Study at Fudan University
Study at one of China's most prestigious universities, renowned for academic excellence, global research, innovation, medicine, business, and international collaboration in the heart of Shanghai.
Shanghai's Premier University
Fudan University, founded in 1905, is one of China's most prestigious comprehensive research universities and a member of the elite C9 League. Located in Shanghai β China's global financial and commercial hub β Fudan is renowned for its strengths in humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, medicine, and management.
With over 35,000 students across four campuses (Handan, Fenglin, Jiangwan, and Zhangjiang), Fudan offers a comprehensive academic environment spanning 35 schools and departments. The university has approximately 3,000 international students from over 130 countries, reflecting its strong commitment to internationalisation.
Fudan is particularly distinguished for its medical school (one of China's top three), business school (Fudan School of Management β internationally accredited), economics programme, journalism school, and increasingly strong computer science and data science departments. Its Shanghai location provides unparalleled access to global industries, finance, technology, and cultural exchange.
Academic Programmes
35 schools spanning humanities, sciences, medicine, business & technology
School of Computer Science
Jiangwan Campus
School of Data Science
Jiangwan Campus
School of Management
Handan Campus
School of Economics
Handan Campus
School of Journalism
Handan Campus
School of Law
Jiangwan Campus
Shanghai Medical College
Fenglin Campus
School of Life Sciences
Jiangwan Campus
School of Physics
Jiangwan/Handan Campus
School of Chemistry
Jiangwan Campus
School of International Relations & Public Affairs
Handan Campus
School of Philosophy
Handan Campus
School of Chinese Language & Literature
Handan Campus
School of Microelectronics
Zhangjiang Campus
Affordable Excellence
World-class education at a fraction of Western university costs
Undergraduate
- tuition liberal arts: CNY 26,000β30,000/year (approximately USD $3,600β$4,200/year β Chinese-taught programmes)
- tuition science engineering: CNY 30,000β40,000/year (approximately USD $4,200β$5,600/year)
- tuition medicine: CNY 40,000β76,000/year (approximately USD $5,600β$10,600/year β clinical medicine programmes for international students)
- tuition english programmes: CNY 38,000β82,000/year (approximately USD $5,300β$11,400/year β English-taught programmes)
- note: Fees vary by programme and language of instruction. International students enroll in Chinese-taught programmes (requiring HSK) or designated English-taught programmes. Reviewed annually.
Graduate
- masters chinese taught: CNY 30,000β40,000/year (approximately USD $4,200β$5,600/year)
- masters english taught: CNY 59,000β99,000/year (approximately USD $8,200β$13,800/year β includes MBA, international programmes)
- mba international: CNY 250,000β420,000 total (approximately USD $35,000β$58,500 total β Fudan MBA/International MBA)
- phd: CNY 30,000β40,000/year (approximately USD $4,200β$5,600/year β most PhD students receive scholarships)
- note: MBA fees reflect the full programme cost for the Fudan International MBA (a joint programme with MIT Sloan). Research students typically receive full or partial scholarship funding.
Living in Shanghai
- on campus accommodation: CNY 400β1,200/month (approximately USD $55β$165/month β international student dormitory)
- off campus housing: CNY 4,000β10,000/month (approximately USD $560β$1,400/month β Shanghai rental market near campus)
- food: CNY 1,000β2,500/month (approximately USD $140β$350/month β campus canteens are very affordable)
- health insurance: CNY 800/year (approximately USD $110/year β compulsory for international students)
- transportation: CNY 100β300/month (approximately USD $14β$42/month β metro and bus)
- personal expenses: CNY 1,500β3,000/month (approximately USD $210β$420/month β Shanghai lifestyle)
- total estimate: CNY 3,000β7,000/month (approximately USD $420β$980/month total living)
Tuition fees and living costs are reviewed annually by Fudan University. The figures above are estimates based on 2024β2025 information. Students should always verify the latest official figures on the Fudan University admissions website before applying. Shanghai is more expensive than most Chinese cities.
Funding Your Fudan Education
CSC, Fudan, and Shanghai Government scholarships for full funding
Chinese Government Scholarship (CSC)
Full tuition waiver + accommodation + monthly living stipend (CNY 3,000β3,500/month for Masters, CNY 3,500/month for PhD) + comprehensive medical insurance
Eligibility: International students from eligible countries applying to degree programmes at Fudan. Nominated through Chinese embassies or directly through Fudan.
