The Schwarzman Scholarship is a highly selective and prestigious international scholarship program founded in 2013 by Stephen A. Schwarzman, the CEO of the private equity firm Blackstone. It aims to prepare the next generation of global leaders by funding a master’s degree at Tsinghua University in Beijing, one of China’s most prestigious universities.
In this comprehensive guide, we will cover everything you need to know about the Schwarzman Scholarship, including:
- What is the Schwarzman Scholarship?
- Schwarzman Scholarship Eligibility
- Schwarzman Scholarship Application Timeline
- How to Apply for the Schwarzman Scholarship
- Schwarzman Scholarship Essays
- Schwarzman Scholarship Interview Preparation
- Schwarzman Scholarship Benefits
- Life at Tsinghua University
- Schwarzman Scholars Alumni Network
- Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Schwarzman Scholarship?
The Schwarzman Scholarship is an international scholarship program designed to prepare future leaders to help navigate the complexities of the 21st century. It was founded in 2013 by Blackstone Group CEO Stephen A. Schwarzman, who donated $100 million to the program.
Each year, up to 200 Schwarzman Scholars from around the world receive a fully funded scholarship to pursue a one-year Master’s Degree at Tsinghua University in Beijing, China. The scholarship covers the full cost of tuition, room and board, travel expenses and personal stipend.
The Schwarzman Scholars program aims to:
- Provide future leaders with first-hand exposure to China.
- Develop a global network of emerging leaders passionate about engaging China.
- Build stronger relationships between China and the rest of the world.
The academic program at Tsinghua University focuses on public policy, economics and business, and international studies. In addition to academic courses, scholars participate in leadership development, cultural immersion and networking activities.
Upon graduation, Schwarzman Scholars become lifetime members of the Schwarzman Scholars alumni network, with unrivaled access to China’s business, political and thought leaders.
Schwarzman Scholarship Eligibility
The Schwarzman Scholarship has strict eligibility criteria. Applicants must meet the following requirements to qualify:
Nationality
You must hold a passport from one of the eligible countries/regions:
- All countries in Africa
- Australia
- Brazil
- Canada
- China
- France
- Germany
- Hong Kong
- India
- Indonesia
- Israel
- Italy
- Japan
- Malaysia
- Mexico
- New Zealand
- Pakistan
- Russia
- Singapore
- South Korea
- Taiwan
- Thailand
- Turkey
- United Kingdom
- United States
Education
You must hold a bachelor’s degree or expected to receive one by August 2023. All academic disciplines are accepted.
English Proficiency
You must be proficient in English, with a minimum score of 100 on the TOEFL exam or 7.0 on the IELTS exam.
Age
You must be between the ages of 18 and 29 as of August 1, 2023. There are no exceptions made for the age requirement.
Work Experience
You must have at least 2 years of full-time work experience by August 1, 2023. Internships do not count.
Leadership Potential
You must demonstrate exceptional leadership potential and interest in bridging cultures between China and the rest of the world.
Schwarzman Scholarship Application Timeline
The Schwarzman Scholarship application is open once per year. Here are the key dates for the 2023-2024 application cycle:
- August 2022 – Application opens
- September 27, 2022 (11:59pm EST) – Application deadline
- October 2022 – November 2022 – Regional interviews
- December 2022 – Finalist interviews in Beijing
- Late December 2022 – Selection notifications sent
- August 2023 – Selected scholars arrive at Tsinghua University
Plan your application timeline accordingly to meet all deadlines. Late or incomplete applications will not be accepted.
How to Apply for the Schwarzman Scholarship
The Schwarzman Scholarship application has three main components – the online application, essay questions, and interview. Here is an overview of each component:
Online Application
You must complete the online application, which includes:
- Personal and education background
- Extracurricular activities
- Work experience
- Short essays (250 words each)
- Names of recommenders
- University transcripts
- English proficiency scores (TOEFL or IELTS)
The online application also requires you to rank your academic preferences among the three discipline tracks (public policy, economics & business, international studies).
