To Study in China Could Be the Most Exciting Move You Make
As China’s status as a global economic power continues to grow, alongside its breath-taking modernisation, the appeal of studying at Chinese universities continues to increase. In an increasingly interconnected world studying abroad has many perks — learning a new language, experiencing a new culture, all whilst studying a unique curriculum.
Over 400,000 international students are now reported to be enrolling each year, a number which consistently increases. Modern China has 676 cities, along with the most advanced railway network in the world, making travel and exploration simple. For students, this means along with getting a good education there’s a potential to explore one of the biggest, and most beautiful countries on earth.
Of course, if you don’t speak Chinese you may find some difficulty when negotiating daily life. Fortunately, there are a huge number of resources to assist, helped by the nationwide push for Chinese people to learn English. These range from the traditional classes, textbooks and tutors to more modern and accessible apps focused on instant feedback, translation and cross cultural exchange.
1. Top Universities in China
The top Universities in China still tend to be centred around tier one cities, like Beijing and Shanghai. In Beijing, Tsinghua University still has the most sterling reputation, boasting world class degree courses, a history of highly acclaimed graduates and over 3,000 international students from over 100 countries. The city also plays host to Peking University, the oldest national University in China, which has over 2,000 international students and beneficial links to top U.S universities.
In Shanghai, both Jiao Tong and Fudan are top considerations. Established in 1896, Jiao Tong has been teaching for over 120 years, with one in ten of its student body being international. Fudan University has over 3,000 international students and a history of commitment to excellence, with a background in business and economics, and a forward momentum toward innovation and development in a variety of fields.
2. Applications and Tuition
The application process for studying abroad can be difficult, especially with a language barrier to negotiate. Chinese Universities have two semesters, which run from September to January, and from February/March to July, meaning application deadlines typically fall between November and March. Increasingly, applications can be completed online, but require specific documentation, such as letters of recommendations from home country universities.
Tuition fees can vary, typically ranging between 20,000RMB ($2,900) — 60,000RMB ($8,700) per annum, with living costs averaging around 3,500RMB ($500) — 5,000RMB ($725). To assist with this, it’s possible to be granted a Chinese government scholarship, through the China scholarship council. These grants are created to assist international students, helping with housing and tuition costs during your studying period.
Further information is easily accessible online through the official website, with clear explanations for each scholarship and the application process. A successful applicant will have certain costs are covered, allowing them to explore the more enjoyable aspects of studying abroad, such as travel and culture.
3. Cultural Differences
There are however some important differences between Chinese culture, and others found around the globe. Negotiation of these differences can be thrilling and exciting, but also difficult and frustrating, especially without language fluency. It helps to have access to resources that can help, to explain commonalities and differences, and assist with this transition.
Local groups, on site faculties and language tuition are all common resources used by foreigners in China to get their bearings. Websites are another strong resource, along with the rise of apps dealing with direct cultural exchange on both sides. An app like Pop On, which focuses on connecting students from all backgrounds, allows quick and easy connection to people across China. With it you can either connect for a social chat, or more in depth tutoring sessions, including a course on studying abroad.
China is a vast, fast-changing and fascinating country with a rising global presence. Studying abroad here is like any great leap; challenging at first but ultimately hugely rewarding. Knowing where best to study and what resources are available to help is important to ease the transition, and maximise what you can derive from the experience. With websites in English, assistance with funding and even apps to help it’s never been a better time to take that leap.
Pop On is a global language service and cultural exchange app which connects you with native language partners around the world within seconds. Whether you are at a beginner or advanced level, you can start your language journey with Pop On and find the right Chat Pal/Tutor for you. Pop On supports Mandarin Chinese and English and will incorporate a range of languages such as Japanese, Korean, French, Spanish, German, Portuguese, Russian etc.
Pop On app is now available on Google Play Store and on the Apple Store. Learn more about us at gopopon.com.
