The Echoing Green Fellowship is a globally recognized, fully funded program designed to support early-stage social entrepreneurs and changemakers who are addressing pressing social, economic, and environmental challenges in their communities. Since its inception in 1987, Echoing Green has identified and nurtured emerging leaders who have innovative ideas for social change and the potential to build organizations that generate lasting impact.

The fellowship aims to accelerate the development of social ventures by providing financial support, leadership training, and mentorship. Echoing Green fellows receive access to a global network of peers, alumni, and advisors who provide strategic guidance, operational advice, and opportunities for collaboration. This program has supported initiatives in areas such as education, health, environmental sustainability, economic development, human rights, civic engagement, and technology for social good.

Unlike academic fellowships or traditional scholarships, the Echoing Green Fellowship focuses on practical social innovation. Applicants must have a clear, actionable plan for an initiative or organization they are leading or plan to launch. Fellows gain not only funding but also structured support to refine their strategy, scale their work, and enhance their leadership capabilities.

The fellowship is open to applicants worldwide and targets individuals at the early to mid-stage of their social impact careers. Candidates are evaluated based on the significance of their ideas, the feasibility and sustainability of their proposed ventures, and their demonstrated leadership potential.

For the 2026 cohort, applications are open globally, with particular emphasis on innovative, high-impact projects that have the potential to transform communities and address systemic problems.

Location

Program Format: Global

The Echoing Green Fellowship operates internationally. Fellows remain in their home countries or work in their local communities while receiving support from Echoing Green. Some optional in-person convenings or retreats may occur in the United States, providing networking opportunities and peer learning.

The program is designed to accommodate leaders working in diverse geographic locations, with a focus on achieving measurable social impact within their communities.

Positions / Study Fields

The Echoing Green Fellowship does not restrict applicants to specific academic fields. Instead, it supports social entrepreneurs and leaders across a variety of sectors, including:

Civic Engagement and Human Rights

• Strengthening democracy, human rights advocacy, and civic participation

• Community organizing and activism

Education

• Access to quality education, literacy programs, and early childhood development

• Innovative educational technologies and pedagogical approaches

Health and Well-being

• Public health initiatives, healthcare access, and mental health programs

• Disease prevention and health education

Environmental Sustainability

• Climate action, environmental conservation, and sustainable agriculture

• Renewable energy and community-based sustainability projects

Economic Development and Equity

• Job creation, microfinance, and financial inclusion

• Economic empowerment for marginalized populations

Technology for Social Good

• Digital platforms or tools that address social challenges

• Data-driven solutions to community problems

The program is particularly suited for leaders developing ventures that combine creativity, measurable outcomes, and scalable impact.

Compensation / Funding

The Echoing Green Fellowship provides a comprehensive financial package to support fellows during the early stages of their social venture.

Funding typically includes:

• Seed funding or operating grants for the fellow’s project

• Leadership development resources

• Access to mentorship and strategic support

• Travel allowances for optional convenings or retreats

Funding levels vary depending on the fellow’s project and location, but all financial support is intended to enable fellows to dedicate themselves fully to the growth and impact of their initiatives.

Benefits

The Echoing Green Fellowship offers significant benefits beyond financial support:

1. Seed Funding for Social Ventures

Provides initial funding to launch or scale a social innovation project.

2. Leadership Development

Fellows receive training on organizational management, fundraising, impact measurement, and strategic planning.

3. Mentorship and Advisory Support

Fellows gain guidance from experienced social entrepreneurs, advisors, and alumni networks.

4. Peer Learning Community

Participants join a cohort of global changemakers, fostering collaboration and knowledge exchange.

5. Global Network Access

Echoing Green maintains a network of more than 900 alumni and advisors across 60 countries.

6. Visibility and Recognition

Fellows gain international recognition for their initiatives, which can attract further partnerships and funding.

7. Professional Development Resources

Access to workshops, webinars, and resources on scaling social impact and improving operational capacity.

8. Optional In-Person Convenings

Fellows may attend global retreats to share insights, build partnerships, and learn from experts in social innovation.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must meet several eligibility requirements to be considered for the Echoing Green Fellowship:

1. Early-Stage Social Entrepreneurs

Applicants should be leading a new or recently established initiative, or planning to launch a high-impact social venture.

2. Demonstrated Leadership Potential

Candidates must show evidence of leadership skills and initiative, with a commitment to social change.

