Tuition fees in China: what international students should know

China is an increasingly popular option for international students comparing university destinations, English-taught degrees, Chinese-language study and scholarship opportunities. The right choice depends on your academic background, preferred subject, language skills and total budget—not tuition alone.

Antonov & Partners helps prospective students explore international education options and organise the next steps with clarity. We can discuss your goals, review potential routes and help you understand which questions to verify with universities before applying.

How much does university cost in China?

There is no single tuition rate for all foreign students. Fees vary by university, subject, degree level and language of instruction. Official fee schedules provide useful examples:

• At Jiangsu University, listed English-taught bachelor's programs in accounting, business administration and international economics and trade cost RMB 18,000 per academic year; several engineering and computing programs cost RMB 20,000; pharmacy costs RMB 22,000; and clinical medicine (MBBS) costs RMB 34,000.
• Jiangsu University's published schedule lists master's tuition from approximately RMB 20,000 to RMB 38,000 per year across subject groups, and doctoral tuition from RMB 24,000 to RMB 42,000 for listed categories.
• Hangzhou Dianzi University’s 2026 international-student prospectus lists several English-taught undergraduate engineering and computer science programs at RMB 20,000 per academic year, with fees varying by program.

These are examples from specific institutions, not a guarantee of current fees elsewhere. Check the official page for your chosen course and intake before budgeting.

Useful official sources:

• Jiangsu University: estimated costs and tuition
• Jiangsu University: English-taught bachelor's programs
• Hangzhou Dianzi University: 2026 international admissions

Remember the full cost of studying abroad

Tuition is only one part of the budget. Ask each university about accommodation, food, health insurance, registration and application fees, books, medical checks, residence formalities and transport. You should also allow for flights and initial expenses before your first payment or stipend arrives.

As one example, Jiangsu University publishes an on-campus double-room fee of RMB 4,900 per academic year for the listed accommodation option and estimates living expenses at around RMB 1,200 per month. Actual spending depends on the city, housing choice and personal habits, so treat these figures as a reference rather than a universal budget.

Ask for a written breakdown of all compulsory charges and the refund policy before paying any deposit.

Can you study in China in English?

Yes. Universities offer selected English-taught degrees in areas such as business, international economics, engineering, computer science, pharmacy and medicine. Availability varies by institution and intake, and some programs may require proof of English proficiency.

Chinese-taught degrees may require evidence of Chinese-language proficiency. If you are not yet ready to study in Chinese, ask whether the university offers language preparation or whether an English-taught program matches your academic goals. Learning Mandarin can also make everyday life and future professional opportunities easier.

Always confirm the teaching language for the entire degree, not just the program title.

Scholarships and reduced tuition

International students may be eligible for university scholarships, provincial awards or Chinese Government Scholarship schemes. Depending on the specific award, support may include a tuition waiver, accommodation support, medical insurance and a living allowance. Other scholarships cover only part of the cost.

Eligibility, nationality requirements, academic standards, application routes and deadlines differ. Some awards require a separate application, and funding is competitive. Never assume that a scholarship is guaranteed until you receive an official award notice.

Start with the China Scholarship Council’s Campus China portal and the scholarship pages of your target universities. Check what is covered, whether the award is renewable and which expenses remain your responsibility.

Admission requirements and documents

Requirements depend on the program. Applicants are commonly asked for a valid passport, academic certificates and transcripts, language evidence where required, and supporting documents such as a study plan, personal statement or recommendation letters. Some programs have additional examinations, subject prerequisites or medical documentation requirements.

For undergraduate admission, check whether the university requires the China Scholastic Competency Assessment (CSCA) or another test for your intended intake. Jiangsu University, for example, publishes an application procedure that includes a CSCA transcript requirement for undergraduate applicants. Requirements can change, so follow the current official instructions.

Prepare translations and certified copies only as specified by the university. Apply through the institution’s official application system or another officially designated route.

Student visa and arrival preparation

After receiving the required admission documents, students must follow the applicable Chinese student-visa process. The documents and steps depend on the course and the applicant’s circumstances. Admission does not guarantee visa approval.

Before travelling, confirm accommodation, insurance, arrival dates, payment deadlines and any registration requirements with the university and relevant authorities. Use official payment details and be cautious of anyone promising guaranteed admission, scholarships or visas.

How Antonov & Partners can help

Choosing a program abroad can involve comparing dozens of details: tuition, living costs, course language, entry requirements, scholarship eligibility and application timing.

Antonov & Partners can help you discuss your study goals, explore possible university options through our available network, organise an application checklist and understand the questions to confirm directly with the institution. The availability of particular programs and services must be confirmed individually. Universities decide admissions and scholarships, while visa decisions remain with the relevant authorities.

Explore your options

If you are comparing Chinese universities, looking for English-taught degrees, considering Mandarin courses or researching scholarship possibilities, start by setting a realistic annual budget and identifying your preferred subject.

Contact Antonov & Partners to discuss your profile and next steps: Book a consultation.

To help us assess your options, tell us your nationality, highest qualification, intended degree, preferred language, planned intake and approximate annual budget.

Tuition fees, admissions rules and scholarship conditions can change. Confirm all figures and requirements with the university or official scholarship authority before applying.

Frequently Asked Questions About Studying in China

How much does it cost to study in China as an international student?

Costs vary by university, degree, city and language of instruction. Budget for tuition, accommodation, food, insurance, visa-related expenses and travel, then confirm current fees with the university.

Can international students study in China in English?

Yes, some universities offer English-taught degrees, particularly in selected international and postgraduate programs. Check the program’s actual teaching language and whether language-test results are required.

Are scholarships available for international students in China?

Scholarships may be offered by government programs, universities and other institutions. Eligibility, deadlines and coverage differ, so confirm current terms with the official provider before applying.