About the opportunity
The Yenching Academy annually enrolls approximately 120 scholars from around the world to study, live, and learn together in an intensive, interdisciplinary Master’s program in China Studies. International students make up roughly 75% of the student cohort. The Academy fosters innovative research, leadership potential, and cross-cultural dialogue through coursework, field research, and campus engagement at Peking University.
Funding and benefits
- Full coverage of tuition fees
- On-campus accommodation
- Monthly living stipend
- One round-trip travel fare
- Coverage of field study costs
Who can apply?
- Hold a minimum of a Bachelor's degree in any field, or be currently enrolled in a Bachelor's program expecting to graduate by August of the intended enrollment year
- Demonstrate an outstanding academic record
- Exhibit a strong interest in the interdisciplinary study of China
- Possess a record of extracurricular achievement, community engagement, social responsibility, and leadership potential
- Demonstrate English proficiency (minimum scores: IELTS 7.0, TOEFL iBT 100, Cambridge Advanced 185, CET 6 600, or TEM 4 Pass level of '良好' or above)
- English test requirement is waived for native English speakers or graduates of English-taught degree programs (undergraduate or above), except for applicants from Hong Kong, Macao, and Taiwan regions who must provide scores or take English as a Second Language
- International applicants must be non-Chinese citizens with a valid passport; former Chinese citizens must present proof of citizenship dated before April 30, 2021, and proof of nationality cancellation
- Cannot be simultaneously enrolled in other degree programs while studying at Peking University
Required documents
- Completed online application form
- Personal statement (750 words or less)
- Statement of Research Interest (maximum 1,500 words, excluding citations)
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Official academic transcript(s)
- Diploma(s) or Certificate(s) of Enrollment
- Two academic letters of recommendation from full professors or associate professors (or equivalent) in the applicant's intended field of study
- Official English proficiency test report (taken after September 1, 2025; submitted directly by the testing organization using code C488 for TOEFL)
When to apply
- Applications open: September 1, 2026
- Application deadline for international candidates and candidates from Hong Kong, Macao, and Taiwan: November 30, 2026 (9:00 am Beijing time)
How to apply
- Students and alumni of Partner Universities must first apply through their home university's internal pre-selection process
- Create an account on the Yenching Academy admissions online portal
- Fill out the application form and upload all required application materials in English
- Arrange for official English language test scores to be sent directly to Yenching Academy of Peking University
- Candidates from China's Hong Kong, Macao, and Taiwan regions must additionally submit a supplementary application through the Peking University Graduate Admissions website
- Submit the finalized application prior to the deadline on November 30, 2026, at 9:00 am Beijing time
Additional information
- TOEFL MyBest Scores, TOEFL iBT Home Edition, IELTS Indicator, IELTS Online, and IELTS One Skill Retake are not accepted
- For Mainland Chinese candidates, specific application guidelines are published via the Graduate School of Peking University website
Our Take on This Opportunity
This section reflects Open Opportunities’ own analysis of the opportunity from an applicant’s perspective.
You may be a strong fit if…
- Students with an outstanding academic record and a strong interest in interdisciplinary China studies.
- Individuals with a demonstrated commitment to leadership, community engagement, and social responsibility.
- Candidates who meet the English proficiency requirements and hold a Bachelor's degree.
What should you think carefully about?
- The application process is rigorous, requiring specific English test scores and academic letters of recommendation.
- Applicants from partner universities must navigate an internal pre-selection process first.
- The program is fully on-site in Beijing, requiring a significant commitment to living and studying in China.
How could this fit your current goals and plans?
The Yenching Academy offers a unique opportunity to engage in deep, interdisciplinary study while building a global network of peers. It is an ideal path for students aiming to develop a nuanced understanding of China's role in the world and prepare for leadership roles in various sectors.
Our take
This is a premier, fully funded Master's opportunity for high-potential students. It is highly recommended for those who want to combine academic rigor with cross-cultural immersion.
Ready to apply?
Review the opportunity on the official website before applying.
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