Astronomy & Physics Powerhouse
Home to China’s top-ranked astronomy department and elite physics research, ideal for students pursuing fundamental science.
Nanjing, Jiangsu, ChinaQS #133
Nanjing University
Pursuing truth since 1902 in China’s historic southern capital
Founded in 1902 and a proud member of the elite C9 League, Nanjing University (NJU) is one of China’s oldest and most respected comprehensive research universities. Guided by its motto “Sincerity with Aspiration, Perseverance and Integrity,” NJU is celebrated for pure and fundamental science, with astronomy, physics, chemistry, geosciences and environmental science ranked among the very best in the nation. Its historic Gulou campus in central Nanjing sits alongside the modern Xianlin campus in the city’s eastern hills. Located in the ancient capital of Nanjing at the heart of the prosperous Yangtze River Delta, NJU gives international students a rigorous academic culture, deep Chinese heritage and easy access to Shanghai and eastern China.
C9 LeagueProject 985Project 211Double First-Class
- QS World Ranking
- #133
- Location
- Nanjing, China
- Founded
- 1902
- International Students
- 3,000+
- Teaching Language
- English / Chinese
- Tuition
- CNY 20,000 - 34,000 / year
- Intake
- September
- Application Deadline
- March 30
Why Choose
Why Choose Nanjing University
Key reasons international students choose Nanjing University for their studies in China.
Founded in 1902
One of China’s oldest universities, blending more than a century of scholarship with a modern research culture.
Leading Earth & Environmental Sciences
World-class geosciences, atmospheric and environmental research addressing climate, resources and sustainability challenges.
Kuang Yaming Honors School
A renowned elite liberal-arts college letting top students explore across disciplines before choosing a major.
Yangtze River Delta Location
Set in historic Nanjing, an hour from Shanghai, at the center of China’s most developed economic region.
Elite C9 League Member
Part of China’s “Ivy League,” recognized globally for research intensity and exceptional graduate outcomes.
Rankings & Recognition
Academic Reputation
National designations and world rankings that signal academic strength and prestige.
QS World University Ranking#133
China National Ranking#6
National Designations
C9 LeagueProject 985Project 211Double First-Class
Programs
Programs for International Students
Explore the degree programs and academic strengths available to international students at Nanjing University.
Physics
BachelorLanguage: English / Chinese
Duration: 4 years
Tuition: CNY 26,400 / year
Intake: September
Scholarship: CSC & Jiangsu Government eligible
Chemistry
BachelorLanguage: Chinese
Duration: 4 years
Tuition: CNY 26,400 / year
Intake: September
Scholarship: Merit scholarships available
Environmental Science & Engineering
MasterLanguage: English
Duration: 3 years
Tuition: CNY 30,000 / year
Intake: September
Scholarship: CSC full scholarship eligible
International Business (IMBA)
MasterLanguage: English
Duration: 2 years
Tuition: CNY 98,000 total
Intake: September
Scholarship: Partial tuition awards
Astronomy & Space Science
MasterLanguage: English / Chinese
Duration: 3 years
Tuition: CNY 30,000 / year
Intake: September
Scholarship: President Scholarship eligible
Chinese Language Program
Non-DegreeLanguage: Chinese
Duration: 1 semester – 2 years
Tuition: CNY 20,000 / year
Intake: September & March
Scholarship: Confucius Institute Scholarship
Admission
Admission Requirements
What you need to apply to Nanjing University as an international student.
- Academic RequirementsHigh school diploma with strong grades for bachelor’s; a relevant bachelor’s degree for master’s programs. Competitive GPA expected.
- Language RequirementsEnglish-taught: IELTS 6.5 / TOEFL 90. Chinese-taught: HSK Level 4–5 depending on program.
- Required DocumentsPassport, transcripts, graduation certificate, study plan, two recommendation letters and a personal statement.
- Application DeadlineScholarship applicants: March 30. Self-funded applicants: June 15.
- Application ProcessSubmit online via the NJU international admissions portal, upload documents, then track your status online.
- InterviewShortlisted candidates may be invited to an online interview to assess academic fit and motivation.
- Medical ExaminationA Foreigner Physical Examination Form is required after admission and before visa issuance.
- Visa DocumentsNJU issues the JW202 form and Admission Notice so you can apply for an X1 student visa at a Chinese embassy.
Tuition & Scholarships
Costs & Funding
Transparent tuition, living costs and scholarship options for international students.
