Yenching Academy of Peking University Scholarship in China 2026

Applications are now open for the Yenching Academy of Peking University Scholarship 2026 in China, one of the most respected fully funded scholarships in China for international students. The program is hosted by Peking University in Beijing, one of the top universities in Asia, offering talented students from around the world the chance to complete a Master's degree while learning about Chinese culture, society, and global affairs. The Yenching Academy is known for academic excellence, leadership development, and interdisciplinary education that prepares graduates for impactful careers.

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Quick Overview

• University: Peking University

• Host Country: China

• Program: Yenching Academy Scholarship

• Degree Level: Master's in China Studies

• Duration: 2 years

• Number of Scholars: Approximately 120 per year (75% international, 25% Chinese)

• Scholarship Type: Fully Funded

• Application Deadline: 1st December 2025 (9:00 am Beijing time)

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Program Structure and Degree Tracks

The program is interdisciplinary, meaning students can explore different academic fields while focusing on China-related studies. The degree title depends on the chosen specialization, allowing students to tailor their education to their interests and career goals.

Available Degree Tracks

• Master of Laws in China Studies (Politics and International Relations)

• Master of Laws in China Studies (Law and Society)

• Master of Economics in China Studies (Economics and Management)

• Master of History in China Studies (History and Archaeology)

• Master of Literature in China Studies (Literature and Culture)

• Master of Philosophy in China Studies (Philosophy and Religion)

Each program allows students to research China's role in global politics, economic development, cultural identity, legal systems, or philosophical traditions, providing a comprehensive understanding of this global power.

Research Areas

• Economics and Management

• History and Archaeology

• Philosophy and Religion

• Politics and International Relations

• Law and Society

• Literature and Culture

These areas allow students to study China from different perspectives and develop strong analytical and research skills.

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Scholarship Benefits

The Yenching Academy Scholarship 2026 covers all major expenses, allowing scholars to focus entirely on their studies.

• Full tuition fee coverage – for the two-year Master's program at Peking University

• Free on-campus accommodation – at the Yenching Academy residence

• Monthly stipend – to cover living expenses in Beijing

• Round-trip airfare – from the student's home country to China

• Research and field study funding – support for academic activities

• Comprehensive medical insurance – during the entire stay

This complete package ensures that financial concerns never become a barrier to academic success.

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Eligibility Requirements

Candidates must meet the following requirements to be considered for this competitive program.

Academic Requirements

• Hold a Bachelor's degree in any field, or be in your final year of undergraduate study

• Must complete your degree no later than August 31, 2026

• Have an outstanding academic record

• Strong interest in interdisciplinary study of China

Personal Qualities

• Leadership potential – demonstrated through extracurricular activities

• Community engagement – record of social responsibility

• Well-rounded individuals who will contribute to the global network of Yenching scholars

Important Note

• Peking University does not allow students to be enrolled in other degree programs whilst studying at the university.

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English Language Proficiency

Since the program is taught in English, applicants must demonstrate strong English language proficiency through accepted tests.

Accepted English Test Scores

• IELTS (Academic): Overall 7.0

• TOEFL iBT: Overall 100

• Cambridge English Advanced: Overall 185

• CET 6: Overall 600

• TEM 4: Pass level of "良好" (Good) or above

Important Notes on Test Scores

• Only test scores taken after September 1, 2024 will be accepted

• The academy does not accept TOEFL MyBest Scores, TOEFL iBT Home Edition, IELTS Indicator, IELTS Online, or IELTS One Skill Retake

• For IELTS, TOEFL, and Cambridge tests, scores must be sent directly from these organizations to Yenching Academy (TOEFL institution code: C488)

Exemptions

• Native English speakers – not required to provide test scores

• Students who completed their undergraduate or higher degree entirely in English – exempt from submitting scores

Special Regional Requirements

• Applicants from Hong Kong, Macao, and Taiwan Regions must provide English test scores (or take English as a Second Language after enrollment)

• Applicants from Mainland China must provide English test scores (compulsory)

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Required Documents

Applicants must prepare several important documents for their application package.

• Completed online application form

• Personal statement – up to 750 words explaining motivation and goals

• Research proposal (Statement of Research Interest) – up to 1500 words outlining academic interests and intended research focus

• Curriculum Vitae (CV) – updated, showing academic achievements, leadership, and extracurricular involvement

• Official academic transcripts – from all previous institutions

• Diploma(s) or Certificate(s) of Enrollment – current students must provide proof of enrollment confirming expected graduation by August 31, 2026

• Two academic recommendation letters – from professors or supervisors; must be written by full professors or associate professors (or equivalent) in the applicant's intended field of study

• English test results – if required based on applicant's background

Application Process

The application process depends on the applicant's region and university affiliation.