3. Innovative, Scalable Ideas

Fellows must present creative, feasible solutions to address pressing social issues in their communities.

4. Global Eligibility

Applications are open to individuals worldwide.

5. Commitment to Community Impact

Applicants should demonstrate a dedication to addressing systemic challenges with measurable objectives.

6. Capacity to Execute

Candidates must have the skills, resources, and motivation to implement their proposed initiative successfully.

Who Should Apply

The fellowship is ideal for:

• Early-career changemakers and social innovators

• Entrepreneurs seeking to launch or scale social ventures

• Leaders addressing community challenges through creative solutions

• Individuals passionate about measurable social impact and community transformation

Successful applicants are proactive, resilient, and able to navigate challenges while building sustainable initiatives. The fellowship encourages diversity in background, sector, and geographic location.

Required Documents

Applicants must submit a complete package for consideration. Required materials generally include:

• Completed online application form

• Personal statement outlining the problem, solution, and leadership vision

• Project plan or proposal for the social venture

• Curriculum Vitae (CV) or résumé

• Supporting materials such as photos, videos, or impact metrics

• References or letters of recommendation

• Any documentation demonstrating current work or achievements in the social sector

Incomplete or late submissions may result in disqualification.

How to Apply (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Review Eligibility and Program Guidelines

Visit the official Echoing Green website to confirm eligibility and understand fellowship expectations.

Step 2: Prepare Application Materials

Develop a clear project proposal, CV, personal statement, and references.

Step 3: Submit Online Application

Complete the application form and upload all required materials via the fellowship portal.

Step 4: Evaluation Process

Applications are reviewed by a panel of experts, including social entrepreneurs, program staff, and alumni advisors.

Step 5: Interview Stage

Shortlisted candidates may participate in virtual or in-person interviews to assess leadership potential and project feasibility.

Step 6: Selection Notification

Successful candidates receive official notification and guidance on fellowship commencement and support.

Deadline

Applications for the 2026 cohort are expected to open during mid-2025, with deadlines varying by region. Prospective applicants should check the official website for precise dates.

Apply Link

https://www.echoinggreen.org/fellowship/

Tips & Common Mistakes

1. Demonstrate Measurable Impact

Fellows are evaluated based on the potential social impact and evidence of results from prior initiatives.

2. Be Clear and Concise

Applications should clearly describe the problem, solution, and strategy for achieving impact.

3. Focus on Leadership Skills

Highlight examples of initiative, resilience, and leadership in your community work.

4. Avoid Vague Proposals

Proposals should include specific objectives, measurable outcomes, and a realistic plan for execution.

5. Leverage References Wisely

Choose references who can speak in detail about your leadership, skills, and commitment to social impact.

6. Show Scalability Potential

Explain how your project could grow or replicate to benefit broader communities.

FAQ

1. Is this a financial grant or a full fellowship?

It is a full fellowship that includes seed funding, mentorship, leadership development, and access to a global network, designed to support social venture development.

2. Can existing organizations apply?

Yes. Applicants can be individuals with a project idea or founders of recently established social ventures.

3. Are applicants limited to certain countries or regions?

No. The fellowship is open globally to leaders from any country.

The Schmidt Science Fellows Program is a highly selective, fully funded international postdoctoral fellowship designed to develop the next generation of scientific leaders capable of solving complex global challenges through interdisciplinary research. The fellowship supports outstanding PhD graduates from around the world who are interested in applying their expertise in a new scientific field while working at leading research institutions.

The program was established with support from Eric Schmidt and Wendy Schmidt, in partnership with the Rhodes Trust. It was created to encourage interdisciplinary scientific exploration and to help scientists develop the leadership skills required to address major global issues such as climate change, healthcare challenges, technological innovation, and sustainable development.

Each year, a small cohort of fellows is selected through a highly competitive process involving nomination by participating universities. Fellows undertake a one-year postdoctoral placement at a research institution different from where they completed their PhD, and importantly, in a discipline that is different from their doctoral field. This encourages researchers to expand their expertise and develop new approaches to scientific discovery.

The fellowship program emphasizes the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration. Modern scientific challenges often require knowledge that spans multiple academic disciplines. By encouraging fellows to work outside their original area of expertise, the Schmidt Science Fellows Program aims to accelerate scientific breakthroughs that could not emerge from single-discipline research.

In addition to their research placements, fellows participate in a structured leadership development program that includes mentorship, workshops, networking opportunities, and engagement with international research leaders. This leadership component is designed to help fellows become influential scientists who can contribute to science policy, innovation ecosystems, and global research collaboration.

