Documents

• Gather all necessary documents, which typically include your CV, academic transcripts, degree certificates, a personal statement of research interest, a valid Resident Identity Card, and proof of English language proficiency.

Step 3: Apply to the University of Notre Dame

• Visit the University of Notre Dame Graduate School admissions page.
• Choose the appropriate doctoral or master’s program you wish to apply for.
• Complete the online application form for the University of Notre Dame, adhering to all specified requirements and deadlines.
• Submit all required documents as part of this application process.

Step 4: Apply for the China Scholarship Council (CSC)

• Visit the CSC website and carefully read the detailed application instructions for studying abroad.
• Register and fill in the online application form for the China Scholarship Council. Ensure you select the University of Notre Dame-China Scholarship Council Joint Program.
• Submit all the required documents online through the CSC platform.

Step 5: Await Nomination

• After applying to both Notre Dame and CSC, wait for the nomination from your home university or employer if they are part of the CSC program.
• Ensure your nominating institution submits your nomination to the CSC as per their internal deadlines and procedures.

Step 6: Interview and Selection

• If shortlisted, you may be invited for an interview or further assessment by either the University of Notre Dame, the China Scholarship Council, or both.

Step 7: Receive Admission and Scholarship Notification

• Successful candidates will receive admission offers from the University of Notre Dame and a scholarship offer from the China Scholarship Council.
• Carefully review the offers and accept them as per the instructions provided.

Step 8: Visa Application and Pre-departure Preparations

• Once you have accepted the offers, start your visa application process for the United States.
• Attend any pre-departure orientations or sessions conducted by CSC or the University of Notre Dame.

Step 9: Enroll and Begin Your Studies

• Arrive in the United States, complete any necessary registration procedures with the University of Notre Dame, and begin your academic program.

Important Tips:

• Deadlines: Be aware of and adhere to all relevant deadlines for both the University of Notre Dame and the China Scholarship Council applications.
• Accuracy: Ensure all information provided is accurate and that all documents are complete and clearly legible.
• Contact: If in doubt, contact the admissions office of the University of Notre Dame or the China Scholarship Council for guidance and clarification.

By following these steps and preparing thoroughly, you'll be well on your way to applying for this prestigious joint scholarship program. Good luck!