Essay Questions
There are three essay prompts, with a 1500 word total limit:
- What motivated you to apply for the Schwarzman Scholars Program now? (250-500 words)
- What are your career aspirations in your chosen professional field and what drives you to pursue them? (250-500 words)
- How will you leverage the experiences gained through the Schwarzman Scholars Program to further your professional goals and benefit your local, regional or global community? (250-500 words)
The essays allow you to expand on your background, goals and fit for the program. Craft thoughtful, well-written responses that highlight your leadership skills.
Interview
If you are selected as a semi-finalist, you will be invited for a 30-minute interview with the selection committee. The interview consists of standard get-to-know-you questions and scenario-based questions to evaluate your critical thinking.
Interviews take place in major cities in your home region. Finalist interviews occur in Beijing in December.
Schwarzman Scholarship Essays
The Schwarzman Scholarship application requires three personal essays with a total 1500 word limit. Here are some tips for acing the essays:
Show, Don’t Tell
Use vivid examples and illustrative stories to showcase your qualities and background. Avoid simply stating generic attributes like “leadership skills.”
Be Specific
Connect each essay directly back to the Schwarzman Scholarship. Don’t recycle essays for other programs.
Answer the Prompt
Directly address every aspect of the question. Use the full word limit if needed.
Structure Strongly
Have a clear introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion. Use transition words to connect ideas.
Check for Typos
Proofread carefully. Ask others to review your drafts. Avoid grammar/spelling errors.
Here is an essay template for the “motivation” essay prompt:
- Paragraph 1: Start with a hook capturing your passion for the Schwarzman Scholarship. Explain when and how you learned about the program.
- Paragraphs 2-3: Discuss 2-3 specific reasons why the program appeals to you now. Link details directly back to the Scholarship. Are there aspects of the curriculum, leadership training, China focus, etc. that match your background and goals?
- Paragraph 4: Describe how receiving the Scholarship would be a catalyst for your future aspirations in your chosen field. End with your goals to create meaningful impact.
Schwarzman Scholarship Interview Preparation
If selected as a semi-finalist, you will be invited for a 30-minute interview with the Schwarzman Scholarship selection committee. Here are some tips to prepare:
- Practice answering common questions such as “Walk me through your resume” and “Why are you interested in this scholarship?” Prepare 2-3 minute stories that highlight your top selling points.
- Conduct mock interviews with mentors, professors, or peers to get comfortable responding verbally. Ask for feedback on your body language and tone.
- Research current events related to China-US relations, leadership, economics, etc. You may be asked for your perspectives on news topics.
- Review your application thoroughly. Be ready to expand on any points in your essays or short answers. Know key dates and details.
- Prepare scenarios for behavioral questions like “Tell me about a time you failed” or “Tell me about a challenge you faced.” Have 5-6 stories ready.
- Rest up. Get a good night’s sleep beforehand. Eat a healthy meal. Dress professionally. Arrive early to settle in.
With thorough preparation, you can confidently handle any Schwarzman Scholarship interview questions and represent yourself strongly as a candidate.
Schwarzman Scholarship Benefits
Schwarzman Scholars receive an incredibly generous benefits package:
Full Scholarship
The Scholarship covers the full cost of tuition, fees, room & board and travel expenses. Scholars also receive a personal stipend for books and discretionary spending. Total value: $250,000+
Master’s Degree
Scholars earn a 1-year Master’s Degree from Tsinghua University in Global Affairs, Economics & Business, or Public Policy. Graduates earn the same degree as Tsinghua students.
Academic Courses
Over 130 courses are offered each year across disciplines. 20% of courses focus specifically on China. Classes are discussion-based and taught in English.
Leadership Training
Weekly leadership lectures, skill-building workshops, case competitions, conferences and mentoring prepare scholars to lead.
Cultural Immersion
Cultural learning excursions across China, language classes, traditional Chinese arts lessons and host family visits promote cultural exchange.
High-Profile Network
Scholars gain access to networking/mentorship with influential business, political and nonprofit leaders in China and worldwide.
