How to Make Recommendation Letters for China Scholarship
Strong recommendation letters support your CSC Scholarship application. This step explains who should write them, what they must contain, and gives you samples and a template for the 2027-2028 intake.
Watch the full video guide
In this step you will learn
- Who is a suitable referee
- What a good recommendation letter must include
- Sample letters and a ready template
- How to collect and scan the final letter
What is a recommendation letter?
A recommendation letter is written by someone who knows your academic ability, usually a teacher or supervisor. It supports your application and shows the reviewers that a respected person trusts your work.
Who can write your letter?
- A professor or associate professor who has taught or supervised you.
- Your thesis supervisor or head of department.
- For some programs, an employer or senior colleague who knows your work.
- Not a family member, friend or someone who does not know your studies.
Many Master's and PhD applications ask for two recommendation letters. Confirm the exact number and who may write them on your university's or CSC's current requirement.
Look at the samples
Tap an image to open it in full size.
How to get a strong recommendation letter
Choose your referee early
Ask a teacher who knows you well. Give them at least two to three weeks.
Prepare a short package for them
Send your CV, study plan, transcript and a short note about your target university and program.
Share the sample
Show the samples above and the template below so they know what the letter should contain.
Ask for the right format
The letter should be on official letterhead, signed, dated and include the referee's title, institution, email and phone number.
Check the final letter
Check your name spelling, program and dates. Scan the signed letter as a clear PDF.
Template text for your referee
If your teacher asks for a draft, this template can help. Your referee must adapt it honestly to what they know about you.
Do and don't
| Do | Don't |
|---|---|
| Use official letterhead with a signature and stamp. | Write the letter yourself and ask the teacher only to sign without reading it. |
| Keep the content specific: courses, projects, strengths. | Use general sentences that could fit any student. |
| Include the referee's real contact details. | Use a personal email that cannot be verified. |
| Submit a clear PDF scan. | Upload a blurry phone photo. |
Frequently asked questions
How many recommendation letters do I need?
It depends on the program. Many Master's and PhD applications ask for two. Check your university's requirement.
In which language should the letter be?
English or Chinese. If your referee writes in another language, ask for a certified translation.
Does the letter need a signature and stamp?
A signed letter on official letterhead is the safest option. A stamp from the institution adds trust.
Can my employer write the letter?
Yes, for some programs, especially if you have work experience. Academic referees are usually better for degree applications.
Can I write the draft for my teacher?
You can offer information and the template, but the final letter must reflect your teacher's own honest opinion.
All steps of the 2027-2028 CSC application
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Requirements can change each year and differ by university and program. Always confirm the final list on the official CSC study-in-China portal and your chosen university's admission page. CIES Study guides you, but scholarships are decided by CSC and the universities, so no result is guaranteed.