China · Fully funded
Yenching Academy of Peking University Fellowship 2027 in China
Updated 18 October 2026
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The Yenching Academy of Peking University offers one of the most prestigious fellowships in Asia: a fully funded two-year master's degree in China Studies in Beijing. Every admitted student, known as a Yenching Scholar, receives the fellowship. About three-quarters of each class are international students.
Deadline: 30 November 2026 at 9:00 AM Beijing time. That is 2:00 AM in Nigeria on 30 November, so submit by 29 November.
What the fellowship covers
- Tuition fees
- Accommodation in Yenching Academy House
- A monthly stipend
- One round-trip flight between your home city and Beijing
- Basic medical insurance
- Field study and research costs
The programme
- Master's in China Studies, two years, at Peking University in Beijing
- Interdisciplinary: you can focus on areas such as politics, economics, history, philosophy, law, society or culture
- Chinese language classes are compulsory for international scholars (you can apply to waive them if your Chinese is already strong)
- You don't need to speak Chinese to apply
Who can apply
- Graduates with at least a bachelor's degree in any field
- Final-year students who will graduate by August 2027
- An outstanding academic record
- Genuine interest in China and interdisciplinary study
- Leadership, community involvement and extracurricular achievements
- Strong English
Age: There is no strict age limit, but Yenching says no one over 29 has been admitted to the programme (except recipients of one special scholarship). The average entering age is 23.
English requirement
One of the following, taken after 1 September 2025 and sent directly by the testing organisation:
- IELTS Academic 7.0
- TOEFL iBT 100 (institution code C488)
- Cambridge Advanced 185
Documents
- Online application form
- Personal statement (750 words or less)
- Statement of research interest (up to 1,500 words, excluding citations)
- CV
- Official transcripts
- Degree certificate, or certificate of enrolment if you are still studying
- Two recommendation letters from full or associate professors in your intended field
- English test score
How to apply
- Read the requirements on the official Yenching Academy admissions page.
- Create an account on the application portal.
- Write your personal statement and research statement. Show why China, why Yenching and why now.
- Ask two professors for recommendation letters early.
- Submit everything before 30 November 2026, 9:00 AM Beijing time.
Note: If you study at one of Yenching's partner universities, you may need to go through an internal selection first. Check the partner list on the official site.
Official admissions page · FAQ