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China Double First Class University List 2026

A diverse group of people interacting in a library setting, with some reading books and others discussing while seated at a computer. Bookshelves filled with books are visible in the background. international students study in China at a Double First-Class university campus

China Double First Class University List 2026

China has some of the fastest-rising universities in the world.

Students planning to study in China often see terms like Double First-Class, 985 Project, 211 Project, and C9 League.

These terms help students compare Chinese universities with strong national support, respected programs, and good career value.

This guide explains the china double first class university list and the meaning of 双一流. It also shows how international students can use the list when choosing a university in China for international students.

It also answers this common question:

中国哪些大学被列为双一流大学？ (Which Chinese universities are listed as Double First-Class?)

Table Of Contents
  1. China Double First Class University List 2026

Quick Answer: Which Chinese Universities Are Double First-Class?

China’s second-round Double First-Class list includes 147 universities.

These universities belong to China’s national World First-Class Universities and First-Class Disciplines Construction initiative. In Chinese, the plan is called 双一流建设.

The list includes:

  • Top comprehensive universities
  • Engineering and technology universities
  • Medical universities
  • Normal universities
  • Finance and economics universities
  • Agricultural universities
  • Arts, music, sports, and language universities
  • Specialist research universities

Well-known schools on the list include Peking University, Tsinghua University, Fudan University, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Zhejiang University, Nanjing University, and Wuhan University.

For international students, this list is a useful starting point. It helps students find schools with strong academic support, research resources, and national recognition.

What Is the Double First-Class Initiative?

The Double First-Class initiative is China’s main plan for building world-class universities and world-class academic disciplines.

The full English name is:

World First-Class Universities and First-Class Disciplines Construction

In Chinese, the name is:

世界一流大学和一流学科建设

This is why people call it Double First-Class or 双一流.

The plan has two goals:

  • Build first-class universities
  • Build first-class academic disciplines

The initiative replaced China’s older 211 Project and 985 Project.

It supports teaching quality, research, global exchange, and discipline development. For students, this means many Double First-Class universities have stronger support in selected fields.

Double First-Class Policy Timeline

The Double First-Class initiative is part of the wider development of higher education in China.

Key points include:

  • 1995: China launched the 211 Project to support key universities.
  • 1998: China launched the 985 Project to build elite research universities.
  • 2015: The State Council of China introduced the overall plan for world-class universities and disciplines.
  • September 2017: The Chinese Ministry of Education, Ministry of Finance and National Development and Reform Commission released the first Double First-Class list.
  • 2022: China released the second-round list with 147 universities.
  • 2026 onward: China is expected to continue the next stage of Double First-Class development.

This policy supports Chinese higher education. It also helps China develop more world first class universities and stronger first-class universities and disciplines.

The 2017 list showed which universities were included in the Double First-Class initiative. The second round continued this national focus on higher education in China.

Why the Double First-Class List Matters

The china double first class university list shows which schools belong to China’s current higher education strategy.

For international students, a Double First-Class university may offer:

  • Stronger academic resources
  • Better research facilities
  • More respected degrees
  • More graduate study options
  • Better professor and laboratory support
  • More global exchange programs
  • More scholarship options
  • Stronger recognition in China

Still, not every Double First-Class university fits every student.

Some schools have strong overall reputations. Some lead in only one or two fields.

For example:

  • One university may lead in engineering.
  • Another may be stronger in medicine.
  • Another may fit Chinese language, education, art, or business.
  • Another may offer lower living costs and easier admission.

Start with the list. Then compare programs, tuition, city, scholarships, language requirements, and admission difficulty.

Double First-Class vs 985 vs 211 vs C9 League

Many students ask:

Is Double First-Class the same as 985 or 211?

No. These terms connect to each other, but they do not mean the same thing.

LabelYear LaunchedNumberCurrent Status
Project 2111995112Replaced (2017)
Project 985199839Replaced (2017)
C9 League20099Active (informal alliance)
Double First-Class2015147Current government standard

What is Project 211?

Project 211 started in 1995.

Its goal was to improve about 100 key universities for the 21st century.

Many 211 universities still have strong reputations in China. Students and employers may still use the term when discussing university quality.

What is Project 985?

Project 985 started in 1998.

It supported China’s elite research universities.

