Schwarzman Scholars Program 2027–2028

The Schwarzman Scholars Programme provides candidates with the chance to pursue a one-year master's degree at Tsinghua University, one of China's most prestigious institutions. The programme is built around a rigorous curriculum that combines core courses on China's role in global affairs with leadership development, professional development workshops, and cultural immersion experiences.

Key features of the programme:

• Fully funded — Tuition, room and board, travel, and course materials covered

• World-class faculty — Access to leading academics and practitioners from China and abroad

• Leadership development — Intensive training designed to build the next generation of global leaders

• Cultural immersion — Deep exposure to Chinese history, culture, business, and governance

• Global network — Lifelong membership in a community of scholars, mentors, and world leaders

• No prior admission required — Applicants apply directly to Schwarzman Scholars; no separate Tsinghua application needed

• No application fee — The programme does not charge fees at any stage of the process

Related: Learn more about Schwarzman Scholars and studying in China.

Successful Schwarzman Scholars receive comprehensive financial support for the duration of the one-year programme:

• Tuition fees — Full coverage for all coursework at Tsinghua University

• Room and board — On-campus housing and meals provided

• International travel — Round-trip economy airfare to and from Beijing

• Local travel — In-country study tours and programme-related travel

• Course materials — Books, supplies, and academic resources

• Health insurance — Coverage for the duration of the programme

• Stipend — Personal allowance for incidental expenses

All applicants must submit the following materials through the online application portal:

1. Online Application Form — Completed in English; can be saved and edited before final submission

2. Current Resume or CV — Maximum 2 pages

3. Leadership Essay — 750 words; designed to help the committee understand your leadership abilities, potential, and character

4. Statement of Purpose — 500 words; explaining how the programme fits your goals and how you will contribute to the cohort

5. Official Transcripts — From all degree-granting post-secondary institutions attended

6. Letters of Recommendation — From individuals who know you well and can speak to your intellectual abilities, personal characteristics, and leadership potential using specific examples

7. Video Self-Introduction — No more than 1 minute; introduce yourself in any style or setting that conveys your interests and personality

8. English Proficiency Scores — If applicable (see exemptions above)

Important: The essays are a critical component of the application. They assess your leadership potential, writing ability, and analytical skills. Do not submit supplemental materials such as portfolios, writing samples, or additional recommendations — these will not be reviewed.

Applicants must meet the following requirements to be eligible for the Schwarzman Scholars Programme:

Citizenship and Residency

• Open to citizens of all countries

• No restriction on nationality, race, religion, or political belief

Age Requirements

• Must be at least 18 but not yet 29 years of age as of August 1 of the enrollment year

• For the Class of 2027–2028: must be under 29 as of August 1, 2027

Academic Qualifications

• Must be on track to complete all requirements for an undergraduate degree (bachelor's) before August 1, 2027

• All fields of study are welcome; no specific major is required

• Must demonstrate strong academic excellence and intellectual ability

Professional & Leadership Experience

• Must demonstrate exceptional leadership abilities and a track record of impact

• Exemplary character, integrity, and empathy

• Entrepreneurial spirit and open-mindedness

• Intercultural competency and commitment to global engagement

English Proficiency

• All teaching is conducted in English

• Non-native English speakers must submit official English proficiency test scores unless exempt (see below)

Acceptable tests and minimum scores:

• TOEFL iBT: 100

• TOEFL PBT: 600

• IELTS: 7.0

• Cambridge C1/C2: 185

• Duolingo English Test: 130

Exemptions: The requirement is waived for applicants who studied at an undergraduate institution where the primary language of instruction was English for at least two years, or who have completed two or more years of master's-level study or higher in English.

Follow these steps to complete your application for the Schwarzman Scholars Programme 2027–2028:

1. Check your eligibility — Ensure you meet all criteria including age, education, and English proficiency.

2. Coordinate with your campus contact — Currently enrolled undergraduates should contact their university's Schwarzman Scholars campus representative early. Some institutions have internal pre-application processes or early deadlines.

3. Create an account — Visit the Schwarzman Scholars application portal and register.

4. Complete the application form — Fill in all required fields in English. You may save as a draft and return later.

5. Upload all required documents — Submit your resume, essays, transcripts, recommendation letters, and video.

6. Submit English proficiency scores — If required, arrange for official scores to be sent directly.

7. Review and submit — Once complete, submit your application before the deadline. After submission, the application cannot be modified.

8. Await results — Check your email for interview invitations and final decisions.

Important: Applying for Schwarzman Scholars is completely free of charge. The programme does not charge fees at any stage of the application or selection process.