Study abroad at China

Overview
Population
1,406,585,000
Universities
939
Language
Chinese (Mandarin), English
Currency
Chinese yuan
Why study at China
China is an emerging powerhouse in global higher education and scientific innovation, hosting elite C9 League universities (such as Tsinghua, Peking University, and Zhejiang University) that rank among the top 20 worldwide. China offers thousands of fully English-taught degree programs across engineering, computer science, artificial intelligence, general medicine (MBBS), international trade, and renewable energy. International students benefit from generous government scholarships (CSC / Belt and Road), ultra-modern campuses, low living expenses, and unmatched exposure to the world's second-largest economy.
Popular cities
Fees
Tuition fees in China are exceptionally affordable compared to Western destinations. Bachelor's programs in Engineering, IT, and Business taught in English range from ¥18,000 to ¥35,000 per year (approx. US$2,500–$4,900). English-medium MBBS (Medicine) programs range from ¥28,000 to ¥48,000 per year ($3,900–$6,700). Master's programs average ¥25,000 to ¥45,000 per year. Chinese government scholarships often cover full tuition, accommodation, and a monthly living stipend. General living costs average ¥2,500 to ¥4,500 per month.
Cost of Living
| Category | Cost (Chinese yuan) |
|---|---|
| University international student dorm (monthly) | ¥1,100 |
| Rent, 1-bed private apartment in city centre | ¥3,350 |
| Utilities (electricity, water, AC) | ¥250 |
| Internet (high-speed broadband unlimited) | ¥75 |
| Mobile phone plan (high-speed data & calls) | ¥65 |
| Monthly public transport (Metro & bus) | ¥150 |
| Monthly campus food & grocery budget | ¥1,500 |
| Coffee / Beverage in café | ¥24 |
| Cinema ticket | ¥50 |
| Monthly gym membership | ¥250 |
Admission requirements
Academic Transcripts & Notarized Graduation Diploma
Highest educational diploma (high school for bachelor's, bachelor's for master's) with notarized English or Chinese translation and official transcripts with minimum 70–75% grade average.
Foreigner Physical Examination & Police Clearance
Standard Foreigner Physical Examination Form completed and stamped by an authorized hospital, plus a certified clean police criminal record certificate issued within 6 months.
Language Proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL or HSK)
For English-taught majors: IELTS (6.0+) or TOEFL iBT (80+) or English medium proof. For Chinese-taught majors: HSK Level 4 (for science/engineering) or HSK Level 5 (for humanities/medicine).
Student Visa
International students studying in China for over 6 months require a Chinese X1 Study Visa (or X2 Visa for courses under 6 months). Essential documents include: original JW201 or JW202 Visa Application Form issued by the Chinese Ministry of Education, official Admission Notice from the university, valid passport, completed physical exam form, and passport photos. Within 30 days of arrival in China, the X1 visa must be converted into a Residence Permit for Study.
How to Study
Search and select your target program on the university portal or CUCAS / CSC platform.
Submit your online application with notarized transcripts, study plan, and medical form.
Pay the application evaluation fee.
Receive your official Admission Notice and JW202 Visa Application Form.
Apply for the X1 Student Visa at the nearest Chinese Embassy / Visa Application Service Center.
Arrive in China, register at the university international office, and obtain your residence permit.