Southwest University – 西南大学

Southwest University (SWU) is a comprehensive and national key university sponsored by the Ministry of Education of China.

Established in 2005 through the merger of Southwest China Normal University and Southwest China Agriculture University, SWU has a rich history that spans over a century.

Located in the bustling city of Chongqing, SWU offers a vibrant academic environment with more than 80,000 students, including a significant number of international students pursuing various degrees.

In the 2025 QS World University Rankings, SWU ranks 1001st-1200th in the world. It is well known for its programs in engineering, science, and medicine.

Undergraduate Admission Requirements

• High school graduate or above with a valid foreign passport
• Age below 35
• For non-English speakers: IELTS score of at least 6.0 or TOEFL (Internet-based) score of at least 80
• High school GPA of at least 3.0
• Application Form to Southwest University (in duplicate)
• Photocopies of high school diploma and transcript (notarized copies in Chinese or English if in another language)
• Photocopy of HSK certificate or other Chinese proficiency proof
• Two recent passport-sized photos

Postgraduate Admission Requirements

• Study plan of at least 800 words
• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent
• Age below 40
• For non-English speakers: IELTS score of at least 6.0 or TOEFL (Internet-based) score of at least 80
• Two letters of recommendation from professors or associate professors
• Application Form to Southwest University (in duplicate)
• Photocopies of previous graduation certificate, degree diploma, and academic record (notarized copies in Chinese or English if in another language)

Undergraduate Tuition Fees

• Bachelor Degree (English Medium): 20,000 CNY to 22,000 CNY per year

Postgraduate Tuition Fees

• Master Degree (English Medium): 26,000 CNY to 28,000 CNY per year
• Doctoral Degree (English Medium): 32,000 CNY to 35,000 CNY per year

Southwest University offers several scholarships to support international students, including:

• Chongqing Municipal Government Mayor Scholarship
  • Eligibility: Non-Chinese citizens in good health, aged 18-40
  • English proficiency: IELTS 6.0 or TOEFL (Internet-based) 80
• Southwest University Excellent Overseas Students Scholarship
  • Provides financial aid to outstanding international students

These can cover tuition, accommodation, and living expenses, making studying in Chongqing, China more affordable.

Southwest University boasts a range of facilities to enhance student life:

• Student Accommodation:
  • Double Room: 9,000 CNY per year
  • Single Room: 12,000 CNY per year
  • Quad Room: 6,000 CNY per year
• Canteens: Offering a variety of Chinese and international cuisines
• Libraries: Equipped with extensive collections and study spaces
• Sports Facilities: Including gyms, sports fields, and swimming pools
• Medical Facilities: On-campus hospitals and clinics for student health needs

Chongqing is a major city in western China, known for its rich cultural heritage and rapid development. The city offers a unique blend of traditional and modern attractions, including:

• The Three Gorges: A scenic area along the Yangtze River
• Dazu Stone Carvings: A UNESCO World Heritage Site
• Local Cuisine: Famous for its spicy hotpot dishes

Chongqing’s strategic location makes it a central hub for the Western China Development Project, providing students with numerous opportunities for cultural and professional growth.