The Yenching Academy of Peking University Scholarship 2026 is one of the most prestigious postgraduate opportunities available in Asia. Located in Beijing, China, the scholarship is designed to bring together talented young scholars from around the world to study, research, and exchange ideas on global progress with a strong focus on China.
Every year, about 120 students are admitted to the program. Interestingly, nearly 80% of them are international applicants, which makes the program highly diverse and globally connected. Scholars not only receive a world-class education but also gain a deeper understanding of China’s culture, history, and role in today’s interconnected world.
The Yenching Academy aims to nurture future leaders who can contribute to cultural exchange, policy-making, and global development through an interdisciplinary approach. For international students looking to expand their horizons, this scholarship is an excellent opportunity to pursue a fully funded master’s degree while immersing themselves in China’s academic and cultural environment.
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About Peking University and the Yenching Academy
Peking University (PKU) is one of China’s most prestigious universities and consistently ranked among the top institutions in Asia and the world. Known for its rich history, strong academic reputation, and research excellence, PKU attracts scholars and researchers from all over the globe.
The Yenching Academy, established in 2014, is a postgraduate college within Peking University that offers a Master’s program in China Studies. The program goes beyond traditional academic learning by combining coursework, field studies, and interdisciplinary research. Students gain valuable insights into China’s economy, politics, philosophy, history, society, and international relations.
This unique blend of classroom and experiential learning makes the Yenching Academy one of the most innovative postgraduate programs in the region.
Key Details of the Scholarship
Here is an overview of the Yenching Academy of Peking University Scholarship 2026:
- University: Peking University
- Program: Yenching Academy (Postgraduate College)
- Degree: Master’s (Postgraduate)
- Country: China
- Application Deadline: December 1, 2025
- Funding Coverage: Fully funded (tuition, accommodation, stipend, travel, and field study expenses)
- Eligibility: Open to both international and domestic (Mainland China) students
Who Can Apply? – Eligibility Criteria
To be considered for the Yenching Academy Scholarship, applicants must fulfill the following requirements:
- Educational Background
- Hold a Bachelor’s degree or be in the final year of undergraduate study.
- Those applying must graduate by August 31, 2025.
- Hold a Bachelor’s degree or be in the final year of undergraduate study.
- Academic Excellence
- A strong academic record is essential. The scholarship is highly competitive, so grades, research skills, and intellectual curiosity are critical.
- A strong academic record is essential. The scholarship is highly competitive, so grades, research skills, and intellectual curiosity are critical.
- Interest in China Studies
- Candidates should have a demonstrated interest in interdisciplinary studies of China, whether in economics, politics, law, history, or related fields.
- Candidates should have a demonstrated interest in interdisciplinary studies of China, whether in economics, politics, law, history, or related fields.
- Leadership and Extracurricular Achievements
- Applicants should have experience in community service, leadership roles, or social engagement. The program looks for well-rounded individuals who can make a positive impact.
- Applicants should have experience in community service, leadership roles, or social engagement. The program looks for well-rounded individuals who can make a positive impact.
- English Language Proficiency
- For non-native English speakers, proof of English proficiency is required unless the applicant has graduated from an English-taught program.
- For non-native English speakers, proof of English proficiency is required unless the applicant has graduated from an English-taught program.
- Minimum English test scores include:
- IELTS (Academic): 7.0 overall
- TOEFL iBT: 100 overall
- Cambridge English Scale (Advanced): 185
- CET 6: 600
- TEM 4: Pass level “Good” or above
- IELTS (Academic): 7.0 overall
- Note: TOEFL scores must be sent directly using the institution code C488 for Yenching Academy.
- Other Conditions
- Students cannot be enrolled in another degree program while studying at Yenching Academy.
- Students cannot be enrolled in another degree program while studying at Yenching Academy.
Documents Required
Applicants should prepare a strong application package with the following materials:
- Completed online application form
- Personal Statement (up to 750 words) outlining academic goals and career aspirations
- Statement of Research Interest (up to 1500 words, excluding citations) describing proposed research focus
- Curriculum Vitae (CV) highlighting academic achievements, work experience, and extracurricular involvement
- Official academic transcripts from all universities attended
- Diploma(s) or a certificate of current enrollment
- Two academic recommendation letters from professors or advisors
- Proof of English proficiency (if required)
All documents must be submitted in English through the official online application portal.
Benefits of the Scholarship
The Yenching Academy Scholarship is a fully funded program. Scholars receive comprehensive financial support to ensure they can focus entirely on their academic and personal growth. Benefits include:
- Full tuition coverage for the entire master’s program
- Accommodation on campus, offering a comfortable and multicultural living environment
- Monthly living stipend to cover personal expenses
- One round-trip airfare to and from Beijing
- Field study funding to support research and academic projects across China
This generous package ensures that students can study without financial burden and focus on building knowledge, networks, and leadership skills.
Application Process
The application process is straightforward but competitive. Interested candidates should:
- Create an Account – Register on the official Yenching Academy online portal.
- Prepare Documents – Ensure all required materials (statements, transcripts, CV, recommendations, and test scores) are ready in English.
- Submit Online – Upload documents to the Yenching Academy portal before the deadline.
- Partner University Students – If you belong to a Yenching partner university, you must also complete your university’s internal application in addition to the Yenching portal submission.
- Deadline – All applications must be submitted by December 1, 2025.
Why Choose the Yenching Academy?
The Yenching Academy offers much more than just financial support. Here are a few reasons why students around the world compete for a spot in this program:
- Global Network: With 80% of scholars coming from outside China, students join a truly international community.
- World-Class University: Studying at Peking University means access to top professors, researchers, and resources.
- Cultural Exchange: Living and studying in Beijing allows scholars to immerse themselves in Chinese culture and society.
- Leadership Development: The program actively encourages personal growth, public service, and innovative thinking.
- Career Opportunities: Alumni of the program go on to work in academia, government, business, diplomacy, and global organizations.
Final Thoughts
The Yenching Academy of Peking University Scholarship 2026 is more than just a master’s degree; it is a life-changing experience that combines academic excellence, cultural immersion, and leadership development.
By providing full funding, world-class education, and exposure to China’s evolving role in global affairs, the program equips students with the tools they need to become future leaders in their respective fields.
If you aspire to deepen your understanding of China, develop global perspectives, and join an international network of talented individuals, this fully funded scholarship is the perfect opportunity. With the application deadline set for December 1, 2025, now is the time to start preparing your application and take a step toward shaping your academic and professional future.