China has historically placed great emphasis on education, with an old saying among the elder generations that “all professions are of lower status, only studying is supreme.” Since the reform and opening-up policy, Chinese universities have rapidly improved in both education quality and global rankings.
In addition to high academic standards, many scholarships and financial aid opportunities are available to international students, making studying in China relatively affordable. If you are interested, we can further discuss the advantages and policies related to studying in China.
Highly Recommended Universities in China
Below is a list of high-quality universities I have compiled, covering multiple categories. Almost every institution on the list demonstrates outstanding performance in its respective academic fields. Regardless of the discipline, you can find representative and excellent universities here.
| Category | University Name | Key Strengths and Features |
|---|---|---|
| Comprehensive Universities | Peking University | Strong overall, excellent in humanities, law, economics, medicine |
| Tsinghua University | Leading in engineering, architecture, management | |
| Fudan University | Top university in Shanghai, strong in liberal arts, medicine, economics | |
| Shanghai Jiao Tong University | Engineering, management, extensive international collaboration | |
| Zhejiang University | Large comprehensive university, strong in engineering, agriculture, life sciences | |
| Nanjing University | Strong in sciences and humanities, solid research capabilities | |
| Science & Engineering Universities | University of Science and Technology of China (USTC) | Strong in basic sciences and high-tech research |
| Harbin Institute of Technology (HIT) | Famous for mechanical, automation, aerospace engineering | |
| Huazhong University of Science and Technology | Strong engineering and medical programs | |
| Xi’an Jiaotong University | Strong in engineering and energy fields | |
| Finance & Economics Universities | Shanghai University of Finance and Economics | Renowned for finance, economics, and accounting |
| Central University of Finance and Economics | Strong in economics, finance, taxation | |
| University of International Business and Economics | Leading in international trade and business studies | |
| Humanities & Teacher Education Universities | Renmin University of China | Strong in law, economics, sociology, journalism |
| Beijing Normal University | Renowned for education, psychology, literature | |
| East China Normal University | Famous for education, psychology, geography | |
| Other Notable Universities | Nankai University | Strong in chemistry, mathematics, economics |
| Tongji University | Famous for architecture and civil engineering | |
| Chongqing University | Strong in mechanical, civil, and electrical engineering |
How to Apply to Universities in China？
Applying to universities in China generally involves several steps. First, you need to choose your desired university and program and check their specific admission requirements, such as academic transcripts and language proficiency (HSK for Chinese-taught programs or IELTS/TOEFL for English-taught programs).
Then, prepare your application materials, including a completed application form, a copy of your passport, academic certificates, language test results, recommendation letters, a personal statement, and photos. Next, submit your application through the university’s online portal before the deadline. Many applicants also apply for scholarships like the Chinese Government Scholarship or Confucius Institute Scholarship.
After receiving your admission letter, you can apply for a student visa (usually X1 or X2) at a Chinese embassy or consulate using the admission documents and JW202 form. Finally, make arrangements for accommodation, travel, and insurance before you arrive in China.
Application Links for Each University
Below are the official application portals for international students at each university. You can click the corresponding link and follow the instructions provided by the university to complete your application. Most of the official websites also include contact numbers—if you have any questions, feel free to call for further assistance.
| University Name | Official Application Website |
|---|---|
| Peking University | https://admission.pku.edu.cn/ |
| Tsinghua University | https://www.tsinghua.edu.cn/en/Admissions.htm |
| Fudan University | https://international.fudan.edu.cn/ |
| Shanghai Jiao Tong University | https://en.sjtu.edu.cn/admission/international/ |
| Zhejiang University | https://iczu.zju.edu.cn/en/ |
| Nanjing University | https://iso.nju.edu.cn/en/ |
| University of Science and Technology of China (USTC) | https://admission.ustc.edu.cn/ |
| Harbin Institute of Technology (HIT) | https://www.hit.edu.cn/EN/Admissions.htm |
| Huazhong University of Science and Technology | https://iso.hust.edu.cn/EN/ |
| Xi’an Jiaotong University | http://isc.xjtu.edu.cn/en/ |
| Shanghai University of Finance and Economics | http://en.shufe.edu.cn/ |
| Central University of Finance and Economics | https://iso.cufe.edu.cn/ |
| University of International Business and Economics | http://iso.uibe.edu.cn/ |
| Renmin University of China | https://iso.ruc.edu.cn/EN/ |
| Beijing Normal University | https://international.bnu.edu.cn/en/ |
| East China Normal University | http://global.ecnu.edu.cn/ |
| Nankai University | https://iso.nankai.edu.cn/ |
| Tongji University | https://iso.tongji.edu.cn/en/ |
| Chongqing University | https://en.cqu.edu.cn/ |
Sorry, the article is not finished yet. I will update it later. My apologies.
