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 choose 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 need to 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
Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine
Shanghai International Studies University
Donghua University
Shanghai University of Finance and Economics
East China University of Science and Technology
Shanghai University
East China Normal University
Tongji University
Shanghai Jiao Tong University
Fudan University
Fund your studies in Shanghai
These scholarships apply to students heading to Shanghai. Check eligibility and apply early.
Guiyang North District Normal University Presidential Scholarship
Full tuition + accommodation + monthly stipend + medical insurance
Fully FundedUniversityGuiyang North District Normal University Merit Scholarship
Partial to full tuition waiver; some include accommodation
PartialUniversityGuiyang North District Normal University Dean Scholarship
Partial to full tuition waiver; some include accommodation
PartialUniversityGuiyang North District University of Technology International Student Scholarship
Partial to full tuition waiver; some include accommodation
PartialStudent visa for Shanghai
- X1 visa — long-term (degree programs, valid for 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. Choose a university and program in Shanghai
- 2. Prepare documents (passport, transcripts, recommendation letters, study plan)
- 3. Submit the 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
Applications for September intake usually close in June; spring intake closes in December.: Applications for September intake usually 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 partner with StudyInChina to recruit international students.