Study in China 2026: Scholarships, Costs and Safety Explained
China continues to be a top destination for international students, offering a blend of rich cultural heritage and modern educational facilities. Some reasons international students choose to study in China for further education are world-class education, affordable tuition fees, and rich cultural experiences. If you’re considering studying in China in 2026, this guide covers everything you need to know—from scholarships and costs to safety and tips for your application for Chinese university.
Scholarships for International Students in China
China offers a variety of scholarships to attract international talent. These scholarships can significantly reduce the financial burden of studying abroad.
Chinese Government Scholarship (CSC)
The Chinese Government Scholarship is one of the most prestigious awards available to international students and also one of the favorite choice for students studying in China. It typically covers tuition fees, accommodation, a monthly stipend, and comprehensive medical insurance. For the 2026 academic year, the application period is from December 1, 2025, to February 15, 2026.
Confucius Institute Scholarship (CIS)
The Confucius Institute Scholarship (CIS) supports students in studying Mandarin and Chinese culture at select universities in China. Sponsored by the Chinese government, the CIS covers tuition, accommodation, and provides a monthly stipend. This scholarship is available for Chinese language studies and for Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Teaching Chinese to Speakers of Other Languages (TCSOL). Applicants generally need a strong academic background in Chinese studies, with some programs requiring HSK proficiency scores.
Belt & Road Scholarships (BRI)
Belt & Road Scholarships, part of China’s initiative to enhance educational and cultural exchanges with BRI countries, cover tuition, accommodation, and living expenses for eligible students. Offered by the Chinese government and universities, they aim to attract talent in fields like engineering and trade, fostering economic and diplomatic cooperation. Students should verify specific eligibility and application details with their chosen institutions.
Local Government and Enterprise Scholarships
Apart from national and university-specific scholarships, various local governments and enterprises in China offer financial aid to international students who want to study in China. These scholarships may cover full or partial tuition and accommodation. Sometimes, they also provide a monthly stipend and medical insurance. Here are some famous Chinese local government scholarships:
- Beijing Government Scholarship
- Chongqing Municipal Government Mayor Scholarship
- Shanghai Municipal Government Scholarship
University Scholarships
Many Chinese universities offer their own scholarships to attract international students. For instance, they often provide partial scholarships that cover tuition fees, with accommodation offered at preferential rates for scholarship recipients.
How to Apply to Chinese Universities
Applying to Chinese universities involves several steps, and the process can vary depending on the program and institution. Visit our website if you need any help or have an inquiry about how to choose your major, and send your application. Here’s a general guide to help you navigate the application:
- Choose a University and Program: Research universities based on your field of interest, budget, and preferred city.
- Check Eligibility and Requirements: Each university has its own admission criteria. Generally, undergraduate applicants need a high school diploma, while master’s and PhD applicants require relevant degrees. English-taught programs often require IELTS or TOEFL scores, while Chinese-taught programs require HSK certification.
- Prepare Application Documents: Commonly required documents include:
- A completed application form (usually from the university’s website)
- A valid passport
- Academic transcripts and diplomas
- A personal statement or study plan
- Recommendation letters. You can get more detailed information about the recommendation letters at Apply For China.
- Proof of language proficiency (HSK, IELTS, or TOEFL)
- A medical examination form (Foreigner Physical Examination Record)
- Submit the Application – Applications can usually be submitted online through the university’s official website. Some universities also accept applications through government scholarship websites like the CSC Scholarship.
- Pay the Application Fee – Most universities charge an application fee ranging from $50 to $150, which is usually non-refundable.
- Attend an Interview (if required) – Some universities may require an online or in-person interview, especially for graduate programs.
- Receive the Admission Letter & Apply for a Visa – If accepted, you will receive a JW202 or JW201 form along with an admission notice. These documents are necessary to apply for a student visa (X1 or X2 visa) at a Chinese embassy or consulate.
- Prepare for Arrival – Book your flight, arrange accommodation, and complete the residence permit registration within 30 days of arrival in China.
The application timelines and deadlines for each university may vary, so check the dates for your preferred university and try to apply early to increase your chances of admission and scholarship opportunities.
Pro tip: You can simplify the process of applying to a Chinese university by contacting ApplyforChina.
Costs of Studying in China
Understanding the financial aspects of studying in China is crucial. Before coming or even applying to study in China, you need to consider tuition fees, which vary by school and program, and budget for living costs like housing, food, and transportation. Keep an eye on exchange rates as they affect your budget. Planning these details in advance can enhance your study and living experience in China.
Tuition Fee
Tuition fees for studying in China vary widely depending on the university, program, and city. On average, undergraduate programs cost between $2,000 and $10,000 per year, while master’s and doctoral programs range from $3,000 to $15,000 per year. Programs in medicine, engineering, and business tend to be more expensive, often exceeding $10,000 annually.
Overall, Chinese universities are generally more affordable than Western Universities, making them an attractive option for international students. Although English-taught programs are usually more expensive than Chinese-taught ones, Chinese public universities typically have lower fees than private ones. Additionally, tuition costs in major cities like Beijing and Shanghai are higher compared to smaller cities such as Wuhan or Chengdu. Here are the average tuition fees for different degrees:
| Degree | Tuition Fee Average/Year (RMB) | Tuition Fee Average/Year (USD) |
| Bachelor | ~ 29,200 | ~ 4,010 |
| Master | ~ 36,100 | ~ 4,958 |
| PhD | ~ 43,300 | ~ 5,946 |
Living Expenses
The cost of living varies by city. Major cities like Beijing and Shanghai are more expensive than smaller cities. On average, students might spend between $500 to $1,000 per month on accommodation, food, transportation, and other personal expenses.
Are you interested in learning about the living costs and which are the best cities to live in China? Click here for more information.
Additional Costs
- Visa Fees: The cost varies by nationality and visa type.
- Medical Examination: Required for the visa application, costing around 400–500 RMB.
- Residence Permit: Must be obtained within 30 days of arrival, with fees ranging from 400–1,000 RMB, depending on the city and duration.
- Health Insurance: Mandatory for all international students, typically costing around 800 RMB per year.
Safety Considerations
China is generally considered a safe country for international students, whic is one of the reasons many international students choose to study in China. However, it’s important to stay informed and take standard precautions.
- Health and Insurance: Ensure you have comprehensive health insurance and are aware of local healthcare facilities around your school and future accommodations.
- Legal Compliance: Familiarize yourself with local laws and customs to avoid inadvertent offenses.
- Emergency Contacts: Keep a list of emergency contacts, including your country’s embassy or consulate, local emergency services, and university support services. In addition, you can also join a student community to share and discuss any problems you face in real life.
- Reliable Transportation: Make sure you are using reliable transportation to ensure your safety on the road. You can take the metro, bus, or a certified online taxi application such as Didi (like Uber).
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, by securing appropriate scholarships, budgeting effectively, and staying informed about safety measures, international students can look forward to a rewarding educational experience in China in 2026.
How about it? Are you interested in applying to Chinese university and study in China for further education? Visit us at ApplyforChina for more information about Chinese universities, application procedures, and scholarships!