Peking University – 北京大学

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Peking University International Students
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Peking University is one of the top universities in China. It is also one of the best-known universities in Asia.

The university is in Haidian District, Beijing. Many students also call it PKU or Beida. Some international students search for it as Beijing University, China, but its official English name is Peking University.

If you want to study in China, Peking University is a strong choice. It offers good degree programs, strong research, and a beautiful campus in China’s capital city.

This guide covers rankings, programs, tuition, scholarships, campus life, and China university application tips.

About Icon
ItemDetails
University namePeking University
Chinese name北京大学
Short namePKU / Beida
LocationBeijing, China
Founded1898
QS World Ranking 2026#14
THE World Ranking 2026#13
Best forChinese studies, law, economics, science, medicine, social sciences
Main languageChinese and English, depending on the program

Peking University ranks #14 in the QS World University Rankings 2026 and #13 in the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2026. (Top Universities)

Peking University is a top choice for students who want strong academics and a rich cultural experience.

It is a good option if you want to study:

  • Chinese language and culture
  • Economics
  • Law
  • International relations
  • Medicine
  • Science
  • Computer science
  • Humanities
  • Social sciences

PKU is also known for teaching and research. It has many research institutes, labs, and academic centers.

The campus is another big reason students like PKU. It has lakes, gardens, old-style Chinese buildings, and modern classrooms.

Many students search for Peking University because they want to learn Mandarin at PKU.

Peking University offers Chinese language programs for international students. These programs are useful if you want to improve your Chinese before applying for a full degree.

The Chinese language summer school usually offers different study lengths, such as four-week, six-week, and eight-week programs. Students can study Chinese and join cultural activities in Beijing. (isd.pku.edu.cn)

This is a good choice if you want a short study abroad program in China.

Peking University offers undergraduate, master’s, PhD, and non-degree programs.

Popular study fields include:

  • Chinese language and literature
  • Economics and management
  • Law
  • International studies
  • Public policy
  • Mathematics
  • Physics
  • Computer science
  • Medicine
  • Environmental studies

Many undergraduate programs are taught in Chinese. Some graduate programs are taught in English.

Before applying, check the program language first. This will help you know if you need HSK, IELTS, TOEFL, or other test results.

Admission Requirements Icon

Peking University is very competitive. Students need strong grades and complete documents.

For undergraduate programs, international students usually need:

  • A valid passport
  • High school diploma or expected graduation proof
  • High school transcripts
  • Personal statement
  • Application form
  • Self-introduction video
  • Other documents required by PKU

For master’s and PhD programs, students usually need:

  • Bachelor’s or master’s degree certificate
  • Academic transcripts
  • Study plan or research proposal
  • Recommendation letters
  • Language certificate
  • Passport
  • Other program documents

PKU’s 2026 undergraduate entrance exam application was open from January 1 to February 28, 2026. The written exam subjects include Chinese, English, and Mathematics. (isd.pku.edu.cn)

Always check the latest deadline on the official PKU admission website before you apply.

Tuition Fees Icon

Tuition fees depend on the program and study level.

Program LevelEstimated Tuition
UndergraduateRMB 26,000–30,000 per year
Master’sRMB 29,000–33,000 per year
DoctoralRMB 32,000–40,000 per year

Peking University offers scholarships for international students.

Scholarship options include:

  • Chinese Government Scholarship (CGS): May cover full or partial tuition, accommodation, living expenses, and medical insurance, depending on the scholarship type and official regulations.
  • Beijing Government Scholarship for International Students: Offers different support levels. Type A may include tuition, accommodation, living expenses, and medical insurance. Type B and Type C provide more limited coverage.
  • Peking University Scholarship for International Students: May include full or partial tuition waiver, living expenses, and medical insurance.
  • Belt and Road-related scholarships or programs: Some PKU scholarship programs may target students from Belt and Road countries, but “Belt and Road Scholarship” is not listed as one of PKU’s main general scholarship categories on the official scholarship page. It is better to mention this only if you are referring to a specific program.

