Chengdu is the cultural and educational capital of Sichuan province and one of the most attractive Chinese cities for international students, including Muslim students looking for a diverse and safe place to study and live. It combines ancient Chinese heritage with modern urban life, offering an all-round educational experience. Studying in Chengdu differs from other Chinese cities in cost, infrastructure and quality of life.
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Leading universities in Chengdu for international students
Chengdu has a number of respected universities offering undergraduate and graduate programmes in English, which makes it a good choice for international students who do not want to depend on full Chinese fluency.
- Sichuan University: one of China’s major comprehensive universities, offering programmes in engineering, medicine, science, business and social sciences, some of them in English. It suits students looking for a high-quality education with scholarship options. Check the official admissions page for the current list.
- University of Electronic Science and Technology of China (UESTC): known for strong technology and engineering programmes, with some subjects taught in English. It has a research-oriented environment and modern technology centres.
- Southwest Jiaotong University: a Chengdu university known for transport and civil engineering and related fields. Check its international admissions page for English-taught programmes.
If you are looking at the options, see Sichuan University as one of the city’s leading examples, and compare it with other universities in China.
Cost of living in Chengdu for international students
Chengdu is one of the more affordable major Chinese cities compared with Beijing and Shanghai, which makes it a good choice for students seeking a balance between cost and quality.
| Item | Monthly cost (CNY) |
|---|---|
| Accommodation (room in a university dorm or shared flat) | Check the university’s accommodation page |
| Food (average) | Part of the 1,200–2,200 CNY monthly estimate (tier-2 city, excluding rent) |
| Transport | Included in the estimate above |
| Communications (internet + phone) | Included in the estimate above |
| Entertainment and activities | Included in the estimate above |
As a tier-2 city, Chengdu’s day-to-day costs are estimated at about 1,200–2,200 CNY per month (about US$170–310), excluding rent. Check each university’s accommodation and fee pages for exact figures. To understand housing options better, see the student housing guide for China.
Student life in Chengdu for international students
Chengdu is a dynamic and friendly city that offers a good environment for international students to integrate, learn and grow. It has cultural diversity and organised student activities.
- Student activities: universities in Chengdu hold regular events such as cultural festivals, language clubs and seminars, making it easy to meet friends from different backgrounds.
- Muslim student groups: some universities have Muslim student groups that organise group prayers. Availability varies by university, so ask your international office before you apply.
- Social activities: Chengdu is known as one of China’s most relaxed and friendly cities. Students are encouraged to join in public activities, such as visiting the city’s parks, or joining sports or arts clubs.
Student life in Chengdu is among the more relaxed experiences in China, thanks to its infrastructure, facilities and comfortable environment. If you are wondering whether China is suitable for Muslims, see the guide: is China suitable for Muslims? for more detail on the challenges and opportunities.
Muslim community in Chengdu and available services
Chengdu has a Muslim community, and Muslim students can find mosques and halal food in the city.
- Mosques: Chengdu has several mosques that hold Friday prayers. Check the location and opening times of the one nearest your university.
- Religious services: mosques and community groups may offer services such as Quran classes and religious talks, especially during Ramadan. Availability varies.
- Student Muslim groups: where they exist, these can be a useful support network, helping you organise events and cope with everyday challenges.
Halal availability varies by area, so check the neighbourhood around your university before you decide.
Halal food in Chengdu: restaurants and local dishes
Halal food is an important factor for Muslim students when choosing a city. Chengdu has a number of halal restaurants, but their number and location vary, so check before you go.
- Halal restaurants: Chengdu has halal (清真, qingzhen) restaurants serving beef and lamb dishes and Hui-style noodles. Look for the 清真 sign and ask about ingredients and preparation.
- Famous local food: Chengdu is famous for its spicy Sichuan cuisine, such as hot pot, dan dan noodles, mapo tofu and grilled skewers. Many of these are not halal by default, but halal restaurants offer versions made with halal ingredients.
- Local markets: markets and food streets in Chengdu may have halal stalls. Check the signage and ask the vendor.
Even with spicy local cuisine, many restaurants offer high-quality dishes, so the food experience can be rewarding.
Scholarships and working rules
International students in Chengdu can apply for the Chinese Government Scholarship (CSC). A full award covers tuition, accommodation (or a monthly housing allowance of 700 or 1,000 CNY), medical insurance of 800 CNY per year and a monthly stipend of 2,500 CNY (bachelor’s), 3,000 CNY (master’s) or 3,500 CNY (PhD). Airfare is not covered. Age limits are under 25, 35 and 40 respectively. Type A applications go through the Chinese embassy and Type B through the university. Bachelor’s applicants need the CSCA test from the 2026 cycle. Check current rules at campuschina.org. The Confucius Institute Scholarship is now the International Chinese Language Teachers Scholarship, listed at cis.chinese.cn.
Regular employment is not allowed for international students. Only university-organised work-study is permitted: up to 8 hours a week and 40 hours a month during term and 16 hours a week and 80 hours a month in holidays, with university approval recorded on the residence permit (source).
Frequently asked questions
Can I study in Chengdu without learning Chinese?
Yes, you can study in Chengdu without speaking Chinese, especially if you choose an English-taught programme. However, learning the basics is recommended for daily life, interacting with locals and improving your future job prospects.
What is the best time to visit Chengdu?
Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are usually the most comfortable seasons in Chengdu, with milder weather that suits outdoor activities. Summers are hot and humid.
Is Chengdu safe for international students?
Chengdu is generally considered a safe city with low violent crime. Universities have campus security, and international offices can provide support and advice. Take the same precautions you would in any large city.
Chengdu is an excellent destination for international students looking for a balanced educational experience, comfortable daily life and an environment that respects your beliefs. With well-known universities, reasonable living costs, a Muslim community and halal food, the city offers what a student needs to start a successful journey in China. If you are thinking about taking your first steps toward studying in Chengdu, start by reviewing your options and read our guide to the best cities to study in China to choose the city that suits you best. Studying in Chengdu is more than a choice: it is a complete experience that opens new doors in academic and personal life.