Zhejiang University admission is a goal for many international students: ZJU, in Hangzhou, is one of China’s leading research universities and ranks 49th in the QS World University Rankings 2026. If you are looking for high-quality education at reasonable fees, this guide to Zhejiang University admission covers what you need: entry requirements, official tuition fees, programs, scholarships and everyday student life. Requirements and deadlines vary by program, so start your research early.
Zhejiang University Admission 2026: Requirements and Documents
Admission requirements at Zhejiang University depend on the level (bachelor’s, master’s or PhD) and the program, but most international applicants need the following:
- A high school diploma or equivalent, with a certified Chinese or English translation, and a valid ordinary foreign passport.
- For English-taught programs: proof of English such as IELTS 6.0 or TOEFL iBT 75 (for the MBBS); some programs require higher scores.
- For Chinese-taught programs: an HSK certificate, usually HSK 5 with at least 180 points; some majors (such as Chinese-taught clinical medicine) require HSK 6.
- An online application through the university’s international student application system, plus the application fee (CNY 800, non-refundable).
- A copy of your valid passport.
- A recent passport-style photo.
- A study plan or statement of purpose, and a CV where requested.
- Recommendation letters (required for master’s and PhD programs).
For 2026 bachelor’s programs, applications ran from 1 December 2025 to 28 February 2026, with some majors (such as English-taught medicine) open until 31 May 2026. Bachelor’s applicants must also sit the CSCA test in the subjects set for each major. Dates change every year, so check the ZJU International College website (iczu.zju.edu.cn) before you apply.
Zhejiang University Tuition Fees and Living Costs 2026
Zhejiang University fees depend on the field, level and language of instruction. The figures below come from the official fee table of ZJU’s International College (CNY per year; USD is approximate at 1 USD ≈ 7.1 CNY):
| Level | Tuition (CNY per year) | Approx. monthly living costs (CNY, excluding housing) |
|---|---|---|
| Bachelor’s (English-taught, e.g. MBBS) | 42,800 (≈ $6,000); up to 65,000 for some Haining International Campus programs | 2,500 – 4,000 |
| Bachelor’s (Chinese-taught) | 19,800 – 29,800 (≈ $2,800 – $4,200) | 2,500 – 4,000 |
| Master’s (Chinese-taught) | 22,800 – 32,800 (≈ $3,200 – $4,600) | 2,500 – 4,000 |
| Master’s (English-taught) | Program fee + CNY 8,000 a year (about 30,800 – 40,800) | 2,500 – 4,000 |
| PhD (Chinese-taught; add CNY 8,000 for English-taught programs) | 29,800 – 39,800 (≈ $4,200 – $5,600) | 2,500 – 4,000 |
Tuition at Zhejiang University is charged per year and rises by field: philosophy, literature and history are cheapest (CNY 19,800 for a bachelor’s), then economics, business, law, science, engineering and agriculture (CNY 24,800), then medical sciences and art (CNY 29,800). The English-taught MBBS costs CNY 42,800 a year. Add an application fee of CNY 800 and compulsory medical insurance of CNY 800 a year. Hangzhou is the capital of Zhejiang Province, and living costs there are slightly higher than in many second-tier cities.
International students can live in university dormitories; a bed in a double room costs around CNY 18,000 a year, with prices varying by campus and room type. Some students choose off-campus housing instead.
Programs at Zhejiang University 2026: From Engineering to Medicine and Agriculture
Zhejiang University offers a wide range of programs across most academic fields. Most bachelor’s programs are taught in Chinese, with a limited number taught in English.
Engineering and Technology
Engineering is one of ZJU’s strongest areas, with majors such as electrical engineering, computer science, mechanical engineering, polymer engineering and materials science. Most engineering bachelor’s programs are taught in Chinese, while more master’s and PhD programs are available in English.
Medicine and Life Sciences
The ZJU School of Medicine offers a 6-year English-taught MBBS at CNY 42,800 a year, delivered at the International School of Medicine in Yiwu. Chinese-taught clinical medicine (5 years) costs CNY 29,800 a year. Master’s and PhD programs are also offered in medical sciences and public health.
