Nanjing University, one of China’s leading universities, is an excellent choice for international students looking for high-quality education at a reasonable cost in a supportive environment. Nanjing University admission requirements and fees vary by major and level; it offers a number of English-taught master’s and PhD programs (bachelor’s programs are taught in Chinese), scholarship opportunities and a diverse campus, with halal food options in the city. This complete guide covers everything you need to know about studying at Nanjing University: applying, programs, costs and daily student life in 2026.
Nanjing University Admission Requirements for International Students
Nanjing University admission requirements depend on the program and level (bachelor’s, master’s, PhD). It is one of China’s elite universities (a C9 League member), so competition for places is strong.
- Bachelor’s: a high school diploma with good grades. Because bachelor’s programs are taught in Chinese, HSK 5 with a score of 180 or more is usually required, applicants must be at least 18, and entrance tests or an interview may be required.
- Master’s: a bachelor’s degree in a related field, an acceptable English level, a statement of purpose, a CV and two recommendation letters; an interview may be required.
- PhD: a master’s degree in the field, a research proposal and two recommendation letters; getting preliminary approval from a supervisor is recommended.
Official documents must be certified (notarized or apostilled, depending on your country) and translated into Chinese or English when needed. Some programs may ask for professional tests or special skills.
If you want a complete picture, check the best universities in China and compare your options with Nanjing University.
Nanjing University Tuition Fees by Program and Level
Nanjing University fees vary considerably by major and level, but they are reasonable compared with Western universities. The figures below come from the university’s official website (CNY per year; about 7.1 CNY to the US dollar).
| Level | Annual tuition (CNY) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Bachelor’s (taught in Chinese) | 21,000 – 24,000 | 21,000 for humanities, 24,000 for science, engineering and business, 42,000 for medicine (about USD 3,000–3,400) |
| Master’s (economics, law, business) | 25,000 – 28,000 | 48,000 for medicine; the MBA costs 185,000 CNY in total for 2.5 years; English-taught programs have their own fees |
| PhD | 30,000 – 35,000 | 54,000 for medicine; many PhD students receive scholarships |
| Housing and living (per year) | about 30,000 – 60,000 | Depends on housing type and lifestyle |
Fees do not include health insurance, tickets or travel costs. Health insurance is mandatory (about 800 CNY a year). Plan a total budget of roughly 55,000–90,000 CNY a year (about USD 7,700–12,700) for a bachelor’s or master’s degree.
If you need funding, explore the Chinese Government CSC Scholarship, which covers full tuition, housing and health insurance plus a monthly stipend, and offers a chance to study at Nanjing University.
Programs at Nanjing University for International Students
Nanjing University offers a wide range of majors across many fields, with strong focus on the sciences, economics, law and engineering, making it a great destination for students interested in modern academic paths.
- Economics and business: the Business School has strong programs, with master’s degrees in economics, business administration and international trade.
- Law: the Law School offers an advanced program, and its graduate programs include Chinese law and international law.
- Engineering and technology: programs in electronics, computer science, artificial intelligence, software engineering and materials science.
- Humanities and languages: majors in Chinese language, literature, translation and history, with opportunities to study Chinese from scratch.
- Natural sciences: one of the university’s greatest strengths, especially chemistry, physics, astronomy and earth sciences.
You can learn more about each path on our law in China or economics in China pages.
Student Life at Nanjing University: Support and Community
The university’s Institute for International Students handles international student affairs and offers administrative support and cultural activities.
- Daily life: the university has several campuses, mainly Gulou in central Nanjing and Xianlin in the suburbs. Nanjing is the capital of Jiangsu Province and an ancient historic city.
- Academic support: the university has centers that help students adapt to the Chinese education system and offers language and career support.
- Student activities: there are clubs and cultural events for international students, and students often find informal communities from their home countries.
- Religious life: Nanjing has historic mosques such as Jingjue Mosque, as well as halal restaurants, but the university does not organize religious activities as it is a public institution.
If you are wondering whether China suits Muslim students, read Is China right for Muslim students? for real experiences and practical advice.
Nanjing University Scholarships for International Students
Nanjing University offers a range of scholarships, some for international students and others funded by the Chinese government or the Jiangsu provincial government, giving students a chance to study at a low cost.
- Nanjing University President’s Scholarship: awarded for academic excellence, with partial to full coverage. The Jiangsu Jasmine Scholarship is also available.
- Chinese Government Scholarship (CSC): a full scholarship covering tuition, housing and health insurance, with a monthly stipend of 3,000 CNY for master’s and 3,500 CNY for PhD students (2,500 for bachelor’s); airfare is not covered. You can apply through the embassy (Type A) or through the university (Type B).
- Other government scholarships: scholarships may be available through bilateral agreements between China and some countries, usually announced by education ministries or Chinese embassies.
Apply for scholarships in advance; they are usually tied to academic admission, with applications typically opening between October and December and closing between January and April. Read about the Chinese Government CSC Scholarship and follow the application steps carefully.
Visa and Residence: Steps to Study in China 2026
After admission to Nanjing University, you apply for an X1 student visa at the Chinese embassy in your country, then obtain a residence permit within 30 days of arrival.
- The official admission letter and the JW201 or JW202 form.
- Proof of funds (bank statement or a sponsor letter).
- The Foreigner Physical Examination Form.
- A valid passport and a personal photo.
After arrival, register your address with the local police within 24 hours if you live off campus, then apply at the Exit-Entry Administration of the Public Security Bureau for your residence permit, which is renewed according to your study period.
For a step-by-step guide, see the student visa steps for China.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I study at Nanjing University without speaking Chinese?
Yes, in some English-taught master’s and PhD programs, with proof of English through IELTS or TOEFL. Bachelor’s programs are taught in Chinese and usually require HSK 5 (180 points), and you can start with a Chinese language program at the university.
What are the best majors at Nanjing University for international students?
Economics, business administration, law and engineering are among the most popular majors with good career prospects, alongside the natural sciences the university is famous for.
Are there mosques near Nanjing University?
Yes, there are mosques in Nanjing, such as the historic Jingjue Mosque, where Friday prayers are held, and halal restaurants are available in the city.
Can I work while studying in China?
Part-time work is allowed only with university approval and an endorsement on your residence permit, up to 8 hours a week during term and 16 hours a week during holidays. Opportunities are usually limited to on-campus jobs or internships.
How long are programs at Nanjing University?
It depends on the level: 4 years for a bachelor’s, 2–3 years for a master’s and 3–5 years for a PhD, with extensions possible under university regulations.
Nanjing University is a real opportunity for international students to get a high-quality education at a reasonable cost, in a supportive environment with rich cultural experiences. With outstanding programs, support for international students and scholarship opportunities, Nanjing University has become a strategic choice for studying in China. If you are thinking about starting a distinctive academic journey, Nanjing University is one of the top destinations worth considering in 2026. Start now with an expert consultation and plan your academic and professional future in China.