Which country is best to study acting? 

A New Stage for Global Talent

China’s film and television industry is booming — nowadays, even global streaming platforms are showcasing Chinese content. For international students who love acting or performing arts, China provides great training. It also offers a chance to learn about Eastern storytelling and culture.

But can foreigners study acting in China? Yes! Many acting schools in China offer programmes for international students. In fact, you’d be surprised how much local demand there is for foreign talent in the local market.

Other than that, studying acting in China lets you learn modern film techniques and traditional performing arts. This rare mix will help you become a versatile artist, with opportunities all around the world.

Today, we will explore film schools in China for international students, with information about:

• HSK requirement for acting degree
• Scholarships for acting students in China
• Tuition fees for acting programs in China
• Other requirements for acting schools in China

Best Film and Acting Universities in China

There are many prestigious performing arts universities in China, offering undergraduate degrees, master’s degrees, as well as doctorate degrees in performing arts education. Below are some of the popular options for international students:

Beijing Film Academy (BFA)

As the cradle of China’s film talent, BFA is where many of the nation’s most famous actors and directors began their journey. It is regarded as one of the best acting universities in China.

Program: International BA in Acting & Directing

Duration: 4 years | Tuition: ¥120,000/year

Teaching language: Bilingual (Chinese & English)

HSK level for Beijing Film Academy: HSK 5-6

Program Highlights:

• Combines acting and directing for holistic artistic development.
• Strong emphasis on both theory and practice.
• International faculty with real-world film experience.
• Access to China’s largest film and television network.
• Scholarships available (Beijing Government Scholarship, Academic Scholarships).

Ideal for: Students who want to excel in acting and production. This is for those planning to work in international film or theater.

Shanghai Theatre Academy (STA)

Founded in 1945, STA is one of China’s most prestigious performing arts higher education institutions. It offers an immersive creative environment with specialized departments in acting, directing, dance, stage design, fine arts, and more.

Key Strengths:

• Rich history and tradition in stage and screen performance.
• International partnerships with institutions like NYU Tisch and Yale School of Drama.
• Hands-on training for undergraduate students through STA’s professional theatres and studios.
• Strong alumni network in the global entertainment industry.

Ideal for: Students who dream of performing on stage or screen, and want to train in one of Asia’s most artistic cities — Shanghai.

Chongqing University – Acting and Film Studies

Chongqing University offers a program for students who like academics and research. It provides a solid base in film and television art theory, along with practical experience.

Requirements:

• Non-Chinese citizens aged 18–30.
• High school diploma or above.
• Good health (physical and mental), with excellent academic standing.
• HSK 4 (≥210) or equivalent Chinese language proficiency.

Why Choose Chongqing: It is a lively student city. Living costs are low, and it offers a good mix of technical and creative training.

Shenzhen University – Acting & Film-related Programs

Shenzhen University is in one of China’s most modern cities. It offers programs in Chinese acting and performance arts. Partial scholarships are available.

Tuition: ¥40,000/year

Scholarship: ¥10,000 (for the first year after registration)

Requirements:

• Non-Chinese citizens aged 18–24.
• High school diploma with good grades.
• HSK 5 (≥180) required for Chinese-taught programs.
• Online CSCA test required before admission.

Why Choose Shenzhen: Perfect for students who want to study performance while experiencing China’s fast-paced innovation culture.

Scholarships and Financial Support

Many Chinese universities offer scholarships for international performing arts students:

• Beijing Government Scholarship (BFA)
• Confucius Institute Scholarship
• Chinese Government (CSC) Scholarship
• University-specific merit awards

These can cover partial tuition, living stipends, or housing, depending on your performance and language ability.

Language and Cultural Advantage

Even if your program includes English instruction, it never hurts to learn Chinese (Mandarin). Many casting calls and creative projects in China now seek bilingual talent. Plus, mastering the language opens doors to collaborations across Asia.

Most undergraduate programs need students to have HSK 4–5. Many schools offer language prep courses. These courses help students reach that level before starting full-time studies.

What You’ll Gain from Studying Acting in China

• Hands-on experience with real film and theatre projects.
• International exposure and cross-cultural communication skills.
• Globally recognized degree and scholarship opportunities.
• Deep artistic immersion in both modern and traditional Chinese performing arts.
• Industry connections through internships, workshops, and film festivals.

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