Peking University

The Yenching Academy of Peking University Scholarship 2026 is now open for outstanding students who want to pursue a fully funded Master’s degree in China. Hosted by one of Asia’s most prestigious universities, Peking University, the program offers international and domestic students an opportunity to study China’s development, culture, politics, economy, and global influence through an interdisciplinary academic approach.

Each year, Yenching Academy selects approximately 120 talented scholars from around the world, with the majority of participants coming from outside China. The scholarship provides complete financial support, allowing students to focus on academic research, cultural exchange, and leadership development without financial concerns.

Located in Beijing, China’s political and cultural center, Yenching Academy provides students with direct exposure to Chinese society while building connections with future global leaders, researchers, and professionals.

Yenching Academy of Peking University Overview

Yenching Academy was established to promote a deeper understanding of China through advanced interdisciplinary education. The academy offers a two-year Master’s program in China Studies designed for students interested in exploring China from multiple academic perspectives.

Unlike traditional single-discipline programs, Yenching Academy combines different fields, including history, economics, law, politics, international relations, philosophy, and culture. This approach helps students analyze China’s role in global affairs from a broader perspective.

The program encourages academic research, cross-cultural communication, and practical engagement with Chinese society through seminars, field studies, and professional networking opportunities.

Yenching Academy Scholarship 2026 Details

• Host University: Peking University
• Scholarship Name: Yenching Academy Scholarship 2026
• Degree Level: Master’s Degree
• Study Program: China Studies
• Location: Beijing, China
• Duration: Two Years
• Eligible Applicants: International and Domestic Students
• Application Deadline: December 1, 2025

Available Study Areas at Yenching Academy

The Yenching Academy Master’s program allows students to specialize in different academic areas related to China Studies. Applicants can select their preferred research direction based on their academic background and interests.

Economics and Management

Students explore China’s economic development, business environment, innovation, and management systems while analyzing China’s position in the global economy.

History and Archaeology

This area focuses on China’s historical development, cultural heritage, and archaeological discoveries that shaped modern Chinese society.

Law and Society

Students study China’s legal framework, social institutions, governance systems, and legal development.

Literature and Culture

This field examines Chinese literature, cultural traditions, artistic expressions, and social changes.

Philosophy and Religion

Students explore Chinese philosophical traditions, religious practices, and their influence on Chinese society.

Politics and International Relations

This area focuses on China’s political system, foreign policy, diplomacy, and relationship with the international community.

Yenching Academy Scholarship Benefits 2026

The Yenching Academy Scholarship is a fully funded opportunity that covers major expenses throughout the study period. Selected scholars receive financial support including:

Full Tuition Coverage

The scholarship covers all tuition fees required for the Master’s program at Peking University.

Free Accommodation

Scholars receive on-campus accommodation in Beijing, reducing living expenses during their studies.

Monthly Living Allowance

A monthly stipend is provided to support daily living costs, allowing students to concentrate on academics and research.

International Travel Support

The scholarship includes round-trip airfare assistance between China and the scholar’s home country.

Research and Field Study Funding

Students may receive financial support for academic research activities, field trips, and study projects related to China Studies.

Who Can Apply for Yenching Academy Scholarship 2026?

The scholarship is open to students from all countries. Both international applicants and Chinese students are encouraged to apply if they meet the academic and program requirements.

Applicants should have strong academic performance, leadership potential, and a genuine interest in understanding China from a global perspective.

Eligibility Criteria for Yenching Academy Scholarship

Applicants must fulfill the following requirements to be considered for the 2026 intake.

Academic Requirements

Candidates must:

• Hold a Bachelor’s degree or be currently enrolled in an undergraduate program.
• Graduate no later than August 31, 2026.
• Demonstrate excellent academic performance.

Interest in China Studies

Applicants should show a strong interest in China-related studies and demonstrate the ability to approach topics from different academic disciplines.

Leadership and Community Involvement

Candidates with leadership experience, social engagement, volunteer work, or extracurricular achievements are encouraged to apply.

English Language Requirement

Applicants must demonstrate strong English language ability through accepted language tests unless they qualify for an exemption.

English Language Requirements for Yenching Academy

Applicants may need to provide proof of English proficiency depending on their educational background and nationality.

Accepted English language tests and minimum scores include:

English Test Exemptions

Applicants may be exempt from submitting English test scores if:

• They are native English speakers.
• They completed previous degree studies in English.
• Their academic program was fully taught in English.

Applicants from Hong Kong, Macao, and Taiwan are required to provide English proficiency test results.

Important English Test Conditions

Applicants should note the following requirements:

• English tests must be taken after September 1, 2023.
• TOEFL MyBest Scores are not accepted.
• TOEFL iBT Home Edition is not accepted.
• IELTS Indicator, IELTS Online, and IELTS One Skill Retake are not accepted.
• TOEFL scores must be sent directly to Yenching Academy using institution code C488.

How to Apply for Yenching Academy Scholarship 2026

Applicants must complete the online application process through the official Yenching Academy application system. All application materials should be prepared in English and submitted before the deadline.

Required Documents

Applicants need to submit the following documents:

• Online application form
• Personal statement (maximum 750 words)
• Statement of research interest (maximum 1,500 words excluding references)
• Updated CV or resume
• Official academic transcripts
• Degree certificate or enrollment certificate
• Two academic recommendation letters

Yenching Academy Scholarship 2026 Application Timeline

Application Opening Date

August 15, 2025

Application Deadline

December 1, 2025, at 12:00 noon Beijing Time

Students should prepare their documents early because recommendation letters, transcripts, and English test results may require additional time.

Why Study at Yenching Academy of Peking University?

Studying at Yenching Academy provides more than a Master’s degree. Students become part of an international community of scholars, researchers, and professionals who are interested in China’s role in the world.

The program offers access to Peking University’s academic resources while allowing students to experience Beijing’s cultural, political, and economic environment.

Yenching Scholars also develop valuable international networks that can support future careers in academia, government, business, research, and global organizations.