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China Masters Fully Funded

Yenching Academy Scholarship 2027: Fully Funded Master’s in China Studies at Peking University

The Yenching Academy of Peking University offers a fully funded master's degree program in China Studies for 120 scholars annually, with 75% international enrollment. The 2027 cohort application opens September 1, 2026.

September 26, 2026 ⏰ Deadline: Nov 30, 2026

Quick Overview

Host CountryChina
University/OrgPeking University
Degree LevelMasters
Funding TypeFully Funded
Fields of StudyAsian Studies, China Studies, Economics, Interdisciplinary Studies, International Relations
DeadlineNovember 30, 2026

Scholarship Overview

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Overview

The Yenching Academy of Peking University is a prestigious postgraduate college that brings together exceptional young scholars from around the world to study China through an interdisciplinary lens. Established as part of China’s leading university, the Academy enrolls approximately 120 new students each year, with international students comprising roughly 75% of the student body.

For African applicants from Zimbabwe and the SADC region, this represents a significant opportunity to gain deep expertise in China Studies while building global networks. The program is fully residential and designed for scholars who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership potential, and a genuine commitment to understanding China’s role in the world.

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What the Fellowship Covers

The Yenching Academy provides a comprehensive fellowship package that eliminates financial barriers for all admitted scholars:

  • Tuition fees: Full coverage of all academic costs
  • Accommodation: On-campus housing provided
  • Monthly stipend: Living expenses support
  • One round-trip travel fare: International airfare to and from Beijing
  • Field study costs: Domestic research and learning excursions within China

This funding structure makes the program accessible to talented scholars regardless of their economic background, including those from developing African nations who might otherwise face prohibitive costs for graduate study abroad.

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Eligibility Requirements

Applicants must meet the following criteria:

  • Hold a minimum of a Bachelor’s degree in any field, or be currently enrolled in a Bachelor’s program with expected graduation by August 2027
  • Demonstrate an outstanding academic record
  • Show strong interest in interdisciplinary study of China
  • Present evidence of extracurricular achievement, community engagement, social responsibility, and leadership potential
  • Meet English proficiency requirements

Important restriction: Peking University does not permit dual enrollment. Applicants cannot be enrolled in another degree program while studying at the Academy.

English Proficiency Requirements

International applicants must demonstrate English proficiency through one of the following tests taken after September 1, 2025:

  • IELTS (Academic): Overall 7.0
  • TOEFL iBT: Overall 100 (institution code: C488)
  • Cambridge English Scale (Advanced): Overall 185

Exemptions: International applicants whose native language is English, or who have graduated from an English-taught degree program at the undergraduate level or above, are not required to submit English test scores.

Note for African applicants: If you completed your undergraduate studies in English at a recognized institution, you may qualify for exemption. Verify this status when creating your application account.

Required Application Materials

All materials must be submitted in English through the online application portal:

  • Completed online application form
  • Personal statement (750 words maximum)
  • Statement of Research Interest (maximum 1,500 words, excluding citations)
  • Curriculum Vitae
  • Official transcript(s) from all post-secondary institutions
  • Diploma(s) or Certificate(s) of Enrollment
  • Two academic letters of recommendation from full professors or associate professors (or equivalent titles) in your intended field of study
  • English proficiency test report (unless exempt)

Score submission: For IELTS, TOEFL, and Cambridge tests, scores must be sent directly from the testing organization. Select “Yenching Academy of Peking University” as the designated recipient when booking your exam.

Not accepted: TOEFL MyBest Scores, TOEFL iBT Home Edition, IELTS Indicator, IELTS Online, or IELTS One Skill Retake.

Application Process

For International Candidates (including Zimbabwe/SADC)

Timeline:

  • Application opens: September 1, 2026
  • Application deadline: November 30, 2026 at 9:00 am Beijing time

Steps:

  1. Create an account on the Yenching Academy admissions portal
  2. Complete all required application materials in English
  3. Ensure recommendation letters are submitted directly by your referees
  4. Submit English test scores through official channels
  5. Submit application before the deadline

Partner University applicants: If you are a student or alumnus of a Partner University, you must complete your home university’s internal pre-selection process before submitting to the Yenching Academy.

Special Requirements

Former citizens of the Chinese Mainland, Hong Kong, Macao, or Taiwan who have emigrated to other countries must present:

  • Valid passport or citizenship documents dated before April 30, 2021
  • Proof of cancellation of Chinese nationality

Program Structure and Experience

The Yenching Academy emphasizes interdisciplinary learning, combining coursework in Chinese history, philosophy, politics, economics, and law with practical engagement. Scholars live together in the Jingyuan Courtyard, creating an immersive community of learning. The program includes field studies throughout China, allowing direct exposure to the country’s diverse regions and development patterns.

For African scholars, this provides valuable context for understanding China’s growing engagement with the continent and developing expertise relevant to future careers in diplomacy, international business, development policy, or academic research.

Contact Information

  • General inquiries: yca@pku.edu.cn | +86-10-6275 3625
  • Admissions (International): yca-admissions@pku.edu.cn | +86-10-6276 6358
  • Address: Jingyuan Courtyard 3, Peking University, 5 Yiheyuan Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100871

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Official scholarship page: https://yenchingacademy.pku.edu.cn/ADMISSIONS.htm

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Funding Coverage

Full tuition, accommodation, monthly stipend, round-trip international travel, field study costs

Eligibility Criteria

Bachelor's degree holders or final-year students in any field; outstanding academic record; leadership potential; English proficiency (exemptions available for English-native speakers and English-taught degree graduates)

Required Documents

Online application form, personal statement (750 words), research interest statement (1500 words), CV, official transcripts, diploma/enrollment certificate, two academic recommendation letters from professors, English test scores (if applicable)

Application Process

Create account on Yenching Academy portal; complete materials in English; submit by November 30, 2026; Partner University applicants must complete internal pre-selection first
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Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. You may apply in your final year of undergraduate study, provided you will receive your diploma by August 2027. You must submit a Certificate of Enrollment with your application.
No. The program is conducted entirely in English. Chinese language study is available but not required for admission.
The Yenching Academy explicitly values extracurricular achievement, community engagement, and leadership potential alongside academics. Competitive applicants typically demonstrate both strong grades and meaningful involvement beyond the classroom. If your extracurricular record is limited, emphasize any volunteer work, internships, or informal leadership roles in your personal statement.
For IELTS, TOEFL, and Cambridge tests, you must designate "Yenching Academy of Peking University" as the score recipient when booking your exam. For TOEFL, use institution code C488. Scores must be sent directly from the testing organization; self-reported scores are not accepted.
The fellowship provides a monthly stipend intended to cover living expenses. The program is intensive and residential; part-time employment is not addressed in published materials and should be considered unlikely given the full-time nature of the degree.
The admissions committee reviews complete applications after the November 30, 2026 deadline. Shortlisted candidates are typically invited to interviews. Final decisions are communicated through the admissions portal. The timeline for notifications is not specified in available materials.

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