From towering skyscrapers with extraordinary shapes and ultra-modern designs to ancient temples that reflect deep cultural loyalty and honor, this city is full of surprises.
If you’re looking to build your financial and business skills, strengthen your Mandarin abilities, or embark on a rich cultural experience, Shanghai is the city for you, and IFSA can help make it a reality.
Why study abroad in China?
Education style. Classes in China are generally more lecture-based than discussion-based, and you can expect an environment open to many viewpoints and perspectives. It’s also an ideal setting if you’re looking to kick-start or advance your Mandarin-speaking skills.
Cultural orientation. In Shanghai, you’ll find a blend of Western influences and traditional Chinese customs, often described as Haipai culture. This mix is evident in the city’s architecture, art, and fashion. Shanghai was historically one of the first Chinese cities to embrace Western influences, and traces of this are visible in nearly every corner.
Student lifestyle. Shanghai is home to countless cultural hubs, from museums that house ancient Chinese artifacts to landmarks that reflect the city’s historical roots and cultural fusion. There’s always something new to explore. Students often appreciate the modern, vibrant nightlife.
Cities near Shanghai popular among study abroad students:
Suzhou is a beautiful city to the west of Shanghai. It’s widely known for its network of canals and waterways, as well as its stunning gardens. In addition to breathtaking scenery, it’s home to several historical landmarks and museums, including the Suzhou Silk Museum.
Jiaxing is an ancient water town rich in historical significance. Located on the Grand Canal, this city serves as a cultural and physical hub between Beijing and Hangzhou.
Nanjing is both picturesque and culturally significant, with its iconic Purple Mountain and the Ming City Wall as a backdrop. The city is rich in culture and history, featuring landmarks such as the Presidential Palace, Confucius Temple, and Jiming Temple.
Hangzhou is famous for West Lake, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and its surrounding mountains. This beautiful city is a hub for e-commerce and high-tech, blending breathtaking scenery with modern innovation.
China study abroad highlights
Language spoken
Mandarin
Capitals
Beijing
Common housing types
Apartment/flat, single rooms
Known for
Rich culture, deep ancient history, rapid economic growth and business industry, iconic cuisine, landmarks, and natural icons like The Great Wall
Time zone
CST (UTC+08:00)
Currency
Chinese Yuan (CNY)
Fun facts
Despite the fact that it’s one of the largest and most populous countries in the world, China has a single time zone. There are about 5,000 islands off the Chinese coast.
IFSA programs in China
IFSA offers programs designed to align with your goals.
Yes! IFSA offers a range of scholarships, including need-based awards and destination-specific funding. View scholarships.
What excursions and activities are typically* offered?
Huangpu River cruise
Shanghai Urban Planning Museum
Tai chi workshop
Chinese culture workshop
Water Town trip
*Excursions vary by term, year, and location
What sports are popular in China?
Basketball. One of China’s most popular sports, with a professional team in Shanghai called the Shanghai Sharks.
Soccer. A globally beloved sport that’s widely played and watched.
Table tennis. Fast-paced and easy to access, this is China’s national sport.
Tai chi. Often referred to as “meditation in motion,” tai chi is a low-impact exercise involving a series of slow, flowing movements that improve balance, coordination, and overall mental well-being.
“One of the best parts of being in China was experiencing its rich history, whether by sampling local foods or traveling to amazing cities such as Chongqing and Changsha. With friends I made through the IFSA program, I ventured near and far (nine-hour train ride far). I practiced Chinese language skills, learned the history of these cities, and made new friends.” Ashley S., IFSA Study in Shanghai: International Business
“It is scary going to another country, especially one that is so far removed from everything we know. But it’s more likely than you think. I was able to get through it because of my absolutely wonderful teachers at IFSA, and the friends I made through the program, who I still keep in contact with to this day.” Emma S., IFSA Study in Shanghai: Social Sciences
