Schwarzman Scholarship

Designed to prepare the next generation of global leaders, Schwarzman Scholars is the first scholarship created to respond to the geopolitical landscape of the 21st Century. Whether in politics, business or science, the success of future leaders around the world will depend upon an understanding of China’s role in global trends. Each new cohort of Schwarzman Scholars will join a global network of the world’s most talented young leaders, helping to build stronger links between China and a rapidly changing world.

Scholars will complete a one-year Master’s degree in Global Affairs at Tsinghua University in Beijing – one of China’s most prestigious universities. Students will pursue a concentration in one of the following disciplines: public policy, economics and business, or international studies. The concentration gives students an opportunity to focus on aspects of global affairs they may not have previously studied.

This award does not require university endorsement. However, the Schwarzman Scholarship is exceptionally competitive. We strongly recommend that you work closely with NCA as you prepare your application.

Having trouble writing an essay on your leadership skills?

Prestigious scholarships often ask for a leadership essay, but what does such an essay entail? NCA has recorded a webinar full of tips to help you craft a compelling leadership narrative for your application. Please watch our 30-minute Leadership Essay Webinar (be sure to view as a Slide Show for audio narration). Closed captions are available.

Deadlines

National Deadline: September 12, 2024 @ 11:59PM EDT (May 2023 for applicants with Chinese passports)

Students selected to the Schwarzman Scholars program receive a comprehensive scholarship, which includes tuition fees, room and board, travel to and from Beijing at the beginning and end of the academic year, an in-country study tour, course books and supplies, health insurance, and a stipend of $4,000 to cover personal expenses.

In addition to the core curriculum, scholars benefit from leadership development, a mentorship network, the “deep dive” experience, an optional internship, and Mandarin study in the fall term. (Courses are taught in English. Prior knowledge of Mandarin is not required.)

Eligibility Criteria

To apply, you must be:

  • a rising senior or recent alumni (must have a bachelor’s degree by program start date)
  • at least 18 but not yet 29 years of age as of August 1 of their Schwarzman Scholars enrollment year
  • proficient in English (see Schwarzman website for information about testing requirements)

Please refer to the Schwarzman website for a detailed list of the eligibility requirements.

Selection Criteria

To be competitive, candidates should:

  • demonstrate academic excellence. Though there is no minimum GPA, “the most competitive candidates are among the top students in their graduating class.”
  • have a proven record of effective leadership and an entrepreneurial spirit

Please refer to the Schwarzman website for a detailed list of the selection criteria.

  • Background information
  • Resume/CV (2 pages, maximum)
  • Essay 1: Leadership
  • Essay 2: Statement of Purpose
  • Letters of recommendation (3)
  • Transcripts
  • Optional video
  • In the spring, attend an NCA Learning Series session on the Schwarzman Scholarship
  • Complete two NCA forms:
  • Carefully review the Schwarzman website and schedule an NCA advising appointment
  • Launch your online application (application opens in April)
  • Submit revised application by National Deadline: September 12, 2024 @ 11:59PM EDT
  • Information on this page is intended to supplement, not supplant, your own careful review of the official Schwarzman website. If you find any discrepancy between the two, the Schwarzman website takes precedence.
  • UC’s Student Code of Conduct applies to this application process.