Join the world's next generation of leaders.
Admissions Overview
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.
Schwarzman Scholars are selected from an international pool of distinguished candidates. Prospective Scholars are expected to demonstrate academic excellence, exceptional results in their field and outstanding leadership qualities.
What We're Looking For
Our cohort of global leaders reflects the diversity, vibrancy and promise of the world at large. Schwarzman Scholars embrace the opportunity to understand other cultures, perspectives and positions. Candidates who are most qualified to meet the high demands of the program must exhibit excellence in the following areas:
Eligibility
In addition to demonstrating extraordinary leadership skills, the ability to anticipate and act on trends and changes in their context, strong intellectual capacity, and exemplary character, candidates must meet the following criteria.
Applicants who are currently enrolled in undergraduate degree programs must be on track to successfully complete all degree requirements before August 1 of their Schwarzman Scholars enrollment year. There are no requirements for a specific field of undergraduate study; all fields are welcome, but it is important for applicants, regardless of undergraduate major, to articulate how participating in Schwarzman Scholars will help develop their leadership potential within their field.
Candidates must be at least 18 but not yet 29 years of age as of August 1 of their Schwarzman Scholars enrollment year (for the Class of 2026-2027, as of August 1, 2026).
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. The requirement will also be waived for applicants who have studied in English for two or more years at a Master’s degree level or higher. Acceptable test options are: Internet-based Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL iBT). Minimum score 100. International English Language Testing System (IELTS). Minimum score 7. Cambridge English: Advanced (C1) or Cambridge English: Proficiency (C2). Minimum score 185.
For applicants using the China Application System, refer to guidelines on the Schwarzman College Admissions page.
Next Selection Cycle
- Application Period: Apr 2025 - Sep 2025
- Selection Cycle: Oct - Nov 2025
- Program Begins: Aug 2026
- Application Period: Jan 2025 - May 2025
- Selection Cycle: Jun - Jul 2025
- Program Begins: Aug 2026
The application window for the class of 2025-2026 is now closed. The U.S. and Global application for the class of 2026-2027 will be open from April 2025 to September 2025. Sign up to receive updates.
Upcoming Information Sessions
Wherever you’re located around the world, we are excited to connect with you. To learn more about Schwarzman Scholars, our selection process and to hear from Admissions Team members and alumni, we invite you to attend an Info Session.
Sorry, there are no Information Sessions happening at this time. Sign up for our newsletter and be the first to know about upcoming sessions and other program updates.
Our Selection Process
Interested candidates participate in a rigorous and thorough selection process, designed to identify the most promising young leaders from around the world. Those selected will have demonstrated an ability to effectively understand and contribute to the program so it may evolve to suit the needs of a rapidly changing world.
Online Application
Online Application
The application must be completed online and submitted electronically once you have answered all the required questions. The application form must be completed in English. You do not have to complete the online application in one sitting; you may access, save, and continue work on your application as frequently as needed before submitting the application.
A current version of your resume or CV (maximum 2 pages).
The two required essays are a Leadership Essay (750 words) and a Statement of Purpose (500 words). The essays are a critical component of the application, designed to help the selection committee understand you as an individual and get a sense of your leadership abilities/potential, as well as your writing and analytical skills.
You are required to scan and upload official transcripts for each degree-granting post-secondary education institution you attended.
Recommenders should know you well and be able to speak to your intellectual abilities, personal characteristics, and leadership potential using specific examples from their direct experience working with you.
Provide a short video self-introduction of no more than 1 minute. Introduce yourself in any style or setting you think best conveys your interests and personality. The point of this recording is to allow the committee to hear you introduce yourself in your own voice and style.
Supporting Documents
Supporting Documents
The supporting documents listed here are required to apply. We discourage applicants from submitting any supplemental materials that are not required, such as portfolios, writing samples, additional recommendations, etc. Such materials will not be shared with the Review Committee.
Application Review and Interview
Application Review and Interview
Applications are reviewed by a distinguished committee of business, government and academic leaders from around the world. A select number of candidates are invited for interviews in late October and early November before an international panel of leaders from a variety of backgrounds. These interviewers draw on their leadership experience to identify a cohort of highly accomplished candidates whose paths to leadership will be enhanced by an introduction to China and its global role.
We’re looking for young leaders who really have the drive and ambition to get something done on an issue of significance.
Stay Connected
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University Contacts
At many colleges and universities, fellowship advisors offer high-level strategic advice on a candidate's application.
Currently enrolled undergraduates should coordinate with their campus contact early in the application process. Some colleges and universities establish internal pre-application processes for their undergraduates and may even set early internal deadlines. If this is the case with your university, you should be sure to follow your university’s internal procedures to apply for Schwarzman Scholars. Candidates who do not plan to ask for help may still want to notify their campus contact that they are applying as a courtesy.
Still have some lingering questions? We're here for you.