The Schmidt Science Fellows Program has quickly gained international recognition as one of the most prestigious fellowships for early-career researchers. Alumni of the program continue to contribute to major scientific advancements and collaborate across global research networks.

For the 2026 fellowship cycle, applications are open to eligible PhD students and recent doctoral graduates who are nominated by participating universities around the world.

Location

Program Format: Global

Fellows conduct their research at host institutions located around the world. Host universities or research centers may be located in countries such as the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, Germany, Australia, and other research-intensive nations.

While fellows are free to conduct research globally, they must move to an institution that is different from their doctoral university. The program also encourages fellows to enter a new discipline in order to strengthen interdisciplinary collaboration.

Positions / Study Fields

The Schmidt Science Fellows Program focuses on research across a broad range of scientific and technical disciplines.

Eligible research fields include:

Natural Sciences

• Physics

• Chemistry

• Biology

• Earth sciences

• Astronomy

Engineering and Technology

• Biomedical engineering

• Materials science

• Electrical engineering

• Mechanical engineering

• Computer science

Data and Computational Sciences

• Artificial intelligence

• Data science

• Computational biology

• Machine learning

Environmental and Climate Sciences

• Climate research

• Sustainability science

• Environmental engineering

Interdisciplinary Scientific Research

Projects that combine methods or perspectives from multiple scientific disciplines are particularly encouraged.

Applicants must propose research that is different from their doctoral specialization, which is one of the defining features of the program.

Compensation / Funding

The fellowship provides comprehensive financial support to enable fellows to focus fully on their research and leadership development.

The funding package includes:

• A competitive postdoctoral stipend of approximately $100,000 per year

• Research support and travel funding

• Participation in leadership training programs

• Support for collaboration and networking activities

Funding is provided by the Schmidt Science Fellows initiative in partnership with the Rhodes Trust.

Benefits

The Schmidt Science Fellows Program provides both financial support and professional development opportunities.

1. Competitive Fellowship Stipend

Fellows receive a stipend of around $100,000 per year, allowing them to focus on their research without financial pressure.

2. Interdisciplinary Research Opportunity

Participants conduct research in a discipline different from their PhD field, helping them develop new expertise.

3. Global Research Placement

Fellows work at leading universities or research institutions worldwide.

4. Leadership Development Program

The fellowship includes structured leadership training, seminars, and workshops designed to develop scientific leadership.

5. Mentorship and Advisory Support

Fellows receive mentorship from leading researchers, policy experts, and program advisors.

6. Travel and Collaboration Funding

Financial support is provided for conferences, collaborative research visits, and professional development activities.

7. International Network

Participants join a global network of fellows, scientists, and research leaders.

8. Exposure to Global Scientific Challenges

The program encourages fellows to focus on research areas that address pressing global issues.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must meet several requirements to be eligible for the Schmidt Science Fellows Program.

1. PhD Status

Applicants must be in the final year of their PhD or have recently completed their doctoral degree.

2. University Nomination

Candidates must be nominated by a participating university. Direct individual applications are generally not accepted.

3. Academic Excellence

Applicants must demonstrate strong academic performance and research achievements.

4. Interdisciplinary Research Interest

Candidates must propose research in a field different from their PhD discipline.

5. Leadership Potential

Applicants should demonstrate leadership ability and a commitment to addressing global challenges.

6. Global Eligibility

The program is open to applicants from participating universities worldwide.

7. Commitment to Fellowship Activities

Fellows must participate in leadership development activities organized by the program.

Meeting eligibility requirements does not guarantee nomination or selection due to the highly competitive nature of the program.

Who Should Apply

The Schmidt Science Fellows Program is suitable for:

• Outstanding PhD students nearing graduation

• Early-career researchers interested in interdisciplinary research

• Scientists who want to expand into a new research field

• Researchers interested in global scientific collaboration

• Individuals interested in leadership roles in science and innovation

Applicants should have a strong academic record, research publications or achievements, and a clear interest in addressing global scientific challenges.

Required Documents

Applicants typically need to prepare the following documents during the nomination and application process:

• Completed fellowship application form

• Curriculum Vitae (CV)

• Academic transcripts

• Proof of PhD enrollment or completion

• Research proposal outlining interdisciplinary research plans

• Letters of recommendation

• Nomination from a participating university

• Personal statement describing leadership goals

Additional documents may be requested depending on the nomination process.

