Introduction to the International Policy Action Lab

The International Policy Action Lab (IPAL) is a rigorous, interdisciplinary program that offers top global students and young professionals an unforgettable three-week experience. Participants will gain rigorous, interdisciplinary training on data analysis and international policy research, work with top faculty members from Peking University and the University of Chicago, expand career knowledge and industry network, and explore the rich culture of the city of Beijing.

Program Overview

• The program is designed to equip participants with a fundamental understanding of the international policy landscape and the essential methodologies for conducting effective policy research through an evidence-based approach.
• The program features rigorous interactive academic training from Peking University and University of Chicago faculty at the PKU campus in Beijing, China.
• Field trips and visits to international organizations are included to expand participants' career knowledge and industry network.
• A shareable certification of completion is provided to showcase participants' academic rigor.

Program Details

• Duration: 3 weeks, 20-25 hours per week
• Dates: July 13 - July 31, 2026
• Cost: $4,000 with various discount types
• Format: In-person at the Peking University campus in Beijing, China
• Subjects: International Policy, Policy Research, Applied Econometrics, Programming in Stata
• Level: All levels welcome

Curriculum

The IPAL program offers a comprehensive curriculum that includes:

Week 1: Introduction to International Policy and Research

• This course aims to equip participants with a fundamental understanding of the international policy landscape and the essential methodologies for conducting effective policy research through an evidence-based approach.
• Participants will acquire skills in:
  • Addressing challenges inherent in working within and alongside international organizations
  • Navigating bureaucratic complexities
  • Devising diplomatic solutions to persistent problems
  • Analyzing findings from prior research
  • Ensuring the accuracy and reliability of data in decision-making processes

Week 2 & 3: Applied Econometrics & Programming in Stata

• This course introduces participants to econometrics methodology and its applications, and basic functions with the programming language Stata.
• Participants will gain a comprehensive understanding of the econometric modeling tools that are frequently used in empirical economic research.

Faculty

The program features top faculty members from Peking University and the University of Chicago, including:

• Rebecca Wolfe: Senior Lecturer and Executive Director of International Policy & Development
• Xuezheng Qin: Professor and Deputy Dean in the School of Economics at Peking University
• Yanran Chen: Professor at the School of Economics, Capital University of Economics and Business

Participant Experience

• Program Dates and Time Commitment: July 13 - July 31, 2026, 20-25 hours per week
• In-Person Format: The program will be delivered fully in-person at the Peking University campus in Beijing, China.
• Certification of Credential Completion: Issued by Peking University and the University of Chicago Harris School of Public Policy to showcase participants' academic rigor.
• Office Hours: All courses have office hours with faculty and graduate teaching assistants, conducted in-person.
• On-campus Accommodation: PKU-UChicago Summer School participants can apply for on-campus accommodation for the duration of the program.

Program Fee & Payment

• Program Fee: $4,000
• Discounts: Partial discounts are offered to early action applicants, PKU and UChicago community members.
• Scholarships: Eligible applicants may be considered for the Community Impact Scholarship, which provides $500 to IPAL participants.
• Payment Instructions: Detailed payment instructions will be provided to admitted participants via email.

Admissions

• Eligibility: Minimum age of 18, one-year full-time undergraduate study completed at least one month prior to the start of the program
• Application Process: Start your online application today, select "2026" - "2026 Cred" - "Non-Degree" - "International Policy Action Lab".
• Required Documents:
  • Motivation statement (300-word limit) describing why you want to join the program and how it will benefit your future development.
  • Resume (1-2 pages recommended).
  • Unofficial Academic Transcripts.
  • English language proficiency proof for some international applicants.
• Application Deadline:
  • Early Action: December 2, 2025
  • Round 1: January 20, 2026
  • Round 2: March 10, 2026
  • Round 3: April 21, 2026
  • Round 4: May 19, 2026

Frequently Asked Questions

• Are there any prerequisites for joining IPAL? IPAL content is rigorous, but we accommodate participants of all backgrounds. There are no prerequisites for this program.
• What do the housing options and campus access look like? For participants who need accommodation support, we provide on-campus housing at the PKU Global Village for the duration of the program.
• Is this a for-credit program? The program is a non-credit program. You will receive a shareable certification from Peking University and the University of Chicago Harris School of Public Policy upon completion to showcase your academic rigor.
• Are scholarships offered for IPAL? The program fee is $4,000. We offer partial discounts to early action applicants, PKU and UChicago community members. Eligible applicants may be considered for the Community Impact Scholarship, which provides $500 to IPAL participants.

University of Chicago Summary

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Overview:

The University of Chicago is a prestigious research university located in the Hyde Park neighborhood of Chicago. It is known for its rigorous academic programs, emphasis on independent thinking, and commitment to intellectual freedom. The university boasts a diverse community of scholars and students who contribute to groundbreaking research and advancements in various fields.

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Services Offered:

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

The university offers a vibrant campus experience with a diverse community, access to arts and culture, and a strong connection to the surrounding South Side neighborhood. Students can expect a challenging academic environment that fosters independent thinking and critical analysis.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

Rigorous academic programs:

The university is renowned for its challenging and intellectually stimulating curriculum.

Emphasis on independent thinking:

Students are encouraged to develop critical thinking skills and engage in original research.

Intellectual freedom:

The university provides a supportive environment for faculty and students to pursue their research interests without limitations.

Field-defining research:

The university has a long history of groundbreaking research and discoveries that have shaped various fields.

Global impact:

The university is actively involved in addressing global challenges through research, initiatives, and programs across the world.

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Academic Programs:

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Other:

The university is deeply connected to its surrounding community and invests in the South Side through initiatives in health, education, economic growth, and the arts. It also emphasizes its commitment to diversity and inclusion, fostering a welcoming environment for students from all backgrounds.