Complete guide to studying in China
Everything you need to know about becoming an international student in China
Five top reasons to study in China
- World-class universities and global recognition
- Affordable tuition fees and living costs
- Generous scholarship opportunities
- Cultural richness and diverse experiences
- Career opportunities in a global hub
A quick introduction to China
Located in East Asia, China shares borders with 14 countries, including India, Russia and Vietnam.
It is the world’s most populous nation and has the second-largest economy, playing a central role in global trade, technology and education.
China is a very attractive destination for international students. In 2021, 255,720 full-time foreign students were enrolled at Chinese universities, with numbers steadily recovering after the pandemic.
Many universities now offer programmes taught in English alongside Chinese, increasing accessibility for students from abroad.
As an international student, China offers you high standards of education, the potential of generous government scholarships, a multicultural environment and a blend of modern development with ancient cultural traditions.
You will also find significant investment in infrastructure and public services, creating a supportive environment for both local and international communities.
China has a long-established tradition of culture and learning, with thousands of years of history, UNESCO World Heritage sites, and diverse natural landscapes to explore, from deserts and mountains to tropical coastlines. This makes it an attractive destination for both study and travel.
China is host to one of the world’s largest international student populations. In 2018, the country welcomed 492,185 foreign students, and remains a leading global destination for higher education.
The largest group of international students in China come from South Korea (over 50,600, or 10% of international students), followed by Thailand (28,600, 6%), Pakistan (28,000, 6%) and India (23,200, 5%). Growing numbers also arrive from Africa, particularly Ghana and Nigeria, as well as from the United States and Europe.
China’s higher education system
China has one of the largest higher education systems in the world, reflecting the country’s rapid economic growth and investment in education.
Degrees awarded by Chinese universities are recognised internationally, and many institutions now offer programmes taught in English to attract students from around the globe.
Higher education institutions in China fall into the following main categories:
Comprehensive universities
These are large, research-oriented institutions offering a wide range of academic disciplines.
They emphasise both theoretical knowledge and innovation, and many are included in national initiatives such as the ‘Double First-Class University Plan’ to promote world-class standards.
Notable examples include Peking University, Tsinghua University and Fudan University.
Universities of Science and Technology
These universities specialise in engineering, natural sciences and applied research, closely aligned with China’s technological and industrial development. They are known for their strong links with government and industry.
Examples include Harbin Institute of Technology, Beijing Institute of Technology and the University of Science and Technology of China.
Normal Universities
Originally established for teacher training, these institutions now also cover a broader range of subjects but retain a strong reputation in education and the social sciences.
Examples include Beijing Normal University and East China Normal University.
Specialised Institutions
China also has universities dedicated to specific fields such as medicine, finance, law, languages and the arts. These institutions provide focused training and research in their respective disciplines.
Examples include Shanghai University of Finance and Economics, China Foreign Affairs University and the Central Academy of Fine Arts.
University rankings
China is home to nearly 3,000 higher education institutions, and its rapid investment in research and teaching is reflected in strong performances in global university rankings.
Several Chinese universities are now consistently placed among the world’s top institutions.
For international students, graduating from a highly ranked Chinese university can strengthen your academic profile and boost your career opportunities both in China and internationally.
Our table below shows some of the top universities in China, though many more feature prominently in global ranking tables.
| University | Times Higher Education World University Ranking | Best Global Universities | QS World University Ranking |
| Tsinghua University | 12 | =11 | =17 |
| Peking University | 13 | 25 | 14 |
| Fudan University | =36 | 70 | 30 |
| Zhejiang University | =47 | 45 | 49 |
| Shanghai Jiao Tong University | 52 | 46 | =47 |
| University of Science and Technology of China | =53 | 71 | =132 |
| Nanjing University | 65 | 86 | =103 |
| Wuhan University | =134 | 90 | 186 |
| Beijing Normal University | =146 | 173 | =247 |
| Harbin Institute of Technology | =152 | 128 | 256 |
Climate
China’s climate is as varied as its landscapes and international students will quickly notice how different the weather can be depending on where they study.
From the freezing winters of Harbin in the north to the tropical heat of Hainan in the south, international students are likely to encounter very different weather depending on where they study.
If you are used to a mild or consistent climate, the variety may come as a surprise. In northern China, winters can be long and bitterly cold, often dropping well below freezing, while summers are hot and dry.
In contrast, southern cities like Guangzhou or Shenzhen enjoy mild winters but very humid summers, with frequent heavy rainfall and the occasional typhoon.
The locals are well accustomed to these conditions and each region has its own seasonal habits. In the north, heated homes make the cold more bearable, while in the south, fans and air conditioning are essential during sticky summer months. You may hear students joking that in China you can ‘travel through four seasons in a single day’ if you go far enough.
