Yenching Academy of Peking University Scholarships 2026 (Fully Funded)

Host University: Peking University
Degree Level: Master’s
Eligible Students: International and Domestic Students
Location: Beijing, China
Application Deadline: December 1, 2025

The Yenching Academy of Peking University invites applications for the 2026 cohort of Yenching Scholars. This prestigious, fully funded Master’s program offers approximately 120 seats each year, with nearly 80% of scholars coming from outside China.

Located at one of the world’s most respected universities, the program provides a unique opportunity to explore China’s role in global development through an interdisciplinary curriculum. Scholars gain both academic and cultural insights while living in the vibrant city of Beijing.

About Yenching Academy

Founded to enhance global understanding through advanced study of China, Yenching Academy offers a two-year Master’s program in China Studies. The curriculum integrates multiple disciplines—history, politics, law, economics, and international relations—allowing students to approach China from diverse perspectives.

Each Yenching Scholar receives full financial support, including tuition fees, accommodation, a monthly stipend, and travel expenses. The program’s immersive environment enables scholars to engage deeply with Chinese society, culture, and academia.

Degree Level

• Master’s Degree in China Studies

Available Fields of Study

Yenching Academy offers interdisciplinary study tracks, including:

• Economics and Management

• History and Archaeology

• Law and Society

• Literature and Culture

• Philosophy and Religion

• Politics and International Relations

Scholarship Benefits

The Yenching Academy Scholarship provides comprehensive funding for all selected scholars, covering:

• Full Tuition Fees: All academic costs at Peking University

• Accommodation: On-campus housing in Beijing

• Monthly Stipend: To cover living expenses during the study period

• Travel Allowance: Round-trip airfare to and from the student’s home country

• Field Study Funding: Financial support for academic research and field trips

Eligible Nationalities

Applications are welcome from students of all nationalities, including both international and domestic candidates.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for the Yenching Academy Scholarship 2026, applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Academic Qualification: Hold a Bachelor’s degree or be enrolled in one, graduating by August 31, 2026.

• Academic Excellence: Demonstrated strong academic record.

• Interdisciplinary Interest: Proven interest in the study of China across multiple disciplines.

• Leadership and Engagement: Evidence of leadership experience, community service, or extracurricular involvement.

• English Proficiency: Applicants must demonstrate a high level of English proficiency (see requirements below).

Note: Students cannot be enrolled in another degree program while studying at Peking University.

English Proficiency Requirements

International Applicants:

• Exempt from English test if native English speakers or graduates of English-taught programs.

• Applicants from Hong Kong, Macao, and Taiwan must submit English test scores.

Mainland Chinese Applicants:

• English proficiency test report is mandatory.

Accepted Tests and Minimum Scores:

• IELTS (Academic): 7.0 overall

• TOEFL (iBT): 100 overall

• Cambridge English (Advanced): 185 overall

• CET 6: 600 overall

• TEM 4: Minimum “良好” or above

Additional Notes:

• Tests must be taken after September 1, 2023.

• Not accepted: TOEFL MyBest Scores, TOEFL iBT Home Edition, IELTS Indicator, IELTS Online, IELTS One Skill Retake.

• Scores must be sent directly to Yenching Academy (TOEFL institution code: C488).

Application Process

All applications must be submitted online in English through the official Yenching Academy application portal.

Required Documents

• Completed online application form

• Personal Statement (maximum 750 words)

• Statement of Research Interest (maximum 1500 words, excluding citations)

• Curriculum Vitae (CV)

• Official academic transcripts

• Diploma(s) or certificate(s) of enrollment

• Two academic recommendation letters

Important Dates

• Application Opens: August 15, 2025

• Application Deadline: December 1, 2025 (12:00 noon Beijing time)

Why Choose the Yenching Academy?

Studying at Peking University places you at the heart of China’s intellectual and cultural hub. Yenching Scholars experience an environment that encourages global dialogue, critical thinking, and leadership development. Beyond academics, the program fosters lifelong networks among future leaders and scholars from around the world.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)