How to Apply (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Check University Participation

Confirm whether your university participates in the **Schmidt Science Fellows nomination program.

Step 2: Contact Your University

Interested candidates usually apply through internal university nomination processes.

Step 3: Prepare Application Materials

Prepare documents such as your CV, research proposal, academic transcripts, and personal statement.

Step 4: University Nomination

Your university selects candidates to nominate for the fellowship.

Step 5: Submit the Fellowship Application

Nominated candidates submit their full application through the official Schmidt Science Fellows portal.

Step 6: Review and Evaluation

Applications are evaluated by scientific experts and fellowship selection committees.

Step 7: Interview Stage

Shortlisted candidates may be invited for interviews.

Step 8: Final Selection

Selected fellows are notified and begin planning their postdoctoral placements.

Deadline

For the 2026 fellowship cohort, the nomination and application timeline typically occurs during mid-2025, though specific deadlines vary depending on the participating university’s internal nomination process.

Applicants must confirm deadlines with their university or the official fellowship website.

Apply Link

https://www.schmidtsciencefellows.org/apply/

Tips & Common Mistakes

1. Start Early with University Nomination

Many applicants miss the fellowship because they overlook the internal university nomination process.

2. Propose Genuine Interdisciplinary Research

Your research plan must clearly demonstrate a transition into a new discipline.

3. Highlight Leadership Experience

The program values leadership potential alongside scientific excellence.

4. Build a Strong Research Proposal

Your proposal should explain how interdisciplinary research can address major global challenges.

5. Select Strong Referees

Recommendation letters should come from advisors or senior researchers familiar with your work.

6. Avoid Staying Within Your Original Field

Proposals that remain too close to the applicant’s PhD discipline may be less competitive.

FAQ

1. Can applicants apply directly without a university nomination?

No. Candidates must typically be nominated by a participating university before applying.

2. Is the fellowship limited to specific scientific disciplines?

No. The fellowship supports research across a wide range of scientific and engineering fields.

3. How long does the fellowship last?

The Schmidt Science Fellows Program generally supports one year of postdoctoral research with leadership development activities.

Established by Barack Obama, the former President of the United States, the fellowship aims to empower individuals who have already demonstrated a commitment to public service and social impact. Rather than focusing on academic research or degree programs, the Obama Foundation Fellowship is designed to strengthen the leadership capacity of practitioners working on real-world challenges.

Each year, the fellowship selects a small cohort of leaders from different regions of the world. These fellows are individuals who are already leading initiatives in fields such as community development, public policy, social entrepreneurship, climate action, education, health, technology for social good, and civic engagement.

The program focuses on leadership training, networking, collaboration, and strategic development. Fellows participate in virtual learning sessions, workshops, leadership coaching, and collaborative activities designed to help them scale the impact of their initiatives. They also gain access to a global network of experts, policymakers, entrepreneurs, and fellow changemakers.

The fellowship typically lasts around two years and includes structured learning opportunities, mentorship from experienced leaders, and support for project development. Fellows also participate in gatherings, conferences, and events organized by the Obama Foundation where they share knowledge, build partnerships, and explore solutions to global challenges.

One of the distinguishing features of the Obama Foundation Fellowship is its focus on community impact. Applicants are expected to demonstrate that they are already working on projects that address pressing issues in their communities. The program aims to help fellows refine their strategies, expand their networks, and strengthen the long-term sustainability of their initiatives.

The fellowship is open to applicants worldwide and encourages individuals from diverse backgrounds, professions, and geographic regions to apply. The program values diversity, collaboration, and cross-sector leadership.

Location

Program Format: Global (primarily virtual)

The Obama Foundation Fellowship operates as an international program that connects fellows from different countries through online platforms, virtual workshops, and leadership sessions. Some cohorts may participate in in-person gatherings or events organized by the Obama Foundation, often hosted in major cities around the world.

Because the program focuses on supporting leaders who are already working in their communities, fellows typically remain in their home countries while participating in the fellowship.

Positions / Study Fields

The Obama Foundation Fellowship does not follow traditional academic fields. Instead, it supports leaders working on projects related to social impact and public good.

Common areas of focus include:

Civic Leadership and Governance

Initiatives focused on strengthening democratic institutions, civic participation, public policy innovation, and transparency.

Community Development

Programs addressing poverty reduction, housing access, local economic development, and urban community initiatives.

