Study Abroad Programs in China

Why NOT study abroad in China? In the wake of a tumultuous twentieth century, which witnessed the gradual overthrow of dynastic rule by a communist regime, China has once again rapidly developed into a world superpower. Standing tall with the world’s largest population, second largest land area as well as economy, China is indisputably the most important player in modern global affairs, and an incredibly valuable place to study abroad. But more than that, it is an ancient empire rich with cultural integrity, awe-inspiring natural beauty, and an infinitely fascinating history to be enlightened by.

Choose from modern lights in Shanghai or traditional teahouses in Chengdu.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Yes! China is undoubtedly one of the most significant players in today's global affairs, making it a very marketable destination for international students who wants to study abroad.

10 Surprises for International Students Studying in Beijing

Shanghai, Beijing, and Hong Kong continue to be the top study abroad destinations, however, specialized programs may be offered in sites outside of big cities, in smaller towns, or in rural areas.

5 Best Cities for Study Abroad in China

Although China has one of the world's largest economies, it is still developing, thus, having lower living costs than most Western countries. You may consult your program providers for more information on scholarships available for studying in China.

Studying English in China is a great opportunity, not only because of the affordability of education but also because of the growing demand for English speakers and the chance to experience Chinese culture and language first-hand.

F Visas are required for students who plan to study in China for less than six months, and X visas for over six months. Consider consulting your program provider for more details on visa policies, supporting documents, and other requirements.

Everything You Need to Know Before Studying in China

Latest Program Reviews

Fluent, Confident, and Culturally Aware – Thanks to GAC

June 17, 2025by: Daniel Moore - United StatesProgram: GAC Chinese Language Immersion Program

The GAC Chinese Language Immersion Program gave me more than just language skills — it gave me confidence and a deep appreciation for Chinese culture. From the moment I arrived, everything was organized perfectly: airport pickup, comfortable housing, and personalized classes based on my level. The daily conversations with locals, cultural workshops, and city tours made learning Chinese feel natural and exciting. I went from basic phrases to holding real conversations in just a few weeks. I highly recommend this program to anyone who wants a complete and unforgettable language-learning journey in China.

Language Experience in China

June 17, 2025by: Liam Patterson - United KingdomProgram: Learn Chinese at Beijing Language and Culture University

Studying at Zhejiang University was one of the most rewarding decisions I’ve ever made. The classes were well-structured and focused on real-life communication, not just textbook grammar. The teachers were patient, engaging, and passionate about helping us improve. What made it even more special was living in the heart of Beijing, surrounded by culture, history, and amazing food. I made friends from all over the world, explored the city after class, and practiced Chinese every single day. This wasn’t just a course—it was a life-changing experience

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June 17, 2025by: Daniel Moore - United StatesProgram: GAC Chinese Language Immersion Program

Language Experience in China

June 17, 2025by: Liam Patterson - United KingdomProgram: Learn Chinese at Beijing Language and Culture University

A Guide to Studying Abroad in China

Best Student Cities

Specialized study abroad programs sometimes offer locations outside of the big cities in smaller towns or rural areas, but Shanghai, Beijing, and Hong Kong remain the most popular study abroad destinations.

Shanghai is the country’s largest city by population (22 million) and has historically developed as the main commercial and financial life vein of mainland China.

Beijing is the country’s capital and has served as China’s political center for hundreds of years (the royal Forbidden City, built at the beginning of the fifteenth century, still remains impressively intact at the city’s center).

Hong Kong, a former British colony and current Special Administrative Region of China, is ranked as the world’s third most important international city and over the past two centuries has developed as a beacon of modern globalization.

Other popular study abroad locations in China include Chengdu, Tianjin, and Kunming, among others. China is a huge country which governs over 22 provinces and five autonomous regions, many with their own distinct culture, dialect, and way of life. Anywhere you go will offer something unique and different - so research carefully, choose wisely, and travel a lot while you study abroad in China!

Popular Subjects

The language barrier can be a very real obstacle to breaching China’s increasingly prominent national university system. While world-class institutions like Tsinghua University, Peking University, and Fudan University are the crown jewel in the eye of every Chinese national student, most classes are generally taught in Mandarin, which make enrollment a challenge for international students not studying Chinese. However many of these schools do reach out with international programs to attract foreign students, and some subject areas, such as international business, are often taught in English.

Study abroad in China is often possible both through independent program providers and through international partnerships between universities in different countries. Programs available in major Chinese cities usually combine academic study with a variety of intensive language lessons and culturally immersive opportunities. Studying abroad through international program providers allows students to experience a program tailored to the students and taught in a smaller class size. Partnered institutions, on the other hand, allow study abroad students to take classes at larger, local universities.

Common academic areas of study in China include math and economics, engineering, political science, urban development, and, of course, Mandarin. The Chinese school year typically is divided into semesters lasting from September-January and February-July. Chinese summers can be exceptionally hot and muggy in the big cities, so plan accordingly!

Scholarships & Costs

Although China boasts the world’s second largest economy, it is still very much a developing nation, and so the cost of living is quite cheap compared to most Western countries. Meals will generally only run you a few dollars and many prices are up to negotiation. Prices are lower in rural areas than in the cities, and informal market places are cheaper than recognizable Western businesses. Be wary while studying in China - as a tourist you will have a target on your back so be careful of scams and artificially marked-up prices. These pitfalls quickly become recognizable though, and you will come to find the Chinese people unendingly hospitable and sincerely interested in Western culture.

There are many scholarships made available for study in China, from Western and Chinese institutions alike. Be sure to take advantage of these by consulting GoAbroad’s Scholarship Directory, for those who choose to study in in China, to find out more information on opportunities and eligibility requirements.

Accommodations & Visas

Standard housing options are made available through most study abroad programs in China - apartment, homestays, or dormitory style living being most common. Apartment living is good for the independently minded student who likes their own space and individual liberty. Homestays are great for the student who is interested in a more culturally immersive glimpse into the Chinese household and family life (and frequent home cooked meals), and an amazing chance to practice and learn Mandarin. Dormitory style living, especially at larger Chinese universities, offers an inside experience into the life of Chinese students and are a great way to break cultural boundaries and make lifelong friends.

F Visas are required for students who plan to study in China for less than six months, while X visas are required to studying China for over six months. Even though China is a somewhat closed country, obtaining a visa to study abroad is a fairly simple process, which most programs will help guide you through. Just be sure to allot yourself plenty of time, consult your specific program provider, and check out GoAbroad’s Embassy Directory to locate a Chinese embassy near to you, for more details about the visa policy for your home country.

GoAbroad's Inside Scoop

Hugely chaotic crowds of people, inescapable urban pollution, and a spoken language which could not differ more from English, all make studying abroad in China a daunting prospect to even the most adventurous of students. Indeed moving from a Western society which prizes individualism and creative freedom to an Eastern society which values hard work, disciplined obedience, and the observance of propriety will inevitably bring about a healthy dose of culture shock. Yet growth comes from breaking out and experiencing new things.

China is an entirely different world, continuously developed in parallel with the West. Come to explore its mystery, and leave a more well-rounded student and human being.