Yenching Academy of Peking University Scholarships 2026 (Fully Funded, China)
Host University: Peking University
Degree Level: Master’s Degree
Eligible Applicants: International and Domestic Students
Location: Beijing, China
Application Deadline: December 1, 2025
The Yenching Academy of Peking University invites outstanding applicants for its Fully Funded Master’s Scholarship 2026. Each year, the Academy selects approximately 120 exceptional scholars, with nearly 80% representing international backgrounds. This prestigious interdisciplinary program in China Studies is designed to deepen global understanding of China’s role in the world, while fostering cultural exchange and academic excellence.
Located at one of Asia’s top universities, the Yenching Academy Program offers a transformative educational experience combining rigorous academics, cultural immersion, and professional development in the heart of Beijing.
About Yenching Academy
Established at Peking University, the Yenching Academy aims to bridge China and the world through interdisciplinary education and dialogue. The Academy’s Master’s in China Studies integrates perspectives from economics, politics, culture, and international relations, preparing future leaders to understand and engage with China on a global scale.
Yenching Scholars receive a fully funded fellowship, enabling them to study, live, and conduct research in an intellectually vibrant community.
Fields of Study
The Yenching Academy offers an interdisciplinary Master’s in China Studies, with six academic tracks:
Economics and Management
History and Archaeology
Law and Society
Literature and Culture
Philosophy and Religion
Politics and International Relations
Scholarship Benefits
All Yenching Scholars receive a comprehensive fellowship package, which includes:
Full Tuition Coverage: All program-related academic costs.
Accommodation: On-campus housing at Peking University.
Monthly Stipend: To cover living expenses in Beijing.
Travel Allowance: Round-trip airfare to and from the scholar’s home country.
Field Study Support: Funding for research trips and academic fieldwork.
Eligibility Criteria
To be considered for the Yenching Academy Scholarship, applicants must meet the following requirements:
Educational Background: A Bachelor’s degree (completed or expected by August 31, 2026).
Academic Excellence: Demonstrated through strong transcripts and achievements.
Interdisciplinary Interest: Proven engagement with China-related or global issues.
Leadership & Engagement: Evidence of leadership, volunteerism, or community involvement.
English Proficiency: Required for all non-native English speakers (see details below).
Note: Students cannot be enrolled in another degree program while studying at Peking University.
English Language Proficiency Requirements
International Applicants
Applicants whose first language is not English must provide a valid English test score unless they have graduated from a degree program taught entirely in English.
Applicants from Hong Kong, Macao, or Taiwan must submit English test results regardless of their academic background.
Chinese Mainland Applicants
All applicants from Mainland China must provide English proficiency test results.
Accepted English Tests
IELTS (Academic): Overall 7.0
TOEFL iBT: Overall 100
Cambridge English Scale (Advanced): Overall 185
CET 6: 600 or above
TEM 4: Level “良好” or higher
Important Notes:
Test must be taken after September 1, 2023.
TOEFL MyBest Scores, Home Edition, IELTS Indicator, and IELTS Online are not accepted.
Test results must be sent directly to Yenching Academy (TOEFL code: C488).
Application Process
Required Documents
All applications must be submitted online in English through the official Yenching Academy portal. Required materials include:
Completed Online Application Form
Personal Statement (750 words or less)
Statement of Research Interest (up to 1,500 words, excluding citations)
Curriculum Vitae (CV)
Official Academic Transcripts
Diploma(s) or Enrollment Certificate(s)
Two Academic Letters of Recommendation
Important Dates
Application Opens: August 15, 2025
Application Deadline: December 1, 2025 (12:00 noon Beijing Time)
Successful candidates will join an international community of scholars dedicated to advancing understanding of China and its global role.
Visit official Yenching Academy of Peking University page
Why Choose Yenching Academy?
The Yenching Academy of Peking University offers a world-class academic environment, an international network of scholars, and unparalleled exposure to China’s culture and society. Through its interdisciplinary curriculum, field research opportunities, and mentorship by leading experts, students develop the intellectual and practical tools to become global changemakers.
FAQs – Yenching Academy Scholarship 2026
1. What is the Yenching Academy Scholarship?
It is a fully funded Master’s program at Peking University offering international and domestic students the opportunity to study China Studies with an interdisciplinary focus.
2. Who can apply for this scholarship?
Applicants of all nationalities who hold or are completing a Bachelor’s degree by August 31, 2026, are eligible.
3. What expenses does the scholarship cover?
The scholarship includes full tuition, housing, monthly stipend, travel allowance, and field study funding.
4. What is the duration of the program?
The Master’s program typically lasts two years, depending on individual research requirements.
5. Do I need to know Chinese to apply?
No. The program is conducted in English, though students are encouraged to learn basic Mandarin during their stay.
6. How do I apply?
Applications must be submitted online via the official Yenching Academy application portal before the deadline.
7. What is the deadline for Yenching Academy 2026 applications?
The deadline is December 1, 2025, at 12:00 noon (Beijing Time).
8. How competitive is the program?
Admission is highly competitive — only around 120 scholars are selected each year from thousands of applicants worldwide.