Xi’an Jiaotong University is one of China’s leading technical universities and an ideal choice for international students looking for a high-quality education at reasonable cost. This guide to Xi’an Jiaotong University admission covers its programs in engineering, medicine and science, including English-taught options. Admission requirements and tuition vary by program and degree level, but the university remains a strong fit for international students in China. The guide below covers everything about studying at Xi’an Jiaotong University in 2026, from applying to daily life.
About Xi’an Jiaotong University 2026
Xi’an Jiaotong University, known as XJTU, is one of China’s oldest universities and a member of the C9 League of elite Chinese universities. Founded in 1896, it is a leader in engineering and modern technology, with continuing investment in research and innovation. The university offers bachelor’s, master’s and PhD programs and is an important destination for international students interested in science and technology.
In 2026 the university continued to improve the student experience through better infrastructure, expanded academic support and stronger international partnerships. Several programs are taught in English, so international students can settle in without needing to master Chinese from the start. The university also offers a safe, multicultural environment, and the large Muslim community in Xi’an makes daily life easier for Muslim students.
Study Programs at Xi’an Jiaotong University 2026
Xi’an Jiaotong University has a wide range of academic programs across many fields and is among the strongest universities in engineering, medicine and science. International students can apply for bachelor’s, master’s and PhD programs, and the length of study depends on the level and program.
- Engineering: mechanical engineering and smart manufacturing, electrical engineering and automation, energy and power engineering, materials science and engineering, computer science.
- Science and mathematics: computer science, applied mathematics, physics, chemistry.
- Medicine: English-taught MBBS (6 years), dentistry BDS (6 years), and medical specialties at the graduate level.
- Management and economics: business administration, economics, project management.
- Humanities and social sciences: languages, law, humanities and social sciences (depending on the program).
Many programs are taught in English, especially in engineering and science, so international students can enroll without compromising academic quality. English-taught engineering bachelor’s programs (electrical, mechanical, energy, materials) are available with limited capacity and higher tuition, as shown below.
Cost of Studying at Xi’an Jiaotong University 2026
Costs at Xi’an Jiaotong University vary by major and degree level, but they remain relatively low compared with Western universities. Tuition covers registration, teaching and academic services, while living costs depend on lifestyle and type of housing.
| Program | Annual tuition (CNY and approx. USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Bachelor’s in science and engineering (Chinese-taught) | 22,000 CNY (≈$3,100) | Management, economics and humanities 20,000 CNY; arts 40,000 |
| Bachelor’s in engineering (English-taught) | 180,000 CNY (≈$25,400) | Very limited capacity; scholarships of up to 100% of tuition for the first year are available |
| Bachelor’s in medicine, MBBS (English-taught, 6 years) | 40,000 CNY (≈$5,600) | Dentistry BDS: 50,000 CNY |
| Master’s | 30,000 – 50,000 CNY (≈$4,200 – $7,000) | Varies by major and language of instruction |
| PhD | 34,000 – 50,000 CNY (≈$4,800 – $7,000) | CSC and university scholarships available |
Figures are based on the official 2024–2025 admission brochures and may change. In addition to tuition, accommodation costs 8,000–19,000 CNY a year (about $1,100–$2,700) depending on the campus and room, medical insurance is 800 CNY a year, and the application fee is 500 CNY (self-funded) or 800 CNY (scholarship applicants). Living costs are typically 2,000–3,500 CNY a month (about $280–$490) depending on lifestyle. Work out a full budget before you apply.
Xi’an Jiaotong University Admission Requirements 2026
Admission requirements vary by program and degree level, but some basic requirements apply to all applicants.
- Bachelor’s: A high school diploma and age under 25, with proof of English (IELTS 6.0 or TOEFL 80 or higher) for English-taught programs, or HSK 4 with a score of 180 or above for Chinese-taught programs, plus a recommendation letter and a study plan (at least 600 words).
- Master’s: A bachelor’s degree and age under 35, certified transcripts, two recommendation letters from professors, a research plan (at least 800 words), and language proof (IELTS 6.0 or TOEFL 80 for English, or HSK 5 with 180 for Chinese).
- PhD: A master’s degree and age under 40, a PhD research plan (at least 1,500 words) on the university’s template, and two recommendation letters.
Applicants must also provide additional documents such as a valid passport, the Foreigner Physical Examination Form (valid for 6 months), a police clearance certificate, and a notarized copy of their highest diploma. Some documents may be required only from applicants of certain nationalities, so check the requirements with the relevant department at the university. The bachelor’s deadline is usually June 30, and for graduate programs it is often around mid-April. Updated deadlines are published on the School of International Education website, sie.xjtu.edu.cn.
