Keystone logo

Study in China: A Guide For International Students

Are you looking for a unique and incomparable experience as an international student? If you are thinking of studying abroad, then  China is the choice you should make. China or officially ‘’The People’s Republic of China’’ (PRC), located in Eastern Asia, is the most populous country on earth and also the country with the longest written history of 3,500 years.

Nov 27, 2013
  • Study Abroad in China
Study in China

Are you looking for a unique and incomparable experience as an international student? If you are thinking of studying abroad, then  China is the choice you should make. China or officially ‘’The People’s Republic of China’’ (PRC), located in Eastern Asia, is the most populous country on earth and also the country with the longest written history of 3,500 years, as it is one of the world’s first civilizations. But what do you already know about this huge Asian country, the homeland of philosopher Confucius? 

China is spread around 9.6 million kilometers, making the country the third largest by area. It also has the most international borders, as it is neighboring 14 countries and officially consists of 56 ethnic groups. If you study in China, you will experience a geographical diversity like no other: You can visit numerous  mountains, big ports and picturesque cities or even deserts! Another great advantage if you choose to study in China will be the unforgettable experience of visiting The Great Wall of China or the highest mountain in the world, Mount Everest with its highest point at 8,849 meters. 

Find a program

Want to study in China? Find & compare programs

In addition to that, China is one of the most rapidly developing countries in the world and additionally, the world’s second largest economy, on track to become the world’s largest economy the following years. The country is also the world’s largest exporter and known as ‘’The Factory of the World,’’ since it is the world’s biggest producer of steel, concrete, clothing and toys. 

China is already a very popular study destination for international students, welcoming around 500,000 international students every year. More and more students choose to study in China, since they are attracted and interested in the Chinese culture and rich history, language and exciting work opportunities the country has to offer. When you study in China, you will find yourself exploring such a diverse and multifaceted environment that will enhance your international experience and development. Read through our Study in China Guide to find out why China is a great place to study as an international student. 

China - Quick facts & figures

CapitalBeijing
LanguageStandard Chinese
Population1.5 billion
Area Size9,596,961 km²
International students492,185
Academic YearMarch - October
CurrencyRenminbi (yuan; ¥)
Calling Code+86
Time zoneChina Standard Time (UTC+8)

Great Wall of China

More about studying abroad in China

Why study in China? First of all, in China you can choose among almost 3,000 higher education institutions and colleges and enjoy affordable tuition fees. In China you can find public universities which are entirely funded by the Chinese State or governmental agencies. Private and non-state universities are funded by non-governmental organizations. Back in the 1950’s, 33 students from East European countries were the first group of international students China has welcomed. 

By 2000, this number increased to 407,000 students. Chinese universities are internationally recognized and well respected, since a lot of the country’s universities like the Peking, Chinghua or Fudan university rank among the Top 200 universities in the world. In addition, China ranks high as one of the top places in Asia to study abroad, especially when it comes to the access to higher quality teaching.

Studying abroad in China will open new doors and will grant you entrance to an endless list of Bachelor’s, Master’s and Doctorate degrees. But why does studying in China differ? China has the largest higher education system in the world and offers more than 4,000 degrees in English.

You can study either in English or even Chinese, if you are able to prove your language level through a test. Moreover, the country has established strong ties and agreements of academic recognition of their offered degrees with more than 180 countries globally. The most popular majors in China include, among others, medicine, engineering, studies on Chinese culture and language, business administration, computer science & IT and international economics and trade. 

Education System

Want to learn more about how the higher education system works in China? China is becoming a popular study destination among international students, given its top ranked universities, culture and ancient history. Find out more about the Chinese education system below!

Student Visas

Learn more about the Chinese student visa process, and all the information you need to enter the country, depending on your citizen status. You will also be required to bring certain documents with you in China, like your medical records, which we cover as well.

Housing & Living Costs

No matter where you study abroad, it’s important to make a plan and create a budget in advance so that you’re prepared. Therefore, we’ve detailed average living and housing costs so that you can get a better idea of what you would be paying as a student in China, depending on the city of your choice.

Tuition Fees & Scholarships

Tuition fees in China may vary, depending on the level of education. Both international and European students are expected to pay tuition fees in China. No worries though, there are plenty of scholarship opportunities available from the Chinese government.

Language & Culture

China is known for its rich history, financial power and culture. Find out more about what the country offers in terms of language, culture, and many more!

Application Process

All countries have specific admissions requirements for students to gain acceptance into a university. Learn more about the ins and outs of admission to programs in China, and what you need to apply, depending on your citizenship.

Programs

Ready to look at education in China? Use our search engine to find and compare top programs in China today!

Keystone Team

Author

The Keystone Team is comprised of experienced educators and advisors dedicated to providing valuable resources and advice to students all over the world.