China’s climate does offer four distinct seasons in many regions, with blooming springs, hot summers, crisp autumns and chilly winters, though how extreme each season feels depends entirely on where you are.
For example, Beijing can reach highs of 30-35 degrees Celsius (86-95 °F) in summer and dip to -10 °C (14 °F) in winter, while Shanghai has milder winters but very humid summers.
If you enjoy variety and want to experience truly different seasonal conditions, you will find that China delivers, from snowy landscapes in the north to subtropical greenery in the south.
Lifestyle and welfare
China offers a dynamic lifestyle, a rich cultural heritage and an expanding network of support for international students.
Whether you’re in a global metropolis like Beijing or Shanghai, a historic academic centre such as Nanjing, or a fast-growing student city like Chengdu, you’ll find modern infrastructure, diverse cultural opportunities and a welcoming student community to help you feel at home.
Healthcare
China has a well-developed healthcare system, ranging from public hospitals to international clinics in major cities.
Health insurance
All international students are required to have medical insurance while studying in China. Most universities automatically enrol students in a government-endorsed plan at the time of registration.
This usually covers basic treatments and hospitalisation, but students often choose to supplement it with private international health insurance for broader coverage and English-language support.
Accessing care
Public hospitals can be crowded and services may primarily be in Chinese.
In larger cities, international or private clinics are available, where staff often speak English but fees are higher. It’s a good idea to register with a local clinic or hospital soon after arrival.
Food
Food is central to daily life in China, and students will find both affordable campus canteens and endless dining options off-campus.
- University canteens usually provide a wide range of dishes at low cost, often including rice, noodles, dumplings, vegetables and meat dishes.
- Street food and small local restaurants are popular with students for their variety and value.
- Major cities also have international restaurants and supermarkets, so you can find familiar foods from home if needed.
- Regional cuisines differ greatly across China, from spicy Sichuan dishes to Cantonese dim sum, offering students the chance to explore a vast culinary landscape.
Leisure
China combines ancient traditions with modern entertainment, giving students plenty to do outside their studies.
- Universities typically have a wide range of student clubs and societies, including sports teams, cultural groups, and language exchanges.
- Popular leisure activities include karaoke (KTV), martial arts, tea culture and exploring traditional festivals.
- Cities in China offer cinemas, shopping centres and nightlife, while outdoor enthusiasts can find hiking, cycling and natural scenery nearby.
- Travel is a major part of student life, with opportunities to visit landmarks like the Great Wall, Terracotta Warriors, West Lake, or explore China’s fast-changing cities.
Transport
China has one of the world’s most advanced transport systems, making it easy to get around.
- Urban transport includes buses, metro systems and shared bike schemes, all of which are affordable and widely used by students.
- Long-distance travel is efficient thanks to China’s high-speed rail network, which connects most major cities. Discounted student tickets are sometimes available.
- Mobile payment apps such as Alipay and WeChat Pay are widely used for transport and daily purchases, so setting one up early will make life much easier.
Safety
China is generally considered a safe country for international students. Violent crime is rare and universities often provide strong support systems for student welfare.
- Petty theft can occur in busy public places, so keep an eye on your belongings.
- Road safety requires extra caution, especially in large cities with heavy traffic.
- Universities usually have international student offices offering help with safety, health, and accommodation issues.
Language
Mandarin Chinese is the official language across China, though many regions also have their own local dialects.
- In major cities and university areas, you’ll often find English-speaking staff and students, but English is less widely spoken in everyday life compared to some other study destinations.
- Many universities now offer degree programmes in English, particularly at postgraduate level.
- Learning some Mandarin will greatly enhance your daily life, from ordering food to travelling and is highly recommended. Universities often provide language courses or exchange opportunities with local students to help you improve.
University cities
China offers international students a wide range of experiences, with each city reflecting the country’s vast geography, regional cultures and unique local traditions.
When choosing your university, it’s worth thinking carefully about the city you’ll be living in and what it can offer you in terms of lifestyle, affordability and opportunities.
Here are some of the best student cities in China:
Beijing
The capital of China and one of the most historically important cities in the world, Beijing is a bustling metropolis where ancient landmarks sit alongside a modern skyline.
From the Forbidden City and the Great Wall to cutting-edge business districts, the city offers a mix of old and new that is hard to match.
With more than 20 million residents, Beijing is a global hub and attracts a huge international student population.
It is home to several of China’s most prestigious universities, including Peking University and Tsinghua University, both of which consistently rank among the world’s best.
Although living costs are relatively high compared to other Chinese cities, the opportunities for networking, internships and cultural exploration are unmatched.
Shanghai
China’s largest city and a global financial centre, Shanghai is known for its futuristic skyline along the Bund, vibrant nightlife and international outlook.
