China is one of the most popular destinations for higher education among foreigners. Find out how to get into university in China in 2025: popular majors, English-language programs, scholarships, costs and requirements for international students

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China is actively developing an international education platform, welcoming thousands of international students every year. Thanks to a stable economy, modern infrastructure and a high level of education, the country has become one of the most popular destinations for higher education. In 2025, students from over 180 countries around the world will study here - from France and Brazil to Bhutan and Afghanistan. A detailed guide for international students considering studying in China is in this article.

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How is the education system in China structured?

The Chinese education system consists of preschool, primary, secondary and higher education.

School education lasts 12 years, after which graduates can enter universities.

Higher education is divided into three levels:

- Bachelor's degree - 4 years.

- Master's degree - 2-3 years.

- Doctoral degree (3+ years).

China is investing billions of yuan in the development of education, which makes it increasingly attractive to foreigners.

Chinese schools

In addition to state schools where the language of instruction is Chinese, many international schools with IB, A-Level, AP programs operate in large cities. They are especially popular among foreign children, as well as local families planning to send their children to study abroad. Such schools are distinguished by a high level of training and a multicultural environment.

Higher education in China

China has more than 3 thousand universities, including world-famous institutions such as Tsinghua University, Peking University, Fudan University. Curricula are actively modernized, and the number of English-language courses is constantly growing. Chinese universities participate in international research projects and support academic mobility.

Why should international students pursue higher education in China?

China is the second largest economy in the world, which provides students with unique prospects for their future careers.

Universities are actively integrating into the global academic community, offering quality education at an affordable price.

In addition, student life here is inexpensive, and living conditions are comfortable.

Cultural diversity and the opportunity to learn one of the most influential languages ​​in the world are additional advantages of moving.

What specialties do foreign students study in China?

In general, the following specialties at Chinese universities can be called the most popular among foreigners:

- Business and Economics.

- Engineering and IT.

- Medicine.

- International Relations.

- Chinese Philology and Culture

These specialties open the way to employment in China and beyond.

Study programs for foreigners and top universities in China

China welcomes almost half a million students from all over the world every year. Foreigners can choose from full academic programs, as well as short-term courses or language training. The structure of education is flexible, and the choice is wide.

Main types of programs for students in China

- Undergraduate – lasts 4 years, available to school graduates.

- Postgraduate/Master's – usually 2–3 years, for those who already have a bachelor's degree.

- Postgraduate/Doctoral studies – programs lasting 3–5 years.

- Language courses – ideal for those who want to improve their Chinese (or prepare for the HSK).

- Academic exchange and internship programs – usually from one semester to a year, often within the framework of international partnerships.

Programs are taught in Chinese or English, making Chinese education accessible even to those who do not speak Mandarin.

Top Universities for Foreigners in China

- Beijing Language and Culture University (BLCU)

A leading university for studying Chinese language and culture, welcoming thousands of international students each year.

- Tsinghua University (Beijing)

One of the most prestigious universities in Asia, especially strong in the fields of engineering, technology, management and architecture.

- Fudan University (Shanghai)

One of the oldest and most famous universities in China. Ranked among the top 100 universities in the world. Popular among students who choose business, international relations or medicine.

- Shanghai Jiao Tong University

Known for its technical education, a member of the C9 alliance (an analogue of the Ivy League in China). Many programs in English.

- Xiamen University

Known for its international atmosphere, good infrastructure and scientific research. Full scholarships are often available here.

- Beijing Normal University

One of the leaders in the field of humanities and education. Has strong English-language programs for future teachers, psychologists, sociologists.

All of these universities offer modern campuses, dormitories with Wi-Fi, world-class libraries, and support for foreigners - from language courses to cultural adaptation programs.

China actively attracts talented students from abroad, so many universities have separate international departments, where experienced teachers from around the world teach.

Admission Requirements for Chinese Universities for International Students

Admission to Chinese universities is a very realistic goal for international applicants. The requirements may vary slightly depending on the type of program, language of instruction, and the specific university, but the general criteria are as follows:

Application Documents for Admission to a Chinese University

- Passport (copy of the first page).