Climate and Environmental Action

Projects focused on sustainability, climate resilience, environmental conservation, and green development.

Education and Youth Empowerment

Initiatives improving access to education, youth leadership development, and educational innovation.

Public Health and Well-being

Programs addressing health equity, community healthcare access, mental health awareness, and health policy reform.

Technology for Social Impact

Projects using technology to solve social challenges, improve access to services, and support inclusive development.

Social Entrepreneurship

Innovative business or nonprofit models designed to address social or environmental problems.

Applicants from many professional backgrounds can apply as long as they are leading an initiative that creates measurable social impact.

Compensation / Funding

The Obama Foundation Fellowship provides financial support designed to allow fellows to focus on leadership development and expanding their initiatives.

Funding varies depending on the fellowship cohort and program structure, but financial support is typically provided to assist fellows with project development and participation in fellowship activities.

Benefits

The Obama Foundation Fellowship offers several benefits designed to support professional development and leadership growth.

1. Leadership Development Training

Fellows participate in structured leadership programs focusing on strategy, collaboration, communication, and organizational development.

2. Global Network Access

Participants become part of the Obama Foundation’s global network of fellows, leaders, policymakers, and social innovators.

3. Mentorship and Coaching

Fellows receive guidance from experienced mentors, policy experts, and leaders working across different sectors.

4. Project Development Support

The program helps fellows strengthen the impact and sustainability of their initiatives through strategic guidance and collaboration.

5. Collaboration Opportunities

Fellows work with peers from different countries and sectors, encouraging cross-border learning and partnerships.

6. International Visibility

The fellowship provides exposure to international audiences through events, forums, and collaborations organized by the Obama Foundation.

7. Access to Events and Workshops

Participants attend leadership workshops, seminars, and conferences related to social impact and public leadership.

8. Alumni Network

Graduates of the fellowship join a global community of changemakers who continue to collaborate after the program ends.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must meet several eligibility requirements to apply for the fellowship.

1. Active Leadership Role

Applicants must currently be leading an initiative or organization addressing a social challenge in their community.

2. Demonstrated Community Impact

Candidates should show measurable impact through their work in areas such as social innovation, policy development, or community service.

3. Global Eligibility

The fellowship is open to applicants from most countries around the world.

4. Commitment to Collaboration

Applicants should demonstrate willingness to work with other fellows and engage in collaborative problem-solving.

5. Professional Experience

Candidates should have several years of professional or community leadership experience.

6. Ability to Participate in Fellowship Activities

Applicants must be able to participate in program sessions, workshops, and collaborative activities during the fellowship period.

Selection is competitive and based on leadership potential, impact of the applicant’s work, and commitment to social change.

Who Should Apply

The Obama Foundation Fellowship is designed for individuals who are already making meaningful contributions to their communities and want to scale their impact.

Typical applicants include:

• Social entrepreneurs

• Community organizers

• Nonprofit leaders

• Public policy professionals

• Civic innovators

• Environmental activists

• Education leaders

• Health advocates

Applicants should demonstrate a strong commitment to public service and community improvement.

The program values diversity and encourages applications from leaders representing different regions, backgrounds, and sectors.

Required Documents

Applicants generally need to submit the following materials during the application process:

• Completed online application form

• Personal statement or essays

• Description of the applicant’s initiative or project

• Curriculum Vitae (CV) or resume

• Professional references

• Supporting information about the organization or project being led

Additional documentation may be requested depending on the fellowship cohort.

How to Apply (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Review Program Requirements

Visit the official fellowship page and review eligibility requirements, program structure, and application instructions.

Step 2: Prepare Application Materials

Prepare a detailed description of your initiative, leadership experience, and the impact of your work.

Step 3: Create an Online Account

Register on the Obama Foundation fellowship application portal.

Step 4: Complete the Application Form

Provide personal details, professional background, and information about your leadership work.

Step 5: Submit Supporting Documents

Upload required documents such as your CV and project description.

Step 6: Submit the Application

Ensure all information is complete before submitting the application before the deadline.

Step 7: Selection Process

Shortlisted candidates may be contacted for additional evaluation or interviews.

Step 8: Final Selection

Selected fellows receive official invitations to join the fellowship cohort.

Deadline

For the 2026 cohort, applications are typically expected to open during 2025, with deadlines varying depending on the specific fellowship track.

Applicants should verify the exact application deadline on the official program website.