The 39 former 985 universities include many famous schools, such as Tsinghua University, Peking University, Fudan University, Zhejiang University, and Shanghai Jiao Tong University.

What is the C9 League?

The C9 League is often described as China’s “Ivy League.”

It includes nine elite universities:

  • Peking University
  • Tsinghua University
  • Fudan University
  • Shanghai Jiao Tong University
  • Zhejiang University
  • Nanjing University
  • University of Science and Technology of China
  • Xi’an Jiaotong University
  • Harbin Institute of Technology

These universities have high prestige and strong admission competition.

What is Double First-Class?

Double First-Class is the current official system.

It includes many former 985 and 211 universities. It also includes specialist schools in medicine, agriculture, art, music, sports, and language studies.

For international students, both systems matter:

  • 985/211 still matters for reputation.
  • Double First-Class shows current official support.

Complete China Double First-Class University List 2026

The official Double First-Class list does not rank the universities.

It names the selected schools as a recognized group.

Below is the complete China Double First-Class university list grouped by province and region.

Beijing Double First-Class Universities

Beijing has the largest number of Double First-Class universities.

Tianjin Double First-Class Universities

Hebei Double First-Class University

  • Hebei University of Technology

Shanxi Double First-Class Universities

  • Shanxi University
  • Taiyuan University of Technology

Inner Mongolia Double First-Class University

  • Inner Mongolia University

Liaoning Double First-Class Universities

Jilin Double First-Class Universities

Heilongjiang Double First-Class Universities

Shanghai Double First-Class Universities

Jiangsu Double First-Class Universities

Zhejiang Double First-Class Universities

Anhui Double First-Class Universities

Fujian Double First-Class Universities

Jiangxi Double First-Class University

  • Nanchang University

Shandong Double First-Class Universities

Henan Double First-Class Universities

  • Zhengzhou University
  • Henan University

Hubei Double First-Class Universities

Hunan Double First-Class Universities

  • Xiangtan University
  • Hunan University
  • Central South University
  • Hunan Normal University
  • National University of Defense Technology

Guangdong Double First-Class Universities

Guangxi Double First-Class University

  • Guangxi University

Hainan Double First-Class University

  • Hainan University

Chongqing Double First-Class Universities

  • Chongqing University
  • Southwest University

Sichuan Double First-Class Universities

  • Sichuan University
  • Southwest Jiaotong University
  • University of Electronic Science and Technology of China
  • Southwest Petroleum University
  • Chengdu University of Technology
  • Sichuan Agricultural University
  • Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine
  • Southwestern University of Finance and Economics

Guizhou Double First-Class University

  • Guizhou University

Yunnan Double First-Class University

  • Yunnan University

Tibet Double First-Class University

  • Tibet University

Shaanxi Double First-Class Universities

Gansu Double First-Class University

Qinghai Double First-Class University

  • Qinghai University

Ningxia Double First-Class University

Xinjiang Double First-Class Universities

  • Xinjiang University
  • Shihezi University

New Universities Added in the Second Round

The second round added seven universities to the Double First-Class list.

They are:

  1. Shanxi University
  2. Nanjing Medical University
  3. Xiangtan University
  4. South China Agricultural University
  5. Guangzhou Medical University
  6. Southern University of Science and Technology
  7. ShanghaiTech University

This shows that the Double First-Class system can change.

China reviews the list over time. Schools can join the plan based on development, subject strength, and national education goals.

Best Double First-Class Universities for International Students

No single school is best for every international student.

The right choice depends on your major, budget, language level, and career goal.

Many international students first compare these famous schools:

These universities have strong reputations in China and abroad.

They also have higher admission competition.

Students who need lower living costs or a higher admission chance can compare Double First-Class universities outside Beijing and Shanghai.

Good city options include:

  • Nanjing
  • Wuhan
  • Xi’an
  • Chengdu
  • Guangzhou
  • Hangzhou
  • Tianjin
  • Harbin
  • Chongqing
  • Xiamen

These cities offer strong education with a more affordable student life.

