China has become an increasingly popular destination for international students seeking high-quality education and unique cultural experiences. With over 1,000 universities and colleges offering a wide range of programs in English, Chinese, and other languages, studying in China provides opportunities for personal growth and professional development. International students can benefit from a supportive and welcoming environment, affordable tuition fees, and the chance to learn from world-renowned scholars and experts in their fields.
Are you a student and you are not sure of where to go for your foreign studies? China is indeed the choicest option for you. This article will explore some of the key factors that make studying in China an excellent option for international students.
Who should Study in China?
Any foreign student who has completed his or her basic and secondary education is eligible to enroll in any Chinese University for his or her tertiary education be it undergraduate or postgraduate programs. The age limit is between 18 and 29 for undergraduate programs and below 40 for postgraduate programs.
Language Requirement
There is no specific language requirement but proof of English language proficiency such as TOEFL IBT and IELTS Academic, for those who wish to study English-taught Courses but have the English language as a foreign language. For Chinese-taught courses, you would need to do the following: HSK Elementary for Science, Engineering, and Medicine degrees and HSK Intermediate for Liberal Arts, Economics, Management, and more.
Study in China for International Students?- Step-by-Step Guide
Studying in China as an international student can be an exciting and life-changing experience. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the process:
- Choose a program and university
- Check eligibility requirements
- Prepare required documents
- Submit your application
- Wait for admission and scholarship results
- Apply for a student visa
- Arrange accommodation
- Arrive in China and register
- Adjust to life in China
Step 1: Choose a program and university
The first step is to research and choose a program and university that suits your interests and career goals. You can search for universities and programs on the China Scholarship Council (CSC) website or other education portals.
Step 2: Check eligibility requirements
Check the eligibility requirements for the program and university you are interested in. This may include language proficiency tests, academic qualifications, and other specific requirements.
Step 3: Prepare the required documents
Prepare the required documents for your application. This may include academic transcripts, language proficiency test scores, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement.
Step 4: Submit your application
Submit your application to the university or program you have chosen. Applications can usually be submitted online, but you should check with the university for specific instructions.
Step 5: Wait for admission and scholarship results
Wait for admission and scholarship results. You may need to undergo an interview or additional testing. Scholarships are available from the Chinese government, as well as from individual universities.
Step 6: Apply for a student visa
Once you have been accepted, apply for a student visa (X1 or X2 visa) from the Chinese embassy or consulate in your home country.
Step 7: Arrange accommodation
Arrange accommodation for your stay in China. Many universities offer dormitory accommodation for international students, but you can also choose to rent an apartment or homestay.
Step 8: Arrive in China and register
Once you arrive in China, you will need to register at your university and obtain a residence permit within 30 days.
Step 9: Adjust to life in China
Take time to adjust to life in China, including adapting to the culture, making friends, and exploring the local area. Your university may offer support and orientation programs to help you settle in.
How to a China Study Visa or Student Permit
If you’re a foreign student and wish to travel to China for your studies, you must have a study visa also known as a student permit. You must meet the following conditions to obtain your Visa:
- Applicants must have been offered admission at a university and a letter of confirmation to show.
- Must ascertain the duration of the study in order to know the appropriate study visa to get. You need a Visa for a study that is less than six months and also for a study that is more than six months.
- Candidates can apply for the study visa through the Chinese Visa Application Service Centre (CVASC) or at the local Chinese embassy or consulate. More so, this application should be done around one month before your intended date of arrival in China.
- He or she must submit his or her visa application form, passport, letters of confirmation and acceptance, and a photograph.
- In addition, you will need to obtain a permit of residence within 30 days of your arrival in China.
Documents needed to get a Study Visa
Below of a list of documents, you need to get a student visa to China.
- An original passport valid for the duration of your study in China
- A completely filled-out application form
- One passport-type photograph
- An original and a duplicate of the letter of acceptance from the Chinese university
- Proof of payment of the visa application form
- Proof of legal status such as a residence permit if you are applying for a visa outside your home country
- A copy of airplane tickets and accommodation arrangements
- A valid physical examination record for international students who wish to study for up to six months in China
- Additional documents on your nationality
How to choose a University to study in China
- Choose from the list of disciplines given.
- Choose from the list of Chinese Universities the institution to consider for your study.
- Prepare to apply by further enquiring about the desired course. Check to see if you meet up the qualifications required, the age limit, etc. Apply to at least three universities as this would improve your chances of admission.
