In recent years, fully funded scholarships in China for international students have become one of the most sought-after opportunities for ambitious graduates around the globe. Among them, the Yenching Academy Scholarship at Peking University stands out as a prestigious gateway to a world-class education and unmatched cultural immersion. This scholarship is not just a funding opportunity; it is a chance to become part of an elite group of scholars dedicated to deepening global understanding of China and its role in international affairs. With search queries like “how to apply for Yenching Academy 2026” and “Peking University fully funded scholarship” rising steadily, it is clear that thousands of students aspire to join this unique program each year.
The Yenching Academy of Peking University offers a Master’s program in China Studies that integrates multiple disciplines such as international relations, economics, culture, history, law, and public policy. What makes this program special is its holistic approach — blending rigorous academic coursework with field studies, cultural exchange, and leadership development. The Yenching Academy Scholarship 2026 is fully funded, covering tuition, accommodation, health insurance, living stipend, and round-trip travel expenses. For many students searching for “best scholarships for international students in Asia” or “China scholarships for master’s degrees”, Yenching Academy offers one of the most comprehensive packages available. Check Central European University Scholarship 2026 in Hungary – Fully Funded
Beyond financial support, this program provides access to a powerful international network of scholars, policymakers, and leaders who share a passion for understanding China’s past, present, and future. Every year, Yenching attracts outstanding applicants from more than 50 countries, making it one of the most competitive yet rewarding scholarships worldwide. As the application portal for Yenching Academy Scholarship 2026 is expected to open in September 2025 with deadlines around December 2025, now is the best time to prepare your documents, craft strong essays, and ensure you meet all requirements. This guide will walk you through the benefits, eligibility criteria, required documents, and step-by-step application process, ensuring you have everything needed to secure your place at Peking University.
Yenching Academy Scholarship 2026 – Key Information
- Country of Study: China
- Institution: Peking University
- Program Level: Master’s Degree
- Program Duration: Two years
- Funding Type: Fully Funded
- Application Deadline: December 1, 2025
Benefits
Here are the main benefits of being awarded the Yenching Academy Scholarship:
- Full tuition waiver for the Master’s in China Studies at Peking University.
- Free accommodation on campus (residential housing) during the program.
- Monthly stipend / living allowance to cover day-to-day expenses.
- One round-trip travel fare from your home city to Beijing at the start (and often return) of the program.
- Field study / research cost support to enable trips, research activities outside the classroom.
- Health insurance and other necessary fees often included.
- Interdisciplinary courses + mentorship + leadership training and networking that can significantly boost your professional and academic trajectory.
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Required Documents
To complete your application for the Yenching Academy Scholarship 2026, you will need to provide the following materials:
- A valid passport or identification document
- Official transcripts and proof of degree (or a letter confirming expected graduation)
- An updated CV or résumé highlighting academic and extracurricular achievements
- A Personal Statement of roughly 750 words
- A Research Proposal of about 1,500 words
- Proof of English language proficiency through accepted test scores
- Two recommendation letters from academic referees
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the Yenching Academy Scholarship, you need to satisfy all of the following:
- Hold a bachelor’s degree (or be in the process of completing one, but must have diploma before the program start, usually by end of August in the year you apply). Be a non-Chinese citizen for the “International Candidates” track.
- Demonstrated excellence in academic record (high GPA or equivalent) and strong recommendation letters.
- English proficiency: valid scores (IELTS, TOEFL, Cambridge etc.) sent directly to the university.
- Leadership potential, extracurricular achievements, community engagement, or work/research experience are strongly preferred.
- Typically applicants are 25 years old or younger by August of the intake year. Some leeway for special cases (e.g. mandatory military service, or partner university candidates).
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Step-by-Step Guide to Apply
Here is a starter paragraph plus a point-by-point walkthrough of what you need to do, in order, to make a strong application for the Yenching Academy Scholarship.
Starter:
Applying for the Yenching Academy Scholarship is competitive and involves several steps. Starting early, preparing all documents, ensuring test scores are valid, and articulating a compelling story in your statements are crucial. Below is a step-by-step guide to help you through the process.
- Monitor Announcement & Application Open Date
- The application portal for the 2026 cohort opens on September 10, 2025 for international candidates.
- Be aware of the deadline — typically December 1, 2025 (9:00 am Beijing time).
- Check Eligibility Carefully
- Confirm you are non-Chinese (if applying as international), have a bachelor’s degree (or will have by specified date), meet the age limit, etc.
- Make sure your English test meets requirements and you can send scores directly to Yenching Academy using their institution code where required.
- Select Research Area / Concentration
- Review the six research concentrations offered (e.g. Economics & Management; Public Policy; Culture & Literature etc.), decide which matches your academic interests.
- Begin thinking what a research topic or interest you’d want to write about in the Statement of Research Interest.
- Gather Required Documents
- Collect transcripts, degree/diploma or proof of expected graduation.
- Secure English test scores and ensure they are valid and sent properly.
- Ask potential referees early for recommendation letters.
- Draft your CV, personal statement, and research interest statement.
- Write Strong Essays / Statements
- Personal Statement: articulate your own motivations, what you bring, how you’ll benefit, and what impact you seek.
- Research Statement: define a research question or interest, why it matters, how China or Yenching is the right context, methods or framework if possible.
- Submit Application Properly
- Apply via the Yenching Academy admissions portal.
- If you are from a partner university, follow internal nomination process if required.
- For applicants from Hong Kong, Macao, or Taiwan, check for extra supplementary application requirements via Peking University Graduate Admissions website.
- Prepare for Interview (if shortlisted)
- If your application is shortlisted, you may be invited for an online interview. Be ready to discuss your academic past, your proposed research interest, reasons for choosing Yenching, leadership experience, and your future goals.
- Await the Decision
- Decisions are usually made in spring. If selected, you will get an offer. Then you take care of visa, travel, and enrollment.