6 min read · Updated July 2026
One of the biggest draws of studying in China is how far your money goes. But budgets swing a lot between a first-tier city like Beijing or Shanghai and a smaller provincial capital. Here's a realistic picture.
Accommodation
On-campus dorms are the cheapest option and often included or heavily subsidised by scholarships — commonly ¥800–¥2,000 per month. Off-campus shared flats in big cities can run ¥2,500–¥5,000+; in smaller cities, far less.
Food & daily life
Campus canteens are famously cheap — a full meal is often ¥10–¥20. Eating out and delivery add up but are still affordable. A comfortable food budget is roughly ¥1,500–¥2,500 per month.
Public transport is inexpensive (a metro ride is a few yuan), and almost everything is paid via WeChat Pay or Alipay.
A rough monthly total
Living modestly in a smaller city, ¥2,500–¥3,500/month covers most students. In Beijing or Shanghai, plan for ¥4,000–¥6,000+. A full CSC scholarship's stipend is designed to cover day-to-day living for undergraduates.
Ready to take the next step?
Compare tuition across universitiesRequirements, dates and score bands vary by university and change year to year, and CSCA figures are estimates while the exam is new. Always confirm on each university’s official admissions page.
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