NSFC Research Fund for International Scientists (RFIS)

The Research Fund for International Scientists (RFIS / 外国学者基金) is NSFC's primary mechanism for attracting non-Chinese researchers to conduct basic research at mainland Chinese host institutions. It operates in three tiers based on career stage: RFIS-I (CNY 200,000/yr, PhD within 6 years), RFIS-II (CNY 400,000/yr, PhD within 15 years, associate professor rank), and RFIS-III (CNY 800,000/yr, senior rank with international standing). Grants last 1 or 2 years. Recipients must spend at least 9 months per year at their Chinese host institution. The host institution applies on behalf of the foreign PI — the individual cannot apply directly. Proposals are in English with a bilingual abstract. From 2026, RFIS sits under the new 'Science Fund for Global Challenges and Sustainability' umbrella, though the tier structure and amounts are unchanged from 2024.

Each grant below is a distinct funding opportunity with its own eligibility, scope, and deliverables.