Southern Medical University (南方医科大学) is a provincial public medical university located in Baiyun, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China. Formerly a military-affiliated medical university, the entire institution was transferred to the Guangdong Provincial People’s Government and became a provincial public university in 2004. It is now fully owned by the Guangdong Provincial People’s Government.

Southern Medical University (SMU) is located in Guangzhou, near the picturesque Baiyun Mountain. The university has two campuses: the main campus and the Shunde campus, which together cover nearly 1.68 million square meters, with an additional 0.845 million square meters under construction. The campuses are well-known for their gorgeous gardens, which feature rows of green trees and vibrant flower bouquets that bloom all year.

Southern Medical University (SMU) was first established in October 1951 and recognized as one of the leading medical universities in 1978. In August 2004, the university was handed over to the local government of Guangdong Province and renamed Southern Medical University in accordance with the State Department and the Central Military Committee of the People’s Liberation Army (PLA). SMU is currently one of eight esteemed universities approved by the Ministry of Education to administer the experimental eight-year medical education program.

The university was a part of the Guangdong provincial 211 Project in 2008, which was for priority and important colleges and universities. SMU is ranked second in terms of funds received and first in terms of the scientific research program’s pass rate among provincially administered universities. According to recent college rankings of mainland Chinese universities, SMU is ranked third among medical universities, sixth among Guangdong Province universities, and approximately 100th overall. At present, it has become a candidate university jointly to be constructed by the Ministry of Education, the National Health and Family Planning Committee, and the Guangdong Provincial Government.

Undergraduate Admission Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Applicants from non-English-speaking countries must submit proof of English proficiency—TOEFL score above 80 (with at least 15 in each section) or IELTS score of 6.0 (with at least 5.5 in each section), or equivalent certificates. Those from English-speaking countries or who completed their last degree in English are exempt, but must provide a certificate stating English was the medium of instruction.
• Medical examination report.
• Additional requirements may include entrance examinations or interviews, depending on the program

Postgraduate Admission Requirements

• Depending on the program, you may contact us to learn more

• Southern Medical University is renowned for its programs in Clinical Medicine, Dentistry, Pharmacy, Biomedical Sciences, Public Health, Nursing, and Biomedical Engineering

Global Rankings:

• Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings 2025: #251–300 globally; #176–200 in Clinical & Health
• QS World University Rankings by Subject 2025 (Medicine): Ranked #401–450

Undergraduate Tuition Fees

• Tuition Fees: 30,000 – 45,000 RMB/year depending on the course.

Postgraduate Tuition Fees

• Tuition Fees: For Master’s programs, the annual tuition fee varies depending on the course, you may contact ApplyforChina to learn more.

Southern Medical University offers a variety of scholarships to support international students financially. Here are some of the available scholarships:

• Chinese Scholarship Programs: Full scholarship students are exempt from tuition fees and provided with accommodation on campus or a monetary accommodation subsidy, a stipend, and comprehensive medical insurance.
• Outstanding International Students Scholarship for Freshmen: In their first year of study in China, self-funded international students can apply for a one-time reward scholarship, such as the Guangdong Government Outstanding International Students Scholarship for Freshmen or the Southern Medical University Outstanding International Students Scholarship for Freshmen.
• Outstanding International Students Scholarship: International students who have studied at Southern Medical University for more than one year can apply for the one-time reward scholarship. This includes the Chinese Government Scholarship for Distinguished International Students, the Guangdong Government Outstanding International Students Scholarship, and the Southern Medical University Scholarship for Outstanding International Students every academic year.

Do take note of the application deadline when applying for scholarship. At Apply For China, you can consult us if you require further assistance.

• Dining Services: Multiple canteens offering Chinese & international cuisine.
• Student Accommodation: Dormitory is well equipped with air conditioners, internet services and hot water supply system.
• Library: Extensive collection of medical and scientific resources.

Guangzhou is a major city in southern China known for its diverse cultural heritage, thriving economy, and excellent public transportation system. In addition, the city has a warm subtropical climate and is close to Hong Kong and Macau, so students can enjoy a vibrant and diverse living environment.