Studying in China
China has become an emerging and popular destination for Iranian students in recent years. Reasonable tuition fees, various scholarships and a low cost of living make studying in this country affordable. Many universities even offer admission without a language certificate, providing a dynamic environment for research and diverse cultural experience. China is a combination of scientific progress, modern technology and real opportunities for the future.
New opportunity for STEM elites in China!
China will introduce the “K” visa from October 1, 2025. This visa does not require a job offer and allows multiple entries and stays. It also has a simpler path than other visas in the country. This visa is for people aged 18 to 45 in the fields of science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) who have graduated with a bachelor’s degree or higher from an accredited institution or university.
Expanding international exchange
China has increased the number of English-language courses and joint programs with foreign universities,
a policy aimed at attracting more international students and strengthening China’s role in global higher education.
Rapid growth of students in Xinjiang
The number of foreign students in Xinjiang province has nearly doubled in 2024.
Most of these students come from Central Asia and focus on Chinese language and culture.
Educational reforms for mental health
The Chinese government has mandated schools to reduce student workloads,
and has also mandated the presence of psychological counselors and mental health programs in schools.
Why China? Advantages and Challenges
Studying in China offers international students access to a cutting-edge education system, a variety of scholarships, and a rich cultural experience. However, challenges such as language and cultural differences, high academic pressure, and difficulty adapting to the local lifestyle are among the main obstacles for international students in this country.
Challenges
Benefits
China education system
Bachelor's degree
Master's degree
Doctorate
Schools
Studying in Chinese schools
Bachelor's degree in China
Studying a Master's Degree in China
PhD study in China
Cost of studying in China
International students are eligible for scholarships and financial aid from government and private sponsors in China, provided they have a good GPA and a strong academic record. The most popular include: scholarships in China
Scholarships in China
Tuition fees in China may vary depending on the type of university, level, and field of study. In the table below, you can see the tuition fees for various undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral degrees.
Chinese Government Scholarship Scheme
China/UNESCO — The Great Wall Fellowship Program
Chinese Culture Research Fellowship Scheme
Top universities in China
China has some of the world’s most prestigious universities, attracting many international students every year. The table below shows you the list of the top universities in China to study in, based on the QS rankings :
Steps for studying in China
Requirements and documents required to study in China
Studying in China with a high school diploma (for undergraduate studies) is quite possible, especially for international students. China is a popular destination for students who want to start their university studies in a foreign country right from the start.
The documents required to study in China may vary slightly depending on the level of study (bachelor’s, master’s, doctoral) and the type of program (with or without scholarship), but in general, the following documents are required.
Language certificate
Age requirement
Grade point average requirement
Entrance exam
Student visa
Cities suitable for studying in China
China has numerous cities to study in, but some are more popular due to the quality of education, lifestyle, international facilities, and university rankings.
Beijing
: As the political and cultural capital, it hosts top universities such as Peking University and Tsinghua University and offers many scholarship opportunities, but the high cost of living, traffic, and air pollution are its disadvantages.- Shanghai :The country’s financial and economic center and home to the prestigious Fudan and Shanghai Jiao Tong universities; the city is modern and international, but the cost of living is high and competition for university admissions is high.
- Hangzhou : Known for its beautiful nature, high quality of life, and the renowned Zhejiang University, it is important as a technology hub (Alibaba headquarters), but job opportunities may be fewer than in Beijing and Shanghai.
- Nanjing : : A historic and student city with strong universities such as Nanjing University and a relatively affordable cost of living, but not as international as larger cities.
- Chengdu, the capital of Italy, offers a great environment for studying, with prestigious universities and a rich history. Combining culture, history, and education, Rome is a popular destination for international students.
Student dormitories and residences in China
After deciding to study in China and getting admission from Chinese universities, the next step is to find a student house in China. Students should start searching for a student accommodation in China according to their time and schedule. The choice of student accommodation and dormitories in China has a significant impact on the living conditions of students.
A number of Chinese universities offer student dormitories in China. These dormitories are often located on campus. The cost of a single room in a student residence in China is 21,900 yuan per year and the cost of a shared room is 10,950 yuan per year.
Faciities:offered in dormitories and residences include the following:
In China, universities and the government have provided good facilities and amenities for international students (including Iranians) to have more comfortable living and studying conditions. The most important student facilities in China are:
Medical facilities for Chinese students
Banking services for Chinese students
China Student Card
Student work in China
In China, student work opportunities for international students are limited and usually subject to visa regulations. Most universities allow part-time work on campus or at affiliated educational institutions, but off-campus work requires special permission from the immigration office. Working hours are limited and mainly involve research activities, teaching assistantships, or university administrative services. In general, student work in China cannot be a primary source of income, but it can help students gain work experience related to their field and cover some of their living expenses.
Many companies in China hire international students with Chinese degrees. In Europe, bachelor’s degrees from Chinese universities are also highly sought after by employers. However, real work experience and letters of recommendation from previous employers are more important for hiring decisions.
But also keep in mind that in EU countries, employers prefer applicants with European qualifications. In the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS), a Chinese diploma is highly valued and it will be easier to find a job with a Chinese degree in these countries.
Conditions for residence in China through study
After graduating from China, it is not possible for international students to obtain permanent residency directly and requires certain conditions. Graduates can usually stay in the country for a limited period of time and work under a work visa (Z visa) or through China’s skilled talent recruitment programs. The Chinese government has policies to attract graduates from reputable universities and skilled workers, but permanent residency usually requires work experience, a valid employment contract, and an assessment of professional qualifications. Therefore, staying in China after graduation is mostly possible through legal employment and skilled talent recruitment programs, and the process of obtaining permanent residency requires a separate application and compliance with immigration laws.
Successful experiences of studying in China
Cost of studying in Russia
Comparing China with other countries
Studying in China has its own advantages that set it apart from many international destinations. Chinese universities offer extensive opportunities for access to advanced higher education and a variety of scholarships, offering programs in English and Mandarin. The cost of studying and living in many Chinese cities is lower than in European and American countries, and the experience of living in a country with a rich history, culture, and growing economy is particularly attractive to international students. In addition, cities such as Beijing, Shanghai, and Hangzhou offer a rich academic and professional environment with prestigious universities, an international environment, and networking opportunities.
However, studying in China also has its challenges, which make it necessary to compare it with other European and Asian countries. International students may face language and cultural barriers, and it may be difficult to adapt to a different education system and lifestyle. In contrast, countries such as Germany, Hungary or Portugal, in addition to offering quality education, also offer students the global recognition of academic qualifications and wider job opportunities after graduation. Therefore, choosing China as a study destination is more suitable for students who are looking for a combination of acceptable education, lower costs and a rich cultural experience, while students who prioritize international prestige and easy access to the European job market may prefer European countries.
Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
Which language certificate is most important for studying in China?
re the conditions for studying in China different for Iranians than for other foreign nationals?
What are the best cities in China for education?
s it possible to get medical admission in China without an entrance exam?
Is it possible to study arts and culture in China?
Are foreign students in China allowed not to live in dormitories?
