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. 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.

The program gives the world’s best and brightest students the opportunity to develop their leadership skills and professional networks through a one-year Master’s Degree in Global Affairs at Tsinghua University in Beijing—one of China’s most prestigious universities. Those selected will have demonstrated their potential to not only benefit from but also contribute to the Schwarzman Scholars program. 

List

Eligibility

  • Class year: Seniors and alumni at the time of application. Undergraduate degree or first degree from an accredited college or university or its equivalent. Applicants who are currently enrolled in undergraduate degree programs must be on track to successfully complete all degree requirements by a date specified before orientation begins. There are no requirements for a specific field of undergraduate study; all fields are welcome, but it will be important for applicants, regardless of undergraduate major, to articulate how participating in Schwarzman Scholars will help develop their leadership potential within their field.

  • Citizenship: Citizens of all countries. Please note there are different deadlines for Chinese passport-holders and those who are not Chinese passport-holders. 

Other eligibility guidelines:

  • Age: Candidates must be at least 18 but not yet 29 years of age as of August 1 of their Schwarzman Scholars enrollment year.

  • English language proficiency: 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.

Applying & Guidance

Applicants participate in a rigorous and thorough selection process, designed to identify the most promising young leaders from around the world. The process includes an online application and credentials evaluation as well as in-person regional interviews. 

Follow the instructions for submitting an application and review application tips and resources in the Schwarzman Scholars Application Toolkit (Davidson login required).

Schedule an Office of Fellowships advising appointment with Gaylena Merritt, Director of Fellowships,  to discuss your candidacy

Award

Davidson Schwarzman Scholars

2023 - Itziri Gonzalez Barcenas '19

2021 - Lorena James '21 

2019 - Mariem Bchir '20