Studying in China may refer to various kinds of things, if you want to get a pleasant study experience in China, you may need to get a complete knowledge of the common problems the foreign students may come across in China.

What kinds of visa should I apply for?

The Chinese government issues different kinds of visas to foreigners wishing to enter China according to their stated purposes of visit. The visas are marked Chinese phonetic letters of D, Z, X, F, L, G or C; those for foreign students are X or F.

Foreigners coming to China to study for a period of 6 months or more should apply for an X-visa. Those studying for less than 6 months may apply for F-visa. The application form should be submitted together with the Admission Notice and the JW201 or 202 Form issued by a Chinese college or university. A physical examination is required for those applying for an X-visa.

The F-visa is valid for a stay in China of 3-6 months from your date of entry. Your F-visa can be renewed several times but your total time staying in China should not exceed one year.

Students holding X-visa and wishing to leave and re-enter China (including trips to Hong Kong and Macao) during their studies, must apply for a re-entry visa at the Public Security Bureau at least 7 days before you leave.

Are scholarships available?

The Chinese government has several scholarship programs for those who wish to study in China. There are several types of scholarships available for foreign students, including the Chinese Government Scholarship, CHINA/UNESCO the Great Wall Fellowship, Distinguished International Students Scholarship, HSK Winner Scholarship, Chinese Cultural Research Fellowship and so on.

Can I work while studying?

According to government regulations in China, international students cannot work during their studies. However, part-time work or internships are sometimes allowed. Jobs teaching English are particularly easy for native English speakers to find.

Do I have to live on campus?

Off-campus housing is available but you must make sure that any apartment you rent is a legal residence for foreigners.

What is the average level of living expenses?

China is a developing country where you can find both very expensive and cheaper goods depending on your taste. And overall living expenses in China are quite low.

How to exchange cash in China?

Credit cards and debit cards are only accepted in big shop or restaurants. Banks of China provide foreign exchange services, cash personal checks, traveler's checks or credit cards.

How much do meals cost?

A: The cafeteria in universities of China generally offers single dish meals with rice for as little as 4 RMB per meal. Chinese restaurants on campus and in the local area offer meals for 10 - 20 RMB per person. Western restaurants will cost between 50 and 100 RMB per person per meal.

What other types of expenses should I plan for while in China?

A: Entertainment in China is generally inexpensive. Transportation options include the public bus (which costs 1-2 RMB per ride) and subway (2-4 RMB per ride), as well as taxi service which costs 10 RMB for short distances and up to 30 RMB to go across town or downtown. Many students also opt to buy bicycles while they are in China. Bicycles are the most prevalent mode of transport in China and the flat topography makes most cities ideal for this type of transportation. New bicycles can be purchased for around 200 RMB.

How can I get or exchange money while I am in China?

A: You may bring money with you, either in the form of cash or traveler's checks. ATM machines are available in most banks of China. And you can also draw cash in advance over the counters at most large banks for a transaction charge. Major hotels and most fine restaurants and stores now accept credit cards in China. Students enrolling for longer courses may wish to open a bank account in the banks of China.

What do I need to bring with me?

A: Today in China you can find almost any products and brands that you would find at home. We recommend that you bring any prescription medication in sufficient quantities to last for the duration of your visit and any preferred brands of over-the-counter medications (cold & flu tablets, etc.) Clothing is also plentiful and very inexpensive.

VACCINATIONS -- What vaccinations do I need for China?

A: The following vaccinations and applicable frequencies are recommended for students coming to China: Hepatitis A (within previous 10 years); Hepatitis B (within previous 5 to 10 years), Japanese B Encephalitis (within previous 3 years); Tetanus (within previous 10 years); Polio (within previous 10 years); and Typhoid (once in lifetime).