Explore China
Study in China.
Imagine studying among ancient history and fast-changing modern cities. Explore China through the programmes that suit you.
At a glance
Studying in China, at a glance.
Main intakes
September (main), with some March starts
Bachelor’s degree
Usually 4 years (medicine longer)
Master’s degree
2 to 3 years
Teaching language
Chinese, with English-taught programmes at many universities
Tuition (indicative)
Often RMB 16,000 to 40,000 a year
English-taught programmes at leading universities can cost more.
Living costs (indicative)
Often RMB 2,500 to 6,000 a month
A typical estimate. Beijing and Shanghai cost more.
General guidance, reviewed in November 2026 against official and published sources. Fees, living-cost figures and requirements change and differ by institution and course, so always confirm with the institution and official sources such as Campus China before making decisions.
Why China
What draws students to China.
Large research universities
Major investment in research and facilities.
Learn Mandarin
The opportunity to learn one of the world’s most spoken languages.
Government scholarships
The Chinese Government Scholarship supports many international students.
Study opportunities
Subject areas with a wide choice of programmes.
English-taught options exist in engineering, business and medicine; many programmes are taught in Chinese. Start with what you want to learn, then check each course’s modules, teaching approach and entry requirements.
- Engineering
- Medicine (MBBS)
- Business and economics
- Chinese language and culture
- Computer science
- International relations
Where to study
Examples of well-known institutions in China.
In no particular order. These are examples to start your research, not rankings or recommendations, and many other excellent institutions exist.
Tsinghua University
- City
- Beijing
- Type
- Public research university
Peking University
- City
- Beijing
- Type
- Public research university
Fudan University
- City
- Shanghai
- Type
- Public research university
Shanghai Jiao Tong University
- City
- Shanghai
- Type
- Public research university
Zhejiang University
- City
- Hangzhou
- Type
- Public research university
University of Science and Technology of China
- City
- Hefei
- Type
- Public research university
Check programmes, entry requirements and fees on each institution’s official website.
Admission requirements
What applications usually ask for.
Requirements are set by each institution and course. Use this as a starting checklist, then follow the official course page.
Most applications
- Academic transcripts and certificates from your previous study.
- Evidence of your proficiency in the language of instruction.
- A personal statement or statement of purpose, written in your own words.
- One or two academic or professional references.
- A CV, particularly for postgraduate applications.
- A valid passport.
Specific to China
- Chinese-taught programmes usually need HSK results.
- Apply directly to universities or through scholarship schemes.
- If you plan to practise medicine at home, check how your home regulator treats degrees from China.
Scholarships
Scholarships worth researching.
Public information only. Eligibility, deadlines and amounts are set by each provider; WINAR does not provide or arrange funding.
Chinese Government Scholarship
Covers tuition, accommodation, insurance and a monthly allowance for eligible students.
University and provincial scholarships
Many universities and provinces offer their own scholarships.
Student life
Everyday life in China.
City choice
Costs and lifestyle differ hugely between major and smaller cities.
Apps and payments
Daily life relies on mobile apps for payments and transport.
Language
Basic Mandarin makes daily life much easier.
Visas and immigration
Visa and immigration rules are set by the government of China and change regularly. WINAR does not provide immigration advice or services. Read the official guidance published by Chinese Visa Application Service Center, and speak to a suitably qualified and regulated adviser if you need advice on your own circumstances.
Questions, answered plainly
Questions about studying in China.
What would your China chapter need?
Discuss your study goals, the information still to verify and possible next steps with WINAR. Support scope and destination coverage are subject to confirmation.