China's most comprehensive scholarship. Covers all costs of study. Apply through the CSC online system simultaneously with Fudan application. Deadlines typically JanuaryβApril.
Fudan University Scholarship
Full or partial tuition waiver + living allowance (varies by award tier)
Eligibility: Outstanding international applicants to undergraduate, master's, and doctoral programmes
Fudan's own scholarship with multiple levels (full, partial, tuition-only). Automatically considered upon application. Highly competitive.
Shanghai Government Scholarship (SGS)
Full or partial tuition waiver + living allowance
Eligibility: International students studying in Shanghai. Available at undergraduate and graduate levels.
Administered through the Shanghai Municipal Education Commission. Can sometimes be combined with other awards. Application through Fudan.
Fudan University Confucius Institute Scholarship
Full tuition + accommodation + living stipend + comprehensive medical insurance
Eligibility: International students applying to Chinese language and Chinese-related degree programmes
For students pursuing Chinese language studies or Chinese-taught programmes. Managed through the Confucius Institute Headquarters.
Fudan-Specific Programme Scholarships
Partial to full tuition (varies by programme)
Eligibility: Outstanding applicants to specific programmes including MBA, IMBA, MSc, and joint programmes
Many individual programmes offer merit-based scholarships. The Fudan MBA and IMBA offer competitive financial aid packages. Check specific programme pages.
Doctoral Research Fellowships
Monthly stipend + tuition support (varies by supervisor and department)
Eligibility: PhD students with outstanding academic and research potential
PhD students at Fudan typically receive full funding through a combination of CSC, Fudan scholarships, and supervisor research grants. Contact supervisors directly.
How to Get In
Deadline: International applicants: typically FebruaryβJune for September intake (varies by programme β early application recommended)
- Non-Chinese citizen with a valid foreign passport
- High school diploma or equivalent with excellent academic results
- Minimum age 18 by September 1 of the enrollment year (exceptions possible)
- Chinese language proficiency: HSK Level 5 (score 180+) or HSK Level 4 (score 210+) for Chinese-taught programmes
- English-taught programmes: IELTS 6.0+ or TOEFL iBT 80+ or equivalent (no HSK required)
- Fudan online application form + application fee (CNY 400β800)
- Personal statement / study plan
- High school transcripts and diploma (notarized, with Chinese or English translation)
- Two letters of recommendation
- Proof of financial support or scholarship application
- Additional: portfolio (Art/Design), interview (some programmes)
Fudan admits approximately 500+ international undergraduate students annually. Admission is competitive and holistic. Most undergraduate programmes are taught in Chinese; some English-taught programmes are available. Applicants of Chinese origin may need to meet additional requirements per Chinese education regulations.
Life at Fudan
Four campuses in Shanghai β China's most international city
Handan Campus
Fudan's historic main campus in Yangpu District β home to the iconic Guanghua Towers, main library, humanities and social sciences faculties, and beautiful gardens.
Jiangwan Campus
The modern campus featuring state-of-the-art science, engineering, and law facilities β including advanced laboratories, the new library, and sports complex.
Libraries
Fudan's library system holds over 6 million volumes across multiple locations. The Jiangwan Library and Handan Library are architectural landmarks and academic hubs.
Student Residences
International student dormitories on multiple campuses with single and double room options, shared kitchens, laundry, and common areas. Air-conditioned rooms available.
Sports & Recreation
Comprehensive sports facilities including swimming pools, indoor courts, running tracks, fitness centres, and martial arts halls across all campuses.
Student Organisations
Over 300 student clubs and associations spanning academic, cultural, artistic, sports, technology, and community service β with active international student groups.
Innovation Hub
Fudan's innovation ecosystem includes technology transfer centres, startup incubators, and deep partnerships with Shanghai's tech and finance industries.
Shanghai Living
Shanghai β China's most international city β offers world-class dining, nightlife, culture, efficient metro system, and endless opportunities for career and personal growth.
Career Outcomes
Research Strengths
Medicine & Public Health
Fudan Shanghai Medical College is one of China's top three medical schools with leading research in oncology, infectious diseases, neuroscience, and public health.
Artificial Intelligence & Data Science
Cutting-edge research in machine learning, natural language processing, computer vision, and big data analytics through dedicated schools and national laboratories.
Microelectronics & IC Design
Leading research in integrated circuit design, semiconductor devices, and microelectronics β a national priority with major government and industry support.
Economics & Finance
China's premier economics research faculty with influence on national policy. Strong in macroeconomics, financial economics, development economics, and Chinese economic reform.
