The Yenching Academy Scholarship 2025 is one of the most prestigious, fully funded scholarships available to international students, especially for those looking to dive deep into the study of China. It provides an incredible opportunity for scholars to explore the complexities of China’s culture, politics, economy, history, and more, while being supported in one of the world’s top academic environments: Peking University.
This article will guide you through everything you need to know about the Yenching Academy Scholarship, from eligibility requirements to application materials and tips for success.
Fast Facts on the Yenching Academy Scholarship 2025
Funding: Full tuition, accommodation, living stipend, airfare, and more.
Eligibility: Non-Chinese citizens, with a Bachelor’s degree by August 31, 2026.
Application Deadline: December 1, 2025 (12:00 noon Beijing time).
Program Length: 2 years.
English Proficiency: IELTS 7.0, TOEFL iBT 100, or equivalent.
Fields of Study: Economics, Law, Politics, History, Culture, Literature, and more.
What Is the Yenching Academy Scholarship?
The Yenching Academy offers a two-year, interdisciplinary Master’s program in China Studies, conducted in English, to students from all over the world. This unique program equips students with a deep understanding of China’s history, culture, economics, politics, and more, preparing them to become future leaders with the knowledge and expertise to engage with one of the world’s most powerful and influential countries.
The Yenching Academy’s approach is interdisciplinary, with six primary research areas:
1. Economics and Management: Understanding China’s economic growth, its global trade networks, and management practices.
2. History and Archaeology: Exploring China’s past, from ancient civilizations to modern developments, and its influence on global history.
3. Law and Society: Delving into China’s legal systems, societal structures, and social norms.
4. Literature and Culture: Studying Chinese literature, art, philosophy, and cultural practices, both ancient and modern.
5. Philosophy and Religion: Understanding the roots of Chinese philosophy, including Confucianism, Taoism, and Buddhism, and their influence on the country.
6. Politics and International Relations: Examining China’s political system, foreign policy, and its role in global politics.
Students engage in both core courses and field studies, and they have the flexibility to choose elective courses and participate in extracurricular activities, offering a well-rounded and customized academic experience.
What’s Covered by the Fellowship?
One of the main draws of the Yenching Academy Scholarship is the comprehensive financial support it offers. The fellowship includes:
Full Tuition Fees: You won’t have to worry about paying tuition costs for the two-year program.
On-campus Accommodation: Housing at Peking University, where you’ll live with fellow students, provides an immersive experience in one of the top institutions in China.
Monthly Living Stipend: To cover your day-to-day expenses, including food, transport, and other costs.
One Round-trip Airfare to Beijing: The scholarship covers your travel expenses to and from China.
Field Study Expenses: Financial support for field studies that are part of the curriculum.
Basic Medical Insurance: You’ll be covered for basic health care during your time at the academy.
In addition, if you maintain good academic standing throughout the first year, you may apply for a second-year fellowship to continue receiving full financial support.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the Yenching Academy Scholarship, applicants must meet the following criteria:
Non-Chinese Citizenship: Applicants must be from countries other than China and hold a valid passport.
Bachelor’s Degree: You must have completed a Bachelor’s degree by August 31, 2026, or be on track to complete one before that date.
Strong Academic Record: Applicants should demonstrate an outstanding academic performance throughout their undergraduate studies.
Interest in China Studies: You must show a genuine interest in studying China from an interdisciplinary perspective, as the program focuses on understanding China’s history, culture, politics, and more.
Leadership Potential: The scholarship values candidates who exhibit strong leadership qualities and a history of community engagement.
English Proficiency: You must meet the English proficiency requirements by one of the following:
IELTS: Overall 7.0
TOEFL iBT: Overall 100
Cambridge English Scale (Advanced): Overall 185
CET 6: Minimum 600
TEM 4: Pass level of 良好 (good) or above.
Applicants from Hong Kong, Macao, and Taiwan must apply through both the Yenching Academy admissions portal and the Peking University Graduate Admissions website.
Required Application Materials
To apply for the Yenching Academy Scholarship, you will need to submit the following documents:
Completed Online Application Form: The first step in the application process.
Personal Statement (750 words): A personal essay that outlines your motivations for applying to the Yenching Academy and your academic interests.
Statement of Research Interest (1500 words): This is your opportunity to explain your academic goals, proposed research interests, and how the program aligns with your future career plans.
Curriculum Vitae (max. 2 pages): An updated CV detailing your academic background, relevant work experience, and other accomplishments.
Official Transcripts: Copies of your academic records.
Diplomas or Certificates of Enrollment: These documents should confirm your current or expected graduation date.
Two Academic Letters of Recommendation: These must come from professors who can speak to your academic abilities and potential.
English Proficiency Test Scores: Submit scores for IELTS, TOEFL, or another recognized test if applicable.
Note: If you take IELTS, TOEFL, or Cambridge exams, make sure the official scores are sent directly to the Yenching Academy.
Application Timeline
The application process for the Yenching Academy Scholarship follows this timeline:
Application Opens: September 10, 2025
Application Deadline: December 1, 2025 (12:00 noon Beijing time)
Interviews: Shortlisted candidates will be invited for online video interviews after the application deadline.
It’s important to ensure that all documents are submitted by the deadline. Missing any required materials can disqualify you from consideration.
How to Apply
To apply, visit the official Yenching Academy admissions portal and complete the online application. Be sure to submit all required documents before the deadline to be considered for this prestigious scholarship.
Why Apply for the Yenching Academy Scholarship?
The Yenching Academy Scholarship offers more than just financial support—it’s a ticket to an unparalleled academic experience at one of China’s top institutions. Through this fully funded Master’s program, you’ll gain access to world-class professors, diverse peers, and an unparalleled understanding of China’s role in global affairs. If you’re passionate about China and want to develop a career that bridges cultural and geopolitical divides, the Yenching Academy Scholarship is the ideal opportunity.