Advantages of Studying in China
1. Reasonable Cost of Living
Unlike other countries in the world who accept foreign students, China is so far the only country that offers reasonably low cost of living. According to latest survey, the average tuition fee for foreigners enrolled in an undergraduate course in Beijing is about 28,000 yuan (US$3,502). Average expenditure a year is about 50,000 yuan (US$6,253) including accommodation, food and other miscellaneous expenses.
2. More scholarships for foreign students
Government scholarships are usually given in accordance with bilateral education and cultural exchange agreements. However, in the light of increasing international demand, the Chinese government has started to offer unilateral scholarships.
In addition, the Ministry of Education (MOE) has set up a program that trains foreign doctorate students. In 2004, seven students from Bangladesh, India, Thailand, Pakistan and Japan were, for the first time, granted Chinese government scholarships. They pursued their doctorate studies under the guidance of professors from Huazhong Agriculture University and the Postgraduates Institute of the Chinese Academy of Sciences. The MOE has also decided to give out 50 post-graduate scholarships a year to foreigners who have obtained at least one bachelor degree in China.
Those who want to apply to study in China on a Chinese scholarship have to go through government policies. Private students can make application directly to the university or college where they wish to pursue their study program.
3. The Business of education
China stands to benefit economically from the foreign student boom. In theory, 50,000 yuan invested in a business opportunity creates about four new job opportunities. Applying that to foreign student education in China which has generated about 7 billion yuan (US$875 million) in business opportunities, it can and will potentially result in 660,000 job opportunities.
However, some experts pointed out that if each of the 110,000 Chinese students studying abroad spends 150,000 yuan (US$18,760) annually, that would amount to about 16.5 billion yuan (US$2.1 billion). This is twice the expense of foreigners studying in China, which means that China suffers a huge "deficit".
(China.org.cn by Wang Qian, July 9, 2006)
Common Reasons Why It is Worthwhile to Study in China
Earlier, the usual destination of overwhelming majority of foreign students was somewhere in Europe or in the United States. However, these days, students are venturing even to the most distant or exotic locales. China, for instance, has been accepting and increasing number of students from European countries, the United States, and even in Asia.
There are many reasons why China has been on the spotlight in the international arena for the past decades. One of the reasons is the mind-blowing opportunities for academic advancement.
- China is a perfect place to study all kinds of subjects, including international law, medicine, geography, biology, art, architecture, and so much more! Beijing is a major hub of international finance and commerce, and therefore an ideal destination for students who plan to pursue a career in business!
- China is a country of amazing beauty and rich culture. Picturesque scenery, centuries-old history, hospitable people, mysterious culture, or delicate cuisine, make each city possesses of its own characteristic.
- The chance to study abroad in China is a once in a lifetime experience. Not only will students learn about the Chinese culture and advance their academics, they will develop a positive outlook on the diverse world we live in.
- While studying abroad in China, you will not only advance yourself academically, but socially as well. Many students travel in groups, or you could stay with a Chinese host family. Many students end up becoming quite close to their host families and maintain communication after returning home.
If you're majoring in Chinese language or other Asian studies, then you simply must study abroad in China. There's simply no better way to learn the language then by total immersion! By speaking and hearing Chinese constantly, you're certain to become fluent a lot faster than you would study the language back at home. You'll live just like a Chinese citizen, and by doing so, you will grasp the subtleties of the language that cannot be grasped anywhere else!