On-Campus Living: China University Dorms for International Students

During university life, your accommodation plays an important role in shaping your entire experience. Your dormitory will influence your comfort and the friends you make. In China, international students have several dormitory rooms to choose from. The offerings differ depending on the region and the university, but you will be surprised by the consistent quality of dorms in China.

International student dorms in China include all the facilities you need, such as bedding, air conditioning, internet, toilets, kitchens, and more. Depending on the type of room, you might even get your own ensuite bathroom, kitchen, or balcony! In this article, we will go over the most common types of university dormitory options available to international students.

Double Rooms

Double rooms are the most common and cheapest option for international students. In addition, you can share utility bills with your roommate, making them even more affordable. In this type of room, you will usually get a twin bed in one unit. If you’re more extroverted, you might enjoy having the company of another student during your studies. If you’re not, don’t worry, universities do a great job dividing the space to ensure privacy for each student. You can also buy room dividers or rearrange the furniture with your roommate to better separate your personal spaces.

Single Rooms

Single rooms are the most popular option for students who seek maximum privacy. However, the price is higher than that of double rooms, and you will have to pay for the water and electricity yourself. Keep in mind that single rooms are in high demand, so there may be limited availability. If you can’t book a single room during your first year, you can always request one for the next semester.

Apartment-Style Dorms

Some universities also offer apartment-style dorms, where two to four students share common areas such as dining rooms, bathrooms, kitchens, and balconies. Each student will get their own personal bedroom, but it will usually be small and, for lack of a better word, minimal. This type of dormitory is great for balancing privacy and social life. The shared spaces provide room for meals and interaction, while the bedrooms give you a private area to rest and study. Apartment-style rooms can also be more affordable because you’re splitting the bills with more people.

Pricing Standards

Prices for dormitory rooms in China vary from 25 RMB to 150 RMB per day depending on the university, but here are the approximate costs based on our experience:

• Economic double rooms: about 6,000–7,000 RMB per semester.
• Double rooms with private bathrooms or kitchens: around 8,000–9,000 RMB per semester.
• Single rooms: close to 10,000 RMB per semester.
• Apartment-style rooms: about 5,000–8,000 RMB per semester.

Tips for Choosing the Best Dorm for You

1. Calculate your budget

Single rooms with personal bathrooms and kitchens are usually more expensive than shared dormitory rooms. Calculate your monthly expenses, including food, travel, and entertainment, before deciding how much you’re willing to spend on accommodation.

2. Consider your need for privacy and socializing

If you’re introverted, it might seem like a no-brainer to go for a single room, but keep in mind that it might limit your ability to make friends initially. You might also get lonely during the busier times of your student life, like during final exams. Having a roommate to study and share meals with during difficult times can be a great source of company and support!

3. Explore your options

Check your university’s website for available on-campus dormitory rooms. For example, Beijing Language and Culture University offers six options for international students, giving you flexible choices for different financial situations and lifestyle needs.

Read our article on universities with the best student dorms in China to get a better idea of the accommodation options available!

4. Book early!

On-campus dorms in China fill up quickly, especially the high-demand single rooms. As soon as you receive your acceptance letter, ask about the dorm booking process and secure your room!

Final Thoughts

Universities in China provide a wide range of dormitory options to meet the diverse needs of international students. Whether you’re introverted, extroverted, financially stable, or on a tight budget, there will always be something available for you!

However, you need to carefully assess your needs to find the perfect type of dormitory for yourself. Read our article on dorms in China, food, and budgeting for international students to better understand the lifestyle you can expect as an international student in China.

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.

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