Racism in China: An Honest, Student-Focused Guide

When you think about life in China as an international student, you might picture modern cities and a rich culture. However, one question often arises, especially for students of African descent:

“Is there racism in China? What do Black students actually experience?”

• Yes, like most countries, biases exist, shaped by history and online discourse.
• But day-to-day life is generally welcoming; campuses are diverse and supportive.

Quick Context (Why Bias Exists)

To understand racial attitudes in China, you must know that China views race differently than the West does.

• For most of its history, China was never race-centric. The idea of “race” and skin color came into Chinese society later. This happened through contact with Western colonial powers in the 19th century.
• You may see admiration and subconscious bias toward whiteness, and sometimes prejudice against Black people.
• Prejudice in China is less about race. It is more about how people see “development level” or suzhi (素质). This term means “social quality.”
• Black Americans (“美黑”) are sometimes seen more positively than Black Africans (“非黑”), this is because of assumptions about education and wealth.
• Rural Chinese migrants often face similar stereotypes about hygiene or “low quality.”
• Here’s the key: this prejudice does not come from hatred. It comes from limited exposure and old stereotypes. These stereotypes are more about economic development than race itself.

How Many Black People Live in China?

One common question is: “Are there many Black people in China?”

• No official nationwide count exists, but we do have estimates from specific cities:
  • Around 16,000 Africans were reported in Guangzhou in 2014.
  • That number fell to 10,344 in 2017 (registered residents).
  • In 2020, Yuexiu District (a popular area for African communities) had 3,642 foreign residents.
• The population is diverse and constantly changing. Many people are traders or students. There are communities in big cities like Guangzhou, Shanghai, Beijing, Wuhan, Nanjing, Yiwu, and Shenzhen.

Daily Life: What Black Students Actually Experience

Universities in China are some of the most international spaces in the country. Students from Africa, the Middle East, Latin America, and Europe study side by side. Here, you will find:

• Dedicated international student offices
• Buddy programs and language partners
• Cultural exchange events and clubs

Most Black students describe their day-to-day campus life as safe and welcoming. Curiosity from locals is common. Sometimes people ask for photos or ask blunt questions, but it’s usually not malicious, and some students even say they actually quite like the celebrity treatment!

This is where experiences vary. Some common situations include:

• Occasional stares or unsolicited comments
• Extra document checks by police (especially in trade-heavy districts)

Most challenges students face are bureaucratic (like visa registration or housing paperwork) rather than racial. Socially, most students (including Black students) say they felt more visible and appreciated in China than in their home countries. Younger generations of locals, especially in large metropolitan areas, are increasingly curious and globally minded.

Tips for Thriving as a Black or African Student in China

You can’t control people’s biases, but you can control how prepared you are. Go in with awareness and language skills, and you’ll come away with positive experiences.

Here’s how:

• Learn basic Mandarin. Get to know simple phrases to break barriers and reduce misunderstandings.
• Ready your documents. Always have your passport with you. Police checks are rare but easier when you’re prepared.
• Join communities. African student associations, church groups, and WeChat networks can provide you with support and friendship.
• Set boundaries politely. If someone is too curious, like touching your hair or asking personal questions, respond calmly. You can say, “不方便，谢谢” (“Not convenient, thank you”).
• Use university support. International offices take discrimination seriously. Don’t be scared to report incidents and document what happened.

What to Do if You Face Discrimination

• De-escalate in Chinese:
  • “请叫负责人/经理。” (Please call the person in charge/manager.)
  • “我是留学生，请看我的学生证/护照。” (I’m an international student, here’s my student ID/passport.)

• Campus support: If you are unsure what to do, contact your university’s international students’ office. You can also reach out to the student affairs office for help. They will be more than happy to help you.
• Outside campus: call 110 (police) for safety; keep a log (time, place, people).

Why Studying in China Still Makes Sense

China remains a great option for students from Africa and other regions of the Global South to study abroad. This is true even with some challenges. Here’s why:

• Affordable: Scholarships and living costs are often lower than in Europe or the U.S.
• Career upside: China-Africa trade and cultural links create internship and job pathways in both regions.
• Cultural exchange: You’ll experience one of the world’s oldest civilizations while building networks that last a lifetime.

FAQ

1. Is there racism in China?

• Yes, as in most countries. Experiences vary by city and setting. You’ll find that university environments are the most inclusive.

2. How many Black people live in China?

• There’s no official statistics. Historical local figures show thousands in places like Guangzhou. These numbers change over time because of trade and visa policies.

3. Where do Black communities tend to live?

• Major cities with universities and trade links: Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Shanghai, Beijing, Yiwu, and others.

4. Will I be safe as a Black student?

• Many students report safe day-to-day life. Use common sense (as you would anywhere), follow local laws, and take advantage of campus support.

Bottom line: China is a complex society. Biases exist, but universities and major cities are generally welcoming. With the right understanding and awareness, studying in China can be safe and rewarding.

Start Your Journey to Study in China Today

Choosing to study in China is a life-changing decision that opens the door to world-class education, cultural diversity, and exciting global opportunities. Whether you’re researching top China universities or preparing your China university application, having a trusted partner can make all the difference.

At ApplyForChina, we make the process simple and stress-free. From finding the right university to submitting your application, we’re here to support you every step of the way.