Best Double First-Class Universities by Subject Area

Engineering and Technology

For engineering, technology, computer science, or automation, compare:

  • Tsinghua University
  • Shanghai Jiao Tong University
  • Zhejiang University
  • Harbin Institute of Technology
  • Beihang University
  • Beijing Institute of Technology
  • Huazhong University of Science and Technology
  • University of Electronic Science and Technology of China
  • Xidian University
  • Southeast University

Medicine and Health Sciences

For medicine, pharmacy, public health, or Chinese medicine, compare:

  • Peking Union Medical College
  • Fudan University
  • Shanghai Jiao Tong University
  • Zhejiang University
  • Sichuan University
  • Nanjing Medical University
  • Guangzhou Medical University
  • Tianjin Medical University
  • Beijing University of Chinese Medicine
  • China Pharmaceutical University

Business, Finance, and Economics

For business, economics, finance, and international trade, compare:

  • Peking University
  • Tsinghua University
  • Fudan University
  • Shanghai Jiao Tong University
  • Renmin University of China
  • Central University of Finance and Economics
  • Shanghai University of Finance and Economics
  • University of International Business and Economics
  • Southwestern University of Finance and Economics
  • Zhongnan University of Economics and Law

Chinese Language, Education, and Humanities

For Chinese language, education, literature, translation, or humanities, compare:

  • Beijing Normal University
  • East China Normal University
  • Nanjing University
  • Wuhan University
  • Peking University
  • Fudan University
  • Beijing Foreign Studies University
  • Shanghai International Studies University
  • Communication University of China
  • Nanjing Normal University

Art, Music, Sports, and Creative Fields

For art, music, theater, sports, and creative subjects, compare:

  • China Academy of Art
  • Central Academy of Fine Arts
  • Central Academy of Drama
  • Central Conservatory of Music
  • China Conservatory of Music
  • Shanghai Conservatory of Music
  • Beijing Sport University
  • Shanghai University of Sport
  • Communication University of China
  • Donghua University

Why the List Matters for International Students

  1. Faster university selection

China has thousands of higher education institutions.

The Double First-Class list gives students a clear starting point.

It helps students focus on Chinese universities with stronger national support and academic recognition.

  1. Better degree recognition in China

University reputation can matter for students who plan to work in China after graduation.

Many employers know the terms 985, 211, and Double First-Class.

A degree from a recognized university can help your CV stand out.

  1. Stronger graduate study options

Double First-Class universities play a major role in master’s and doctoral education.

They are useful choices for students who plan to do research, apply for a PhD, or continue in an academic career.

  1. More scholarship options

Many Double First-Class universities offer scholarships for international students.

Common options include:

  • Chinese Government Scholarship
  • Provincial scholarships
  • University scholarships
  • Belt and Road scholarships
  • City-level scholarships
  • Program-based awards

Scholarship rules vary by school.

Always check the official admissions page before applying.

  1. More city choices

Many students only look at Beijing and Shanghai.

Double First-Class universities are spread across China.

This gives international students more choices.

For example:

  • Wuhan is strong for engineering, medicine, and education.
  • Xi’an is strong for engineering, aerospace, and technology.
  • Chengdu is strong for electronics, medicine, and finance.
  • Nanjing is strong for science, humanities, medicine, and engineering.
  • Guangzhou is strong for business, medicine, technology, and trade.

How to Apply for a Study Abroad Program in China

Apply To Program Pairing Image

How do I apply for a study abroad program in China?

The process is easier with early preparation.

Step 1: Choose your study level

Choose the type of program first.

International students can apply for:

  • Chinese language programs
  • Foundation programs
  • Bachelor’s degree programs
  • Master’s degree programs
  • PhD programs
  • Exchange programs
  • Short-term study programs

Step 2: Choose your major

Choose your major before choosing your university.

A famous university may not be the strongest school for your field.

One university may have a high overall reputation. Another may offer a better program in your exact major.

Step 3: Compare universities

Compare 3–5 universities.

Check:

  • Program name
  • Language of instruction
  • Tuition fees
  • City and living cost
  • Scholarship options
  • Admission requirements
  • Application deadline
  • Dormitory options
  • International student support

Step 4: Check language requirements

Chinese-taught programs usually require HSK.

English-taught programs may require IELTS, TOEFL, Duolingo, or other proof of English ability.

Common requirements include:

  • HSK 4 or above for many Chinese-taught bachelor’s programs
  • HSK 5 or above for many Chinese-taught master’s programs
  • IELTS or TOEFL for many English-taught programs

Requirements vary by university and major.

