Are you looking for a fully funded Master’s scholarship in China at one of Asia’s most prestigious universities? The Yenching Academy Scholarship 2027 at Peking University could be an excellent opportunity for students interested in China, international relations, politics, economics, culture, history, law, and other interdisciplinary fields.
The Yenching Academy of Peking University offers an internationally recognized Master’s program in China Studies. Every admitted Yenching Scholar receives generous financial support, making it possible for talented students from around the world to study in Beijing without paying tuition fees.
For the 2027 cohort, applications for international candidates are scheduled to open on September 1, 2026, with a deadline of November 30, 2026, at 9:00 AM Beijing Time.
Quick Facts About Yenching Academy Scholarship 2027
Host Country: China
Host University: Peking University
Program: Yenching Academy Master’s Program in China Studies
Degree Level: Master’s Degree
Scholarship Type: Fully Funded
Study Location: Beijing, China
Program Duration: Two Years
Eligible Applicants: International students and other eligible applicants under the official admission rules
Application Opening Date: September 1, 2026
Application Deadline: November 30, 2026, at 9:00 AM Beijing Time
About the Yenching Academy
The Yenching Academy was established by Peking University to provide an interdisciplinary approach to the study of China. The program brings together students from different academic and cultural backgrounds to study China’s history, society, politics, economy, culture, and role in the world.
The Academy enrolls approximately 120 new students each year. International students make up a significant portion of the student body, creating a diverse academic environment where scholars from different countries can learn and conduct research together.
The program is particularly attractive to students who want to develop a deeper understanding of contemporary China and its growing influence on global affairs.
What Does the Yenching Academy Scholarship Cover?
The Yenching Academy provides a generous fellowship to admitted scholars.
The scholarship package includes:
- Full tuition fees
- Accommodation
- Monthly stipend
- One round-trip travel fare
- Field study costs
The fellowship makes the Yenching Academy one of the most attractive fully funded Master’s opportunities for international students interested in China Studies.
Available Research Areas
Students at the Yenching Academy can pursue interdisciplinary study and research in several areas.
The available research areas include:
- China Studies in Economics and Management
- China Studies in History and Archaeology
- China Studies in Law and Society
- China Studies in Literature and Culture
- China Studies in Philosophy and Religion
- China Studies in Politics and International Relations
Students work closely with academic advisors and have the flexibility to shape their academic path through research, elective courses, field studies, and interdisciplinary learning.
Program Duration and Academic Structure
The Yenching Academy Master’s Program in China Studies lasts for two years.
During the first academic year, Yenching Scholars complete their required coursework. Core academic components include the study of China, Chinese language courses, field studies, academic writing, and other interdisciplinary subjects.
After completing the required coursework, students focus on independent research and their Master’s thesis during the second year of the program.
Who Can Apply for the Yenching Academy Scholarship 2027?
Applicants should meet the following general requirements:
- Hold a Bachelor’s degree in any academic field, or currently be enrolled in a Bachelor’s program
- Final-year undergraduate students must be expected to receive their Bachelor’s degree by August of the intended enrollment year
- Have an excellent academic record
- Demonstrate a strong interest in the interdisciplinary study of China
- Show extracurricular achievements, community engagement, social responsibility, and leadership potential
- Meet the English language proficiency requirements
The program accepts students from a wide range of academic backgrounds. Your Bachelor’s degree does not necessarily have to be directly related to China Studies.
This makes the scholarship an excellent opportunity for graduates in fields such as International Relations, Political Science, Economics, Law, History, Sociology, Literature, Business, and many other disciplines.
Required Documents
Applicants must submit their applications through the official Yenching Academy admissions portal.
The required documents generally include:
- Completed online application form
- Personal statement of no more than 750 words
- Statement of Research Interest of up to 1,500 words, excluding citations
- Curriculum Vitae or CV
- Official academic transcript or transcripts
- Bachelor’s diploma or certificate of enrollment for current students
- Two academic recommendation letters
- Proof of English language proficiency, where required
All application materials must be submitted according to the instructions provided through the official Yenching Academy application system.
Recommendation Letter Requirements
The Yenching Academy has specific requirements regarding recommendation letters.
Applicants must submit two academic letters of recommendation. Peking University requires these letters to be written by full professors, associate professors, or individuals holding equivalent academic titles.
The recommenders should also be familiar with the applicant’s intended field of study and should be able to comment on the applicant’s academic achievements, character, potential, and suitability for graduate-level study.
Choosing strong academic recommenders is therefore an important part of preparing a competitive application.
English Language Requirements
Applicants are expected to demonstrate English proficiency.
The official admissions information requires applicants to meet the Academy’s English language requirements. Depending on an applicant’s educational background and circumstances, English language test scores may be required.
