7 Reasons to Study in China
With larger numbers of people choosing China over other study destinations, you may be curious as to why. Offering a variety of high quality courses at numerous high standard institutions all over the large country, there are a multitude of reasons why China is gaining popularity in the study stakes. Over 600 institutions countrywide are now able to accept foreign admissions, so check out why study is booming in China.
7 reasons to study in China include:
1. Affordable Tuition Costs
Study costs in China are lower than in many other countries. Compared to European, American, Australian, Japanese, and Korean institutions, study costs are really cheap! Diplomas will cost you in the region of £900 each year, with Bachelor and Master Degrees usually costing in the range of £1,800 to £3,000 per year. Costs depend on factors such as what language the course is taught in, the institution, and the field of study. You can even complete a PhD for an average of £3,000 a year!
2. Affordable Living Costs
The cost of living is also low, meaning you are less likely to struggle paying for your home, utilities, and food. Many universities have good quality and comfortable dormitories available onsite for students. You can also rent a private apartment, and there are many available. If you live off campus, however, you must have permission from your college or university, and also register with the local public security team.
You can expect to pay around £300 per month for living expenses in a larger city, such as Beijing and Shanghai, and approximately £180 each month in a smaller city.
3. High Standards of Education
Many people may think that lower costs for education equate to lower standards – this is simply not true. Education in China often offers excellent value for money. The country is heavily committed investing in higher education, and is constantly creating more and more world-class universities and colleges.
Courses are usually recognized worldwide, with over 65 countries signing agreements with China on mutually recognized qualifications. Some courses are taught in English, so language need not be a barrier.
4. Scholarship Schemes
Whilst you are not guaranteed acceptance for a scholarship scheme, the Chinese government is creating more and more opportunities and incentives for foreign students to choose China. Eligibility depends on nationality, but everyone should be able to find at least one that they can apply for.
Scholarship schemes include the Chinese Government Scholarship Programme, the Chinese Government Scholarship Programme for EU, Study in Asia Scholarship Scheme, and China/AUN Scholarship. Some institutions have their own scholarship schemes, awards, and bursaries, and there are some that are specific to a particular city or region; the Tohee International Students Service Fund, for example, assists bright students from lower income families with assistance towards living costs in Shanghai.
Many academic institutions have advisers who can assist foreign students with any help they may be eligible for, so it is well worth contacting them and giving it a shot!
5. Your CV Will Shine!
Any study abroad shows character, spirit, independence, determination to succeed, and tenacity. Studying in China will often give your CV that slight edge over homegrown candidates.
6. Greater Employment Opportunities
Connected to your dazzling CV, you will likely find that you are much more marketable in the workplace having a working knowledge of a second language and having had the experience of studying abroad. Even if your primary study area is not in languages, you will certainly pick up a lot of the local language simply by hearing it used day in and day out all around you.
There are numerous job opportunities in China itself, and the country is seeing fast growth and has a steady economy. If you choose to work in another country, knowledge of Chinese business customs, language, and life will be a major benefit for those companies engaged in business with China.
7. Learn Another Language
Languages are increasingly important in the workplace, and, as mentioned above, China is a major player in the world market. It is a lot easier to learn a language when you are exposed to it every day; immersion will see your linguistic skills greatly increase during your time in China.
The number of foreigners who can communicate in Chinese is relatively low, so you will develop a very specialized, and highly sought skill. You will learn the basics fairly quickly within a few months, but it is advisable to learn at least a little before you go, as other languages are not widely spoken outside of the major towns and cities.
If you are thinking about studying in China, learn some of the basics before you go with a qualified and professional tutor. Alternatively, if you have returned from a course of study in China you may want to consider increasing your linguistic ability or continuing your study to prevent you from becoming rusty. Have you experience studying abroad in China? Send us a few tips in our comments section below!
