Top 5 Chinese Universities with the Best Student Dorms
Where comfort meets culture: A real look at campus housing in China
When you’re planning to study abroad, it’s easy to focus on rankings, majors, and scholarships. But there’s one detail that often gets overlooked—where are you going to live? The dorm you stay in can shape your whole experience, from your friendships to your sleep quality. And in China, university housing can be anything from bare-bones to luxury-level.
To help narrow things down, here’s a look at five Chinese universities that are widely praised for their student dorms, especially by international students. We’ll talk about what makes them stand out, what they cost, and how to actually secure a spot.
1. Southern University of Science and Technology (SUSTech)
Location: Shenzhen
Let’s start with a university that’s new but quickly gaining attention. SUSTech is based in the modern tech hub of Shenzhen, and its campus mirrors that vibe—clean, high-tech, and incredibly student-friendly. Dorms here are spacious and well-maintained, with thoughtful touches that go beyond the basics.
You’ll typically share a room with just one or two others, and yes—air conditioning and private balconies are standard in many buildings. There are also self-service laundries, study lounges, and even 24-hour convenience stores around campus.
Cost range: RMB 1,200–1,600 per year ($165–$220)
Why students like it: “It doesn’t even feel like a dorm—it’s more like a modern apartment building with everything you need right there.”
2. Zhejiang University (ZJU)
Location: Hangzhou
Zhejiang University has a long history, but its student housing feels very current. International students usually stay in newer buildings on the Zijingang Campus, which is clean, green, and well-organized. Rooms are usually shared by two students and come with en-suite bathrooms, mini-fridges, and reliable Wi-Fi.
What really stands out is the campus itself. It’s peaceful, full of trees, and the dorms are within walking distance of libraries, dining halls, and activity centers.
Cost range: RMB 8,000–12,000 per year ($1,100–$1,650)
Why students like it: “The room was super comfortable, and it felt easy to settle in. Plus, there’s a great international student vibe.”
3. Shanghai Jiao Tong University (SJTU)
Location: Shanghai
SJTU is one of China’s most respected universities, and its Minhang Campus is home to some of the best student dorms in the country. International students are typically housed in modern buildings specifically designed with their needs in mind. Rooms are clean, secure, and equipped with all the essentials—including private bathrooms, air conditioning, and internet.
The dorm buildings are close to libraries, dining halls, and shuttle buses that run throughout the massive campus. The international community is active here, making it easy to build connections right from the start.
Cost range: RMB 45–65 per day ($200–$300/month)
Why students like it: “It felt safe, quiet, and convenient. Everything I needed was nearby, and the dorms were much better than I expected.”
4. Fudan University
Location: Shanghai
Fudan is one of China’s top universities, and thankfully, its student dorms reflect that quality. The Foreign Students Dormitory is especially popular, thanks to its location close to both campus and public transport. Rooms are typically shared by two students, each with their own bed, desk, and wardrobe. Private bathrooms are standard, and there’s a shared kitchen on each floor.
More importantly, the dorm staff are known for being friendly and helpful, which makes a big difference when you’re new to the country.
Cost range: RMB 9,000–14,000 per year ($1,250–$1,950)
Why students like it: “It was convenient, clean, and safe. Also, being in Shanghai meant I could explore the city easily.”
5. Tsinghua University
Location: Beijing
Tsinghua often tops the list of best universities in China, and its campus infrastructure is world-class. That includes the dorms. Most international students live in the Zijing International Student Apartments, which are located right on campus and near dining halls, gyms, and supermarkets.
Rooms range from shared doubles to singles with private bathrooms, and everything—from heating to internet—is already set up. The environment is quiet, which makes it easy to study, but there’s still plenty of community life if you’re looking to meet people.
Cost range: RMB 40–80 per day (\~\$220–\$440/month)
Why students like it: “The campus is beautiful and huge. My dorm had everything I needed, and the location was perfect.”
Tips for Securing University Dormitory in China
Now that you’ve seen what’s possible, let’s talk logistics. Getting a good dorm in China as an international student isn’t hard, but it does take a little planning.
Here’s what helps:
Apply early
Dorms are first-come, first-served at most schools. Once you get your admission letter, jump on the housing request form.
Indicate your preferences
Some universities let you choose room types, building preferences, or even list a roommate.
Check the Package
Some dorms don’t provide bedding or kitchen supplies, so read the fine print.
Ask for help
Most universities have an international office, and they’re usually very responsive. If you’re unsure about anything, just shoot them an email.
If the dorms fill up or you want more independence, some schools can help arrange nearby apartments—but these are usually pricier and require more effort on your end.
Final Thoughts
China’s top universities don’t just offer strong academics—they’re also stepping up their game when it comes to student housing. Whether you’re into quiet campuses, tech-friendly rooms, or urban dorms in major cities, you’ve got some great options. A good dorm can make your transition to life in China smoother, more comfortable, and even more fun.
So when you’re choosing your university, don’t just think about rankings. Think about where you’ll live, who you’ll meet, and how you’ll feel at the end of a long day. The right dorm makes all the difference.
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.