Always check the latest official admission notice.

Step 5: Prepare your documents

Most universities ask for:

  • Passport copy
  • Application form
  • Highest diploma
  • Academic transcript
  • Language certificate
  • Personal statement or study plan
  • Recommendation letters
  • Physical examination form
  • Non-criminal record certificate
  • Financial proof
  • Portfolio, for art or design programs
  • Research proposal, for some graduate programs

Some documents may need notarized translation.

Step 6: Submit your application online

Most universities use their own online application systems.

Create an account, fill in the form, upload documents, and pay the application fee if required.

Some scholarship applications also use a separate online system.

Step 7: Wait for admission results

After submission, the university reviews your documents.

Some programs may ask for:

  • Online interview
  • Written test
  • Portfolio review
  • Supervisor approval
  • Extra documents

Step 8: Apply for your student visa

After admission, the university sends your admission notice and visa documents.

Most degree students apply for an X1 visa.

Short-term students may apply for an X2 visa.

After arriving in China, X1 visa holders usually need to apply for a residence permit.

For a full guide, read: How to Apply to Chinese Universities.

How to Apply to Top Chinese Universities Like 985 or 211 Schools

How can I apply to top Chinese universities like those in the 985 or 211 projects?

Top Chinese universities are competitive.

International students can improve their chance with early planning.

  1. Start early

Start preparing 6–12 months before the deadline.

This gives you time to choose universities, prepare documents, contact professors, and apply for scholarships.

  1. Match your background with the program

Top universities look for students who fit the program.

Your application should show:

  • Why you chose the major
  • What you studied before
  • What skills you already have
  • What you plan to do after graduation
  • Why that university fits your goals
  1. Prepare a strong study plan

Your study plan should be clear and specific.

Avoid general sentences like:

“I want to study in China because China is beautiful.”

Instead, explain:

  • Your academic background
  • Your research interests
  • Your career goal
  • Why the program fits your plan
  • Why China supports your next step
  1. Prepare good recommendation letters

For master’s and PhD programs, recommendation letters are important.

Choose teachers or supervisors who know your academic ability.

A strong letter should mention your skills, research ability, attitude, and potential.

  1. Contact professors for graduate study

For master’s or PhD applications, contacting a supervisor can help.

Send a short email with:

  • Your name
  • Your current school
  • Your research interest
  • Your CV
  • Your transcript
  • Why you hope to work with that professor

Avoid sending the same vague email to many professors.

  1. Apply to several universities

A balanced plan includes:

  • 1–2 dream schools
  • 2–3 realistic schools
  • 1 safer option

This gives you a better chance of admission.

You can learn more here: C9 985 and 211 Universities: Top Universities in China.

Scholarships for Double First-Class Universities

Many international students choose China because tuition is often lower than in the United States, the United Kingdom, Australia, or Canada.

Scholarships can reduce the cost even more.

Common scholarship options include:

Chinese Government Scholarship

The Chinese Government Scholarship is one of the most popular options.

It may cover:

  • Tuition
  • Accommodation
  • Monthly stipend
  • Medical insurance

Scholarship coverage depends on the program type and university.

Provincial Scholarships

Many provinces offer scholarships for international students.

These scholarships may support bachelor’s, master’s, PhD, or language students.

Examples include scholarships in Jiangsu, Zhejiang, Shanghai, Beijing, Guangdong, and other regions.

University Scholarships

Many Double First-Class universities offer their own scholarships.

These may be full or partial awards.

They may cover tuition, accommodation, or living costs.

Program-Based Scholarships

Some programs offer scholarships for students from certain countries, regions, or subject areas.

Examples include scholarships for Belt and Road countries, ASEAN students, and postgraduate research students.

For more details, read: Chinese University Scholarships: 2026 Ultimate Guide.

Should You Choose a Double First-Class University?

A Double First-Class university can be a good choice for students who need:

  • A more recognized Chinese degree
  • Strong research training
  • Better academic resources
  • More graduate study options
  • Better career recognition in China
  • More scholarship options
  • Stronger university networks

The label should not be your only reason.

Before choosing a university, check:

  • Major strength
  • Tuition cost
  • City and living cost
  • English-taught program options
  • Admission requirements
  • Scholarship options
  • International student support

A non-Double First-Class university can still be a good choice.

