Yenching Academy 2025 Application Guide for International Students

The Yenching Academy of Peking University is one of the most prestigious and competitive scholarship programs globally, offering students from all over the world a unique opportunity to pursue interdisciplinary studies focused on China. This program annually enrolls approximately 120 students, with international students comprising around 80% of the cohort. The Yenching Academy aims to foster a deeper understanding of China’s role in the world by bringing together bright minds from diverse backgrounds to study, live, and learn in Beijing.

This guide will provide an extensive overview of the application process, qualifications required, and materials needed to apply for the Yenching Academy Scholarship. If you are a high-achieving student with a passion for China and an outstanding academic record, this scholarship could be your gateway to a transformative educational experience.

Yenching Academy Scholarship: Overview

What is the Yenching Academy?

The Yenching Academy is an elite institution within Peking University, one of China’s top universities. The Academy’s primary focus is the interdisciplinary study of China, offering students a Master’s in China Studies with a range of concentrations including Politics and International Relations, History and Archaeology, Philosophy and Religion, Economics and Management, Law and Society, and Literature and Culture. The program is designed to equip students with a profound understanding of China’s development and its role in the global landscape.

Why Choose the Yenching Academy?

The Yenching Academy offers several unique advantages:

• Interdisciplinary Curriculum: The program encourages a broad, interdisciplinary approach to understanding China, integrating perspectives from the humanities, social sciences, and other disciplines.
• Global Community: With a diverse cohort of students from around the world, the Yenching Academy fosters a truly global learning environment, promoting cross-cultural exchange and collaboration.
• Full Funding: The scholarship covers tuition fees, accommodation, a travel stipend for one round-trip journey between your home country and Beijing, and a living allowance to cover other expenses.
• Academic Excellence: Peking University is renowned for its rigorous academic standards and world-class faculty, providing an intellectually stimulating environment for scholars.

Qualifications for the Yenching Academy Scholarship

To be eligible for the Yenching Academy Scholarship, applicants must meet the following qualifications:

Academic Requirements

• Bachelor’s Degree: Applicants must have a minimum of a Bachelor’s degree in any field. Students currently enrolled in a Bachelor’s degree program must be on track to graduate no later than August 31, 2025.
• Outstanding Academic Record: A strong academic background is essential. Applicants should demonstrate excellence in their previous studies, typically reflected in high grades, honors, or other academic achievements.

Interest in China and Interdisciplinary Study

Applicants should exhibit a strong interest in the interdisciplinary study of China. This could be demonstrated through previous coursework, research, internships, or extracurricular activities related to China, as well as a clear motivation for studying China’s role in global affairs.

Extracurricular Achievement and Leadership Potential

The Yenching Academy seeks individuals who not only excel academically but also show leadership potential and a commitment to community engagement and social responsibility. This might be demonstrated through participation in student organizations, volunteer work, leadership roles, or other forms of community involvement.

English Proficiency

As the medium of instruction at the Yenching Academy is English, applicants must demonstrate proficiency in English. The minimum required scores are as follows:

• IELTS (Academic): Overall 7.0
• TOEFL (iBT): Overall 100
• Cambridge English Scale (Advanced): Overall 185
• CET 6: Overall 600
• TEM 4: Pass level of “良好” or above

Note: International applicants whose native language is English or who have graduated from an English-taught degree program (undergraduate or above) are not required to provide an English proficiency test report. However, applicants from the Chinese regions of Hong Kong, Macao, and Taiwan are required to provide an English proficiency test report even if they have attended or graduated from an English-taught degree program. For applicants from the Chinese Mainland, an English proficiency test report is compulsory.

Important: English proficiency tests must be taken after September 1, 2023. Currently, Yenching Academy does not accept TOEFL MyBest Scores, TOEFL iBT Home Edition, IELTS Indicator test, IELTS Online, or IELTS One Skill Retake. When booking your test, ensure that you choose “Yenching Academy of Peking University” as the designated recipient of your scores. The institution code for TOEFL is C488.

Required Application Materials

To apply for the Yenching Academy Scholarship, candidates must submit the following materials through the Yenching Academy's online application portal. Each applicant will need to create an account on the portal to access the application form and submit their documents.

1. Completed Online Application Form

The application form is the first step in your application process. It will ask for basic personal information, academic background, and details of your work experience, if any. Be thorough and precise when filling out this form, as it will serve as an introduction to your application.

2. Personal Statement (750 Words or Less)

Your personal statement is a crucial component of your application. It should provide insight into your motivations for applying to the Yenching Academy, your interest in China, and how this program aligns with your academic and career goals. Given the word limit, it's important to be concise yet compelling. Discuss how your background, experiences, and aspirations make you a strong candidate for the program.

