Xi’an is one of China’s leading educational destinations, especially for international students who want a safe, culturally rich city with affordable living costs. Xi’an combines a long history with modern development, which makes it a great place to study in Xi’an. Admission requirements and living costs differ by university and programme, but the city stays within a reasonable range compared with big cities such as Beijing and Shanghai. Here you will find practical information on universities, living costs, the Muslim community and halal food options.
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Universities in Xi’an for international students: real study opportunities
Xi’an’s universities offer an advanced learning environment and a range of programmes for international students, at both bachelor’s and postgraduate level.
- Xi’an Jiaotong University: One of China’s strongest universities and a popular destination for international students interested in engineering, computing and applied sciences. It offers programmes taught in English and is well known for accepting students from abroad.
- Xi’an University of Science and Technology: A leading university in energy, environment and civil engineering, with several programmes taught in English, which helps international students settle in. Check the official admissions page for the current list.
- Xi’an International Studies University: Focuses on foreign languages, area studies and translation, and is an excellent choice for international students interested in the Chinese language or cultural studies.
Admission requirements differ by university and programme, but most require a high-school diploma with a minimum grade, proof of English proficiency such as IELTS or TOEFL for English-taught programmes, and some programmes include an interview. Apply directly through each university’s official website and be careful with unofficial intermediaries.
Learn about Xi’an Jiaotong University in detail
Cost of living in Xi’an for international students: a realistic budget
Living costs in Xi’an are relatively low compared with other cities in China, which makes it a good option for students who want a balance between quality and cost.
| Item | Monthly average (CNY) |
|---|---|
| Accommodation (shared flat) | Varies by district and flat; check current listings |
| University dormitory | See the university’s official accommodation fee page |
| Food (daily meals) | Included in the 1,200–2,200 CNY monthly estimate (excluding rent) |
| Transport | Included in the 1,200–2,200 CNY monthly estimate (excluding rent) |
| Activities and entertainment | Included in the 1,200–2,200 CNY monthly estimate (excluding rent) |
If you have a scholarship, your costs will be considerably lower. If you are self-funded, plan a monthly budget of roughly CNY 1,200–2,200 excluding rent (a StudyFlowX calculator estimate, about US$170–310), depending on your lifestyle and the type of housing you choose.
Explore housing options for students in Xi’an
Student life in Xi’an: a complete experience
Student life in Xi’an is active and rich, mixing historic tradition and modernity to give international students a distinctive educational and social experience.
- Cultural activities: Universities organise annual events such as Chinese culture festivals and cultural exchange activities with students from many countries, which strengthens mutual understanding.
- Student societies: Some universities have societies for Muslim students that organise religious and social events; Friday prayers can be attended at mosques near some campuses.
- Entertainment: Students can visit sights such as the Xi’an City Wall, the Terracotta Army of Emperor Qin Shi Huang and the Muslim Quarter, among the most popular places for visitors.
Xi’an is an open city for students, with an efficient transport network, plenty of green space and modern shopping malls. Fast internet is available in most areas, making it easy to keep in touch with family and to study remotely.
Can I study in Xi’an without speaking Chinese?
Yes, you can study in Xi’an without fluent Chinese, especially at universities that teach their programmes in English. Even so, learning basic Chinese is recommended to make daily life and cultural integration easier.
The Muslim community in Xi’an: support and integration for Muslim students
Xi’an is home to one of China’s best-known Muslim communities, which makes it very welcoming for Muslim international students.
- The Great Mosque of Xi’an: Located in the city centre near the Muslim Quarter, it is one of the main places of prayer in the city, with regular Friday prayers, and is run by local Muslim leaders.
- Local community: Xi’an has a long-established Hui Muslim community, and mosques and local associations can be a source of advice and community events. Ask your university’s student groups about current activities.
- Universities: Facilities such as prayer rooms or halal meals differ from one university to another. Ask the international office before you apply rather than assuming they exist.
An active Muslim community helps reduce the feeling of isolation and builds a strong support network during your studies.
Is China suitable for Muslims? Find out the facts
Halal food in Xi’an: easy to find, with a few things to check
Halal food is one of the most important factors when Muslim students choose a city, and Xi’an performs very well in this respect.
- Muslim-run restaurants: Xi’an has a large number of restaurants displaying the sign 清真 (qingzhen, meaning halal), serving dishes such as kebabs, rice with lamb, soups and breads.
- Markets: The Muslim Quarter (Huimin Street) is the best-known area for halal meat, snacks and spices. Check the sign and the stall before you buy.
- Food standards: Many restaurant owners are Muslims and follow halal preparation practices, but standards can vary, so ask when in doubt.
International students can use these resources to eat according to their religious practice, which reduces the stress of finding suitable food.
Guide to life as a Muslim student in China
Scholarships, work rules and documents for studying in Xi’an
The Chinese Government Scholarship (CSC) is applied for only through the official CSC portal, and the China Scholarship Council does not authorise individuals or intermediaries to submit applications for you (source). Type A applications go through the Chinese embassy in your country; Type B applications go through the university. For the 2027/28 cycle, check each university’s own deadline early.
Work-study is tightly limited: up to 8 hours a week and 40 hours a month in term, and up to 16 hours a week and 80 hours a month during holidays, with university approval noted on your residence permit (source). Do not plan on part-time work to fund your studies.
China has been a party to the Apostille Convention since 7 November 2023, so many documents issued abroad can be legalised with an apostille (source). Ask your university which documents it needs, and whether translations must be certified, before you pay any fees.
Frequently asked questions
Which is the best university to study in Xi’an for international students?
The best university for study in Xi’an depends on your field. Universities such as Xi’an Jiaotong University and Xi’an University of Science and Technology are among the best for engineering and technology, while Xi’an International Studies University suits those studying languages or translation.
Are there scholarships for international students in Xi’an?
Yes. International students can apply for scholarships such as the Chinese Government Scholarship (CSC), whose full award covers tuition, accommodation (or a housing allowance), medical insurance and a monthly stipend; airfare is not covered. Some universities also offer their own scholarships, which differ by programme and university.
Learn about the Chinese Government Scholarship (CSC) for international students
Is it hard to find halal food in Xi’an?
On the contrary, halal food is easy to find in Xi’an, with many halal restaurants and shops, clear qingzhen signs on the doors, and a large local Muslim population that runs many of them.
Are international students allowed to work while studying in Xi’an?
Regular employment is not allowed for international students in China. Only university-organised work-study is permitted: up to 8 hours a week and 40 hours a month during term, and up to 16 hours a week and 80 hours a month in holidays, with the university’s approval noted on your residence permit. Opportunities are limited and are usually in libraries, student support centres or university offices.
What is the best season to arrive in Xi’an to study?
The best time to arrive in Xi’an is autumn (September to November), when temperatures are mild and the academic year starts in September. Avoid winter (December to February) if you cannot tolerate severe cold, as temperatures sometimes fall below zero.
Studying in Xi’an is a real opportunity to build a strong academic future in a safe, cultural and friendly environment. With respected universities, low living costs, an active Muslim community and halal food widely available, Xi’an is a strategic choice for any international student planning to study in China. Start your journey now with a well-informed first step towards your professional and personal future.