In short
Peking University, a top-ranked global institution in Beijing, offers comprehensive programs with competitive tuition and scholarship opportunities for international students on a beautiful, historic campus.
Key facts
- Type
- Public
- Founded
- 1898
- Students
- 35,915
- International students
- 3,900
- Acceptance rate
- 16%
- Tuition (intl)
- €4–7k/yr
- Languages
- EN, ZH
- Location
- Beijing, China
Peking University (PKU) is China's oldest and one of its two most prestigious comprehensive research universities, founded in 1898 in Beijing. Ranked #14 globally by QS 2024 and a member of the elite C9 League, PKU spans 38 schools covering humanities, sciences, engineering, law, and medicine on a celebrated classical campus in Haidian District. PKU is a leader in Chinese literature, philosophy, economics, mathematics, and life sciences, with over 200 research institutes driving cutting-edge scholarship. Its hospital system supports world-class medical education and research. Approximately 4,000 international students from 100+ countries study at PKU annually, benefiting from English-taught master's programmes, a world-renowned Chinese-language programme, and proximity to Beijing's immense professional and cultural resources.
Why study here
- QS #14 globally—one of Asia's and the world's elite research universities.
- Unrivalled access to China's political, business, and cultural networks from Beijing.
- Renowned Chinese-language programme for foreigners and growing English-taught master's and PhD offerings.
- Architecturally stunning classical campus recognised as one of Asia's most beautiful.
- Competitive annual tuition of EUR 3,500–7,000 with generous Chinese government scholarship options.
Student life
Campus life at PKU is vibrant and intellectual, with over 200 student clubs and organisations spanning arts, sports, debate, entrepreneurship, and culture. The scenic Weiming Lake and classical gardens provide a unique backdrop for study and socialising. Beijing offers world-class museums, restaurants, and entertainment, plus direct access to China's largest job market. The annual Peking University Games, cultural festivals, and extensive sports facilities enrich student life year-round.
Fees
InternationalInternational student tuition ranges from approximately CNY 28,000 (~EUR 3,500) per year for humanities to CNY 54,000 (~EUR 6,800) for medical/clinical programmes.
HomeDomestic students pay subsidised fees set by the Chinese government, typically CNY 5,000–10,000 per year depending on programme.
LivingLiving costs in Beijing average CNY 60,000–90,000 per year (~EUR 7,500–11,000), including accommodation, food, transport, and personal expenses.
PKU offers university-managed dormitories for international students at subsidised rates. Scholarship holders may have tuition and accommodation covered.
Admissions
Academic transcriptsOfficial transcripts from all previous institutions.
Degree certificateCopy of highest degree certificate obtained or expected.
Recommendation lettersTwo academic recommendation letters required.
Study plan / research proposalRequired for graduate applicants detailing intended research area.
Language proficiencyHSK 4–6 for Chinese-taught; TOEFL/IELTS for English-taught programmes.
TOEFL90 iBT
IELTS6.5
Rankings
QS World University Rankings 2024#14
Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2024#12
Academic Ranking of World Universities (ARWU) 2023#26
University scholarships
Chinese Government Scholarship (CSC)Full tuition + accommodation + monthly stipend
Peking University President ScholarshipFull or partial tuition waiver for outstanding international students
Yenching Academy ScholarshipFull funding for master's in China Studies
Accreditation
Peking University is accredited by the Ministry of Education of the People's Republic of China and is designated under the Double First-Class Construction for world-class universities and disciplines.
