Academic Heritage
China’s oldest modern national university, renowned for more than a century of academic leadership, intellectual freedom and cultural influence.
Beijing, ChinaQS #14
Peking University
Where China’s brightest minds have shaped the nation since 1898
Founded in 1898 as the first national comprehensive university in China, Peking University (PKU) is consistently ranked among the top two universities in the country and the top 15 worldwide. Set around the historic Weiming Lake and Boya Pagoda, its campus blends classical Chinese gardens with world-class research facilities. PKU offers international students a rare combination of academic prestige, deep cultural immersion and a global alumni network spanning government, science, business and the arts.
C9 LeagueProject 985Project 211Double First-Class
- QS World Ranking
- #14
- Location
- Beijing, China
- Founded
- 1898
- International Students
- 7,000+
- Teaching Language
- English / Chinese
- Tuition
- CNY 26,000 - 35,000 / year
- Intake
- September
- Application Deadline
- February 28
Why Choose
Why Choose Peking University
Key reasons international students choose Peking University for their studies in China.
Liberal Arts Excellence
Consistently ranked among Asia’s best in humanities, social sciences, economics, law and international relations.
China’s Leading Medical School
Home to the prestigious Peking University Health Science Center, offering internationally respected programs in medicine and biomedical sciences.
Public Policy & Global Affairs
A preferred destination for future diplomats, policymakers and public leaders, with exceptional strengths in politics, governance and international studies.
Comprehensive Learning Environment
One of the world’s most complete research universities, allowing students to combine disciplines and explore diverse academic interests.
Future National Leaders
Generations of influential scholars, scientists, entrepreneurs and government leaders began their careers at Peking University.
Rankings & Recognition
Academic Reputation
National designations and world rankings that signal academic strength and prestige.
QS World University Ranking#14
China National Ranking#2
National Designations
C9 LeagueProject 985Project 211Double First-Class
Programs
Programs for International Students
Explore the degree programs and academic strengths available to international students at Peking University.
MBBS (Bachelor of Medicine)
BachelorLanguage: English
Duration: 6 years
Tuition: CNY 75,000 / year
Intake: September
Scholarship: CSC & Beijing Government eligible
Computer Science & Technology
BachelorLanguage: English / Chinese
Duration: 4 years
Tuition: CNY 30,000 / year
Intake: September
Scholarship: Merit scholarships available
International Economics & Trade
BachelorLanguage: English
Duration: 4 years
Tuition: CNY 30,000 / year
Intake: September
Scholarship: President Scholarship eligible
Business Administration (MBA)
MasterLanguage: English
Duration: 2 years
Tuition: CNY 168,000 total
Intake: September
Scholarship: Partial tuition awards
International Relations
MasterLanguage: English
Duration: 3 years
Tuition: CNY 35,000 / year
Intake: September
Scholarship: CSC full scholarship eligible
Chinese Language Program
Non-DegreeLanguage: Chinese
Duration: 1 semester – 2 years
Tuition: CNY 26,000 / year
Intake: September & March
Scholarship: Confucius Institute Scholarship
Admission
Admission Requirements
What you need to apply to Peking University as an international student.
- Academic RequirementsHigh school diploma with strong grades for bachelor’s; a relevant bachelor’s degree for master’s programs. Competitive GPA expected.
- Language RequirementsEnglish-taught: IELTS 6.5 / TOEFL 90. Chinese-taught: HSK Level 4–5 depending on program.
- Required DocumentsPassport, transcripts, graduation certificate, study plan, two recommendation letters and a personal statement.
- Application DeadlineScholarship applicants: February 28. Self-funded applicants: April 30.
- Application ProcessSubmit online via the PKU international admissions portal, upload documents, then track your status online.
- InterviewShortlisted candidates may be invited to an online interview to assess academic fit and motivation.
- Medical ExaminationA Foreigner Physical Examination Form is required after admission and before visa issuance.
- Visa DocumentsPKU issues the JW202 form and Admission Notice so you can apply for an X1 student visa at a Chinese embassy.
Tuition & Scholarships
Costs & Funding
Transparent tuition, living costs and scholarship options for international students.
Cost Breakdown
- Annual Tuition
- CNY 26,000 - 35,000 / year
- Accommodation
- CNY 900 – 1,700 / monthOn-campus international dormitory
- Registration Fee
- CNY 800 (one-time)
- Medical Insurance
- CNY 800 / yearMandatory for all international students
- Estimated Living Cost
- CNY 2,500 – 4,000 / monthMeals, transport & personal expenses
Estimated First-Year CostCNY 60,000 – 110,000
Chinese Government Scholarship (CSC)
Coverage: Full tuition, on-campus accommodation, monthly stipend and comprehensive insurance.
