About the Institute

The Sands Institute for Chinese Language & Culture Scholar was made possible by a generous $15 million donation from Las Vegas Sands to the UNLV Foundation. It offers a comprehensive range of programs designed to promote appreciation and understanding of Chinese language, traditions, and history.

Sands Chinese Language & Culture Scholar Program

Earn $16,000 in scholarships to UNLV!

The Sands Chinese Language & Culture Scholar Program is a four-year program offered by the institute designed to provide participants with a strong foundation in the study of the Chinese language and culture. The program will also offer several immersion experiences, including an internship or study abroad semester in China, with additional funding available.

This initiative reflects a shared commitment to enriching the educational and cultural landscape of Las Vegas and beyond.

Program Benefits

  • Receive $4,000 annually for tuition and fees at UNLV, totaling $16,000 over 4 years, covering all registration fees for required courses
  • Become fluent in the Chinese language and stand out to potential employers
  • Earn invaluable cultural experiences and credentials that will enhance your future career
  • Obtain exclusive access to internships, employers, and travel opportunities

As a Chinese Language & Culture Scholar, you can also: 

  • Earn several microcredentials in Chinese language and culture
  • Complete a certificate in Chinese language and culture
  • Obtain a minor in Chinese language and culture

Program Participation Requirements

If selected for the program, you must complete:

  • 18 credits in Chinese language, including:
    • CHI 113 - Elementary Chinese I
    • CHI 114 - Elementary Chinese II
    • CHI 213 - Intermediate Chinese I
    • CHI 214 - Intermediate Chinese II
    • CHI 301 - Third-Year Chinese: Conversation and Composition
    • CHI 302 - Third-Year Chinese: Grammar and Composition
  • 9 credits in Chinese cultural studies
  • 4 approved Chinese cultural experience events each academic year
  • Optional: 1 semester in an approved study abroad program in China

To maintain eligibility, you must:

How to Apply to the Scholar Program

Program and Scholarship Application Requirements

  • Must be fully admissible to UNLV as a first-year undergraduate student
    • You may apply to the program before receiving a final admission decision
  • Must submit a 1,500-character essay addressing the following prompt:
    • Explain why you're interested in studying Chinese language and culture. Reflect on how learning Chinese and exploring China's rich history, language, and cultural traditions could influence your personal growth, academic goals, and future career. Describe any experiences that have sparked your interest in learning Chinese or exploring different cultures, and explain how this program will help you achieve your goals.
  • Must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or the Alternate Need Form.

Access the Application

  1. Eligible students will receive an email with the link to the application. Please refer to the email that you used for your UNLV admissions application.
  2. Submit your application online through the Rebel Success Hub. Log in using the same email address and password from your UNLV admission application.