About Peking University

Overview

Founded in 1898, Peking University is China’s first modern national university and is widely recognised as one of Asia’s leading research universities. It is particularly known for its strengths in humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, engineering, medicine, and interdisciplinary research.

International students study alongside domestic students in one of China’s most academically demanding university environments.

Why choose PKU

A globally recognised university offering outstanding strengths across humanities, sciences, engineering, medicine, and social sciences, all within one of China’s most historic university campuses.

What to watch

Admission is highly competitive. Strong Chinese language skills are essential, and the published minimum requirements should not be treated as a competitive target.

Best-fit student

You have excellent grades, advanced Chinese language skills, and a genuine interest in your chosen subject.

Not ideal for

You’re looking for a fully English-taught undergraduate degree, have limited Chinese language skills, or prefer a less academically intensive environment.

Study language

Language requirements

Chinese language

HSK 6 210+ for written-test exemption

PKU’s undergraduate teaching is mainly in Chinese. Route B applicants normally need HSK 6 with 210 or above. PKU also accepts a small number of alternative Chinese language qualifications for certain applicants. Always check the latest admissions notice to confirm whether your qualification is accepted. Applicants who are native Chinese speakers or completed their previous education in Chinese may be able to use this as evidence of language proficiency, subject to PKU’s assessment.

English language

No general IELTS or TOEFL requirement

For PKU’s main Chinese-taught undergraduate route, IELTS or TOEFL is not a general requirement. Applicants using Route A will sit PKU’s English written examination as part of the entrance test. If a specific programme requires English language evidence, native English speakers or applicants who completed their education in English may be exempt, subject to the university’s requirements.

Important for planning Most classes, coursework, exams, and daily academic communication are conducted in Chinese. Meeting the minimum HSK requirement makes you eligible to apply, but it does not necessarily mean you’re ready for a full-time Chinese-medium degree.

Academic fit

Entry requirements

Select the qualification you are studying to see the relevant academic requirements and application guidance.

Choose your qualification

We will show the academic documents, grades and other information relevant to your qualification.

Scholarship assessment

CSCA

Most international undergraduate applicants do not need to take the CSCA. It is mainly required for applicants seeking the Chinese Government Scholarship.

Do I need CSCA?

General undergraduate admission No
Chinese Government Scholarship Yes
Required subjects for CSC applicants
  • Chinese
  • Mathematics
  • Physics or Chemistry for science, information science, and engineering applicants

All CSCA papers for PKU scholarship applicants must be taken in Chinese. Check the official CSCA website for the latest test dates, registration deadlines, syllabus, and score validity.

Choose your route

Admission routes

A Closed for 2026

PKU entrance examination

Suitable if you do not meet the eligibility criteria for the written-test exemption route.

Application window
1 Jan–28 Feb 2026
Written tests
Chinese, English, Mathematics
Chinese language qualification
Assessed in PKU’s own exam
Then
Secondary assessment
Official route details ↗
B Closed for 2026

Written-test exemption

Suitable if you already hold one of PKU’s recognised qualifications for the written-test exemption route.

Round 1
19 Dec 2025–28 Feb 2026
Round 2
12 Jun–10 Jul 2026
Written test
Exempt
Chinese language qualification
HSK 6 (210+) or listed alternative
Still required
Review + secondary assessment
Official route details ↗
Important: The written-test exemption route only removes the written examination. Shortlisted applicants should still expect a secondary assessment before a final admission decision is made.

From application to arrival

Application process

  1. ①
    Apply

    Choose your route and school, complete the online form, upload documents, and submit the application.

  2. ②
    Preliminary review

    PKU reviews your eligibility, academic results, supporting documents, and whether you meet the published admissions requirements.

  3. ③
    Written exam

    Route A applicants take written tests. Eligible Route B applicants are exempt from PKU’s written test.

  4. ④
    Secondary assessment

    Shortlisted applicants should be ready to discuss subject fit, academic background, Chinese ability, and motivation.

