Living in China – Postgraduate Guide

The vast nation of China is a truly unique destination for adventurous Masters students. Few other places combine tradition and technology like China – state-of-the-art skyscrapers rub shoulders with ancient temples across the country.

This page will give you an idea of what to expect from postgraduate life in China, from accommodation and culture to transport and healthcare.

As the world’s most populous country and one of its fastest growing economies, China is a global superpower with plenty to offer international postgraduates.

Beijing is home to the UNESCO-listed Forbidden City, a centuries-old palace complex where generations of emperors once resided, along with a host of cutting-edge architecture. You’ll probably remember the striking Bird’s Nest stadium from the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games, for example. It’s also possible to visit stretches of the magnificent Great Wall from Beijing.

Shanghai – the most populous city in China – boasts the world’s second tallest building. The vibrant Bund district is a waterfront promenade with many historical structures.

Although China is undergoing a rapid process of urbanisation, there are huge swathes of countryside to explore. Desert, rainforests, mountains and beaches are all present in this endlessly diverse country.

China is a paradise for adventurous food lovers, whether you’re passionate about Peking duck or in search of sizzling Szechuan cuisine.

International Masters students at Chinese universities can choose between on-campus halls of residence and studios to private flats in the city centre.

University-owned housing

If you want the convenience of on-campus accommodation, many universities in China offer the option of nearby housing.

Rooms can cost between 25 RMB and 150 RMB (USD $3.50 to $20.60) per day, depending on whether you’re sharing with a roommate and if you have an en-suite bathroom.

You may also be able to opt for accommodation aimed specifically at postgraduates or international students.

A good place to begin your search for accommodation is with CUCAS, the official Chinese university application portal. This organisation can help international students book a room in a university dormitory.

Private accommodation

Living off-campus in private housing is also an option for international students in China. Expat websites will usually have a good selection of English-language listings. In Beijing, monthly rent is usually between 1,500 RMB and 3,000 RMB (USD $205 to $410). However, you'll find that housing costs in similar cities are much lower.

Compared to Western countries, the cost of living in China is low. However, major cities like Beijing and Shanghai are becoming more expensive as the Chinese economy continues to boom. Average living costs are around 3,800 RMB ($500) per month (not including rent).

These are some of the typical student costs you’re likely to encounter in China:

• Meal – 25 RMB (USD $3.50)
• Monthly travel pass – 200 RMB (USD $28)
• Cinema ticket – 50 RMB (USD $7)

International students in Beijing or Shanghai are allowed to work part-time as long as they have permission from their university and the relevant government authorities.

Teaching English is a common example of part-time employment for students in China. For more information on finding work, contact your university’s international office.

Hopefully you now have a good idea of what to expect from student life in China. We’ve covered the main accommodation options, China’s cultural highlights and typical student living costs. Below you can find some other practicalities to consider before embarking on your postgraduate adventure.

Health insurance

All international Masters students in China are required to purchase health insurance for the duration of their studies. You’ll need to join the group medical insurance scheme specified by your university. This usually costs around 800 RMB per year (USD $110).

Banking

Opening a bank account in China is fairly simple for international students. You’ll need to visit your local branch with the following documents:

• A valid passport
• Your student visa
• A deposit
• Proof of residence

Cards are accepted in most larger shops but it’s a good idea to carry cash with you (there are plenty of ATMs in major cities and towns). An alternative is paying for goods and services via a mobile app like WeChat or Alipay. Apple Pay is another popular option.

Transport

China has invested heavily in high-speed rail – you can travel between Beijing and Shanghai in the world’s fastest passenger train, which reaches speeds of 350 km/h during the four-hour journey. China’s other major cities are also connected by this extensive rail network. Fares are reasonably priced but can sell out well in advance.

Many Chinese cities have efficient metro networks, while taxis are cheap and plentiful.