Peking University

Identity & Heritage

Founded in 1898 as the Imperial University of Peking, Peking University (PKU) holds a distinguished place as China's first modern national university. Its establishment in Beijing marked a pivotal moment in the nation's educational history, evolving from its original name to become a cornerstone of higher learning. Strategically located in the Haidian District of Beijing, the university benefits from its urban setting in the nation's capital, a hub of culture, politics, and innovation. As a public, comprehensive institution, PKU is universally recognized as a premier academic leader. It is a founding member of China's prestigious Project 985, a key university in the Project 211 initiative, and a designated "Double First Class" university, a status affirming its position at the very forefront of teaching and research. Over its long history, PKU has been at the heart of China's intellectual and social development, transforming through different eras while consistently cultivating leaders and pioneering scholarship that shapes the nation and the world.

Academic Scope & Strengths

Peking University's academic structure is both vast and distinguished, comprising numerous schools and departments that span the full spectrum of modern scholarship. Its comprehensive nature is reflected in its broad faculty groups, covering the humanities, social sciences, sciences, engineering, medicine, and management. The university's strength is most clearly demonstrated by its exceptional performance in national discipline evaluations, where it has been rated with an impressive 21 disciplines at the prestigious A+ level. These top-tier subjects include Philosophy, Applied Economics, Sociology, Psychology, Chinese Language and Literature, Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Computer Science, and Basic Medical Sciences, among others. For international students, PKU offers a wide array of opportunities, including full undergraduate, master's, and doctoral degree programs, as well as non-degree options such as Chinese language training, research visits, and short-term courses. A significant number of these advanced postgraduate programs are conducted entirely in English, providing accessible pathways for global scholars to engage with its world-class faculty and cutting-edge research across its flagship disciplines.

Campus & Student Life

Peking University's vibrant campus life is centered on its main urban campus in the Haidian District of Beijing, an area renowned for its academic atmosphere and proximity to historic sites like the Summer Palace. The university provides dedicated accommodation for international students, typically offering rooms with private bathrooms and air conditioning. Some dormitories may also include kitchen facilities, catering specifically to the needs of students from abroad. Each room is furnished with essential items such as a bed, desk, and wardrobe, and the entire campus benefits from high-speed wireless internet. On-campus living is supported by numerous dining halls offering a wide variety of affordable meals, alongside cafes and convenience stores. For recreation and wellness, students have access to comprehensive sports facilities including a gymnasium, outdoor tracks and fields, and smaller fitness areas. The campus is well-connected by Beijing's extensive metro system, making exploration of the capital convenient. While individual spending habits vary, students can generally manage with a reasonable monthly budget for daily necessities, meals, and local transportation.

International Student Experience

Peking University fosters a welcoming and supportive environment for its international community through dedicated services and a vibrant campus life. The university’s International Students Division provides comprehensive support, including guidance on visa applications, residence permits, and academic registration. For those seeking to improve their language skills, Chinese language training programs are available. The university understands the importance of personal well-being and offers accessible psychological counseling services through its Student Psychological Health and Education Center to help students navigate academic or personal challenges. While specific scholarship details are managed by the division, various funding opportunities exist for qualified international students. Beyond academics, students are encouraged to engage in cultural exchange activities and student organizations, building a dynamic global network. For an international student, Peking University offers not just a world-class education, but a holistic experience with robust support systems in one of the world's most dynamic capitals.

List of Campuses

Schools & Departments

Rankings

Available Programs

Explore academic programs offered at Peking University and find the right fit for your educational goals.