How to Make a Study Plan or Research Proposal
Your study plan or research proposal tells the reviewers who you are and what you will do in China. This step gives you a Word template, a clear structure and writing tips for the 2027-2028 CSC Scholarship.
Watch the full video guide
In this step you will learn
- Study plan versus research proposal
- A simple structure you can follow
- A downloadable Word template
- Writing tips and mistakes to avoid
What is a study plan or research proposal?
The study plan (for Bachelor's and Master's) or research proposal (usually for PhD and research programs) explains what you want to study in China, why, and how you will do it. It shows your goals, your preparation and your seriousness. It is one of the documents reviewers read most carefully.
Study plan or research proposal: which one?
| Level | Document | Focus |
|---|---|---|
| Bachelor's / language | Study plan | Why this major, why China, your goals and how you will study. |
| Master's | Study plan or short research plan | Your field, interest, planned courses and expected outcome. |
| PhD / research | Research proposal | Research question, background, method, timeline and expected results. |
Many universities ask for a minimum word count, often around 800 words for Master's and 1000 words for PhD. Confirm the exact length requested by your university.
Structure of a good study plan
Introduction
Introduce yourself, your academic background and the program you are applying to.
Why this field and why China
Explain what draws you to the subject and to the university and country, using specific reasons.
Academic preparation
Mention relevant courses, projects, thesis work and skills you already have.
Study or research plan
Describe what you will study each stage. For research, explain the topic, objectives, method and a simple timeline.
Expected outcomes
Say what you hope to achieve: skills, research output and how you will use them.
Career plan
Explain how the degree will help your career and how you will contribute to your country and to China-friendly cooperation.
Research proposal outline (for PhD and research programs)
- Title: clear and specific.
- Background: short introduction to the problem.
- Research question or objectives: what you want to find out.
- Literature review: key existing work, in a few sentences.
- Methodology: methods, data or experiments you will use.
- Timeline: simple plan by year or semester.
- Expected results: what the research may contribute.
- References: sources you cited.
Writing tips
- Write in your own words. Universities check for copied text.
- Use simple, correct English with short sentences.
- Be specific: name topics, methods and goals.
- Match your plan to the professor's field and your chosen program.
- Proofread two times and keep your name and details identical to your passport.
The sample is only a guide. A copied or generic study plan is easy to spot and can hurt your application. Write your own plan.
Frequently asked questions
How many words should my study plan be?
It depends on the university. Many ask for around 800 words for Master's and 1000 words for PhD. Check your program's rule.
Is a study plan different from a research proposal?
Yes. A study plan describes your overall learning goals. A research proposal explains a specific research project, and is normally used for PhD and research programs.
Can I send the same plan to different universities?
Keep the main content but adjust it for each program, professor and university.
Should I mention a professor's name?
If you have contacted a professor, mention your interest in their research area. Be honest and specific.
In which language should I write it?
Use English for English-taught programs, or Chinese if the program asks for it.
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.