Xi’an Jiaotong University Scholarships 2026
Xi’an Jiaotong University offers excellent opportunities for international students through a variety of scholarships, partially or fully funded based on merit and academic performance.
- Chinese Government Scholarship (CSC): Covers tuition, accommodation (a free dorm or an allowance of 700/1,000 CNY a month) and medical insurance, with a monthly stipend of 2,500 CNY for bachelor’s, 3,000 for master’s and 3,500 for PhD students. It is one of the most valuable scholarships for international students. See the details of the CSC scholarship.
- University and city scholarships: These include the Siyuan Scholarship for international students and the Xi’an municipal government scholarship for Belt and Road countries (annual amounts of about 15,000 CNY for bachelor’s, 20,000 for master’s and 25,000 for PhD, per the 2024 brochure), plus a new-student scholarship for English-taught bachelor’s programs covering up to 100% of first-year tuition.
- Other scholarships: A few other limited scholarships exist; check the scholarship list on the School of International Education website (sie.xjtu.edu.cn) for current conditions.
Scholarships are applied for through the university’s application form, and supporting documents must be submitted by the stated deadlines. Apply early, because scholarships are limited and competitive.
International Student Life at Xi’an Jiaotong University
The international student experience at Xi’an Jiaotong University in 2026 is generally positive in terms of academic support, cultural environment and comfortable living. The university has a diverse student community from about 136 countries (3,534 international students in 2023, according to the university), which makes it easier to fit in.
- Academic support: The university provides learning support centers, excellent facilities and direct communication with professors.
- Daily life: Xi’an has halal restaurants and many mosques (including the Great Mosque in the Muslim Quarter), and you can ask about options on campus, which makes it easier for Muslim students to practice their faith.
- Student activities: The university runs regular cultural and sports events, including international and Chinese celebrations, and has many student clubs.
- Getting to know Xi’an: Xi’an is one of China’s most prominent cities for heritage and infrastructure, with efficient and safe transport. Learn more about Xi’an and other Chinese cities.
Student Visa and Legal Procedures 2026
Once you are admitted to Xi’an Jiaotong University, you must apply for a student visa (X1 or X2) to enter China. Procedures vary by nationality but follow a common path:
- Receive the official admission letter from the university.
- Fill in the visa application form on the website of the Chinese embassy in your country.
- Submit your passport, photos, the physical examination form, the JW201 or JW202 form with the admission letter, and proof of financial ability.
- Attend an interview at the embassy (in some cases).
- Wait several working days to about two weeks for the visa (varies by embassy).
Start the visa process about 3 months before your travel date. You must also obtain a residence permit from the Public Security Bureau (Exit-Entry Administration) within 30 days of arrival. Learn the steps for a China student visa.
Is China Suitable for Muslim Students?
China, and Xi’an in particular, is one of the safest and most suitable destinations for Muslim students. Xi’an has several mosques, the most famous being the Great Mosque in the Muslim Quarter, and a large Muslim community (the Hui), so halal restaurants are easy to find. For religious support on campus, ask the international students office.
To learn more about daily life for Muslims in China, visit Is China right for Muslims? A complete guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I study at Xi’an Jiaotong University without fluent Chinese?
Yes, you can study at Xi’an Jiaotong University without fluent Chinese, especially if the program is taught in English. Programs taught in Chinese do have requirements, such as proof of HSK 4 for bachelor’s or HSK 5 for graduate study (180 or above).
What are the job prospects after graduating from Xi’an Jiaotong University?
The university has a strong reputation in engineering among employers in China. Internship and job opportunities vary by major and Chinese language level, and there are no guarantees.
Does Xi’an Jiaotong University offer graduate programs in engineering?
Yes, the university offers master’s and PhD programs across engineering fields and is among the best universities in China in this area. English-taught master’s and PhD programs are available in a number of fields (see the official program guide), which makes it easier for international students to settle in.
Can international students enroll in English-taught medicine programs?
Yes, the university offers an English-taught medicine program, which is one of its standout programs for international students. You need proof of English, a successful file review and an entrance exam for international students. The program lasts 6 years at about 40,000 CNY a year, and the university started it for international students in 1995.
Xi’an Jiaotong University in 2026 is a real opportunity for international students who want to continue their education in an outstanding academic environment, with reasonable costs and a supportive setting. Whether you are considering an engineering, medical or graduate program, this university offers a complete and safe learning environment. Don’t hesitate to apply now, and contact our experts for full support with applications, visas and scholarships. Start your journey toward a successful career in China today.