Yenching Academy of Peking University Scholarship 2026 Deadline: December 1st, 2025

 Yenching Academy of Peking University Scholarship 2026  Deadline: December 1st, 2025

Are you an ambitious student looking for a fully funded master’s scholarship in China at one of the world’s most prestigious universities? The Yenching Academy of Peking University Scholarship 2026 is now open for applications, and this could be the opportunity that transforms your academic and professional journey.

Every year, the Yenching Academy selects outstanding young leaders from around the globe to join its interdisciplinary Master’s program in China Studies. With full funding covering tuition, accommodation, and living expenses, plus access to world-class professors and resources at Peking University, this program is one of the most competitive and rewarding in Asia.

In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about applying for the 2026 Yenching Academy cohort: timelines, eligibility, application components, documents, and tips for building a winning application. Whether you’re an international student or applying from Hong Kong, Macao, or Taiwan (HMT regions), this post will serve as your ultimate resource.

Application Timeline – Yenching Academy 2026 Intake

Applications for the 2026 cohort of Yenching Scholars officially open on September 10, 2025.

• Application portal opens: September 10, 2025
• General application deadline: December 1, 2025 (9:00 AM Beijing time)
• Partner University nominees’ deadline: December 8, 2025 (9:00 AM Beijing time)
• Hardcopy submission deadline for HMT applicants: January 15, 2026

Important: All required materials, including recommendation letters, must be submitted before the deadline. Incomplete applications will not be reviewed.

 

 Eligibility Criteria for Yenching Academy

The Yenching Academy is highly competitive, attracting applicants from more than 100 countries each year. To be eligible, you should meet the following requirements:

• Hold a Bachelor’s degree in any field, or be currently enrolled in a Bachelor’s program and graduate by August 31, 2026.
• Have an excellent academic record.
• Show strong interest in the interdisciplinary study of China.
• Demonstrate a record of extracurricular achievement, social responsibility, and leadership.
• Prove English proficiency (see requirements below).

Note: There is no strict age limit, but the average age of scholars is 23. Very few applicants above 29 are admitted.

Partner and Cooperating Universities

Yenching Academy works with a network of Partner Universities and Cooperating Universities around the world.

• Partner Universities: These conduct internal nomination processes. If your university is a partner, you must apply through your institution first before submitting to the Yenching Academy portal. Partner University nominees receive a one-week extension (deadline: December 8, 2025).
• Cooperating Universities: Provide student support but do not conduct internal selection. Applicants from these universities apply directly.
• Other universities: Students and alumni from non-partner institutions are also welcome to apply directly via the Yenching Academy online portal.

Application Components – What You Need to Submit

Each applicant must prepare and upload the following materials (in English, unless otherwise specified):

1. Online Application Form

• Must be completed via the Yenching Academy portal.
• Partner University applicants must apply internally before submitting here.

2. Personal Statement (≤750 words)

• Introduce yourself, highlight your achievements, and explain why Yenching Academy is essential for your academic and career goals.
• Applicants from Hong Kong, Macao, and Taiwan must submit in both English and Chinese (≤1,500 Chinese characters).

3. Statement of Research Interest (≤1,500 words, excluding citations)

• Include key research question(s), background/literature review, and your proposed study design.
• You are not bound to pursue this as your final thesis, but it should show academic maturity and research ability.

4. Curriculum Vitae (max 2 pages)

• Include all academic, professional, and extracurricular experiences.
• Internship experiences must be supported with certificates and supervisor details.

5. Official Transcript(s)

• Upload transcripts from all degree programs.
• Both Bachelor’s and any ongoing postgraduate transcripts are required.
• Non-English or non-Chinese transcripts must include certified translations.

6. Diploma(s) and Certificate(s) of Enrollment

• Required for all applicants.
• Credential Evaluation required for offer holders:
• CSCSE for overseas degrees
• CSSD for degrees within the Chinese Mainland

7. Two Academic Recommendation Letters

• Must be written by professors (associate or full) in your field of study.
• Letters must be on official letterhead, signed, and uploaded in PDF.
• HMT applicants must use the official “专家推荐信” template.