Agriculture and Environment
Zhejiang University is strong in agricultural sciences, with programs in soil science, plant biotechnology, environmental science and resource management. If you are interested in modern agriculture, these colleges are a good choice.
Social Sciences and Business
The university offers programs in business administration, economics, political science and law. Some are taught in English, including programs at the International Business School on the Haining International Campus, as well as dual-degree programs with partners such as the University of Edinburgh.
To explore English-taught options, see engineering programs in China or medical programs in China for more detail.
Zhejiang University Scholarships 2026 for International Students
International students can apply for several types of scholarships at Zhejiang University, and competition is strong.
Chinese Government Scholarship (CSC)
The full Chinese Government Scholarship (CSC) covers full tuition, a free dorm or housing allowance, medical insurance (CNY 800 a year) and a monthly stipend of CNY 2,500 for bachelor’s, 3,000 for master’s and 3,500 for PhD students. It does not cover airfare. You apply on campuschina.org either through the Chinese embassy in your country (Type A) or directly through the university (Type B).
For full details on how to apply, see the Chinese Government CSC Scholarship.
Zhejiang University and Provincial Scholarships
ZJU also offers other scholarships for international students, such as the Zhejiang Provincial Government Scholarship and Zhejiang University scholarships. Coverage ranges from full to partial, and each has its own deadlines. Check the International College website for the scholarships open to your program.
Academic Excellence Awards
Students with outstanding academic or research performance may receive awards after enrollment. Amounts and conditions change from year to year, so confirm them with the university directly.
ZJU scholarships are not automatic; they are awarded on academic merit. To improve your chances, keep strong grades, write a clear study or research plan and apply on time.
Student Life at Zhejiang University
Life at Zhejiang University offers cultural diversity, academic support and modern facilities.
Hangzhou, home to the university, is one of China’s most beautiful cities. It is famous for West Lake, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, as well as its historic gardens and modern infrastructure.
The university’s International College provides services for international students, including academic advising, Chinese language courses and cultural activities that bring international and Chinese students together.
You may find international and Muslim student groups that organize meetups and social activities. Hangzhou has halal restaurants, and some campus canteens may offer halal sections.
If you are Muslim, read Is China a good fit for Muslim students? for real experiences of Muslim students in China.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I study at Zhejiang University without speaking Chinese?
Yes, if you enroll in an English-taught program such as the MBBS or some master’s and PhD programs. However, most bachelor’s programs are taught in Chinese, so check the language of instruction and requirements for your program.
What HSK level do Chinese-taught programs require?
Zhejiang University usually requires HSK 5 with at least 180 points for Chinese-taught bachelor’s programs, and some majors such as clinical medicine and Chinese literature require HSK 6. Prepare for the test early.
Does Zhejiang University offer scholarships for bachelor’s students?
Yes. You can apply for the CSC scholarship at bachelor’s level too (usually through the embassy), as well as provincial and university scholarships, though there are fewer bachelor’s awards than for master’s and PhD study.
Is halal food available at Zhejiang University?
Usually, yes. Hangzhou has halal restaurants and some campus canteens may have halal options, and some students rent shared apartments so they can cook for themselves.
How do I apply to Zhejiang University for 2026?
The steps are: choose a program, prepare your documents (diploma, IELTS or HSK, study plan), register in the online application system, pay the CNY 800 application fee, sit the CSCA test (bachelor’s applicants), then wait for pre-admission and pay the first-year tuition to secure your place. Start at least six months before the deadline.
Zhejiang University is an excellent choice for international students seeking high-quality education, reasonable fees and a diverse environment. Whether you want engineering, medicine, agriculture or social sciences, ZJU offers many programs and real opportunities for academic growth. To get started, check requirements and deadlines carefully and use resources such as top universities in China and preparing for a master’s in China. Studying at Zhejiang University in 2026 can be a decisive step toward your career and a global network.