Programs
a selectionPeking University · China
Factor Analysis - Peking University
This program delves into Factor Analysis, a statistical method originating from early work on intelligence measurement. Its primary goal, similar to Principal Component Analysis, is to reduce the dimensionality of data by compressing information from multiple variables into a smaller set of derived variables called 'factors'. These factors are designed to represent underlying structures and group original variables, aiming for a more parsimonious and interpretable model. The course explores both R-type factor analysis, which reduces the number of variables while keeping observations constant, and Q-type factor analysis, which reduces the number of observations while preserving the variables. The curriculum covers the theoretical underpinnings of factor analysis, including the orthogonal factor model, its mathematical formulation, assumptions, and the interpretation of its components. Students will learn about factor loadings, commonalities, unique variances, and how these relate to the covariance structure of the observed variables. The program also examines the relationship between factor analysis and linear models, highlighting key differences in their coefficients and the nature of latent variables. Further modules address the estimation of factor models, including methods like Principal Component Method and Maximum Likelihood Estimation. Students will gain insights into the process of identifying and estimating factor loadings and unique variances, as well as techniques for rotating factors to achieve more meaningful interpretations. The course also draws comparisons with Principal Component Analysis, distinguishing their objectives, interpretations, and mathematical properties.
Master's
Level
—
Tuition
—
Duration
Peking University · China
Financial Time Series Analysis Lecture Notes
This program, referred to as 'Financial Time Series Analysis Lecture Notes,' delves into advanced statistical modeling techniques. A significant focus is placed on Hidden Markov Models (HMM), which are powerful tools for analyzing data where the underlying states are not directly observable. These models have broad applications across various fields, including biological research, pattern recognition, and financial modeling. The course material explores the mathematical underpinnings of HMM, including concepts like mixed distributions and Markov chains. It provides detailed explanations and examples, such as fitting models to earthquake data, to illustrate practical applications. The curriculum also covers essential statistical concepts like transition probabilities, stationary distributions, and likelihood functions, offering a comprehensive understanding of time series analysis from a statistical perspective.
Master's
Level
—
Tuition
—
Duration
Peking University · China
Master of Business Administration (MBA)
Peking University's Guanghua School of Management offers a globally recognized MBA program designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills to excel in the dynamic business world. Located in Beijing, the program provides a unique opportunity to engage with real-life business scenarios through consulting projects, company visits, and international study trips, with a particular focus on the Asia-Pacific business landscape. The Guanghua MBA is ranked among the top programs in Asia and globally, attracting students interested in understanding and leading in the region's economic development. The curriculum is structured to foster practical application of business principles, preparing graduates for impactful careers.
Master's
Level
—
Tuition
24 mo
Duration
Peking University · China
Master of Laws (LL.M.)
The Master of Laws (LL.M.) program at Peking University School of Transnational Law (STL) is designed for students who have already earned a law degree and are seeking to deepen their understanding of international and comparative law. The program focuses on equipping students with advanced legal knowledge and analytical skills relevant to a globalized legal landscape. STL offers a unique curriculum that blends common law and civil law traditions, providing a comprehensive legal education. The LL.M. program at STL is particularly suited for those interested in comparative legal studies, international business law, or transnational legal practice. The curriculum is taught in English, fostering an international academic environment. Graduates are prepared for a variety of legal careers, including practice in international law firms, multinational corporations, governmental organizations, and academic institutions.
Master's
Level
—
Tuition
24 mo
Duration
Peking University · China
National Excellent University Student Summer Camp
Peking University School of Transnational Law (STL), established in 2008, is the only law school in mainland China that offers a comprehensive common law education. It uniquely combines the American Juris Doctor (J.D.) and Chinese Juris Master (J.M.) programs, aiming to cultivate globally competitive legal professionals for Shenzhen, the Greater Bay Area, and China. STL focuses on 'transnational rule of law', training legal talents proficient in both Chinese law (statutory law methods) and American law (common law/case law methods). Its core mission is to prepare professional legal talents with a global vision, proactive spirit, and excellent skills for a more open and innovative China. Since 2009, STL has hosted the annual Summer Honors Program (SHP) for outstanding university students. This program utilizes Socratic teaching methods, integrates introductory courses in common law J.D. and Chinese J.M. programs, and includes visits to renowned corporate legal departments and relevant legal institutions. The goal is to foster students' interest and passion for law and guide them into the legal profession. Many SHP participants subsequently enroll in STL's J.D. and J.M. degree programs.
