Yenching Academy Scholarship 2027

The Yenching Academy is a fully funded, interdisciplinary Master's program at Peking University that brings together young people who have demonstrated a talent for leadership and innovation. Scholars are immersed in an intensive learning environment where they explore China and its role in the world. The Academy's goal is to shape new generations of global citizens with a nuanced understanding of China.

Key features of the programme:

• ~120 scholars annually — roughly 75% international students

• Fully funded fellowship — tuition, housing, stipend, airfare, and field study costs

• Interdisciplinary curriculum — China studies across six research areas: economics, law, politics, international relations, history, and philosophy/religion

• Global network — join an elite alumni community of Yenching Scholars worldwide

• Direct application — apply online yourself through the Yenching Academy admissions portal

Related: Learn more about studying in China.

The Yenching Academy provides a generous fellowship to all scholars, including:

• Tuition fees — fully covered for the duration of the Master's program

• Accommodation — housing provided on or near campus

• Monthly stipend — living allowance for the duration of study

• One round-trip travel fare — international airfare to and from Beijing

• Field study costs — funded research and study trips across China

Candidates apply through the Yenching Academy admissions portal, creating an account and submitting the following materials in English:

• Completed online application form

• Personal statement (750 words or less)

• Statement of Research Interest (maximum 1,500 words, excluding citations)

• Curriculum Vitae

• Official transcript(s)

• Diploma(s) or Certificate(s) of Enrollment

• Two academic letters of recommendation (Chinese or English):

  • Peking University will only accept recommendation letters written by full professors or associate professors (or equivalent titles)

  • Letters of recommendation must be submitted by professors in the applicant's intended field of study

• English proficiency test report (see requirements below; some applicants are exempt)

Tip: Start your English test early — tests must be taken after September 1, 2025, and official scores must be sent directly from the testing organization to Yenching Academy (TOEFL institution code: C488).

Applicants should have:

• Minimum of a Bachelor's degree in any field, or be currently enrolled in a Bachelor's program with the expectation of receiving their diploma in August of the intended enrollment year (August 2027 for the 2027 cohort)

• An outstanding academic record

• Strong interest in interdisciplinary study of China

• A record of extracurricular achievement, community engagement, social responsibility, and leadership potential

• English proficiency (see requirements below)

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

Follow these steps:

Step 1: Create an account on the Yenching Academy admissions portal

Step 2: Complete the online application form and upload all required documents in English

Step 3: Ask two professors (full or associate) in your intended field of study to submit recommendation letters through the portal

Step 4: Book your English test (if required) and have official scores sent directly to Yenching Academy — TOEFL code C488

Step 5: Submit everything before the deadline and monitor your portal for updates

Step 6: If shortlisted, prepare for interviews (typically held online in early 2027)

Step 7: Results are announced in spring 2027; successful scholars begin studies in September 2027