About the Institute

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

Sands Chinese Language and Culture Scholarship Program

Become a Sands Scholar! Earn $10,000 in scholarships to UNLV!

The Sands Chinese Language and Culture Scholarship Program is a four-year program offered by the Institute 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/summer 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 up to $2,000 annually during years 1 & 2; $3000 annually for years 3 & 4 for tuition and fees at UNLV, totaling $10,000 over 4 years, covering all registration fees for required courses
  • Become fluent in Mandarin Chinese, a critical language categorized by the US State Department
  • Earn invaluable cultural experiences and credentials that will enhance your future career
  • Obtain exclusive access to internships, employers, and travel opportunities

As a Sands Chinese Language and Culture Scholar, you can also:

  • Earn three 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
  • Nine credits in Chinese cultural studies, including but not limited to:
    • CHI 105 - Chinese Business Culture
    • CHI 321 - Chinese Culture and Civilization
    • CHI 322 - Modern Chinese Literature in Translation
    • CHI 323 - Chinese Popular Culture
    • CHI 331 - Chinese Literature in Translation
    • CHI 443 - Modern Chinese Culture Through Film
    • CHI 463 - Chinese Immigrant Literature and Film
  • Four approved Chinese cultural experience events each academic year
  • One semester or summer study abroad program in China or a U.S.-based language immersion program

To maintain eligibility, you must:

  • Maintain a cumulative 3.0 GPA in university and Chinese Studies coursework
  • Enroll in at least one UNLV Chinese course per semester
  • Select Minor in Chinese Studies and complete the three associated Chinese Language Microcredentials
  • Participate in program activities, language clubs, or cultural engagement opportunities as specified in the Chinese Language Microcredentials
  • Complete a study abroad experience in a Chinese-speaking country or a language immersion program in the U.S. after completing Third-Year Chinese (CHI 302).
  • Submit an annual progress report on language learning and cultural engagement.
  • Good academic and conduct status
  • Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or the Institutional Aid Application annually by the appropriate deadline

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 750 word 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 Institutional Aid Application.

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.