Apply Link

https://www.obama.org/programs/fellowship/

Tips & Common Mistakes

1. Demonstrate Clear Impact

Applications should clearly show measurable outcomes from the applicant’s initiative or project.

2. Avoid Vague Descriptions

Generic descriptions of leadership work reduce the competitiveness of an application.

3. Highlight Community Engagement

The program prioritizes initiatives that directly engage communities and address real-world problems.

4. Provide Evidence of Leadership

Applicants should demonstrate their role in designing, leading, or scaling a project or organization.

5. Write Clear and Concise Essays

Applications that clearly explain goals, impact, and future plans are stronger.

6. Show Long-Term Vision

Successful applicants often explain how their work can expand beyond local impact.

FAQ

1. Is the Obama Foundation Fellowship a degree program?

No. The fellowship focuses on leadership development and community impact rather than academic study.

2. Can students apply?

The fellowship generally targets individuals who already have professional experience and are leading initiatives. Full-time students without leadership roles may not be competitive applicants.

3. Do fellows need to relocate?

Most activities are conducted virtually, allowing fellows to remain in their home countries while continuing their community work.

The Yenching Academy of Peking University Fellowship, widely known as the Yenching Scholars Program, is a fully funded graduate fellowship hosted by Peking University in Beijing, China. The program supports outstanding young leaders from around the world to pursue an interdisciplinary Master’s degree in China Studies while engaging in cultural exchange, academic research, and leadership development.

Founded in 2014, the fellowship aims to create a global network of professionals who understand China’s evolving role in international affairs, economics, culture, and global governance. Each year, a highly selective cohort of approximately 120 scholars from different countries is admitted to the program. Participants spend one academic year studying at Peking University while developing research projects that explore China from a multidisciplinary perspective.

The Yenching Scholars Program is designed for graduates and young professionals who want to deepen their understanding of China while building international networks. Scholars take courses in areas such as politics, economics, history, culture, and international relations. In addition to academic coursework, fellows participate in field research, seminars, leadership activities, and networking events with policymakers, academics, and industry leaders.

The program is taught primarily in English and attracts applicants from diverse academic backgrounds, including social sciences, engineering, humanities, law, public policy, and business. Scholars are encouraged to integrate their academic interests with China-related themes, producing research that contributes to international discussions about global development, diplomacy, and cross-cultural cooperation.

Because of its full funding package and the prestige of its host institution, the Yenching Academy Fellowship has become one of the most recognized international fellowships in Asia. Graduates of the program often move on to careers in government, international organizations, research institutions, private sector leadership, and global development.

For the 2026 intake, applications are open for international candidates who meet the academic and leadership requirements of the fellowship.

Location

Host Country: China
Host Institution: Peking University
Program Host: Yenching Academy of Peking University
City: Beijing

Scholars live and study on the Peking University campus, one of China’s most historically significant and academically respected universities. The Yenching Academy has its own residential college where international and Chinese scholars live together during the fellowship year.

Being located in Beijing gives scholars direct access to government institutions, international organizations, research centers, and cultural sites relevant to China studies.

Positions / Study Fields

The fellowship leads to a Master’s degree in China Studies, and scholars select a specialization that aligns with their academic interests and professional goals.

Available research areas include:

1. Politics and International Relations

Focuses on governance, diplomacy, foreign policy, and China’s role in international organizations.

2. Economics and Management

Explores economic policy, trade, development, entrepreneurship, and China’s economic transformation.

3. History and Archaeology

Examines China’s historical development, heritage, and historical influences on contemporary society.

4. Philosophy and Religion

Studies Chinese philosophy, belief systems, and cultural traditions.

5. Literature and Culture

Analyzes Chinese literature, arts, media, and cultural identity.

6. Law and Society

Explores legal systems, social change, governance structures, and public policy in China.

Scholars take interdisciplinary courses while completing a thesis project under the supervision of a faculty advisor.

Compensation / Funding

The Yenching Academy Fellowship is fully funded for all selected international scholars.

Funding is provided by Peking University and supporting global partners.

The financial package covers major academic and living expenses during the program year.

Benefits

The fellowship provides a comprehensive funding package that allows scholars to focus on academic and professional development.

1. Full Tuition Coverage

All tuition fees for the Master’s degree program are fully covered.

2. Accommodation

Scholars receive free housing at the Yenching Academy residential college within the Peking University campus.

