AfDB–Shanghai Ocean University Scholarship 2027

Undergraduate Applications Close November 17

African students interested in studying in China have an opportunity to apply for the 2027 African Development Bank Group–Shanghai Ocean University Scholarship, which offers undergraduate training in fisheries, aquaculture, marine science, food science and related fields.

The programme is designed to strengthen Africa’s technical and institutional capacity in sustainable fisheries, aquatic resources, marine science and resource management. According to the African Development Bank Group (AfDB), successful applicants will receive support covering tuition, accommodation, meals and monthly stipends while studying at Shanghai Ocean University in China.

The official AfDB vacancy listing gives 17 November 2026 as the application deadline. The scholarship notice was checked on 14 November 2026.

Who Can Apply for the Scholarship?

The undergraduate scholarship is open to nationals of African Development Bank regional member countries. Applicants must also meet the programme’s age and academic requirements.

According to the eligibility information in the undergraduate notice, candidates must be no older than 25 years as of 1 September 2027. They are also required to have Chinese-language proficiency at HSK Level 4, with a score above 180 obtained within the preceding two years.

Another important requirement is participation in the China Scholastic Competency Assessment (CSCA). Prospective applicants should check the examination requirements and ensure that they have taken, or can meet the applicable assessment requirement within the university's admission process.

The notice also provides an option for applicants whose Chinese-language ability does not meet the required standard. Such candidates may apply for a Chinese-language programme lasting up to two years before beginning their degree programme, subject to the stated conditions. They must satisfy the relevant age requirements when they commence their academic studies.

Meeting the basic eligibility conditions does not guarantee selection. The university and the scholarship administrators will assess applications, and only shortlisted candidates will be contacted about subsequent stages, which may include an online interview.

What Level of Study Does It Cover?

The notice supplied for this assignment concerns bachelor’s degree programmes, with a standard duration of four years. The courses are offered through several colleges at Shanghai Ocean University, providing opportunities for students interested in aquatic sciences, environmental resources, food systems and related disciplines.

The listed programmes include:

• College of Fisheries and Life Science: Aquaculture and Biological Science.
• College of Marine Living Resource Science and Management: Marine Fishery Science and Technology, and Marine Resources and Environment.
• College of Oceanography and Ecological Science: Marine Science.
• College of Food Science and Technology: Food Science and Engineering, and Biopharmaceuticals.
• College of Economics and Management: International Economics and Trade.

These programmes are relevant to areas that contribute to Africa’s blue economy, including sustainable fisheries, aquatic food production, marine resource management and scientific research.

The undergraduate opportunity should not be confused with the separate AfDB–Shanghai Ocean University postgraduate scholarship announcements. The university also has distinct opportunities for master's and doctoral studies, with different eligibility requirements and application documents.

What Does the Scholarship Cover?

The AfDB notice states that successful candidates will receive full tuition coverage, accommodation, meals and monthly stipends. It also highlights access to experienced academic staff, research facilities and specialised professional training in marine and aquatic sciences.

However, the scholarship does not cover every possible expense. Applicants are responsible for their own flight tickets and visa fees. Anyone considering the opportunity should therefore plan for these costs rather than assume that the scholarship will pay for the entire journey to China.

The programme is intended to develop expertise that can support Africa’s sustainable fisheries, aquaculture, marine science and resource-management sectors. It is not an employment offer from the African Development Bank, and receiving the scholarship does not create an expectation of future employment with the institution.

Key Documents and Application Preparation

Applicants should carefully review the official undergraduate scholarship notice and prepare the records needed to demonstrate that they meet its requirements.

Important documents and information to prepare include:

• Proof of nationality: A valid government-issued identity document, such as a national identity card or international passport, to establish eligibility as a national of an AfDB regional member country.
• Academic records: Relevant school certificates and academic transcripts demonstrating the applicant’s educational background and readiness for undergraduate study.
• Chinese-language evidence: The HSK Level 4 certificate showing a score above 180, where the applicant is relying on the stated language qualification.
• CSCA information: Evidence of participation in the China Scholastic Competency Assessment, in line with the programme's requirement.
• Personal and application details: Accurate information required to complete the official online application form.

This is a practical preparation list, not a substitute for the university's complete application instructions. Applicants should confirm the exact supporting documents, accepted formats and submission requirements on the official AfDB scholarship page before submitting their applications. They should also ensure that names, dates and academic details are consistent across their records.

Deadline and Where to Apply

The official AfDB vacancy listing gives 17 November 2026 as the closing date for the 2027 undergraduate scholarship. With the deadline approaching, eligible candidates should avoid waiting until the final hours to complete the application.

Applications are submitted through the official online application route provided by the African Development Bank. Applicants should use the Bank's scholarship information page and the linked undergraduate programme notice to confirm the correct application process.

The Bank also warns applicants about fraudulent publications and requests for money. It states that it does not ask candidates to make payments during its application, review, interview or processing procedures. Applicants should therefore be cautious of individuals or unofficial websites demanding fees in exchange for admission, scholarship consideration or guaranteed selection.

The 2027 AfDB–Shanghai Ocean University Scholarship offers an opportunity for eligible African students to pursue specialised undergraduate education in China. However, applicants must verify their eligibility, prepare the required evidence and submit their applications before the stated deadline. An application is not a guarantee of admission or funding; only the official selection process can determine successful candidates.

Date checked: 14 November 2026.