The China Studies Program (“CSP”), established by the Center for Language Education and Cooperation of the Chinese Ministry of Education, aims to support international students to pursue doctoral studies and research in China and to cultivate young sinologists with a global academic perspective, a thorough understanding of international academic practices, and a strong professional ability for academic research and international collaboration. Presently, Peking University mainly accepts two categories of students in this program: Ph. D. Fellowship in China and Joint Research Ph. D. Fellowship (“Senior Visiting Student”).
The Joint Research Ph. D. Fellowship (“Senior Visiting Student”) program is designed to support outstanding doctoral candidates enrolled in foreign universities coming to China to conduct research and write their doctoral dissertations, for the duration of one semester or more, up to two academic years.
Senior Visiting Students need not enroll in regular courses. They may audit courses if they obtain permission from their advisors and the relevant department.
I. Eligibility
Applicants should demonstrate strong research interests in the humanities and social sciences related to China, with a solid academic foundation, clear research topics or goals, and the ability to conduct research in Chinese. Specifically:
1.Non-Chinese citizen holding a valid foreign passport, officially enrolled in a formal foreign university as a doctoral candidate, under age 50 with good health and abiding by the laws of China and the rules and regulations of Peking University;
2. Language proficiency of HSK Level 3 or above. When all factors are considered equal, those with excellent Chinese proficiency will be given priority for the award.
II. Application Procedures
Step 1: Apply Online
1. Log onto the International Student Service System of Peking University, atwww.studyatpku.com to complete the online application.
Admission Code: CSP-SV
Online Application Path: Application - Non-Degree Programs Application - CSP Joint Ph.D Fellowship project (Senior Visiting Student)
After submission, download and print the Peking Universtiy Application Form for International Students, with a photo attached and sign it, which is needed for Step 2.1 later on.
2. Log in to the China Studies Program website athttp://www.chinese.cn/page/#/pcpage/csp to submit the online application. After submission, print the Application Form for China Studies Program Joint Research Ph.D. Fellowship, which is needed for Step 2.2 later on.
Step 2: Submit the following Physical Materials:
1. The original Peking University Application Form for International Students
2. A copy of the Application Form for China Studies Program Joint Research Ph.D. Fellowship
3. Proof of enrollment as a Ph.D. candidate (must be original documents or notarized copies in either Chinese or English)
4. Official transc
5. Two original letters of recommendation from professor(s) or associate professor(s) (or experts with equivalent professional titles) in the applicant’s field. The language should be Chinese or English. See form athttps://www.isd.pku.edu.cn/down/shen/ru/detail/7908.html. The letters of recommendation can be submitted in one of the following two ways:
(1) Paper version (must be the original in either Chinese or English)
(2) Electronic version: The recommender sends the letter of recommendation directly to ischolarship@pku.edu.cn via his/her own email;
6. A copy of the HSK transc
7. Abstract of the master's thesis and other research achievements;
8. Doctoral dissertation abstract (if available);
9. Personal statement and research plan during the stay in China (not less than 1,000 words), written in either Chinese or English.
10. A copy of passport information page. The passport must be a valid regular passport.
Note:
(1) The advisor applied for on the two websites must be the same.
(2) If the applicant is in contact with the desired advisor, please upload the relevant communication to the Additional Materials section.
(3) Application materials will not be returned.
III. Mailing Address
To: International Students Division, Peking University
Room 328, New Sun Student Center, Peking University, No. 5, Yiheyuan Road, Haidian District, Beijing, China
Postcode: 100871
Contact: +86-10-62751230
Note: Peking University reserves the right to ask applicants for additional materials.
IV. Timeline
1. Application Deadline: February 28, 2025
2. The applicant will be notified of the admission and scholarship award results by email.
3. The period of enrollment usually starts in September or February, with the specific date stated in the admission and award letter.
V. Visa, Medical Insurance, and Housing
Admitted students should apply for a student visa to China at a Chinese Embassy/Consulate with the admission letter and relevant electronic certificates (JW202/DQ). International students who will study in China for more than 6 months are required to obtain an X1 visa with the Confirmation Form for Foreign Students Coming to China (JW202), then convert the X1 visa into a study residence permit at the International Students Division within 30 days of their arrival in China. International students who will study in China for less than 6 months are required to obtain an X2 visa with the Information Form for Short-term International Students in China (DQ Form).
The Ministry of Education of China requires all international students to purchase the Comprehensive Insurance Plan for Foreign Students, and they can do so on site on the day of registration. Students who do not have this required medical insurance will not be able to register for enrollment.
International students living off-campus must register with the local public security bureau within 24 hours after renting the apartment.
VI. Contact Information
Address: International Students Division, Peking University, No. 5, Yiheyuan Road, Haidian District, Beijing
Postcode: 100871
Telephone: +86-10-62751230
Email: study@pku.edu.cn
Appendix: 2025 Advisors’ List for China Studies Program at Peking University
International Students Division
Office of International Relations
Peking University
January 2025