- Certificate of Secondary Education (for undergraduates) or Bachelor's/Master's Degree (for senior levels).

- Academic Transcript with grades from previous years of study.

- Motivational Letter or Essay on the Purpose of Study.

- Letters of Recommendation – usually 1-2, especially for Master's and PhD.

- Medical Certificate (Foreigner Physical Examination Form).

- Passport-sized photos

Language requirements for studying at Chinese universities

- If you plan to study in Chinese, you definitely need an HSK certificate (usually level 4 and above).

- For English-language programs, you need an IELTS or TOEFL certificate. The minimum score is IELTS 6.0 / TOEFL iBT 80, but in top universities the requirements may be higher.

Some universities may exempt you from a language certificate if your previous education was in English - this needs to be clarified in each specific case.

Additional requirements

Sometimes additional requirements are put forward for admission:

- Online interview or video presentation (often for creative or business majors)

- Portfolio - for majors in the field of design, arts, architecture.

- Entrance exam results (in rare cases, for example, in Tsinghua or Fudan).

Age restrictions for students in China

- For undergraduate studies: up to 25 years (in some cases up to 30).

- For master's studies: up to 35 years.

- For doctoral studies: up to 40 years.

However, some programs for adult students or language courses allow applicants of older age.

Important! Universities consider not only academic performance, but also the candidate's motivation, the program's relevance to his goals, and cultural openness. This is especially important in the scholarship competition.

How to apply to a university in China?

Submission of documents to Chinese universities is usually done online, and the process itself is quite clear and structured. Most universities accept applications directly through their own platforms or through state portals. Next is a step-by-step application procedure.

Step 1 - Choose a program and university

Determine the specialty and educational institution where you plan to study. It is better to choose not only by the rating, but also by the language of instruction, the type of program (academic or applied), geography (large cities or campuses in smaller regions), and the cost of tuition.

In China, there are both classical universities (Tsinghua, Zhejiang), and technical, medical and art universities.

Step 2 – Check the requirements

On the university website or a platform such as CUCAS, China Admissions or CSC, check:

- what documents are required;

- what level of HSK or IELTS is required;

- whether there are additional conditions (entry essay, portfolio, interview, etc.).

Step 3 – Prepare a full package of documents

Usually these are: an application for admission (online form), passport, certificate or diploma + supplements, language certificate, letters of recommendation, motivation letter, medical certificate, photo, confirmation of financial capacity (if necessary).

Step 4 – Apply online

There are several main ways to apply:

- Through the university website directly (the most popular option).

- Through CUCAS or China Admissions – convenient if you are applying to several educational institutions at once.

- Through the scholarship program website (for example, CSC) – if you plan to apply with funding.

Usually, the system allows you to create an account, upload documents, fill out a questionnaire, and then track the status.

Step 5 – Wait for answers and receive an admission letter (Admission Letter)

After checking the documents and, possibly, an interview, the university sends an official invitation letter.

Step 6 – Get an X1 or X2 visa

With the admission letter and the JW201/JW202 form, contact the Chinese embassy or consulate to apply for a student visa:

- X1 – for studies over 180 days.

- X2 – for short-term studies.

The application process is not complicated, but it requires attention to detail and timely preparation. Most universities start accepting applications in February-March, with deadlines in May-July. Some programs have fall and spring intakes.

China is not only a technological leader, but also a center of modern education. Thanks to its developed infrastructure, international programs, and accessibility, it attracts more and more students from all over the world every year. If you are looking for high-quality, promising, and at the same time affordable education, China in 2025 could be your ideal choice.

Planning to study in China? Use the Visit World guide to learn everything you need for a successful start:

- A complete list of documents for a student visa

- Recommendations for choosing a university and preparing for admission

- Tips for adapting and living in China for international students

Download the guide right now and take the first confident steps towards your dream education!

Reminder! In 2025, Germany continues to be a popular destination for international students due to its high level of education, affordability, and numerous career opportunities after graduation. We have already told you how to apply for a student visa, which universities are best for international students, and many other useful information.

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