Materials Science & Chemistry
Advanced research in nanomaterials, polymers, catalysis, and energy materials with multiple state key laboratories and high-impact publications.
Global Health & Infectious Disease
Leading role in pandemic research, vaccine development, and global health policy. Fudan's BSL-3 laboratory contributed significantly to COVID-19 research.
International Student Support
Approximately 3,000 international students from 130+ countries
- International Students Office (ISO)
- Visa (X1/X2) application guidance and residence permit support
- International student orientation programme
- On-campus dormitory allocation
- Chinese language courses (intensive and part-time)
- Comprehensive medical insurance (compulsory)
- Academic tutoring and advising
- International student associations
- Cultural immersion programmes and field trips
- Buddy programme (Chinese-international student pairing)
- Career guidance and internship connections
- Psychological counselling services
Your Path to Fudan
Expert guidance from enquiry to enrolment
Programme Selection
We help you navigate Fudan's 35 schools, identify English-taught programmes, and choose between campuses and specialisations to match your goals.
Application Strategy
Expert guidance on Fudan's international admission process β personal statement writing, document notarization, CSC application, and interview preparation.
Scholarship Guidance
Identify and apply for CSC, Fudan University Scholarship, Shanghai Government Scholarship, and programme-specific awards. Maximize your chances of full funding.
Research & Supervisor Fit
For graduate applicants, we help identify supervisor alignment at Fudan, craft research proposals, and navigate the scholarship application process.
Visa & Accommodation
China X1/X2 student visa guidance, Fudan dormitory applications, residence permit support, health insurance, and Shanghai orientation.
Pre-Departure & Arrival
Comprehensive pre-departure briefing for China, airport pickup in Shanghai, bank account setup, SIM card, and ongoing support after arrival.
Apply to Fudan
Free expert guidance β no hidden fees
Hear From Fudan Students
βThe Fudan International MBA gave me deep insight into China's business landscape. The dual degree with MIT Sloan, Shanghai's finance ecosystem, and the diverse cohort made it an exceptional experience.β
βFudan's microelectronics research is world-class with excellent facilities and generous CSC funding. Shanghai is an incredible city to live in, and the cost of living is very manageable with the scholarship.β
βFudan's international relations programme offered a unique Chinese perspective on global affairs. The campus is beautiful, classmates are brilliant, and Shanghai provides endless networking opportunities.β
Frequently Asked Questions
Fudan is ranked #39 globally (QS 2025) and is one of China's top 3 universities. It excels in medicine, business, economics, humanities, and sciences. Located in Shanghai β China's most international city β it offers unparalleled career opportunities, affordable education, generous scholarships, and a vibrant multicultural environment.
Tuition is very affordable by global standards. Chinese-taught programmes cost approximately CNY 26,000β40,000/year (USD $3,600β$5,600). English-taught programmes range from CNY 38,000β99,000/year. The International MBA is approximately CNY 250,000β420,000 total. Many students receive full scholarships covering all costs.
Major scholarships include the Chinese Government Scholarship (CSC β full tuition, accommodation, stipend, and insurance), Fudan University Scholarship (full or partial), Shanghai Government Scholarship, and Confucius Institute Scholarship. PhD students typically receive full funding. MBA students can access programme-specific financial aid.
Not necessarily. Fudan offers English-taught programmes at both undergraduate and graduate levels β including the International MBA (joint with MIT Sloan), various MSc and MA programmes, and PhD programmes in STEM. For Chinese-taught programmes, HSK Level 5 is typically required. Chinese language courses are available.
English-taught programmes include the International MBA (Fudan-MIT Sloan), MSc in Finance, various engineering and science programmes, MA in International Relations, and selected PhD programmes. The list is expanding annually β check Fudan's international admissions website for the current catalogue.
Fudan has four campuses in Shanghai. The historic Handan campus features beautiful gardens and traditional architecture, while Jiangwan has modern facilities. Over 300 student clubs, cultural events, and Shanghai's incredible city life make for a rich student experience. International students form a vibrant community.
Fudan graduates enjoy a 97%+ employment/further study rate. Shanghai's position as China's financial and commercial capital means excellent career opportunities in banking, consulting, technology, medicine, and research. The alumni network is extensive and influential across Chinese industry and government.
Educational Hub provides comprehensive support including programme selection, CSC and Fudan scholarship applications, personal statement and SOP guidance, document notarization, interview preparation, visa (X1/X2) guidance, accommodation support, and pre-departure briefing for China. Our services are free for students.