Shanghai
Shanghai is China's financial capital and its most international city, home to Fudan, SJTU, Tongji and ECNU. The Bund, the Pudong skyline and the French Concession give the city a cosmopolitan feel unmatched in China, and its finance, consulting and technology sectors offer the strongest internship and career pipeline for international students. Living costs are among the highest in China, but so are part-time and post-graduation opportunities. Shanghai is the first choice for students targeting business, finance, engineering and international careers.
Why students pick Shanghai
Vibrant expat scene, Bund nightlife, French Concession cafés, international festivals year-round.
Career & jobs: Finance, tech, consulting, foreign trade — top destination for graduate careers.
What you should know about Shanghai
$700/mo
Finance, tech, consulting, foreign trade — top destination for graduate careers.
Very safe — low crime, 24h convenience stores
Extensive metro (20+ lines), Maglev, buses, Didi. Efficient and affordable.
Xiaolongbao, Shanghai hairy crab, scallion oil noodles, international dining scene.
The Bund, Oriental Pearl Tower, Yu Garden, Nanjing Road, Shanghai Tower, Disneyland
Universities in Shanghai
No universities listed yet — ask an advisor for the complete list.
Fund your studies in Shanghai
These funding options apply to students heading to Shanghai. Review eligibility and apply early.
Guangdong Government Scholarship
Full tuition + accommodation + monthly stipend
PartialCityDalian Government Scholarship
Full tuition + monthly stipend + accommodation
Fully FundedChinese Government (CSC)Belt and Road Scholarship
Full tuition + monthly stipend + accommodation + insurance
Fully FundedCityBeijing Government Scholarship
Full or partial tuition + one-off stipend
PartialStudent visa for Shanghai
- X1 visa — long-term (degree programs, covers the full study period)
- X2 visa — short-term (language and exchange programs up to 180 days)
- JW202 form from your university + admission notice required
- Convert to a residence permit within 30 days of arrival at the local Shanghai Entry-Exit Bureau
How to apply in Shanghai
- 1. Pick a university and program in Shanghai
- 2. Gather documents (passport, transcripts, recommendation letters, study plan)
- 3. Submit your application and pay any application fee
- 4. Receive admission notice and JW202 form
- 5. Apply for your student visa at the Chinese embassy
- 6. Travel to Shanghai and register at your university
September intake applications typically close in June; spring intake closes in December.: September intake applications typically close in June; spring intake closes in December.
Most universities require a high school diploma (Bachelor), a relevant Bachelor (Master), language proficiency (HSK or IELTS), and a valid passport: Most universities require a high school diploma (Bachelor), a relevant Bachelor (Master), language proficiency (HSK or IELTS), and a valid passport.
Partner with us in Shanghai
Universities and agencies in Shanghai can collaborate with us to recruit international students.