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- Step 1: Arrive in China on your X1 student visa.
- Step 2: Complete your university enrollment and register for your Residence Permit.
- Step 3: Once your Residence Permit is issued, request an invitation letter from your university. Send these documents to your family so they can apply for the S1 Visa (for stays over 180 days) or S2 Visa (for stays under 180 days) at the Chinese embassy in your home country.
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- S1 Visa: Issued to spouses and children under 18. Upon arrival in China, they must convert this to a Residence Permit within 30 days to match the duration of your stay.
- S2 Visa: Issued to other visiting family members or for shorter-term stays (usually under 6 months).
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- International Schools: Many expat families use international schools, which offer English-based curricula (IB, British, or American). However, these are often expensive, with tuition typically ranging from $15,000 to $40,000+ USD per year.
- Local Chinese Schools: Local public schools are highly affordable or free, but all instruction is in Mandarin. Younger children often adapt quickly to immersion, but older children will struggle without prior Chinese fluency.
- Homeschooling: Many foreign families in China choose to homeschool using online or accredited home-study curricula to bridge the gap.
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- Research universities that are known for having family-friendly housing or strong international communities.
- Help you look into family scholarships or living stipends.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) – Study in China with family this September 2026:
Why should I study in China?
China offers quality education, affordable tuition, modern facilities, internationally recognised degrees, scholarship opportunities, and access to one of the world’s largest economies.
Do I need to speak Chinese before applying?
No. Many universities offer programs taught entirely in English. However, learning basic Chinese can help with your daily activities and future career opportunities.
Are scholarships available for international students?
Yes. There are various scholarships that may cover some part of your tuition, full tuition, accommodation, monthly stipends, and medical insurance, depending on the scholarship type.
What are the admission requirements?
Generally, applicants need:
- Academic certificates and transcripts
- International passport
- Passport photograph
- Medical examination report
- SOP
- Two Recommendation letters
- Introductory video (for some programs).
Can I work while studying in China?
International students may be allowed to take part-time internships with approval from their university and relevant authorities.
How much does it cost to study in China?
Costs vary by university and program. Tuition can range from $700–$6,000 per year, while living expenses can be $300 per month, compared to many Western countries.
Is China safe for international students?
Yes. China is considered one of the safer countries for international students, with secure campuses and efficient public transportation.
What courses can I study in China?
Popular courses include:
- Computer Science
- Artificial Intelligence
- Big Data
- Nursing
- Chemical Engineering
- Business Administration
- International Trade
- Social work
- Civil Engineering
- Economics
- Pharmacy and many more
How long does the visa process take?
The student visa process usually takes a few weeks (4-8 weeks) after receiving the university admission letter and visa application documents.
Will my degree be recognized internationally?
Yes. Degrees from accredited Chinese universities are recognized in many countries around the world.
Can I stay in China after graduation?
Many graduates secure internships or employment opportunities in China or use their degrees to register a company there, which leads them to stay in China and renew their residence permits over time. You can also pursue careers and higher education globally.
When should I apply?
It is advisable to apply 4–8 months before your intended intake to allow enough time for admission processing and visa application.
As a student, can I move with my family immediately my visa is approved?
No, you will have to invite your family after you have arrived and gotten your resident permit (this happens within 3 weeks).
Can my spouse work as a dependent?
No. However, your spouse can register a business in China and use it to employ him- or herself, thereby granting him or her the legal right to live and work in China for unlimited hours.
Can I become a citizen in China?
This pathway is almost impossible, so I will advise that you use China as a peaceful/sane country to live in the absence of gun violence, kidnapping, or any other form of insecurity and within a budget at the moment while you plan on how to secure citizenship in any other country, such as Canada, New Zealand, Brazil, Mexico, the USA, or Australia.
Can HND and ND apply?
HND and ND have to apply for an outright Bachelor’s degree or a Chinese language class. Family members can join you if you apply for a Chinese-language class. Family cannot join if you register for a Bachelor’s.
I am above 35. Can I still apply?
If you are above 34, it’s best to apply for the Chinese language class. No age restrictions apply, and in most cases, there is partial funding for this 1-year course, or the tuition can be very affordable.