  5. ⑤
    Admission

    Successful applicants receive a pre-admission decision before PKU issues the official admission documents.

  6. ⑥
    Visa

    Use your admission documents to prepare the student visa and arrival paperwork.

  7. ⑦
    Registration

    Arrange insurance, accommodation, and required documents before registering in Beijing.

Documents to prepare Personal statement, video, recommendation letters, transcripts, and supporting documents

Start early

Your supporting documents help PKU assess both your academic ability and your suitability for the programme. Preparing them early gives you more time to submit a stronger application.

01Personal statement

Explain why you’ve chosen your intended school or department, why PKU is the right fit for your academic goals, and how your previous studies have prepared you for the programme.

02Self-introduction video

Use the video to introduce yourself naturally and confidently. Focus on speaking clearly rather than trying to memorise a perfect script. PKU’s format is strict: under 3 minutes, one continuous take, no editing or subtitles, with the required Chinese and English speaking parts.

03Recommendation letters

Choose teachers who know your academic performance well and can provide specific examples of your strengths, motivation, and potential.

  • 04Passport and nationality documents
  • 05High school certificate or expected graduation proof
  • 06Academic transcripts
  • 07Exam and Chinese-language results for your route
  • 08Awards or supporting documents, if relevant
  • 09Submitted PKU application form and commitment letter

Documents not issued in Chinese or English generally need a notarised translation.

Before you submit

Your readiness checklist

Application readiness 0 / 6 completed
Open PKU application portal ↗ Email admissions

Academic choice

Subjects

33 undergraduate major entries from PKU’s official admission catalogue.

Popular searches

Search by subject, school, or teaching language.

Major / option Admissions category / programme School / college Teaching language
MathematicsSciencesSchool of Mathematical SciencesChinese
PhysicsSciencesSchool of PhysicsChinese
Atmospheric SciencesSciencesSchool of PhysicsChinese
Nuclear PhysicsSciencesSchool of PhysicsChinese
AstronomySciencesSchool of PhysicsChinese
ChemistrySciencesCollege of Chemistry and Molecular EngineeringChinese
Environment ScienceSciencesCollege of Urban and Environmental SciencesChinese
EcologySciencesCollege of Urban and Environmental SciencesChinese
Geography ScienceSciencesCollege of Urban and Environmental SciencesChinese
Urban PlanningSciencesCollege of Urban and Environmental SciencesChinese
GeophysicsSciencesCollege of Urban and Environmental SciencesChinese
GeologySciencesSchool of Earth and Space SciencesChinese
GeophysicsSciencesSchool of Earth and Space SciencesChinese
Space Science and TechnologySciencesSchool of Earth and Space SciencesChinese
PsychologySciencesSchool of Psychological and Cognitive SciencesChinese
Life SciencesSciencesSchool of Life SciencesChinese
Computer ScienceInformaticsSchool of Electronics Engineering and Computer ScienceChinese
Electronic Information ScienceInformaticsSchool of Electronics Engineering and Computer ScienceChinese
Engineering Experimental ClassesEngineeringCollege of EngineeringChinese
Economics / Science Experimental ClassEconomics & ManagementSchool of EconomicsChinese
Business Administration / Science Experimental ClassEconomics & ManagementGuanghua School of ManagementChinese
Law / Science Experimental ClassSocial SciencesLaw SchoolChinese
Public AdministrationSocial SciencesSchool of GovernmentChinese
Journalism and CommunicationsSocial SciencesSchool of Journalism and CommunicationsChinese
International Politics / Liberal Arts Experimental ClassSocial SciencesSchool of International StudiesChinese
SociologySocial SciencesDepartment of SociologyChinese
Information Management and Information System / Library ScienceSocial SciencesDepartment of Information ManagementChinese
Chinese Language LiteratureHumanitiesDepartment of Chinese Language and LiteratureChinese
HistoryHumanitiesDepartment of HistoryChinese
ArchaeologyHumanitiesSchool of Archaeology and MuseologyChinese
PhilosophyHumanitiesDepartment of Philosophy and Religious StudiesChinese
Arts Experimental ClassHumanitiesSchool of ArtsChinese
Sciences/Arts Experimental ClassInterdisciplinaryYuanpei CollegeChinese
View the full official admission catalogue ↗
How major selection works: In most cases, applicants apply to a school or department first. Many students confirm their specific major or specialisation after their second year, depending on the school’s regulations.

