China is fast becoming the world’s leading competitor in its industry, economy, and higher education sectors. Compared to countries like the US and Australia, studying in China can offer high-quality education at a low cost.
Why Study in China?
There are many reasons why you should study in China. As one of the largest and most populous countries in the world, this is a great opportunity to study there. You will experience a unique blend of ancient and modern culture in a place with different traditions and languages.
China embodies both tradition and modernity. Its rich history spanning over 5,000 years, its seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites, like the Forbidden City, and its booming cities, like Shanghai, are just some of the reasons you should visit and consider studying there.
As the world’s second-largest economy, just behind the United States, China offers great opportunities.
Studying in China is very rewarding, and many students from around the world choose to study there to meet people from different countries and expand their networks. Companies and leaders of different industries come to this part of the country to do their business in China; you can meet them.
Also, China is very affordable; the cost of living and tuition fees are, on average, much lower than in other continents.
The Chinese government should also receive more international recognition. Education invests heavily in human development, so you will have the opportunity to get higher education within your capacity.
Guide for International Students Living in China
Learn the language:
China has many dialects, but the two main languages are Mandarin and Cantonese. Many times, students are faced with the dilemma of which language to learn. Learning Mandarin is recommended as it is the official language of China and Taiwan and is used by most Chinese schools, colleges and universities. However, practicing the language is a bit difficult. However, if you want to study in China for the next three/four years, you must know the basics to find your way around and improve your learning experience.
Know your University:
The top three universities in China are Tsinghua University, Peking University (both in Beijing) and Zhejiang University in Hangzhou. Tsinghua and Zhejiang are known for their strong engineering programs, while Peking University excels in the pure sciences and humanities. According to the QS World Ranking, Zhejiang University recently overtook the more famous Tsinghua as China’s top university. However, the university that is best for you depends on the subject you want to study.
Adapting to the Culture:
China’s language and culture are quite different from other countries, but you will find some similarities. Although it will be difficult for you to get used to their diet and lifestyle in general, once you experience it, you will enjoy it. Interact with local students and learn more about their culture, traditions, festivals, films, society, etc.
Stay in Touch:
The Internet is the most cost-effective way to stay in touch with your family and friends. Yet, students remain reserved about the Internet due to censorship issues in China. A mobile phone is another way to communicate with your family. There are two ways to use your mobile phone in China:
- If students want to use their home phone number in China, make sure their local provider has activated the “International Roaming Service” before they leave. If they want to use their phone from home, be sure to bring a compatible GSM/GPRS 900/1800 dual-frequency mobile phone. This can be an expensive one.
- International students can also purchase SIM phone cards and prepaid phone cards to enjoy all services offered by local mobile phone operators. China Mobile offers prepaid cards at different price ranges. Once your prepaid SIM card credit is exhausted, you can purchase a recharge card from any news-stall.
Accommodation/ Safety:
There are two main ways to find rental apartments in Beijing:
- Real Estate Agency: A real estate agency can help you find an apartment. The agency fee is usually equal to one month’s rent.
- Online listings: You can see rental ads on the Internet, but be aware that agents post most ads.
When renting an apartment in Beijing, it is common to sign a contract directly with the landlord. To avoid scams, it is better to have the landlord see your property ownership certificate.
Most universities in Beijing are in the western part of the city, but students often consider living in the eastern part. This is because many restaurants, bars, clubs, international hospitals and foreign beauty salons are located in the east.
Conclusion
Living in the world’s largest country with the largest population can initially be an overwhelming experience for international students. When international students decide to study in China, many of them are worried that the way of life in China is completely different from their home country, and it may be difficult for them to adapt to their new life in China.
China has seen significant growth in its higher education sector over the past decade, now boasting nearly 3,000 institutions. China, which is determined to have some of the world’s best universities, launched Project 211 in 1995 to bring its 100 universities to the top of the world’s top institutions. As part of an additional project, a league named “C9” was created for facilities specifically designed to provide elite education. These investments and the modernization of higher education in China have made the institution a more popular choice for international students wishing to study abroad.
Finally, for safety abroad, students must take care of important documents and their belongings when traveling in and out of their dormitories to avoid being victims of theft or robbery. Keep important documents and money safe. Make sure you keep photocopies of relevant pages of your passport and important documents in a separate place. Always carry some identification with you, as well as details of who to contact in an emergency.
