Most Popular Majors at Peking University

Most Popular Majors at Peking University

Peking University (PKU) is one of China’s most prestigious universities, ranked 14th globally in 2025. The most sought-after programs at PKU include Medicine, Economics, and Management, which are offered at the highest academic and educational standards. Compared to universities in the United States, tuition at Peking University is relatively affordable, and combined with the university’s high reputation, it attracts a large number of international students.

Admission Requirements for Studying in China

Admission requirements vary depending on the university, program, and level of study. However, a minimum high school diploma is generally required for undergraduate programs in Chinese universities. For international students, additional documents such as a valid passport, academic transcripts, recommendation letters, and language proficiency certificates may also be required.

Introduction to Peking University (PKU)

Founded in 1898 during China’s Hundred Days’ Reform, Peking University is one of the oldest and most esteemed universities in China and Asia. It was the first modern institution of higher education in China and has played a key role in developing the country’s higher education system, as well as contributing to political, scientific, and social discourse.

PKU enjoys high national and international prestige, and its top global ranking makes its programs highly competitive for international applicants. The university offers extensive academic, research, cultural, and student facilities, further enhancing its reputation. Its diverse programs span natural sciences, engineering, humanities, medical sciences, economics, management, and more.

The combination of high-quality education, affordable tuition, modern facilities, and global recognition makes the most popular majors at Peking University highly attractive for students seeking a prestigious and cost-effective education in China.

Study Requirements in China

Like any other university, applicants wishing to study in China must meet a set of general and specific requirements. Below, we review the conditions for studying in China.

1. Academic Qualifications and Age Requirement

To study the most in-demand programs at Peking University, holding the relevant academic degree is a fundamental requirement. A high school diploma is necessary for undergraduate studies, a bachelor’s degree for master’s programs, and a master’s degree for doctoral studies. In addition to academic qualifications, age is another condition for studying in China, which depends on the level of study and the university program.

The eligible age for undergraduate programs is 18–30 years, for master’s programs up to 35 years, and for doctoral programs up to 40 years. Generally, younger applicants have a higher chance of admission. For highly sought-after fields such as medicine, which is among the most requested programs at Peking University, age restrictions apply. However, in special cases, such as for distinguished artists or researchers, the university may show flexibility.

2. Language of Instruction

Due to the high reputation of Peking University, many programs, especially in medicine and MBA, are offered in both Chinese and English. Students must provide a language proficiency certificate according to their chosen language of instruction. For Chinese, the required HSK levels are 4 for undergraduate, 5–6 for master’s, and 6 for doctoral programs. For English-taught programs, applicants must submit an IELTS or TOEFL certificate.

3. Required Documents for Admission

Another part of the study requirements in China involves preparing the documents needed for admission. These include the completed application form, passport-sized color photos, academic transcripts, identification documents, student visa, passport, statement of purpose, and CV (for master’s and doctoral programs). Additionally, applicants must provide proof of financial capability to demonstrate their ability to cover tuition and living expenses at Peking University.

Introduction to the Most In-Demand Programs at Peking University

Peking University offers a wide range of academic programs delivered at the highest standards of education, research, and scholarship. Below, we introduce some of the most in-demand programs at Peking University.

1. Medical Sciences

Due to the high quality of education, advanced research facilities, and the presence of distinguished faculty, medical programs are among the most sought-after at Peking University. The Peking University Health Science Center (PKUHSC) holds a strong position globally, ranked 24th worldwide. In addition to general medicine, programs in dentistry, public health, and nursing are also offered and are internationally recognized.

The tuition fee for medical studies at Peking University for undergraduate programs is approximately 45,000 CNY per year, while for master’s, doctoral, and advanced professional training programs it ranges from 52,000 to 62,000 CNY annually. It is important to note that these fees are separate from accommodation, visa application, and insurance costs, which can amount to around 1,600 CNY per year. Peking University is considered one of the top universities in China for medical education.

2. Management and Economics

Another highly demanded field at Peking University is management and economics, driven by the strong market demand in China and globally. The university’s MBA programs are ranked 54th worldwide, while its Master of Finance program is ranked 8th globally. Programs in economics, management, and finance at Peking University are recognized among the best in the world. Due to the high demand, graduates of these programs often have excellent opportunities to enter the job market.

3. Engineering and Computer Science

Engineering and computer science programs are also among the most sought-after at Peking University. In today’s world, technological and computer-based fields drive global development, making engineering, computer science, and information technology highly important. China’s rapid development has further increased the significance of these programs. Many engineering programs at Peking University, including nanotechnology, materials engineering, and computer science, are ranked among the top programs according to the Shanghai Rankings. Admission requirements for these programs include relevant academic qualifications, language proficiency, financial proof, and other necessary documents.

