For Kandit Ratanasurakarn, a 25-year-old Thai student, securing a scholarship at one of China's most prestigious universities was not a stroke of luck, but the result of careful planning and persistence. Now pursuing a Master of Laws at Tsinghua University, Kandit stands as an inspiring example for many international students aspiring to study in China.
Kandit completed his undergraduate degree in law at Thammasat University in Thailand. In 2023, he spent a year as an exchange student at Chongqing University, focusing on the Chinese language, before returning to Bangkok to work as a Chinese–Thai legal translator. During that year, he began preparing his scholarship applications — a process that would ultimately lead him to Tsinghua.
"I initially failed my first attempt at applying for the Chinese Government Scholarship," Kandit admitted. "That experience taught me that preparation is everything. The following year, I planned ahead, refined my materials, and applied for the Tsinghua University tuition scholarship — and this time, I succeeded."
Finding the right information
According to Kandit, the first step in any scholarship application is thorough research. "I started by checking the official websites of the universities and the China Scholarship Council (CSC)," he explained. "It's crucial to read the most up-to-date requirements and policies".
He also joined online communities such as Facebook student groups and RedNote, where international students share their real experiences and advice. "Sometimes you find the most useful information from those who've been through the process," he added.
Preparing the application
Kandit emphasized the importance of official instructions and preparing materials well in advance. "Each university has different requirements, from document formats to the number of recommendation letters," he said. "It's crucial to start early and double-check everything."
He also recommended contacting the target university for clarification if something is unclear and seeking guidance from alumni. "Their advice helped me avoid mistakes that could have jeopardized my application," he noted.
Writing a strong study plan
For Kandit, the study plan is more than a formal requirement — it is a reflection of one's goals and values. "I wrote about why I chose China, why I chose Tsinghua, and how this program aligns with my career path," he said.
He suggested applicants be specific about their research interests and future plans. "Avoid using overly complicated language," he advised. "It's better to sound genuine and motivated than to sound perfect."
Preparing recommendation letters
When it came to recommendation letters, Kandit began early. "I chose professors were familiar with my academic performance," he recalled. "One of them asked me to draft the first version myself, which he then he revised and signed it. The other wrote his own version."
He also provided his professors with a résumé, transcript, and study plan to facilitate the process. "Good recommendation letters come from professors who truly understand your background," he said.
Lessons learned: The cost of not preparing early
Kandit shared the story of a classmate who failed to secure an interview due to poor timing. "His Chinese proficiency was even higher than mine," he said. "But he applied last minute after hearing that I was admitted to Tsinghua. Since he hadn't prepared his materials in advance, he missed the deadline and lost his 800 RMB application fee".
"Ability alone isn't enough," Kandit reflected. "You have to prepare early, plan your strategy, and be ready for every step."
Advice for future applicants
Kandit encourages prospective students to begin planning as early as possible and to utilize every available resource. "Start with the official information, then learn from others' experiences," he said. "The earlier you prepare, the higher your chances of success."
His journey — from a failed scholarship attempt to earning a Tsinghua tuition waiver — serves as a reminder that determination, not perfection, leads to success.