Alumni Network
As lifetime members of the Schwarzman Scholars alumni network, scholars gain valuable connections with over 1,000 top young leaders around the globe.
Life at Tsinghua University
Founded in 1911, Tsinghua University is one of China’s most prestigious institutions located in the northwest suburbs of Beijing. Here’s what life is like on campus:
Facilities
The Schwarzman College dedicated for the program features state-of-the-art academic, dining, recreational and residential facilities. The ultra-modern campus opened in 2020.
Housing
Scholars live in newly built high-rise dormitories on campus. Each scholar has a private furnished bedroom and shares an apartment with 5-7 other scholars and a resident assistant.
Dining
Meals are provided for scholars at the Schwarzman College dining hall. The menu includes traditional Chinese fare and international cuisine. Special diets are accommodated.
Activities
Weekly formal/informal events, interest clubs, case competitions, conferences, sports teams and student organizations allow scholars to pursue extracurriculars.
Location
The campus is conveniently located 30 minutes from central Beijing. Scholars have easy access to internships, events and sightseeing in the capital and beyond.
Support Services
Scholars receive academic advising, career counseling, physical/mental health services, travel assistance, visa support and help acclimating to life in China.
Tsinghua’s world-class campus provides an unparalleled setting for Schwarzman Scholars to live, learn and succeed.
Schwarzman Scholars Alumni Network
One of the greatest assets of the Schwarzman Scholarship is its powerful alumni network. Some facts:
- 950+ graduates from over 100 countries make up the alumni network and counting
- Alumni hold leadership roles at Microsoft, Goldman Sachs, Google, Alibaba, McKinsey, governments and top universities worldwide
- Strong focus on alumni programming, mentoring and career development
- Lifetime access to exclusive alumni network events like annual summits
- Alumni Directory and LinkedIn group facilitate networking
- Graduates gain instant access to high-achieving, action-oriented peers across sectors
- Alumni amplify the Scholarship’s mission through media, volunteer work and donations
Whether looking for a job, partnership, investment or advice, Schwarzman scholars can tap into this incredible global network of rising leaders to open doors throughout their careers.
In Summary
The Schwarzman Scholarship is truly a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to expand your global perspectives, build an unparalleled network, and prepare yourself for leadership in the 21st century.
At just over a decade old, this prestigious international scholarship is quickly becoming as renowned as the Rhodes Scholarship or Fulbright Program for its transformative impact.
If you’re looking to immerse yourself in China, access world-class education, and launch your career with exclusive connections, the Schwarzman Scholarship deserves your strongest consideration.
The application requires thoroughness, self-awareness, and vision about how you will make a difference in the world. With meticulous essays, a stellar interview, and a compelling candidacy, this highly selective scholarship can be within your reach.
There are no shortcuts, but with hard work and strategic preparation, you can put yourself in prime position to potentially become a Schwarzman Scholar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to some of the most common questions about the Schwarzman Scholarship:
Do I need to know Chinese?
No. The entire program is conducted in English, including classes and activities. Optional Chinese language courses are offered.
Can I apply to other scholarships too?
Yes, you may apply to other scholarships. If admitted to multiple programs, you’ll have to choose only one.
Is any academic background preferred?
All majors are welcome. Most scholars have backgrounds in public policy, economics, international relations or business.
Can I defer my admission?
No, deferrals are not allowed. You may re-apply the following year if needed.
How many applicants get accepted?
Around 200 Scholars are admitted each year out of 4,000+ applicants for an acceptance rate around 5%.
Do I need to attend Tsinghua after?
No, the Scholarship only funds the 1-year master’s program. You can pursue any opportunity after.
Can my family come visit me in Beijing?
Yes! Tsinghua allows short-term family visits in campus dorms. Many scholars also travel home during breaks.
When are decisions announced?
Final admission decisions are released in late December. Semi-finalist interviews occur October-November.
We hope this FAQ helps provide clarity on the Schwarzman Scholarship. Don’t hesitate to contact the program directly with additional questions.