4. Most In-Demand Programs at Peking University: Law

The Peking University Law School, established in 1904, is one of the oldest and most prestigious law schools in China. Due to the university’s high reputation, the presence of top legal scholars, and strong market demand, law is among the most sought-after programs at Peking University. Between 2015 and 2017, this law school was ranked as the top law school in China and among the top three in Asia. Admission to the undergraduate and master’s law programs is highly competitive, with a high GPA being the most important requirement.

5. Basic Sciences

Programs in mathematics, chemistry, physics, and geology are part of the basic sciences and are among the most in-demand programs at Peking University. These programs are offered at the highest levels of academic, educational, and research quality. Many of Peking University’s basic science programs are ranked in the top 1% globally, with the mathematics program ranked 17th worldwide according to QS. Faculty in the basic sciences are among the top educators in China and internationally, and research projects are integrated into the curriculum.

6. Social Sciences and Anthropology

Programs in sociology, psychology, anthropology, and related fields are also among the most in-demand programs at Peking University and hold high positions in the QS rankings. Additionally, journalism and Chinese literature are popular programs at Peking University, attracting a large number of students due to their academic quality and career prospects.

Reasons for the Popularity of Studying at Peking University

Peking University, as one of China’s leading and oldest universities, has devoted itself to providing the highest quality education both in quantity and quality. The high level of research and scientific facilities has placed Peking University in the top 1% worldwide in over 21 academic disciplines. This highlights the importance, depth, and scope of specialized research conducted at the university.

Additionally, Peking University is a member of the C9 League and consistently ranks among the top positions in QS rankings. Graduates of Peking University’s most in-demand programs can easily enter the job markets in China or internationally. Due to the university’s high prestige, admission to programs such as medicine, law, engineering, and computer science is highly competitive.

Tuition Fees at Peking University, China

The prestige and high demand for Peking University and its most sought-after programs have increased the demand for studying at this university. One of the admission requirements for studying at Peking University is providing proof of financial capability. Scholarships are also available for international students, most of which are awarded based on excellent academic or research performance. Tuition fees in China depend on the degree level, field of study, and program. Below is a breakdown of tuition fees at Peking University for various programs and degree levels:

1. Undergraduate Programs

Tuition fees for the most in-demand undergraduate programs at Peking University are approximately:

• Technology, Engineering, and Technical Fields: ~32,000 CNY per year
• Humanities and Social Sciences: ~26,000 CNY per year
• Medical Sciences: ~35,000 CNY per year

2. Master’s Programs

Tuition fees for master’s programs at Peking University vary by field:

• Basic Sciences: ~32,000–47,500 CNY per year
• Social Sciences and Humanities: ~30,000–45,000 CNY per year
• Business and Management Studies: ~55,000–80,000+ CNY per year
• Engineering and Technology: ~35,000–47,500 CNY per year

3. Doctoral Programs

Tuition fees for doctoral programs at Peking University are categorized based on the language of instruction:

• Programs in English: ~50,000 CNY per year; total for the full program: ~200,000 CNY or 250,000 CNY for the 5-year direct program
• Programs in Chinese: ~40,000 CNY per year; total for the full program: ~160,000 CNY or 200,000 CNY for the 5-year direct program

Scholarships

In addition to the high prestige of Peking University and the academic quality of its most in-demand programs, scholarships in China are another major advantage of studying at this country and at PKU. Eligible students with excellent academic performance or participation in advanced research programs can apply for these scholarships. Scholarships offered at PKU include:

• Peking University Scholarship: Covers tuition waivers, insurance, and living expenses based on student performance.
• Chinese Government Scholarship: Includes full tuition waiver, free dormitory or dormitory allowance, medical insurance, and monthly living allowance of 2,500 CNY for undergraduate programs, 3,000 CNY for master’s programs, and 3,500 CNY for doctoral programs.
• Yenching Scholars Scholarship: For interdisciplinary programs, covering tuition, accommodation, living expenses, insurance, and international travel for a 1–2 year master’s program.
• Beijing Municipal Scholarship: Provides full or partial coverage of tuition depending on the program: 20,000 CNY per year for undergraduate programs, 30,000 CNY for master’s programs, and 40,000 CNY for doctoral programs.

Additionally, other scholarships such as the CSC (Chinese Government Scholarship), cultural institution scholarships, and provincial scholarships are available for eligible students in PKU’s most in-demand programs.

Conclusion

Peking University is one of the most prestigious and oldest universities in China, with significant international recognition. The university’s high academic standards, distinguished faculty, and well-established educational and research infrastructure have placed it among the top universities in the world. Consequently, many international students apply annually to study at Peking University. The most sought-after programs include Medicine, Engineering, Computer Science, and Law.

Applicants must be familiar with the requirements for studying in China, including academic qualifications, age limits, GPA, and language proficiency, and must prepare and submit the necessary documents for admission. Tuition fees at Peking University depend on factors such as the program and degree level. Students with strong academic performance or active involvement in PKU’s research can apply for scholarships, which range from full funding (full scholarships) to partial funding (partial scholarships).

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