This is especially true when it offers your exact program, lower tuition, better language support, or easier admission.

The best university is not always the most famous one.

The best university fits your study goals, budget, and long-term goals.

English-Taught Programs at Double First-Class Universities

Many international students hope to study in China before they become fluent in Chinese.

Many Chinese universities now offer English-taught programs.

English-taught programs are common in:

  • Engineering
  • Computer science
  • Business
  • Economics
  • International relations
  • Medicine
  • Pharmacy
  • Public health
  • Artificial intelligence
  • Data science
  • Environmental science

Still, English-taught options vary by university.

Before applying, check:

  • Full English instruction
  • IELTS, TOEFL, or other English requirements
  • Chinese language class options
  • Thesis language
  • Degree recognition in your home country

Basic Chinese is still useful, even when the program uses English.

It helps with daily life, internships, communication, and cultural experience.

Choosing a City: Double First-Class Universities by Location

people at Forbidden City in Beijing, China during daytime

Choosing the right city is almost as important as choosing the right university.

Choosing the right city is almost as important as choosing the right university.

CityBest ForKey Double First-Class Universities
BeijingPolitics, culture, language, business, technology, top academic resourcesPeking University, Tsinghua University, Renmin University of China, Beijing Normal University, Beijing Foreign Studies University
ShanghaiBusiness, finance, engineering, trade, media, global careersFudan University, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Tongji University, East China Normal University
NanjingStrong universities with lower costs than Beijing or ShanghaiNanjing University, Southeast University, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing Medical University
WuhanEngineering, medicine, computer science, education, researchWuhan University, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan University of Technology
Xi’anEngineering, aerospace, electronics, history, lower living costsXi’an Jiaotong University, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xidian University, Northwest University
ChengduTechnology, electronics, medicine, finance, relaxed city lifeSichuan University, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Southwest Jiaotong University
Guangzhou / ShenzhenBusiness, technology, trade, medicine, South China’s global linksSun Yat-sen University, South China University of Technology, Jinan University, Southern University of Science and Technology

Final Advice for International Students

The China Double First-Class University List is one of the best tools for understanding top Chinese universities.

It can help students find strong schools, compare academic reputation, and plan applications.

Still, the list should not be the only factor.

Before choosing a university, compare:

  • Major strength
  • Tuition fees
  • Scholarship options
  • City and living cost
  • Language requirements
  • Admission difficulty
  • Career goals
  • International student services

Students seeking the highest prestige can target C9 universities and former 985 schools.

Students seeking a better balance of quality, cost, and admission chance can also consider non-C9 Double First-Class universities.

China offers many strong options for international students.

The key is to choose the university that fits your long-term goals.

FAQs About China Double First-Class Universities

What does Double First-Class mean in China?

Double First-Class means World First-Class Universities and First-Class Disciplines Construction. China uses this national plan to support strong universities and academic disciplines.

How many Double First-Class universities are in China?

China’s second-round list includes 147 Double First-Class universities across mainland China.

Which Chinese universities are included in the Double First-Class list?

The list includes 147 universities.
Well-known examples include Peking University, Tsinghua University, Fudan University, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Zhejiang University, Nanjing University, Wuhan University, Sun Yat-sen University, and Xi’an Jiaotong University.

Is Double First-Class better than 985 and 211?

Double First-Class is the newer official framework. The 985 and 211 projects are older labels, but people still use them when discussing university reputation in China.

Are all 985 universities Double First-Class universities?

Most former 985 universities are part of the Double First-Class system. They remain among China’s most famous and competitive universities.

Which Double First-Class universities are best for international students?

The answer depends on your major.
For overall reputation, students often compare Tsinghua University, Peking University, Fudan University, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Zhejiang University, Nanjing University, and University of Science and Technology of China.

How do I apply for a study abroad program in China?

Choose your major, compare universities, check language requirements, prepare documents, apply online, and apply for a student visa after admission.
You can read the full guide here: How to Apply to Chinese Universities.

Can international students get scholarships at Double First-Class universities?

Yes. Many Double First-Class universities offer scholarships for international students.
Options may include Chinese Government Scholarship, provincial scholarships, university scholarships, and program-based awards.

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