Eligibility: Outstanding non-Chinese applicants for bachelor’s, master’s or doctoral degrees.
Deadline: February 28
Beijing Government Scholarship
Coverage: Full or partial tuition waiver for degree-seeking international students in Beijing.
Eligibility: Enrolled or admitted international students with strong academic records.
Deadline: March 15
Peking University President Scholarship
Coverage: Full tuition plus living stipend for exceptional self-funded applicants.
Eligibility: Top-ranked candidates demonstrating outstanding academic and research potential.
Deadline: February 28
Confucius Institute Scholarship
Coverage: Tuition, accommodation and stipend for Chinese language and teaching programs.
Eligibility: International students of Chinese language, literature or education.
Deadline: April 30
Campus Life
Life on Campus
What daily student life looks like at Peking University.
Historic Academic Campus
Study in an iconic campus centered around Weiming Lake and Boya Pagoda, where traditional Chinese architecture blends with modern academic facilities.
Rich Cultural Community
More than 300 student organizations organize lectures, debates, arts festivals, cultural exchanges and volunteer activities throughout the year.
World-Class Library
One of Asia’s largest academic libraries, holding over 8 million volumes and vast digital collections.
International Living Environment
Dedicated international student residences, multilingual campus services and a welcoming multicultural community.
Affordable Dining
Numerous student canteens, cafés and halal dining options offering authentic Chinese cuisine alongside international meals.
Convenient Beijing Access
Located in Beijing’s university district with direct subway access to Zhongguancun, museums, government institutions and cultural landmarks.
Gallery
Campus Gallery
A visual tour of Peking University.
Research & Innovation
Research Strengths
Research capacity and innovation ecosystem at Peking University.
Fundamental Research Excellence
Globally recognized for pioneering research in mathematics, physics, chemistry, life sciences and medicine.
Leading Medical Research
Home to Peking University Health Science Center, one of China’s most influential medical education and biomedical research institutions.
Humanities & Social Sciences
Internationally respected for economics, law, philosophy, international relations and public policy research.
National Think Tanks
Research institutes frequently contribute to China’s policy development in education, healthcare, economics and governance.
Global Academic Collaboration
Extensive partnerships with leading universities worldwide support joint research, dual degrees and academic exchanges.
Interdisciplinary Innovation
Encourages collaboration across science, medicine, engineering and the humanities to solve complex global challenges.
Career Outcomes
Graduate Outcomes
Where a degree from Peking University can take you after graduation.
Global Graduate School Pathways
Many graduates continue to master’s and doctoral programs at the world’s leading universities.
Government & Public Leadership
A preferred university for future diplomats, civil servants, policymakers and international organization professionals.
Finance & Consulting Careers
Graduates are highly recruited by investment banks, consulting firms and multinational corporations.
Medical & Research Careers
Outstanding pathways into hospitals, biomedical research institutes and pharmaceutical organizations.
Worldwide Employer Recognition
Peking University degrees enjoy strong recognition among employers across Asia, Europe and North America.
Powerful Alumni Network
Join one of China’s most influential alumni communities spanning academia, government and business.
Student Support
International Student Support
How Peking University helps international students settle in and succeed.
Accommodation Assistance
Guaranteed help securing on-campus or nearby housing before you arrive in Beijing.
Residence Permit
Step-by-step guidance converting your visa into a residence permit after enrollment.
Orientation
A comprehensive orientation week introduces campus, culture, safety and academic systems.
Academic Advising
Dedicated advisors help with course selection, registration and academic progress.
Chinese Language Support
Free and elective Mandarin courses help international students thrive in daily life.
Health Services
On-campus clinic, insurance guidance and English-speaking medical assistance.
Emergency Assistance
A 24-hour support line and staff on call for urgent situations at any time.
Visa Guidance
Expert help with JW202 forms, visa renewals and travel documentation.
Student Community
International student associations, buddy programs and cultural events build lasting friendships.
Timeline
Application Timeline
Key dates and milestones for applying to Peking University.
- November – December
Applications Open
The online international admissions portal opens for the following September intake.
- By February 28
Recommended Submission
Submit early to be considered for CSC, Beijing Government and President scholarships.
- March – May
Admission Review
Faculties review applications and conduct interviews for shortlisted candidates.
- June – July
Admission Results
Successful applicants receive their Admission Notice and scholarship decisions.
- July
JW202 & Visa Documents Issued
PKU mails your Admission Notice and JW202 form so you can apply for your student visa.
- July – August
Apply for X1 Visa
Apply for your X1 student visa at the Chinese embassy or consulate in your country.
- Early September
Arrival in Beijing
Arrive on campus, move into your dormitory and attend international student orientation.
- Mid September
Registration
Complete registration, medical check and residence permit—then classes begin.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to the questions international students ask most about Peking University.
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