This city blends Chinese culture with a strong cosmopolitan character, making it one of the most attractive destinations for international students.
Shanghai is home to leading institutions such as Fudan University, Shanghai Jiao Tong University and Tongji University. Around 60,000 international students study in the city each year, ensuring a diverse and welcoming community.
Although accommodation and everyday costs are higher than in smaller Chinese cities, many students find the career opportunities, lifestyle and global connections well worth it.
Guangzhou
Located in southern China’s Guangdong province, Guangzhou is a major port city with a subtropical climate and a rich cultural heritage. The city is famous for its Cantonese cuisine, lively trade fairs and diverse student population.
Guangzhou is more affordable than Beijing or Shanghai, but still offers a large, modern urban environment with excellent transport links, including a short train journey to Hong Kong.
Key universities in Guangzhou include Sun Yat-sen University and South China University of Technology, both popular with international students.
Chengdu
Chengdu, the capital of Sichuan province in southwest China, is known for its relaxed lifestyle, spicy cuisine and famous giant panda research base. For students who want a slower pace of life compared to the bigger coastal cities, Chengdu is an excellent choice.
The cost of living here is lower than in Beijing or Shanghai, but the city still offers a wide range of modern facilities, cultural events and nightlife.
Chengdu is home to Sichuan University and the University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, both of which welcome many international students.
Xi’an
One of China’s most historic cities, Xi’an was the eastern starting point of the Silk Road and home to the world-famous Terracotta Army. Students living here will experience a blend of ancient culture and a rapidly developing modern city.
Xi’an is significantly more affordable than coastal megacities, with lower housing and food costs.
Despite being smaller than Beijing or Shanghai, it has a large student population and a welcoming atmosphere.
Top universities in Xi’an include Xi’an Jiaotong University and Northwestern Polytechnical University.
Hangzhou
Located just south of Shanghai, Hangzhou is renowned for its scenic West Lake, tea plantations and thriving tech scene. The city combines natural beauty with a modern lifestyle and has become one of China’s fastest-growing student destinations.
Hangzhou is home to Zhejiang University, one of China’s top-ranked universities, which attracts thousands of international students every year.
Living costs are generally lower than in Beijing or Shanghai, though slightly higher than in inland cities.
With its combination of culture, natural surroundings and opportunities in China’s tech industry, Hangzhou is often considered one of the best student cities in the country.
Nanjing
As the capital of Jiangsu province, Nanjing is a historic city that has served as the capital of China several times throughout history. Today, it’s a modern, student-friendly city that balances heritage with affordability.
Nanjing is home to more than 800,000 students, including a large international community. Key institutions include Nanjing University and Southeast University, both highly regarded in China and internationally.
The city offers a lower cost of living than Shanghai while still providing excellent transport links, culture and amenities.
Wuhan
Situated in central China at the meeting point of the Yangtze and Han rivers, Wuhan is one of the country’s largest cities and a major education hub.
With more than one million students spread across dozens of universities, Wuhan has a lively and youthful atmosphere.
The city is relatively affordable compared to coastal centres, with good transport links to Beijing, Shanghai and Guangzhou. It is also known for its lakes, green spaces and hot summers.
Wuhan University, famous for its cherry blossom campus, and Huazhong University of Science and Technology are among China’s leading institutions and attract many international students.
Harbin
Located in the far northeast of China, Harbin is best known for its Russian-influenced architecture and its spectacular annual Ice and Snow Festival. Winters here are long and extremely cold, but also provide a unique cultural experience for students.
Harbin is a much more affordable city for international students, with lower housing and food costs than the major southern and coastal cities.
Harbin Institute of Technology is one of China’s top engineering universities and has a strong reputation internationally, drawing students interested in science and technology.
Student visa
International students who want to study in China will need to apply for a student visa, usually the X visa.
For study periods of more than 180 days, you will need an X1 visa, which can be converted into a residence permit after arrival in China.
For study periods of less than 180 days, you should apply for an X2 visa.
Students from Hong Kong, Macau and Taiwan do not require a visa to study in mainland China.
The residence permit obtained from an X1 visa will serve as your legal permission to live and study in China during your degree.
Costs of studying
Course fees
Tuition fees in China are generally affordable compared to many Western countries, but vary depending on the institution, programme and city.
Public universities tend to offer lower tuition fees, while private universities and prestigious institutions may charge higher amounts.
As a rough guide, international students can expect to pay between RMB 18,000 – RMB 45,000 per year (approximately US $2,500 – US $6,500) for most bachelor’s degree programmes.
Tuition for master’s programmes is usually slightly higher, ranging from RMB 24,000 – RMB 60,000 per year (around US $3,500 – US $8,500).