- Check out the scholarship opportunities to get some help with funding your studies abroad.
- Apply directly on the website of your chosen university. You can also apply through China’s University and College Admissions System (CUCAS) – an online application platform that acts as an intermediary between the students and the university. More so, you can apply through China University Application Centre (CUAC) – an online advisor and professional guide which offers guidance to foreign students on the right university and course.
- After receiving the admissions letter, apply for the Chinese student permit as soon as possible. Check with the Chinese embassy for details.
- Obtain a resident permit from a local public security office or a police station.
- Arrange a health insurance plan which should cover your medical treatment either from your home country or once you arrive in China.
- And pack your bags!
Top Universities in China
Listed below are some top-ranking Chinese universities and their notable subjects of study:
- Tsinghua University
- Peking University
- Fudan University
- Xian-Jiao Tong- Liverpool University
Tsinghua University
Tsinghua University is known for its best performances in Architecture, Civil Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, and Materials Sciences.
Peking University
Peking University has traditional Chinese architecture. The school is known for its expertise in Chemistry, Dentistry, Modern Languages, and Materials Sciences.
Fudan University
Fudan University is notable for its best performances in Modern Languages, Chemistry, Business, and Management, Materials Sciences, and Politics.
Xian-Jiao Tong- Liverpool University
Xian-Jiao Tong- Liverpool University is known for its increasing number of English-taught subjects and great emphasis on improving the critical thinking and independent learning of its students. It has expertise in Business, Finance, Engineering, Science, and Urban Planning.
Other top-ranking Chinese Universities include:
- Xiamen University
- Beijing Institute of Technology
- Nankai University
- Nanjing University of Technology
- Wuhan University
- Sun Yat-sen University
- Zhejiang University
- Harbin Institute of Technology, among others.
These schools run programs for different degree levels – undergraduate and postgraduate programs. However, there are different admission processes and requirements for the different degree levels. (You can visit the university page of each of the universities to get the needed information.
Is studying in china expensive?
The cost of studying in China is fairly low compared to that of other Eastern Universities and Western Universities alike. It varies according to the school and the field of study. Its average cost ranges between 2600USD and 35,000USD per study year.
Can I Study in China on a Scholarship?
Studying abroad is quite expensive. Incidentally, there are scholarships that help fund these programs. The Chinese government has set up award programs in the form of grants as a way of attracting international students.
This funding covers the student’s tuition and cost of living either totally or partially. Other individual universities in China also offer scholarships to international students.
There are a whole lot of scholarship programs in China. You can check up on the Chinese government award programs at scholarships-positions.com to find the best China scholarships for foreign students.
Why you should Study In China as an International student
Over the years, studies have proven that China has gained pride when it comes to tertiary education. This is seen in the great effort input into the system, thereby leading to a large number of tertiary institutions in the country. As a student, you should consider China for your higher education for the following reasons:
a. Provision of Quality Education
China can be said to have education as its pet project as they have invested massively in the sector. Studies have shown that about six Chinese universities rank within the top 100 on the QS World University Rankings report. They are also known for offering quality education with top-notch facilities.
b. Improved Scholarship Schemes
Another reason for the choice of China by foreign students is the Chinese government’s desire in providing financial assistance (whether full or partial funding) to foreign students.
c. Availability of Top English-taught Courses
The increasing number of courses taught in English has made the country a ready choice for foreign students.
d. Employability of People with Work Experience in China
Employees with work experience in China are in high demand in the United Kingdom and other advanced countries around the world.
e. Working Part-time Jobs
International students have the right to work part-time jobs during their studies or engage in paid internships, but only with the permission of the host university and the Chinese Immigration Authority. In addition, to further boost its economy, the Chinese government offers international students the opportunity to work on graduation from school.
f. Rich Culture
China is known for its rich cultural heritage, including its diverse, excellent, and affordable cuisine. This will provide a unique experience. More so, the bustling parts of some Chinese cities, such as Shanghai and Beijing, among others, would make a wholesome impression on foreign students.
Conclusion
All you need to know as regards choosing China as a go-to country for foreign studies is stated in this write-up, ranging from the need to choose China, applying to Chinese universities, getting a study permit, available scholarship programs, the top Chinese universities, and a detailed guide to enrolling in any Chinese university.
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I wish i could get a full scholarship and join a university in china basically science base and technology
Hi Ian, thanks for your feedback. We will send you tips on how to get a fully-funded scholarship in China.