PKU International Summer Lab Project

Benefits & funding

• Application fee and tuition fee are both waived.
• A short-term research placement in a Peking University laboratory, working with a PKU professor.
• An official PKU campus card, with access to campus facilities such as the canteens and the campus network.
• The university states it will endeavour to secure accommodation, without guaranteeing it.
• The programme pages publish no stipend, travel allowance or living-cost support, so travel and day-to-day costs sit with the participant.

Eligibility

• Non-Chinese citizens holding a valid foreign passport.
• Aged 18 to 45.
• Currently enrolled as an undergraduate or graduate student, or working as a postdoctoral fellow or full-time scientific researcher, at a university outside China.
• Science and engineering disciplines.
• Sound physical and mental health, a competitive academic record, and reasonable moral judgement.
• No criminal record, compliance with the provisions of the Nationality Law of the People’s Republic of China, and a friendly attitude towards China.
• Proof of Chinese language proficiency is submitted only where the applicant already holds it; the research plan may be written in Chinese or English.

Application process

1. 1
   Approach a PKU professor working in your field between March and April, sending a CV and a research plan of 500 to 1,000 words; the host school carries out a preliminary review.
2. 2
   Once that review is passed, complete the online form in the Peking University International Students Online Application System at studyatpku.com, selecting the admission code “Science & Research Program”. The online window runs 1 to 30 April.
3. 3
   Send the application materials to the professor so they arrive by 15 May: the hand-signed online application form, proof of the highest degree held or of current enrolment together with transcripts, two signed letters of recommendation from associate professors, the research plan, a CV, proof of Chinese language proficiency where held, and a copy of the passport information page.
4. 4
   The university carries out the final review and issues admission documents to successful applicants, with results released between late May and early June. Admitted participants then apply for an X2 visa at a Chinese embassy or consulate.

Program timeline

1. applicants contact prospective PKU professors

   March to April

2. online application window in the PKU international students system

   April 1 to 30

3. last date for application materials to reach the professor

   May 15

4. admission results released

   Late May to early June

5. Summer

   on-campus research period, with exact dates set out in the admission notice