For International Candidates

• Applications accepted from September 10, 2025

• Deadline: December 1, 2025 (9:00 am Beijing time)

• Students and alumni of Partner Universities must apply through their home university's internal pre-selection process first

• Independent international students (not affiliated with partner universities) can apply directly through the Yenching Academy online system

For Candidates from Hong Kong, Macao and Taiwan Regions

• Applications accepted from September 10, 2025

• Deadline: January 9, 2026 (12:00 noon Beijing time)

• Must apply through Yenching Academy portal AND complete supplementary application through Peking University Graduate Admissions website

For Mainland Chinese Candidates

• Must apply through the Peking University Graduate Admissions portal

• Follow national graduate admission requirements

Citizenship Requirements for International Applicants

• Must be non-Chinese citizens with valid passport

• Former citizens of Mainland China, Hong Kong, Macao or Taiwan who have emigrated must present valid passport or citizenship documents dating from before April 30, 2020, along with proof of cancellation of Chinese nationality

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Important Dates

For International Candidates

• Application Opens: September 10, 2025

• Application Deadline: December 1, 2025 (9:00 am Beijing time)

For Candidates from Hong Kong, Macao and Taiwan Regions

• Application Opens: September 10, 2025

• Application Deadline: January 9, 2026 (12:00 noon Beijing time)

For Mainland Chinese Candidates

• Check Peking University Graduate Admissions website for deadlines

Given the competitive nature of the scholarship with only 120 seats available globally (approximately 75% international, 25% Chinese), applicants should invest significant time in crafting strong personal statements and research proposals.

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Why Choose Yenching Academy

The Yenching Academy Scholarship offers more than just financial support.

• International Exposure: Interaction with scholars from around the world

• Academic Excellence: Peking University's world-class faculty and resources

• Global Network: Become part of a powerful network of future leaders

• Interdisciplinary Approach: Develop nuanced understanding of China valuable in any career path

• Influential Alumni Network: Graduates span academia, government, business, and civil society worldwide

• Cultural Immersion: Live and study in Beijing, China's vibrant capital

• Leadership Development: Program designed to prepare graduates for impactful careers

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Tips for a Strong Application

• Start Early: Begin preparing documents months before the deadline

• Check Your Pathway: Identify which application category applies to your situation

• Partner University Students: Complete internal pre-selection process first

• Prepare Strong Statements: Invest significant time in personal statement (750 words) and research proposal (1500 words)

• Secure Academic Recommendations: Choose full professors or associate professors in your intended field

• Meet Language Requirements: Ensure English test scores meet minimums and are taken after September 1, 2024

• Official Score Submission: Arrange for IELTS/TOEFL/Cambridge scores to be sent directly to Yenching Academy

• Complete Applications: For HMT applicants, remember both Yenching Academy and PKU Graduate Admissions applications are required

Final Thoughts

The Yenching Academy of Peking University Scholarship 2026 offers a life-changing opportunity for talented students to pursue a Master's degree in China Studies with full financial support. With its interdisciplinary curriculum, distinguished faculty, and global network of scholars, this program prepares graduates for leadership roles in their chosen fields while deepening their understanding of China's role in the world.

Approximately 120 scholars are selected annually, with 75% international students and 25% from Mainland China. The scholarship covers full tuition, accommodation, monthly stipend, round-trip airfare, research funding, and medical insurance. Programs span six tracks across Politics, Law, Economics, History, Literature, and Philosophy.

Application deadlines vary by region: December 1, 2025 for international candidates, and January 9, 2026 for candidates from Hong Kong, Macao, and Taiwan. Mainland Chinese candidates should check the Peking University Graduate Admissions website. Strong English proficiency is required, with specific score requirements for IELTS (7.0), TOEFL (100), and other accepted tests.

Eligible candidates should begin preparing their applications now, ensuring they meet all requirements and submit strong materials before the deadlines. This scholarship opens doors to international careers and global impact through world-class education at one of China's top universities.

Good luck with your application

Apply Now

For complete and official information and to submit your application, visit the official Yenching Academy admissions portal:

Apply for Yenching Academy of Peking University Scholarship 2026 China