Specialist programmes, such as medicine, business or engineering, often sit at the upper end of this scale. Doctoral degrees are comparatively affordable, with annual tuition fees typically starting from RMB 25,000 (US$3,600).
Living costs
Your living costs in China will depend on your city and lifestyle.
On average, you should budget between RMB 3,000 – RMB 6,000 per month (roughly US $400 – US $850) to cover accommodation, food, transport and daily expenses.
In major cities such as Beijing and Shanghai, living costs are higher, especially for accommodation.
Renting a private apartment can cost anywhere from RMB 3,500 – RMB 6,000 per month (US $500 – US $850), while shared housing and on-campus dormitories are more affordable, usually between RMB 800 – RMB 1,500 per month (US $110 – US $210).
Food is relatively inexpensive if you eat at university canteens or local restaurants, where meals may cost just RMB 15 – RMB 30 (US $2 – US $4). If you prefer to cook at home, budget around RMB 1,000 – RMB 1,500 (US $140 – US $210) per month for groceries.
Public transport is also very affordable, with metro fares starting from RMB 2 (US $0.30) and monthly student passes available in many cities.
Scholarships
China has become an increasingly popular destination for international students, and there are a wide range of scholarships available to help with tuition and living costs. These include:
- Chinese Government Scholarships (CSC): covering tuition, accommodation, and sometimes a monthly stipend.
- Provincial and municipal scholarships: offered by local governments in popular study destinations.
- University scholarships: awarded directly by individual institutions to high-achieving international students.
Securing a scholarship can significantly reduce your costs, making China one of the most affordable options for studying abroad.
How to apply to university in China
China does not have a single compulsory, centralised application system for all universities, instead, applications are usually handled directly through each university’s own admissions portal.
However, there are a few platforms and exceptions that international students should be aware of.
For undergraduate programmes, most applications are submitted directly to the university of your choice via its online system.
You will typically need to provide an application form, copies of your academic transcripts, proof of language proficiency (HSK for Chinese-taught programmes, or IELTS/TOEFL for English-taught programmes), a copy of your passport and sometimes a personal statement or letters of recommendation. Some universities also require an application fee.
In addition, some institutions accept applications via CUCAS (China’s University and College Admission System), a government-endorsed online platform that allows international students to apply to multiple Chinese universities. Not all universities use CUCAS, so it is important to check your chosen institution’s requirements.
If you are applying for a Chinese Government Scholarship (CSC), you will need to complete an application through the official CSC portal as well as through your chosen university. Some provinces and municipalities also run their own scholarship and admissions systems, but these are not universal.
For master’s and doctoral degrees, applications are again usually made directly to the university. Requirements vary by programme, but commonly include evidence of your previous qualifications, a study or research proposal, and references from academic supervisors.
Job prospects for international graduates
If you plan to stay and work in China after you graduate, your employment opportunities will be much stronger if you have at least an intermediate level of Mandarin.
While some multinational companies operate in English, most jobs, particularly outside major urban centres, require Mandarin for day-to-day communication.
Your field of study can also make a big difference. Sectors such as IT, engineering, international trade and teaching English as a foreign language tend to offer more opportunities for international graduates, especially in cities like Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou and Shenzhen.
China does not have free movement arrangements like the EU, so all international graduates require a valid work permit to take up employment.
To work in China after your studies, you will usually need to switch from a student visa (X visa) to a work visa (Z visa).
Since 2017, certain cities and provinces have introduced policies allowing international graduates with a master’s degree (or higher) from a Chinese university, or a recognised overseas institution, to apply directly for a work visa without the traditional two years of prior work experience that was previously required.
To apply, you must typically:
- Hold at least a master’s degree (some pilot schemes also accept bachelor’s degrees).
- Have a job offer from a Chinese employer authorised to hire foreign workers.
- Meet health and background check requirements.
If granted, you will be issued a work permit and residence permit allowing you to live and work in China.
Frequently asked questions
Is it free to study in China?
No. Tuition fees apply at both public and private universities in China.
Public universities are generally affordable compared to many Western countries, with bachelor’s programmes typically costing between RMB 18,000 and RMB 45,000 (US $2,500 – US $6,500) per year. Fees at private or specialist institutions can be higher.
Am I allowed to work while I study?
Yes, but with restrictions. International students in China are only allowed to take part-time jobs or internships if they have received approval from both their university and the local immigration authorities.
Work must not interfere with your academic schedule, and unauthorised employment can result in visa issues.
Can I stay in China after I graduate?
Yes, it is possible. International graduates who find employment in China can apply to switch from a student visa (X visa) to a work visa (Z visa).
In certain cities, graduates with a master’s degree or higher from a Chinese university (or a recognised overseas institution) can apply directly for a work visa without the traditional two-year work experience requirement.