8. Proof of English Proficiency (if applicable)

Accepted scores:

• IELTS (≥7.0)
• TOEFL iBT (≥100)
• Cambridge Advanced (≥185)
• CET 6 (≥600)
• TEM 4 (Pass “良好” or above)

Scores must be sent directly by the testing organization to Yenching Academy.

Waivers: International applicants may request a waiver if they completed a degree in English. However, HMT applicants cannot request waivers and must provide official test results.

Chinese Language Proficiency (Optional but Valuable)

Chinese is not required, but it strengthens your application and academic experience. You may take courses in Chinese at PKU if you:

• Achieve HSK 6 (≥210 total, ≥65 writing, taken after September 1, 2024), OR
• Completed a full-time degree taught in Chinese (with certification).

Such applicants can apply for a waiver of the compulsory yearlong Chinese language course.

Health Requirements

All admitted students must complete a health history form. Certain medical conditions listed by Peking University may disqualify applicants. This is checked only after admission offers.

Application Review & Interviews

• Shortlisted candidates will be contacted for video interviews between December 2025 and March 2026.
• Applicants from Mainland China and HMT regions must attend interviews in person at Peking University.
• Finalists are notified about a week before interviews.
• No interviews will be conducted during PKU winter break (Jan 17 – Feb 24, 2026).

Admission and Enrollment Procedures

1. Online registration with PKU’s Office of International Relations.

1. Graduate School approval + public announcement of admission results (公示) in May.
2. Official admission letters issued in June 2026.

How to Write a Strong Yenching Academy Application

Since the Yenching Academy is extremely competitive, here are some expert tips to strengthen your application:

1. Personal Statement

• Tell your story: Go beyond listing achievements—connect your background with your passion for China Studies.
• Show leadership and impact: Highlight how your past experiences prepared you for contributing at Yenching.
• Future vision: Explain how the program aligns with your long-term goals.

2. Statement of Research Interest

• Be clear and focused: Define a strong research question.
• Show academic depth: Reference existing literature and demonstrate knowledge of the field.
• Stay realistic: Don’t overcomplicate—show that you can design a feasible project.

3. Recommendation Letters

• Choose the right referees: Select professors who know your work well. Titles matter—only associate or full professors are accepted.
• Provide guidance: Brief your referees on the program so they can tailor their letters.
• Highlight key qualities: Strong letters emphasize academic excellence, leadership, and adaptability.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is the Yenching Academy fully funded?
Yes. The scholarship covers tuition, accommodation, travel, and living expenses.

2. Do I need to know Chinese to apply?
No, the program is taught in English. However, Chinese proficiency is valued and may allow you to take more courses.

3. How competitive is the program?
Very competitive. Thousands apply from over 100 countries, but only a few hundred are selected each year.

4. Can I apply if I haven’t graduated yet?
Yes, but you must graduate by August 31, 2026.

5. Can professionals apply, or only fresh graduates?
Yes, young professionals can apply. The average age is 23, but applicants under 29 are considered.

Final Thoughts

The Yenching Academy of Peking University Scholarship 2026 is not just a master’s program—it’s an opportunity to join a global network of leaders who are shaping the world’s understanding of China. With full financial support, top-tier faculty, and a community of brilliant peers, it offers unparalleled opportunities for both academic and personal growth.

 Click Here to Read More and Apply

Don’t Miss Your Shot!

If you’re passionate about China’s role in global affairs and want to study at one of Asia’s most prestigious universities, don’t miss this chance.

Mark your calendar: Applications close December 1, 2025 (December 8 for Partner University nominees).

 Start preparing your documents now and take the first step toward becoming a Yenching Scholar 2026.

For more details, visit the officialwebsite or contact: yca-admissions@pku.edu.cn

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