Understanding the tuition fee & living cost in China is crucial for Pakistani students planning their academic journey abroad. From affordable tuition to low-cost living, many students now prefer to study in China, where annual tuition fees range between $2,000 to $6,000. Monthly expenses, including accommodation ($100–$300), food ($100–$150), and travel ($10–$20), make it one of the most budget-friendly destinations. With a variety of English-taught programs and modern campus facilities, China offers quality education without the heavy financial burden. In this guide, we will explore everything you need to know about the fee structure and living costs before you apply.
Tuition Fees in Chinese Universities
The study cost in China varies depending on the university, program, and city; however, cheap universities in China are widely available, especially among public institutions, which are generally more affordable than private ones.
Program Type | Average Tuition (USD/year) | Approx. PKR/year |
MBBS / Clinical Medicine | $3,000 – $6,000 | Rs. 8–16 lakhs |
Engineering / IT | $2,000 – $4,500 | Rs. 6–13 lakhs |
Business / Economics | $2,500 – $5,000 | Rs. 7–14 lakhs |
Chinese Language | $1,000 – $2,000 | Rs. 3–5.5 lakhs |
Master’s / PhD | $3,000 – $6,000 | Rs. 8–16 lakhs |
To ease your financial burden and secure admission at top institutions, it’s strongly recommended to apply early for China study scholarships like the CSC, Belt and Road Initiative, and university-specific grants to reduce tuition costs. These competitive scholarships can cover tuition, housing, and monthly stipends greatly lowering the financial burden for Pakistani students.
Other University Expenses
Besides tuition, Pakistani students in China must budget for additional annual costs such as registration, health insurance, visa renewals, medical checkups, and study materials.
Registration/Admission Fee | $53 – $106 |
Health Insurance | $42 – $71 |
Residence Permit/Visa Extension | $71 – $88 |
Medical Checkup | $21 – $35 |
Study Materials & Books | $28 – $53 |
Living Costs in China for Pakistani Students
Living expenses in China depend on the city. Studying in cities like Beijing or Shanghai may cost more, while cities like Wuhan, Xi’an, or Harbin are more affordable.
Expense Category | Monthly Estimate (USD) | Monthly in PKR |
Accommodation (shared) | $100 – $300 | Rs. 28,000 – 85,000 |
Food & Groceries | $100 – $150 | Rs. 28,000 – 42,000 |
Transport (public) | $10 – $20 | Rs. 3,000 – 5,500 |
Internet & Mobile | $10 – $15 | Rs. 3,000 – 4,000 |
Health Insurance | $60 – $100/year | Rs. 17,000 – 28,000/year |
Entertainment & Misc | $30 – $60 | Rs. 8,500 – 17,000 |
Total Estimated Monthly Cost: $250 – $550 (Rs. 70,000 – 155,000)
Affordable Student Cities in China
The city you choose can greatly impact your overall budget. Here are some of the most affordable cities for Pakistani students, offering quality education with reasonable living costs.
City | Living Cost (PKR/month) | Highlights |
Wuhan | Rs. 70,000 – 90,000 | Hub of top MBBS universities |
Xi’an | Rs. 65,000 – 85,000 | Affordable rent and transport |
Harbin | Rs. 60,000 – 80,000 | Low cost, popular with Pakistani students |
Nanjing | Rs. 75,000 – 100,000 | Quality universities, cheaper than Beijing |
Beijing/Shanghai | Rs. 100,000 – 150,000 | Expensive but top-ranked institutions |
Budgeting Tips for Pakistani Students in China
Managing expenses wisely is essential when studying abroad. These budgeting tips for Pakistani students in China along with guidance from a trusted educational consultant can help you save money and make smarter financial decisions throughout your academic journey. Here are some smart budgeting tips to help you manage your expenses more effectively while studying in China:
- Choose Affordable Cities: choose cities like Harbin, Xi’an, or Wuhan, where living costs are lower compared to Beijing or Shanghai.
- Apply for Scholarships: Secure CSC, provincial, or university-specific scholarships to reduce tuition and living expenses.
- Use Student Dorms: University dormitories are cheaper than renting private apartments and often include utilities.
- Cook at Home: Eating out frequently adds up. Cooking your own meals can cut food costs by over 50%.
- Buy a Transportation Card: Use discounted student transport passes for buses, subways, and trains to save on daily travel.
- Track Your Spending: Use budgeting apps or a notebook to monitor expenses and avoid overspending.
- Buy Second-Hand Books & Essentials: Many seniors sell used textbooks, furniture, and appliances at lower prices.
- Limit Entertainment Costs: Enjoy free or low-cost activities like public parks, student events, and university clubs.
- Avoid Unnecessary Subscriptions: Skip unused apps or streaming subscriptions that quietly drain your monthly budget.
- Take Part-Time Gigs (Legally): With university permission, take part-time work or internships to earn extra income.
FAQs
Can Pakistani students rent private apartments in China?
Yes, but private accommodation is more expensive, ranging from $250 to $600 per month depending on the city.
How much is the cost of transportation in Chinese cities?
Monthly transportation expenses using metro or buses range from $10 to $25. Student metro cards offer further discounts.
How can I save money as a student in China?
Apply for scholarships, share accommodation, cook at home, and use student metro cards to manage your budget efficiently.
Can I pay tuition fees in installments?
Some universities allow installment plans, but most require full semester or annual payment upfront
Are university dorms safe for Pakistani students?
Yes, university hostels in China are secure, often with 24/7 guards and biometric entry systems.
What is the visa fee for studying in China?
The X1 (student) visa fee from Pakistan is around $60 to $80, depending on the embassy and service charges.