Master's
Level
—
Tuition
—
Duration
Peking University · China
Processing Math
Peking University offers a program focused on Processing Math, delving into advanced topics within mathematics, probability, and stochastic processes. This program explores concepts such as Gaussian distribution, Gaussian processes, and the fundamental principles of Brownian motion. Students will gain a deep understanding of the mathematical frameworks that underpin these areas, including their properties, definitions, and theoretical underpinnings.
Master's
Level
—
Tuition
24 mo
Duration
Scholarships
for China
full fundingTsinghua University
Schwarzman Scholars
Open to applicants of any nationality who hold (or will hold) a bachelor's degree by the programme start and are under ~29 years old at the deadline. English proficiency is required; Chinese is not. Selection seeks demonstrated leadership, academic strength, and the potential to bridge China and the world.
full
Funding
€65k
Max
Oct 15, 2026
Deadline
full fundingTsinghua University (sponsored by Siemens Ltd., China)
Siemens China Scholarship at Tsinghua University
International students who meet Tsinghua University's PhD admission requirements, hold a strong academic background in computer science, engineering or AI, apply to one of the approved Siemens research fields, and do not hold another major PhD scholarship at Tsinghua. Applicants should be willing to collaborate on industry-focused research with Siemens.
full
Funding
€22k
Max
Feb 28, 2027
Deadline
full fundingChina Scholarship Council (CSC), Ministry of Education, People's Republic of China
Chinese Government Scholarship (CSC)
Open to non-Chinese citizens in good health who meet the academic and age requirements for their level (under ~25 for bachelor's, ~35 for master's, ~40 for doctoral, as a guideline). Applicants apply via a Chinese university, a Chinese embassy, or another dispatching authority, depending on the programme.
full
Funding
€20k
Max
Apr 30, 2027
Deadline
full fundingTsinghua University / China Scholarship Council (CSC)
Tsinghua University Chinese Government Scholarship (CGS)
For non-Chinese citizens in good health who apply for a bachelor's, master's, or doctoral degree at Tsinghua University in Beijing. The Chinese Government Scholarship is administered by Tsinghua as a designated host university; applicants apply both to the China Scholarship Council (CSC) and for Tsinghua admission, and must meet the relevant age and academic requirements.
full
Funding
€15k
Max
Mar 1, 2027
Deadline
full fundingShanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine (SHSMU)
SJTU School of Medicine Chinese Government Scholarship
Open to non-Chinese citizens in good health who are not currently studying in China. Master's applicants must hold a bachelor's degree and be under 35; doctoral applicants must hold a master's degree and be under 40. Applicants must show excellent academic records and must not hold any other Chinese government or organisation scholarship.
full
Funding
€15k
Max
Apr 14, 2027
Deadline
full fundingSoochow University
Soochow University Chinese Government Scholarship
Open to non-Chinese citizens in good health with a valid passport. Master's applicants need a bachelor's degree with good grades and should preferably be under 35; doctoral applicants need a master's degree with strong academic results and should preferably be under 40. Applicants must not already hold another Chinese government or university scholarship.
full
Funding
€14k
Max
Feb 28, 2027
Deadline
Frequently asked questions
What are the tuition fees for international students at Peking University?
+
International student tuition at Peking University ranges from approximately CNY 28,000 per year for humanities programs to CNY 54,000 for medical programs. Scholarship holders may have tuition covered.
What are the living costs for international students in Beijing?
+
Living costs in Beijing average CNY 60,000–90,000 per year, which includes accommodation, food, transport, and personal expenses. PKU offers university-managed dormitories for international students at subsidized rates.
Does Peking University offer English-taught programs?
+
Yes, Peking University offers a growing number of English-taught master's and PhD programs. They also have a world-renowned Chinese-language program for foreigners.
What are the admission requirements for international students?
+
Admission is competitive and requires academic transcripts, a degree certificate, two recommendation letters, and a study plan for graduate applicants. Language proficiency is also required, with HSK levels for Chinese-taught programs and TOEFL/IELTS for English-taught ones.
Are there scholarships available for international students at Peking University?
+
Peking University offers several scholarships for international students, including the Chinese Government Scholarship (CSC) which provides full funding, the Peking University President Scholarship, and the Yenching Academy Scholarship for China Studies.
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