Closing Date: 09 September 2026
Join the world’s next generation of leaders.
Schwarzman Scholars Master’s Program for Next Generation Leaders
Schwarzman Scholars is a prestigious one-year, fully funded master’s program in global affairs at Tsinghua University, one of the world’s top universities. Designed to build a global community of future leaders, this program offers an immersive learning experience dedicated to leadership development. Every year, a new class is selected to represent the world’s next generation of leaders — high-caliber individuals with open minds and limitless potential who will serve to deepen understanding between China and the rest of the world.
Schwarzman Scholars is the first scholarship created to respond to the geopolitical landscape of the 21st century. In any sector, the success of future leaders around the world depends upon an understanding of China’s role in global trends. Schwarzman Scholars are selected from an international pool of distinguished candidates. Prospective Scholars are expected to demonstrate academic excellence, exceptional results in their field and outstanding leadership qualities.
Schwarzman Scholars’ 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 Aptitude & Intellectual Ability
- Empathy & Intercultural Competency
- Open Mindedness
- Entrepreneurial Spirit
Eligibility
In addition to demonstrating extraordinary leadership skills, the ability to anticipate and act on trends and changes in their context, strong intellectual capacity, and exemplary character, candidates must meet the following criteria.
Must have an undergraduate degree: 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 enrollment year. There are no requirements for a specific field of undergraduate study; all fields are welcome, but it is important for applicants, regardless of undergraduate major, to articulate how participating in Schwarzman Scholars will help develop their leadership potential within their field.
Must be 18-28 years of age: Candidates must be at least 18 but not yet 29 years of age as of August 1 of their Schwarzman Scholars enrollment year (for the Class of 2027-2028, as of August 1, 2027).
Must be proficient in the English language: Applicants must demonstrate 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. The requirement will also be waived for applicants who have studied in English for two or more years at a master’s degree level or higher. Acceptable test options are: Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL). Minimum score 5 out of 6-point scale or 100 out of 120-point scale. International English Language Testing System (IELTS). Minimum score 7. Cambridge English: Advanced (C1) or Cambridge English: Proficiency (C2). Minimum score 185. Duolingo English Test. Minimum Score 130.
For applicants using the China Application System, refer to guidelines on the Schwarzman College Admissions page. Schwarzman Scholars brings together a diverse cohort of young leaders from all regions and sectors of the world who embrace each other’s differences while working on a joint mission.
Global Applicants Below Details:
- Application Now Open
- Application Deadline: Sept 9, 2026 at 3 p.m. EDT
- Selection Cycle: Oct – Nov 2026
- Program Begins: Aug 2027
APPLICANTS WITH CHINESE CITIZENSHIP (CHINESE MAINLAND, HONG KONG, MACAU, TAIWAN) BELOW DETAILS:
- Application Period: Jan 2026 – May 2026
- Selection Cycle: Jun – Jul 2026
- Program Begins: Aug 2027