Applicants should carefully check the official application portal for the latest requirements and any exemptions that may apply to them.
If submitting IELTS, TOEFL, or other accepted English language test results, applicants should follow the official instructions regarding score submission and designated institutional recipients.
How to Apply for the Yenching Academy Scholarship 2027
The application process is completed online.
Step 1: Visit the Official Yenching Academy Website
Review the official admissions requirements and prepare your application materials.
Step 2: Create an Account on the Admissions Portal
When applications open, create an account on the official Yenching Academy admissions portal.
Step 3: Complete the Online Application Form
Provide your personal, educational, and academic information carefully.
Step 4: Prepare Your Personal Statement
Write a compelling personal statement explaining your academic background, interests, achievements, and reasons for applying to the Yenching Academy.
The personal statement must not exceed 750 words.
Step 5: Write Your Statement of Research Interest
Your research statement should explain the topics related to China that you are interested in studying.
Applicants can discuss their academic interests, proposed research questions, and how the Yenching Academy’s interdisciplinary environment will support their future goals.
The statement can be up to 1,500 words, excluding citations.
Step 6: Upload Your Academic Documents
Upload your official transcripts and degree certificate or certificate of enrollment.
Step 7: Arrange Your Recommendation Letters
Contact two eligible academic recommenders early and provide them with enough time to prepare strong letters.
Step 8: Submit Your Application Before the Deadline
Review all information carefully before submitting your application.
For the 2027 cohort, the deadline for international applicants is November 30, 2026, at 9:00 AM Beijing Time.
Important Note for Partner University Students and Alumni
The Yenching Academy works with a number of Partner Universities around the world.
Students and alumni of Partner Universities may be required to complete an internal pre-selection or nomination process through their home university before submitting their application to the Yenching Academy.
Applicants should therefore check with their university well in advance to determine whether an internal deadline applies.
Why Should You Apply?
The Yenching Academy Scholarship offers several important advantages.
First, it provides substantial financial support, including tuition, accommodation, a monthly stipend, travel support, and field study funding.
Second, students study at Peking University, one of China’s most respected universities.
Third, the program provides a unique opportunity to study China from an interdisciplinary perspective while living and studying in Beijing.
Finally, Yenching Scholars become part of an international community of students, researchers, and alumni from different countries and academic backgrounds.
Tips for a Strong Yenching Academy Application
Competition for the Yenching Academy is highly selective. A strong application should demonstrate more than good grades.
Here are some useful tips:
Choose a clear academic direction. Your personal statement and research interests should demonstrate a genuine and well-developed interest in studying China.
Connect your past experience with your future goals. Explain how your academic background, professional experience, research, community involvement, or leadership activities have prepared you for the program.
Write a focused research statement. Avoid making your research interests too broad. Identify specific questions or themes that you would like to explore.
Choose strong recommenders. Select professors who know your academic abilities and can provide detailed examples of your potential.
Highlight leadership and community engagement. The Academy values applicants who demonstrate social responsibility, initiative, and leadership potential.
Apply early. Do not wait until the final days before the deadline. Give yourself enough time to prepare your essays, academic documents, and recommendation letters.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Yenching Academy Scholarship fully funded?
The Yenching Academy provides a generous fellowship to admitted scholars. The fellowship includes tuition fees, accommodation, a monthly stipend, one round-trip travel fare, and field study costs.
Can I apply if my Bachelor’s degree is in a different field?
Yes. Applicants can come from different academic backgrounds. However, they must demonstrate a strong interest in the interdisciplinary study of China.
Can final-year Bachelor’s students apply?
Yes. Students currently completing their Bachelor’s degree can apply if they are expected to receive their diploma by the required date for the intended enrollment year.
How long is the Master’s program?
The Yenching Academy Master’s Program in China Studies is a two-year program.
Do I need to know Chinese?
The program is designed for an international and interdisciplinary academic environment. However, students should carefully review the official curriculum and admission requirements, including any Chinese language components of the program.
What is the deadline for the 2027 Yenching Academy Scholarship?
The deadline for international applicants for the 2027 cohort is November 30, 2026, at 9:00 AM Beijing Time.
Final Thoughts
The Yenching Academy Scholarship 2027 is one of the most prestigious opportunities for international students who want to pursue graduate study in China.
With full financial support, access to Peking University’s academic environment, interdisciplinary research opportunities, and an international community of scholars, the program can be an excellent choice for students interested in China’s role in global affairs.
If your academic interests connect with China, international relations, politics, economics, history, law, culture, or social development, this scholarship deserves serious consideration.
Start preparing your documents early and focus on creating a strong personal statement and research proposal. With applications for the 2027 cohort opening on September 1, 2026, early preparation can give you enough time to develop a competitive application.
For the most up-to-date requirements and to begin your application, visit the official Yenching Academy admissions website.