About Schwarzman scholars
The Schwarzman Scholars program is a prestigious, fully-funded scholarship designed to prepare the next generation of global leaders through a one-year Master’s degree in Global Affairs at Tsinghua University in Beijing, China. Established in 2016 by Stephen A. Schwarzman, co-founder of Blackstone, the program is modeled after the Rhodes Scholarship and aims to foster a deeper understanding between China and the rest of the world.
Schwarzman Scholars supports up to 200 Scholars annually from the U.S., China, and around the world for a one-year master’s in global affairs at Beijing’s Tsinghua University, ranked first in Asia as an indispensable base for China’s political, business, and technological leadership.
Scholars chosen for this highly selective program will live in Beijing for a year of study and cultural immersion, attending lectures, traveling around the region, and developing a better understanding of China. Admissions opened in the fall of 2015 with outstanding success, immediately making Schwarzman Scholars one of the world’s most selective graduate and fellowship programs.
What are Schwarzman Scholars looking for?
Schwarzman 2026 program cohort of global leaders reflects the diversity, vibrancy, and promise of the world at large. Schwarzman Scholars embrace the opportunity to understand other cultures, perspectives, and positions. Candidates who are most qualified to meet the high demands of the program must exhibit excellence in the following areas:
- Leadership Abilities
- Exemplary Character & Integrity
- Academic Excellence
- Empathy & Intercultural Competence
- Open-Mindedness
- Entrepreneurial Spirit
Expenses and Benefits of Schwarz Scholars
- There is no fee associated with applying to the program.
- Interview expenses, such as economy class air or train travel, group meals, and one night in a hotel if needed, are arranged and covered by the program.
- Expenses for Schwarzman Scholars are also fully covered by the program, including the following:
- Free tuition fees
- Free accommodation on campus at Schwarzman College, Tsinghua University.
- Travel to and from Beijing at the beginning and end of the academic year.
- In-country study tours
- required course books and supplies
- a Lenovo laptop
- health insurance
- stipend for personal expenses (usually around 4000 US$ for the year)
Eligibility | Who can apply?
- Young leaders from all the regions and sectors of the world are eligible to apply for Schwarzman Scholars.
- Applicants must have an undergraduate degree (Bachelor's degree or equivalent) to apply. Applicants who are currently enrolled in undergraduate degree programs must be on track to successfully complete all degree requirements before August 1 of their Schwarzman Scholars enrolment year.
- There are no requirements for a specific field of undergraduate study; all fields are welcome to apply.
- Applicants must be at least 18 but not yet 29 years old as of August 1 of their Schwarzman Scholars enrolment year (for the Class of 2026-2027, as of August 1, 2026).
- Applicants must prove strong English skills, as all teaching will be conducted in English. If the applicant’s native language is not English, official English proficiency test scores must be submitted with the application. This requirement is waived for applicants who studied at an undergraduate institution where the primary language of instruction was English for at least two years of the applicant’s academic program.
- Acceptable test options are: Internet-based Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL iBT). Minimum score 100. International English Language Testing System (IELTS). Minimum score 7. Cambridge English: Advanced (C1) or Cambridge English: Proficiency (C2). Minimum score 185.
Required documents for Schwarzman Scholars
- Resume: A current version of your resume or CV (maximum 2 pages).
- Two Essays: The two required essays are a Leadership Essay (750 words) and a Statement of Purpose (500 words).
- Transcript/Academic records: You are required to scan and upload official transcripts for each degree-granting post-secondary education institution you attended.
- Three letters or recommendations: Recommenders should know you well and be able to speak to your intellectual abilities, personal characteristics, and leadership potential using specific examples from their direct experience working with you.
- Video Introduction: Provide a short video self-introduction of no more than 1 minute.
Timeline of Schwarzman Scholars
- U.S. and Global Applicants
Application Deadline: 10 September 2025 at 3:00 PM (EDT)
Selection Cycle: October - November 2025
Start the Master's Program: August 2026
End the Master's Program: July 2027
- Applicants with a Chinese passport
Application Deadline: 20 May 2025 at 11:59 PM (CST)
Selection Cycle: June - July 2025
Start the Master's Program: August 2026
End the Master's Program: July 2027
How to apply?
1. Create an Account: Visit the Schwarzman Scholars Application Portal and register with a reliable email address.
2. Complete the Online Application: Fill out the application form in English. You can save your progress and return to it as needed.
3. Prepare and Submit Required Materials:
- Resume/CV: Up to 2 pages highlighting leadership experiences.
- Essays:-
- Leadership Essay: 750 words.
- Statement of Purpose: 500 words.
- Two Short Answer Responses: 100 words each.
- Academic Transcripts: Upload official transcripts from all degree-granting institutions.
- Letters of Recommendation: Provide contact information for three recommenders who will submit letters online.
- Video Introduction: Record a short video introducing yourself.
- If your native language is not English and you haven't studied in English for at least two years at the undergraduate or graduate level, submit scores from one of the following tests:
- TOEFL iBT: Minimum score of 100
- IELTS: Minimum score of 7
- Cambridge English: Advanced (C1) or Proficiency (C2): Minimum score of 185
- Duolingo English Test: Minimum score of 130
More Details?
For more details about Schwarzman Scholars, check the opportunity website from HERE. Also, you can find many questions and answers on the FAQ page from HERE
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