How can I study in China as an international student?

Start by picking a program and university, gather your transcripts and passport, meet the language requirements (HSK or IELTS), submit your application directly or with advisor help, then obtain your admission letter and apply for an X1 or X2 student visa. StudyInChina offers free shortlisting and step-by-step guidance.

What is the CSC Scholarship and how do I apply?

The Chinese Government Scholarship (CSC) fully covers tuition, housing, a monthly stipend and insurance. You apply through the CSC online portal after securing a university admission offer, with documents typically submitted between December and April. StudyInChina can check your eligibility and walk you through the process.

How much does it cost to study in China?

Most programs charge $2,500 to $6,000 per year in tuition, and monthly living expenses run about $300 to $700 — making China roughly 3 to 6 times more affordable than the US or UK. Try our cost calculator for a tailored estimate.

Can I study MBBS in China in English?

Yes. A number of Chinese universities run English-medium MBBS programs that are recognized by the WHO and various medical councils. StudyInChina lists the top medical schools along with their entry requirements.

What is the first thing I should do when arriving in China?

The most important first step is completing your official university registration and obtaining your student ID card to access campus facilities.

Do I need a Chinese SIM card immediately?

Yes, a Chinese SIM card is essential for everything from mobile payments (Alipay/WeChat Pay) to navigating and accessing university student portals.

How do I open a bank account in China as a student?

You typically need your passport, student ID card, and a letter of introduction from your university to open a local bank account.

How do I get my residence permit in China?

You must apply for your Residence Permit at the local Entry-Exit Administration office within 30 days of arrival using your health certificate and university documents.

First Week in China: Essential Checklist for Students

Quick Answer

Upon arriving in China, your priority tasks include registering at the university, obtaining your SIM card, setting up a bank account, completing your police registration, and beginning your medical check-up to finalize your residence permit application.

The day-by-day arrival checklist for international students landing in China, from airport pickup to the 30-day residence permit deadline.

Table of Contents

You've landed in China — now what? The first week sets the tone for your whole stay. Here is the day-by-day arrival checklist every international student should follow.

Day 1 — arrival

[ ] Clear immigration (have admission letter + JW form in carry-on)
[ ] Activate your Chinese SIM card at the airport (China Mobile/Unicom/Telecom)
[ ] Take the airport pickup if your university offers it; otherwise the official taxi queue
[ ] Install WeChat and Alipay, link a foreign card or wait for a Chinese bank account
[ ] Arrive at the dorm; get your room key and bedding
[ ] Register with the local police within 24 hours — your dorm office handles this

Day 2 — settle in

[ ] Buy essentials on Taobao or at the campus supermarket: kettle, towels, adapter
[ ] Set up your WeChat with your Chinese phone number
[ ] Add your roommate, classmates and the international office contact
[ ] Find the nearest halal/vegetarian/local canteen options

Day 3 — university registration

[ ] Go to the international student office with your passport, admission letter, photos and JW form
[ ] Get your student card and campus card
[ ] Pay tuition and dorm fees (Alipay/WeChat/bank transfer)
[ ] Sign up for the medical check if required

Day 4 — banking and payments

[ ] Open a bank account (Bank of China, ICBC, China Merchants) with your passport and student letter
[ ] Link the bank card to WeChat Pay and Alipay
[ ] Order a second SIM data plan if needed

Day 5 — health and insurance

[ ] Confirm your health insurance is active (CSC and most scholarships include this)
[ ] Locate the campus clinic and the nearest international hospital
[ ] Complete the residence medical check if your city requires it

Day 6–7 — explore and connect

[ ] Walk the whole campus; find your classrooms and library
[ ] Join WeChat groups for your program and the international student association
[ ] Explore your neighborhood — metro, supermarket, pharmacy, mosque/temple if relevant
[ ] Plan your first weekend trip within the city

Critical 30-day tasks

[ ] Apply for your Residence Permit within 30 days — the international office will guide you
[ ] Register for classes
[ ] Book your HSK test date if you're studying Chinese

Get the first week right and the rest of your time in China flows smoothly. Get it wrong — missing the police registration or residence permit deadline — and you'll spend weeks fixing paperwork instead of studying.

Frequently Asked Questions

Need help studying in China?

StudyInChina provides university selection, scholarship assistance, application support, visa guidance and one-on-one student consultation — free, within 24 hours.

WhatsApp +86 130 2022 1572

Reviewed by

StudyInChina Education Team

The StudyInChina Education Team is a group of admissions advisors, scholarship specialists and former international students who have guided thousands of applicants into Chinese universities. This article is reviewed for accuracy and updated regularly.

Last updated 9 Sept 2026

Share via WhatsApp All articles

Arriving in China: the first-week checklist for international students