Overview of Peking University
Peking University (PKU), officially founded in 1898, is one of China’s most prestigious and longstanding institutions of higher education. Located in Beijing, the vibrant capital of China, PKU is a comprehensive public university renowned for its research-intensive approach. With over 42,000 students, including approximately 13,000 postgraduates, and more than 30 faculties and schools, the university operates across a main campus and several research centers in Beijing. PKU’s legacy, scale, and influential role position it as a pivotal force in China’s intellectual landscape and a clear leader in global academia.
Peking University is acclaimed for its strengths across a broad spectrum of disciplines, including natural sciences, engineering, medicine, humanities, social sciences, and law. Signature programs in mathematics, chemistry, economics, and life sciences are consistently ranked among the best in Asia. PKU emphasizes interdisciplinary and research-led education, fostering critical thinking and innovation via modular and cross-disciplinary curricula. The university maintains robust global partnerships, participating in academic consortia such as the Worldwide Universities Network (WUN) and establishing joint degree programs with institutions like Yale and Stanford. PKU’s research output is prolific, with more than 19,000 academic publications annually and an outstanding presence in international rankings—often featuring among the global top 25 according to QS and THE rankings.
Student life at Peking University is vibrant and diverse. Over 200 student clubs and societies cater to a range of academic, cultural, athletic, and artistic interests, fostering a lively campus community. Major cultural festivals, academic seminars, and sporting events punctuate the academic calendar. The university is committed to supporting student well-being through extensive counseling, health, and academic support services. PKU’s residential colleges offer modern living facilities and promote a sense of collegiality. Embracing inclusivity and internationalization, PKU welcomes over 7,000 international students from more than 120 countries each year, reinforcing its global and multicultural ethos.
Peking University pursues a mission of “seeking truth and serving society,” committed to nurturing global citizens who drive innovation, sustainability, and social responsibility. The university aspires to be at the forefront of knowledge creation, equity, and international collaboration in the 21st century.