3. Statement of Research Interest (Maximum 1500 Words)

The Statement of Research Interest is where you detail the research you intend to pursue during your time at the Yenching Academy. This document should outline your research question, its relevance to China Studies, and the methodology you plan to use. It’s essential to demonstrate a clear understanding of your chosen research area and how it fits within the broader interdisciplinary study of China. While citations are not included in the word count, they should be used appropriately to support your research proposal.

4. Curriculum Vitae (CV)

Your CV should provide a comprehensive overview of your academic and professional background, including your educational qualifications, work experience, research experience, publications (if any), and extracurricular activities. Highlight any achievements that demonstrate your leadership potential, community involvement, and interest in China.

5. Official Transcript(s)

You must submit official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions you have attended. These transcripts should provide a detailed record of your academic performance, including grades, courses completed, and degrees awarded. Ensure that your transcripts are accurate and up-to-date before submission.

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

If you have already graduated, submit copies of your diploma(s) as proof of your degree(s). If you are currently enrolled in a degree program, provide a certificate of enrollment that confirms your expected graduation date. This is especially important for applicants who are still completing their undergraduate studies.

7. Two Academic Letters of Recommendation

Applicants are required to submit two letters of recommendation from academic referees who can speak to their intellectual abilities, academic achievements, and suitability for the Yenching Academy program. These letters should be written by professors or academic advisors who have supervised your work and can provide detailed insight into your potential as a scholar.

8. English Proficiency Test Scores (If Applicable)

As mentioned earlier, English proficiency test scores are required for applicants who are not native English speakers and have not graduated from an English-taught program. Ensure that your test scores are sent directly from the testing organization to the Yenching Academy using the designated recipient code.

Application Process: Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Create an Account on the Yenching Academy Admissions Portal

Begin by creating an account on the Yenching Academy’s online application portal. This account will allow you to access the application form, upload your documents, and track the status of your application. Be sure to keep your login details safe, as you will need to log in multiple times throughout the application process.

Step 2: Complete the Online Application Form

Once your account is set up, fill out the online application form with accurate and complete information. The form will cover your personal details, academic history, work experience, and other relevant information. Double-check your entries to avoid any errors.

Step 3: Upload Your Personal Statement and Research Interest Statement

Upload your personal statement and statement of research interest as separate documents. These essays are critical to your application, so take the time to review and revise them before submission. Ensure that they are well-organized, clearly written, and free of grammatical errors.

Step 4: Submit Your CV, Transcripts, and Diplomas/Certificates

Upload your CV, official transcripts, and diplomas/certificates of enrollment. These documents should be in PDF format and should be clear and legible. If your transcripts are in a language other than English or Chinese, you may need to provide a certified translation.

Step 5: Request Academic Letters of Recommendation

Request your academic referees to submit their letters of recommendation directly through the Yenching Academy portal. Provide them with any necessary instructions and deadlines to ensure that their letters are submitted on time. It’s a good idea to follow up with your referees to confirm that they have completed the submission.

Step 6: Submit English Proficiency Test Scores (If Required)

If you are required to submit English proficiency test scores, make sure that these are sent directly to the Yenching Academy by the testing organization. Use the designated recipient code provided earlier to ensure that your scores are received and processed correctly.

Step 7: Review and Submit Your Application

Before submitting your application, review all the information and documents you have uploaded. Ensure that everything is accurate, complete, and free of errors. Once you are satisfied with your application, submit it through the portal. You should receive a confirmation email once your application has been successfully submitted.

Application Timeline

Application Deadline

The deadline for submitting your application to the Yenching Academy is typically in mid-December. However, specific dates may vary from year to year, so it is important to check the Yenching Academy website for the most current information.

Official Application Website

Notification of Results

After the application deadline, the Yenching Academy will review all submitted applications. Shortlisted candidates may be invited for interviews as part of the selection process. Final admission decisions are usually announced in the spring, with successful applicants receiving offers to join the program in the following academic year.

The Yenching Academy Scholarship offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to study at one of the world’s leading universities, engage in interdisciplinary research, and immerse yourself in the study of China. With full funding, access to world-class faculty, and a vibrant international community, this program is ideal for students who aspire to become leaders in their fields and contribute to a deeper understanding of China’s role in the global arena.

If you meet the qualifications and are passionate about China Studies, don’t miss this chance to apply for the Yenching Academy Scholarship. Begin your application today and take the first step towards a transformative educational experience in Beijing.

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