Budget planning

Fees & funding

Tuition2025 reference: humanities RMB 26k; science RMB 30k
Degree lengthChoose a planning period
AccommodationRMB 48,000Estimated monthly cost: about RMB 4,000
MealsRMB 24,000Estimated monthly cost: about RMB 2,000
TransportRMB 5,000Annual estimate
MiscellaneousPlan extraFlights, visa, books, setup costs, and deposits
Estimated Year 1 BudgetExcludes flights, visa, and setup costs
RMB 103,000
Indicative full-degree budget4 years, before inflation or tuition changes
RMB 412,000

Funding your degree

Scholarships

Scholarship Typical cover Difficulty CSCA? Key note
Chinese Government Scholarship Tuition, accommodation, insurance, and living allowance Very high Yes Usually through the home-country dispatching authority; CSCA is required.
Beijing Government Scholarship Support level varies by scholarship type High No A scholarship funded by the Beijing Municipal Government for outstanding international students studying in Beijing.
Peking University Scholarship Full or partial tuition, insurance, and living allowance High No PKU’s own scholarship route for strong academic and application profiles.
Compare scholarship routes Use our scholarship guide to compare coverage, eligibility, and application routes across universities.

Where you may live

Accommodation

On-campus option

International student dormitories

Shaoyuan and Zhongguanyuan Global Village are the main names international students should recognise. Living on campus makes classes, libraries, dining halls, and student services easier to reach.

Best for
First-year students who want a simpler routine and a campus-based lifestyle
Plan for
Room types, prices, and availability can differ, so confirm the option attached to your offer or scholarship
Off-campus option

Private rental in Beijing

Private rental can give more independence, but Beijing rent near Haidian can be expensive. Students should also think about commuting time, deposit, contracts, and local registration.

Best for
Students who already know Beijing well or want more flexibility than a dormitory
Plan for
Register your address locally after moving in and keep extra budget for upfront rental costs

On-campus accommodation is not guaranteed for all self-funded international students. Many students should prepare an off-campus housing backup plan before arrival, even if a dormitory is their first choice.

Peking University campus scenery

Life in Beijing

Student life

Beijing is intense, historic, and highly connected. Around PKU, Haidian feels student-focused and academic, while the wider city offers museums, policy institutions, technology companies, cultural life, live events, food, parks, and a fast-moving capital-city rhythm.

园

Campus

PKU is known for a historic campus setting, libraries, dining halls, student communities, and a strong academic atmosphere.

生

Student life

Haidian feels student-focused, with nearby universities, cafes, study spaces, sports, societies, and affordable local food options.

地

Transport

East Gate of Peking University station on Line 4 connects the campus with the rest of Beijing.

业

Career exposure

As China’s capital, Beijing can offer stronger access to policy, media, technology, research, and international organisations.

Compare choices

Compare other universities

Not sure whether PKU is the right fit? Compare it with other leading Chinese universities by city, subject strengths, study environment, scholarships, and campus life.

Tsinghua University campus gate
Beijing Tsinghua University

A leading Beijing university known for engineering, technology, sciences, architecture, and management.

  • Stronger engineering focus
  • Similar prestige
  • Same city
 Fudan University campus building in Shanghai
Shanghai Fudan University

A major C9 university with strong social sciences, business, medicine, humanities, and a Shanghai setting.

  • Different city lifestyle
  • Strong business and humanities
  • More international city feel
 Zhejiang University campus in Hangzhou
Hangzhou Zhejiang University

A large comprehensive university in Hangzhou with broad subject choice, strong research, and a different campus rhythm.

  • Broader comprehensive intake
  • Hangzhou location
  • Less capital-city intensity