Silk Way Explore
Student life in China
China offers big, fast cities with very low food and transport costs, modern mobile payments and a fast-growing university sector. Hong Kong has its own currency and higher costs.
What daily life costs and feels like
Housing
International students often live in on-campus dormitories, usually in shared rooms. Private shared flats are cheaper than in most countries but cost more than a dormitory.
Food
Campus canteens are very cheap. Eating out is also affordable compared with Europe.
Transport
Metro systems are modern and low-cost. Many people pay by mobile apps.
Work
Part-time work is generally restricted for international students. Internships may need permission.
Health insurance
Universities usually require comprehensive medical insurance for international students.
Academic year
Most programmes start in September; some start in spring.
Rough cost calculator
Draft Draft figures: these numbers are placeholders that are still being checked with professionals. Please do not rely on them yet.
Choose a city and a programme to see a rough monthly and total cost. This is a guide, not a quote.
Estimates are based on public figures from official sources and university pages (checked October 2026). Scholarship amounts and fees change every year. Always confirm on the official websites before you decide.
Where the numbers come from
Scholarships that can lower the cost
Chinese Government Scholarship (CSC)
Usually covers tuition, on-campus housing, a monthly stipend and insurance. Applications are normally in the first months of the year.
University and provincial scholarships
Many universities and provinces offer partial or full awards. Terms differ.
Hong Kong university scholarships
Hong Kong universities offer merit awards that reduce tuition. Terms differ for each university.
Find flights to your university city
Pick where you fly from and which month you want to travel. The links open Google Flights in a new tab.