3. Monthly Living Stipend

Participants receive a monthly stipend to cover living expenses such as food, transportation, and personal costs.

4. Round-Trip Travel Funding

The program provides one round-trip airfare between the scholar’s home country and China.

5. Research Funding

Financial support is available for fieldwork and thesis research related to the scholar’s academic project.

6. Health Insurance

International students receive medical insurance during their stay in China.

7. Orientation and Cultural Activities

Scholars participate in cultural immersion programs, study trips, and leadership seminars.

8. Global Alumni Network

Graduates join a growing international network of Yenching Scholars working in government, academia, policy institutions, and international organizations.

These benefits allow participants to focus on academic research and leadership development without financial barriers.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must meet several academic and professional criteria to be considered for the fellowship.

1. Educational Background

Applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree in any discipline before the program begins.

2. Academic Excellence

Strong academic performance and intellectual curiosity are required.

3. Leadership Potential

Applicants should demonstrate leadership ability through academic, professional, or community activities.

4. English Language Proficiency

Since the program is taught in English, applicants must demonstrate proficiency through tests such as:

• TOEFL

• IELTS

• Cambridge English

Language test requirements may be waived for applicants who have completed a degree taught entirely in English.

5. Interest in China Studies

Applicants should demonstrate a clear interest in China’s society, politics, economy, culture, or international role.

6. Age Requirement

Applicants are typically expected to be 35 years old or younger at the start of the program.

Meeting the eligibility criteria does not guarantee admission because the program is highly competitive.

Who Should Apply

The fellowship is particularly suitable for:

• Recent graduates seeking international academic experience

• Young professionals interested in global policy or diplomacy

• Researchers interested in China’s role in global development

• Future leaders in government, business, and international organizations

• Students from diverse academic backgrounds who want interdisciplinary training

Applicants from fields such as engineering, business, social sciences, humanities, law, public policy, and environmental studies are encouraged to apply.

The program values diversity and seeks scholars from different cultural and professional backgrounds.

Required Documents

Applicants must prepare a complete application package.

Common required documents include:

• Completed online application form

• Curriculum Vitae (CV)

• Academic transcripts

• Proof of a bachelor’s degree

• Two letters of recommendation

• Personal statement

• Research proposal or study plan

• English language test scores (if required)

• Copy of passport

Additional materials may be requested depending on the applicant’s academic background.

How to Apply (Step-by-Step)

Applications are submitted directly through the Yenching Academy application portal.

Step 1: Review Program Requirements

Visit the official program website and review eligibility criteria, deadlines, and documentation requirements.

Step 2: Prepare Application Materials

Prepare your personal statement, CV, transcripts, recommendation letters, and research proposal.

Step 3: Create an Online Application Account

Register on the Yenching Academy admissions portal.

Step 4: Complete the Application Form

Fill in personal information, academic history, and professional background.

Step 5: Upload Required Documents

Upload all required documents in the specified format.

Step 6: Submit Before the Deadline

Ensure the full application is submitted before the official deadline.

Step 7: Interview Stage

Shortlisted candidates may be invited for interviews conducted by the admissions committee.

Step 8: Final Selection

Successful candidates receive admission offers and further instructions for enrollment.

Deadline

For the 2026 cohort, international applications are typically due in December 2025. Applicants should verify the exact deadline on the official program website.

Apply Link

https://apply.yenchingacademy.org

Tips & Common Mistakes

1. Demonstrate Genuine Interest in China

Successful applicants clearly explain how studying China relates to their academic or professional goals.

2. Avoid Generic Personal Statements

Applications that do not clearly explain the applicant’s motivations or research interests are less competitive.

3. Submit Strong Recommendation Letters

Choose referees who can discuss your academic ability and leadership potential in detail.

4. Prepare a Clear Research Proposal

Your study plan should align with one of the program’s academic tracks.

5. Proofread All Documents

Errors in essays or incomplete documentation can negatively affect the evaluation process.

6. Apply Early

Starting the application early gives enough time to gather recommendation letters and refine essays.

FAQ

1. Is the Yenching Academy Fellowship a degree program?

Yes. The fellowship funds a Master’s degree in China Studies at Peking University.

2. Do applicants need to know Chinese?

No. The program is taught in English. However, scholars can take Chinese language courses during the fellowship.

3. How competitive is the program?

The fellowship is highly competitive, with applicants from universities and organizations worldwide. Selection is based on academic excellence, leadership potential, and commitment to China-related research.