Hu Yan (1361[1] – 20 September 1443[2]), courtesy name Ruosi, art name Yi'an, was a prominent Chinese scholar-official during the Ming dynasty.

He was appointed as grand secretary in 1402 during the reign of te Yongle Emperor and served in this position for two years before being transferred to the head of the Imperial University, where he remained for two decades.

The new Yongle Emperor was impressed by Hu Yan's extensive education, particularly in the field of astrology, and assigned him to the prestigious Hanlin Academy.

As the head of the university, he played a significant role in the government's major literary projects and led the second revision of the Veritable Records of Emperor Taizu.

Hu Yan continued to serve as the head of the university until his retirement in 1425, earning great respect and honor for his long and dedicated service.