Each year, a new group of outstanding individuals is chosen to represent the next generation of global leaders — brilliant, open-minded candidates with unlimited potential, dedicated to raising stronger connections between China and the international community. Schwarzman Scholars Program is one of the opportunity in 2026-27 for international students.
Schwarzman Scholars are selected from top global candidates. Applicants must demonstrate excellent educational performance, distinguished success in their fields, and outstanding leadership potential.
The Schwarzman Scholar program is an international opportunity at Tsinghua University, Beijing, which selects 150-200 applicants from other countries for a fully funded Master’s degree. Founded by Stephen A. Schwarzman, it has no application fee and no IELTS requirement (with exemptions). Classes start in August 2026. This Scholarship is recognised like Rhodes, Chevening, or Fulbright, as it offers excellent academic and leadership opportunities.
We are looking for candidates who:
- possess a strong commitment to adopting different cultures, understanding viewpoints, and ideas.
- will represent global productivity, the potential for change in the world.
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Those best suited to meet the demanding expectations of the program must demonstrate strength in the following areas:
- Leadership Abilities
- Exemplary Character & Integrity
- Academic Aptitude & Intellectual Ability
- Empathy & Intercultural Competency
- Open Mindedness
- Entrepreneurial Spirit
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Who is Eligible to Apply:
Along with showcasing exceptional leadership abilities, anticipation to recognize and respond to changes and trends in their environment, strong intellectual abilities, and outstanding character, candidates must also fulfil the following requirements.
The student must have an undergraduate degree:
- Complete an undergraduate degree by August 1 of the enrollment year.
- All majors are eligible.
- Commitment to show leadership in your field.
Age Limit:
- You can calculate your age by August 1, 2026, for the 2026-27 intake.
- Your age must be between 18-28 years by 1st August,2026.
English Language Proficiency:
- Strong English skills are required, as all classes are in English.
- Applicants whose native language is not English must, therefore, provide official test scores to demonstrate English proficiency.
- Waivers for applicants who:
- Studied in English for 2+ years at the undergraduate level.
- Studied in English for 2+ years at the Master’s level or higher.
- Accepted tests and minimum scores:
- TOEFL: 100+
- IELTS: 7+
- Cambridge English: Advanced (C1) or Proficiency (C2): 185+
- Duolingo: 130+
Additionally, all the Applicants who use the China Application System must also check the Schwarzman College Admissions page.
Scholars who get the Schwarzman opportunity become part of a diverse group of young leaders from around the world who share a mutual understanding of different cultures and countries.
For Current Session 2026 Timeline and Deadlines
- U.S. and Global Applicants
- Application period: April 10 – September 10, 2025, by 3 p.m. EDT
- Selection: Oct – Nov 2025
- Program start: Aug 2026
- Applicants with Chinese Passports
- Application period: Now – May 20, 2025, by 11:59 p.m. CST
- Selection: Jun – Jul 2025
- Program start: Aug 2026
Register for Online Information Sessions:
- April 29, 2025: Stream 2:00 PM EST
- US/Global Application Schwarzman Scholars Walkthrough
- May 01, 2025: Stream 11:00 AM EST
- Schwarzman Scholars Introductory Session
- May 08, 2025: Stream 9:00 AM EST
- US/Global Application Schwarzman Scholars Walkthrough
You can register for more info sessions here.
Selection Process for International Students:
To select top global leaders, a rigorous selection process takes place. Selected candidates must show the ability to adapt and contribute to the program’s evolution in a fast-changing world.
Read more about Frequently Asked Questions
Contact Official representatives for more details about the program
1: Submit an online application
- Fill out the application online and submit it electronically after answering all required questions.
- The application must be completed in English.
- You can save and return to the application as needed before submission.
2: Documents Required
- Resume: an updated resume or CV of a maximum of 2 pages
- 2 essays: To assess your eligibility, the committee required two essays from each applicant
- A leadership essay of around 750 words stating your leadership qualities
- Statement of purpose (SOP) of around 500 words, to showcase your academic abilities with future goals.
- Academic Records or Transcript: Upload the official transcript of the previously attended institute.
- 3 Recommendation Letters: Recommenders should know you well and provide specific examples of your intellectual abilities, personal qualities, and leadership potential
Bonus Tip: How to write a winning Statement of Purpose
- Short Video Introduction:
- Submit a 1-minute video self-introduction.
- Choose the style and setting that best imitate your interests and personality.
- The goal is for the committee to hear your introduction in your voice.
Note: Only the mandatory supporting documents should be submitted. Do not include extra materials like portfolios, writing samples, or additional recommendations, as they will not be reviewed.
Read detailed instructions on the Official website
3: Application Interview and Review
- A global committee of business, government, and academic leaders reviews applications.
- Selected applicants will be invited for interviews in late October and early November.
- An international panel conducts interviews to select future leaders.
- Chosen candidates will gain insight into China’s influence on the global stage.
Official Details and Information
Each year, there are numerous scholarship and fellowship opportunities available for international students. Therefore, it is essential to understand the process and prepare the necessary documents ahead of the application period. As a result, thousands of students receive international scholarships for bachelor’s, master’s, and Ph.D. programs at prestigious universities worldwide.
Read more about other scholarship opportunities.
Also, read about how to write SOP and Emails to professors for getting assistantships
Best of luck with your future endeavours. Happy applying.