The National Natural Science Foundation of China program guide for outstanding early-career researchers based outside China in natural sciences and engineering. Application timing: The host-institution submission deadline for the 2025 round was 15 April 2025.
1. Program or policy scope
The program supports outstanding young researchers in natural sciences and engineering who plan to work in China and conduct innovative research through an eligible host institution. The 2025 guide stated a funding level of RMB 1–3 million for a three-year period.
2. Relevant profiles and main conditions
The 2025 guide focused on applicants with a PhD, formal teaching or research experience outside China, peer-recognized achievements and a plan to work full-time in China. Age, overseas employment and arrival-date rules must be checked against the relevant annual guide.
- Relevant profile: internationally trained PhD researchers
- Relevant profile: early-career researchers
- Relevant profile: university researchers
3. Preparation and supporting documents
Confirm the role and submission arrangement with an eligible host institution, then review degree, overseas employment period, arrival timing and application-limit rules before preparing the required Chinese and English materials.
- Prepare: project application
- Prepare: PhD degree record
- Prepare: evidence of work experience outside China
- Prepare: representative achievements
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current application timing?
The host-institution submission deadline for the 2025 round was 15 April 2025. Check the linked National Natural Science Foundation of China (NSFC) program guide page before preparing or submitting materials.
What should be confirmed before an application?
Confirm the applicable annual notice, submitting organization, host-institution requirements and document checklist. A Kebo Kehui profile assessment is an initial advisory review; the competent authority and host institution make formal eligibility and selection decisions.
Source: National Natural Science Foundation of China (NSFC) program guide. Published: 2025.02.28; Last verified: 2026.07.27. Talent policies may change by year, region and submitting organization. This English overview is for general information and does not replace the latest official notice or an eligibility decision by the relevant authority or host institution.
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