Schwarzman Scholars Welcomes Tenth Cohort of Global Leaders
Schwarzman Scholars, recognized as one of the world’s leading graduate fellowship programs, has proudly announced its milestone tenth cohort of Scholars. This year's class comprises 150 exceptional individuals, representing a rich diversity of 38 countries and 105 universities from around the globe. These Scholars will embark on a one-year, fully-funded master’s degree program in global affairs at Schwarzman College, part of Tsinghua University.
Record Applications Reflect Growing Interest
This year marks a significant achievement for Schwarzman Scholars, as they received the highest volume of applications in the program's ten-year history. From nearly 5,000 candidates, the Class of 2025-26 has been meticulously selected, showcasing the program's increasing prestige and selectivity. This trend indicates that young leaders are more committed than ever to understanding China and enhancing global collaboration.
A Growing Network of Global Leaders
With this incoming class, the Schwarzman Scholars network expands to over 1,300 members from 104 countries and 459 institutions worldwide. Alumni have gone on to demonstrate outstanding leadership across various sectors, tackling pressing global challenges with innovative solutions.
Exceptional Talent in the Tenth Cohort
The Class of 2025-26 includes diverse and accomplished individuals with remarkable achievements, such as:
- A winner of the Singapore Prime Minister’s Book Prize
- The co-founder of a pioneering real estate technology start-up
- A Grammy award-winning flutist
- A researcher with patents for early-stage cancer detection technology
- The founder of an innovative footwear company
- An archaeologist noted for significant historical projects in China
- The founding director of an NGO supported by national development banks
- A former champion at the United States National Speech and Debate Tournament
- An Obama Foundation Leader
- A recipient of the “Young Australian of the Year” honor
- The founder of a successful STEM education initiative
- A “Diana Award” recipient
- A three-time winner of the United States “President’s Volunteer Service Award”
- The founder of a leading beverage company
- Acclaimed musicians and filmmakers
- Presidents of their respective university student bodies
- Multiple honorees on the Forbes 30 Under 30 list
Imminent Opportunities and Collaborations
For more details about the incoming class, additional information can be found online. The profiles for the Class of 2026 will be made available publicly soon. As we approach the start of the next academic year, excitement is building for the incredible journey these Scholars will undertake.
Stephen A. Schwarzman, Founding Trustee of Schwarzman Scholars, shared his thoughts on the new cohort: “Our tenth cohort fills me with optimism for the future. These Scholars are enthusiastic about enhancing their knowledge of China and global affairs, crucial themes in today’s interconnected world.”
Commitment to Leadership Development
The selection process for Scholars involves an intensive and highly competitive application procedure designed to uncover potential leaders, intellectual capacity, and character strength. This year, nearly 400 candidates were interviewed by panels consisting of esteemed figures from various sectors.
Beginning in August 2025, the newest cohort will participate in a robust graduate curriculum emphasizing leadership and global affairs. They will be instructed by faculty members from Tsinghua University, as well as by globally recognized educators, who will impart diverse insights and knowledge.
Insight Through Experiential Learning
Scholars will gain unparalleled exposure to China through mentorship, internships, and hands-on experiences. Career development resources will be provided to assist them in excelling across multiple fields after graduation.
This unique blend of academic learning, cultural immersion, and personal growth equips Schwarzman Scholars with critical understanding, perfectly positioning them for leadership roles in the complex global landscape of the future.
As Cordel Faulk, Director of Global Admissions, remarked, “This year’s admissions process was our most competitive yet. The selected members of the tenth cohort have impressive backgrounds, and we eagerly anticipate the contributions they will make during their time in our esteemed program.”
About Schwarzman Scholars
Schwarzman Scholars offers an exceptional opportunity for graduate students to gain a comprehensive education in global affairs at Tsinghua University in Beijing. Established to respond to the 21st-century geopolitical environment, this program lays the foundation for the next generation of influential global thinkers.
Each year, up to 200 candidates are chosen for this transformative experience. The program seeks individuals with strong leadership qualities and the potential to promote cross-cultural understanding. Participants come from diverse fields such as business, technology, science, and politics, allowing for broad perspectives within the cohort.
With a curriculum centered on China and global leadership, Schwarzman Scholars prepares its members to navigate the complexities of the international arena. By living and studying in Beijing, Scholars engage deeply with the rich cultural and political landscape of China under the mentorship of renowned experts and thought leaders.
Founded in 2013, Schwarzman Scholars aims to foster a global network of leaders poised to influence the future significantly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Schwarzman Scholars?
Schwarzman Scholars is a prestigious, fully-funded master’s program in global affairs based at Tsinghua University, Beijing, designed to cultivate future leaders.
How many Scholars are selected each year?
Each year, up to 200 candidates from around the world are chosen to join this exceptional program.
What types of backgrounds do Scholars come from?
Scholars hail from diverse industries, including business, technology, healthcare, and public service, among others.
What is the focus of the curriculum?
The curriculum emphasizes leadership, global affairs, and understanding China’s role in the world.
How can I find out more about the program?
For more information and detailed profiles of current Scholars, visit the official Schwarzman Scholars website.
