Studying in China

What can we really say about China that you haven't heard before? It's a hub of culture, philosophy, and art that has shaped history with its inventions and dynasties. The teachings of Sun Tzu and Confucius still resonate today and serve as guides for many.

With all this in mind, it's no wonder students want to come here, especially to experience the birthplace of Zen Buddhism, which focuses on finding peace and relaxation.

With its vibrant culture and atmosphere, China is a great place to study abroad. If you're thinking about going to university here, there are plenty of different programs available, especially in research and technology.

Why study in China?

1. Top-notch universities in China 

Chinese universities rank among the best, both in Asia and worldwide. With over 100 institutions making it into respected global rankings each year, you can find solid higher education options.

2. Lots of scholarships available 

Talk is cheap, but the Chinese government backs up its words by making it easier for international students to come to China. They've put a lot of resources into creating a welcoming atmosphere, which is clear from the more than 40,000 scholarships and sponsorships up for grabs.

3. Learn Chinese 

Chinese is the most spoken language in the world and knowing it can open doors to great job opportunities at Chinese companies or their branches worldwide. Sure, learning Chinese isn't a walk in the park, but if you're motivated, spending a few years studying and living in China will help you pick it up.

4. Boost your CV with a Chinese degree 

When every job application starts to look the same, businesses often struggle to find standout candidates. A degree from a Chinese university can help you stand out. These schools are well-regarded, and employers recognize that not everyone can handle studying in such a bustling place.

5. Experience Chinese culture 

China has a rich culture that's truly one of a kind, filled with a mix of values, traditions, and influences. From Confucianism and national pride to family values and love for table tennis, plus calligraphy, kung fu, traditional festivals, and a passion for tea—there's so much to explore in China’s vibrant culture.

Which universities and colleges to attend in China?

China has 44 universities in the top 500. Since choosing the right one can be tough, we'll share a few we think are worth checking out. Just keep your options open!

• Zhejiang University
• Tsinghua University
• Peking University
• Fudan University
• Shanghai Jiao Tong University

What is it like to study in China?

Many student reviews about studying in China mention the same thing: the facilities are great and innovative. Universities seem to really care about their students. They make things easier by providing free access to materials and equipment.

Classes typically run from 8 to noon and often include presentations and debates. Students are encouraged to work in teams and interact with each other to promote cultural exchange. Sports and other activities are a big part of life there, so expect to spend plenty of time on campus and enjoy it!

Living in China

Let's check out the costs for tuition and living in China:

Tuition fees in China

• First off, let's talk about application fees, which usually fall between 90 and 120 USD.
• For public universities, you can expect tuition to be anywhere from 2,500 to 10,000 USD per year. If you're looking at private universities, it gets a bit pricier, with costs going up to 30,000 USD or even over 50,000 USD a year, depending on what you decide to study.

Accommodation, food and other expenses

Living costs in China are pretty similar to what you'd find in other popular places to study. Generally, students should expect to spend between 600 and 1,000 USD a month. If you're in cities like Beijing, Shanghai, or Shenzhen, you might need a bit more, around 1,000–1,200 USD monthly. Here’s a quick look at average expenses in China:

• Rent in student halls: 150–400 USD/month
• Rent for a private flat: 300–1,000 USD/month
• Rent when living with a Chinese family: 350–550 USD/month
• Food and groceries: 170–200 USD/month
• Monthly transport pass: 15–20 USD (students get a discount)
• Books and study materials: 30–50 USD/semester
• Medical insurance: 60 USD for 6 months

Looking for scholarships in China? Take a look at our scholarship search page!