Peking University (PKU) is one of China’s oldest and most prestigious universities, excelling in research, humanities, sciences, and innovation. It offers a global academic environment with partnerships across the world. PKU’s vibrant campus life and academic rigor attract top international talent.
- Location: Beijing, China
- Global Ranking: Top 20 (QS and THE World University Rankings)
- Programs: Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD programs in various fields of study
- Program Duration:
- Bachelor’s: 4 years
- Master’s: 2-3 years
- PhD: 3-6 years
- Application Time:
- Undergraduate: November to February (fall intake)
- Graduate: Starts from October; deadlines vary by program (typically Dec-March)
Study Areas: Program List
1. Science and Engineering
- Mathematics
- Physics
- Chemistry
- Earth and Space Sciences
- Environmental Science & Engineering
- Information and Communication Engineering
- Artificial Intelligence & Data Science
- Electrical and Computer Engineering
- Materials Science and Engineering
2. Health and Medical Sciences
- Clinical Medicine
- Public Health
- Pharmaceutical Sciences
- Biology and Biotechnology
- Nursing and Health Management
3. Humanities and Social Sciences
- Chinese Language and Literature
- History
- Philosophy
- Sociology
- Linguistics
- Archaeology and Museology
4. Business and Economics
- Economics
- Finance
- Management
- Accounting
- Marketing
- International Business
5. Law and Political Science
- Law (Chinese and International Law)
- Political Science and International Relations
- Public Policy
- Human Rights Studies
6. Foreign Languages and Area Studies
- English Language and Literature
- French, German, Spanish, and Other Languages
- Asian and African Studies
- Global Studies and Area Studies
7. Arts and Aesthetics
- Art History
- Visual Arts
- Music Studies
- Film and Media Studies
8. Interdisciplinary Programs
- Artificial Intelligence and Robotics
- Urban and Regional Planning
- Climate and Environmental Studies
- Data Science and Computational Studies
- Gender Studies
Peking University’s programs cover a wide range of traditional and emerging fields, reflecting its emphasis on interdisciplinary research and global collaboration. Programs are offered in both Chinese and English, making it an accessible destination for international students.
Admission Requirements (Bachelor, Masters, PhD): GPA and English, Standardized Test Scores
Bachelor’s Degree
- GPA: 3.0+ on a 4.0 scale (recommended)
- English Proficiency: IELTS 6.5+ / TOEFL 80+ (if the program is in English)
- Chinese Proficiency: HSK Level 5+ (for Chinese-taught programs)
Master’s and PhD Programs
- GPA: 3.2+ for Master’s, 3.5+ for PhD
- English Proficiency: IELTS 7.0+ / TOEFL 90+
- GRE/GMAT: Required for some programs (Business and Economics)
- Chinese Proficiency: HSK Level 5+ (if applicable)
Required Documents to Apply
- Undergraduate:
- Online application form
- Official transcripts
- Recommendation letters
- Personal statement
- Proof of Chinese/English proficiency
- Application fee receipt
- Graduate:
- Statement of purpose
- Official transcripts (undergraduate/graduate)
- Letters of recommendation (2-3)
- Resume/CV
- Research proposal (for PhD programs)
- GRE/GMAT scores (if applicable)
Tuition Fees for International Students
- Undergraduate Programs:
- Science & Engineering: 30,000-45,000 CNY per year (~$4,500-$6,500 USD)
- Humanities & Social Sciences: 23,000-35,000 CNY per year (~$3,200-$5,000 USD)
- Graduate Programs:
- Master’s: 30,000-50,000 CNY per year (~$4,500-$7,000 USD)
- PhD: 40,000-55,000 CNY per year (~$5,800-$8,000 USD)
Living Expenses
- Accommodation: 1,500-3,000 CNY per month (~$200-$420 USD)
- Meals: 1,200 CNY per month (~$170 USD)
- Transportation: 200 CNY per month (~$30 USD)
- Books and Supplies: 500-1,000 CNY per semester (~$70-$140 USD)
- Total Estimated Cost of Living: 50,000-70,000 CNY per year (~$7,000-$10,000 USD
Why Choose This University
- Reputation: One of the best universities in China and globally renowned
- Location: Situated in Beijing, the political and cultural heart of China
- Academic Excellence: Strong emphasis on research, with partnerships worldwide
- Cultural Experience: Rich exposure to Chinese culture and history
- Scholarships and Financial Aid: Various government and university-sponsored scholarships
Suggestions for International Applicants
- Start learning Chinese early, as it will be beneficial both for studies and daily life.
- Prepare well in advance for visa applications and scholarships.
- Reach out to international student communities at PKU for support.
- Keep track of deadlines; application periods can be strict.
- Apply for scholarships early, as funding is competitive.
Available Scholarships for International Students
- Chinese Government Scholarship (CSC): Covers tuition, living expenses, and accommodation
- Peking University Scholarship: Full or partial tuition waivers
- Belt and Road Scholarship: Supports students from Belt and Road Initiative countries
- Beijing Government Scholarship: Offers financial aid for tuition
- Confucius Institute Scholarship: For students pursuing Chinese language and cultural programs
FAQ about Peking University
- Does Peking University offer programs in English?
- Yes, PKU offers several Master’s and PhD programs in English, especially in business and economics.
- What is the minimum HSK level required?
- Most Chinese-taught programs require HSK Level 5 or above.
- Can international students work part-time in China?
- Yes, with permission from the university and immigration authorities, students can work part-time.
- What is the application fee for international students?
- The application fee is usually 400-800 CNY (~$60-$120 USD), depending on the program.
- Does PKU provide on-campus accommodation?
- Yes, but spaces are limited, and it is recommended to apply early for housing.