PKU’s 2026 scholarship notice says applicants can apply once and be considered for several scholarship types. Final results depend on student merit and scholarship rules. (isd.pku.edu.cn)

For more details, read: Chinese University Scholarships: 2026 Ultimate Guide

Campus Icon

Peking University has one of the most beautiful campuses in China.

The campus has:

  • Libraries: PKU has large library resources for students and researchers. Students can use books, journals, digital resources, and study spaces for academic work.
  • Sports Centers: The university has sports facilities such as gyms, courts, tracks, and other activity spaces. These help students balance study and health.
  • Museums and Cultural Centers: Peking University has museums and cultural centers where students can learn more about Chinese culture, arts, history, and archaeology.
  • Student Housing: On-campus housing is available for local and international students. Rooms may be single or shared, depending on availability and student type.
  • Dining Halls: Students can eat at campus dining halls that offer Chinese food and other daily meal options at student-friendly prices.
  • Research Spaces: PKU has labs, research centers, and academic spaces that support teaching, research, and student projects.
  • Gardens and Lakes: The campus is known for its traditional gardens, Weiming Lake, and peaceful walking areas. These spaces make the campus feel calm and historic.

PKU is in Haidian District. This area has many top universities, tech companies, bookstores, cafés, and restaurants.

Students can also visit famous places in Beijing, such as:

  • The Summer Palace
  • The Forbidden City
  • The Great Wall
  • Tiananmen Square
  • Beijing hutongs

This makes PKU a good choice for students who want both academic life and cultural experience.

City and Local Information Icon

A good China university application starts with early planning.

Here are the basic steps:

  1. Choose your program.
  2. Check the teaching language.
  3. Prepare your documents.
  4. Apply through the PKU online system.
  5. Pay the application fee.
  6. Prepare for the exam or interview.
  7. Wait for admission results.
  8. Apply for a student visa.

Make sure your documents are clear and complete. Your personal statement should explain why you want to study at PKU and how the program fits your goals.

Peking University may be a good fit if you want:

  • A top university in China
  • Strong higher education
  • A serious academic environment
  • Good research options
  • A campus in Beijing
  • Chinese language and culture experience
  • Scholarship opportunities

However, PKU is not easy to enter. You need strong grades, good preparation, and clear study goals.

If you want to study in China but are unsure about PKU, you can also compare it with Tsinghua University, Fudan University, Zhejiang University, and Shanghai Jiao Tong University.

Peking University is one of the best universities in China. It has a strong global ranking, a rich history, and many study options.

For students searching for Peking University, Beijing, China, PKU offers more than just a famous name. It gives students access to strong programs, research resources, and life in Beijing.

If you are interested in Peking University chinese programs, undergraduate study, graduate study, or scholarships, start preparing early.

A strong application can make your path to PKU much smoother.

1. Is Peking University the same as Beijing University?

Many people search for beijing university china, but the official English name is Peking University. Its Chinese name is 北京大学.

2. Where is Peking University?

Peking University is in Haidian District, Beijing, China.

3. Is Peking University good for international students?

Yes. PKU is one of China’s top universities. It has strong programs, research centers, and international student support.

4. Does Peking University offer Chinese language programs?

Yes. PKU offers Chinese language programs, including short-term and summer programs.

5. Does Peking University teach in English?

Some graduate programs are taught in English. Many undergraduate programs are taught in Chinese.

6. How much is Peking University tuition?

Tuition often ranges from about RMB 26,000 to RMB 40,000 per year. The exact fee depends on the program.

7. Can international students get scholarships?

Yes. Students can apply for scholarships such as the Chinese Government Scholarship, Beijing Government Scholarship, and Peking University Scholarship.

8. Is Peking University hard to get into?

Yes. PKU is very competitive. Strong grades, complete documents, and a clear study plan are important.

  1. Study Abroad in China: 2026 Guide for International Students
  2. Your Journey to Study in China Starts Here
  3. Chinese University Scholarships: 2026 Ultimate Guide
  4. Study in China with the Confucius Institute Scholarship
  5. How to Get a 100% Scholarship in China?

Location

Beijing, China

QS World Ranking

#14

SH Ranking

#24

Scholarship Availability

Yes

Application Deadline

May 15, 2025

Avg. Tuition Fee

40,000 / Year