Schools
2
Lowest Tuition
$4,500
per year
Avg Acceptance Rate
13%
English Programs
Yes
Essentials for US Students
Visa / Permit
US students need a Chinese student visa (X1 for programs over 180 days). Apply at the Chinese embassy after receiving your school's JW202 form and admission letter. Processing takes 5–10 business days. After arrival, register with local police within 24 hours and convert your visa to a Residence Permit for Students.
Application Tip
Peking and Tsinghua are China's MIT and Harvard equivalents. English-taught programs are increasingly available but most programs remain in Chinese. US-China relations add complexity — verify current State Department travel advisories and consider implications for future employment clearances.
Tuition Overview
Peking University and Tsinghua charge approximately CNY 26,000–80,000/yr (~$3,600–$11,000 USD) depending on the program. English-taught programs typically cost more. Costs have been rising.
2 Schools in China
Peking University
Beijing
China's most prestigious university in Beijing with generous government scholarships for international students.
Tsinghua University
Beijing
China's top STEM university, often called China's MIT, producing world-leading engineers and entrepreneurs.
Scholarships to Explore
Chinese Government Scholarships (CSC) fund thousands of international students annually — covering tuition, accommodation, and a monthly stipend. Both Peking and Tsinghua have institutional scholarship programs for international students.
- ✓CSC (Chinese Government Scholarship)
- ✓Peking University Scholarship
- ✓CSC Scholarship
- ✓Tsinghua University Scholarship
About Studying in China as a US Student
There are 2 universities in China featured in this directory, led by Peking University (ranked #14 globally by QS). Tuition for international students starts at $4,500/yr, with an average acceptance rate of approximately 13% across all schools. English-medium programs are available, making China accessible without prior language training for many degrees.