Cost Breakdown
- Annual Tuition
- CNY 20,000 - 34,000 / year
- Accommodation
- CNY 800 – 1,500 / monthOn-campus international dormitory
- Registration Fee
- CNY 600 (one-time)
- Medical Insurance
- CNY 800 / yearMandatory for all international students
- Estimated Living Cost
- CNY 2,200 – 3,500 / monthMeals, transport & personal expenses
Estimated First-Year CostCNY 55,000 – 95,000
Chinese Government Scholarship (CSC)
Coverage: Full tuition, on-campus accommodation, monthly stipend and comprehensive insurance.
Eligibility: Outstanding non-Chinese applicants for bachelor’s, master’s or doctoral degrees.
Deadline: March 30
Jiangsu Government Scholarship
Coverage: Full or partial tuition waiver for degree-seeking international students in Jiangsu Province.
Eligibility: Enrolled or admitted international students with strong academic records.
Deadline: April 15
Nanjing University President Scholarship
Coverage: Full tuition plus living stipend for exceptional self-funded applicants.
Eligibility: Top-ranked candidates demonstrating outstanding academic and research potential.
Deadline: March 30
Confucius Institute Scholarship
Coverage: Tuition, accommodation and stipend for Chinese language and teaching programs.
Eligibility: International students of Chinese language, literature or education.
Deadline: May 15
Campus Life
Life on Campus
What daily student life looks like at Nanjing University.
Two Distinct Campuses
Study between the historic Gulou campus in central Nanjing and the spacious, modern Xianlin campus in the eastern hills.
Vibrant Student Societies
Hundreds of student clubs host academic forums, debates, arts festivals, sports and volunteer activities year-round.
Historic Research Library
One of China’s largest university libraries, holding over 6 million volumes and extensive rare and digital collections.
International Community
Dedicated international residences, multilingual services and students from more than 100 countries create a welcoming environment.
Affordable Dining
Numerous canteens and halal options serve authentic Jiangsu cuisine alongside international dishes at student-friendly prices.
Historic City of Nanjing
Explore an ancient Chinese capital with metro links to lakes, city walls, museums and high-speed rail to Shanghai.
Gallery
Campus Gallery
A visual tour of Nanjing University.
Research & Innovation
Research Strengths
Research capacity and innovation ecosystem at Nanjing University.
Fundamental Science Excellence
Globally recognized for pioneering research in physics, chemistry, astronomy, mathematics and materials science.
Astronomy & Space Research
China’s leading astronomy program, closely linked to national observatories and major sky-survey and space missions.
Earth & Environmental Systems
World-class geosciences, climate and environmental research tackling resources, pollution and sustainability challenges.
Humanities & Social Sciences
Distinguished tradition in history, philosophy, sociology and Chinese literature rooted in Nanjing’s deep cultural heritage.
National Key Laboratories
Hosts multiple state key laboratories driving breakthroughs in microstructures, coordination chemistry and quantum materials.
Interdisciplinary Innovation
Encourages collaboration across science, engineering and the humanities to solve complex global research problems.
Career Outcomes
Graduate Outcomes
Where a degree from Nanjing University can take you after graduation.
Global Graduate School Pathways
Many graduates advance to master’s and doctoral programs at the world’s leading research universities.
Science & Research Careers
Outstanding pathways into research institutes, national laboratories and academic positions worldwide.
Finance & Technology Careers
Graduates are recruited by leading tech firms, financial institutions and multinational corporations across the Yangtze Delta.
Yangtze Delta Employers
Strong industry ties across Nanjing, Shanghai, Suzhou and Hangzhou open doors to China’s most dynamic economy.
Worldwide Degree Recognition
Nanjing University degrees enjoy strong recognition among employers and universities across Asia, Europe and North America.
Distinguished Alumni Network
Join a century-old community of scientists, scholars, entrepreneurs and public figures across China and abroad.
Student Support
International Student Support
How Nanjing University helps international students settle in and succeed.
Accommodation Assistance
Guaranteed help securing on-campus or nearby housing before you arrive in Nanjing.
Residence Permit
Step-by-step guidance converting your visa into a residence permit after enrollment.
Orientation
A comprehensive orientation week introduces campus, culture, safety and academic systems.
Academic Advising
Dedicated advisors help with course selection, registration and academic progress.
Chinese Language Support
Free and elective Mandarin courses help international students thrive in daily life.
Health Services
On-campus clinic, insurance guidance and English-speaking medical assistance.
Emergency Assistance
A 24-hour support line and staff on call for urgent situations at any time.
Visa Guidance
Expert help with JW202 forms, visa renewals and travel documentation.
Student Community
International student associations, buddy programs and cultural events build lasting friendships.
Timeline
Application Timeline
Key dates and milestones for applying to Nanjing University.
- December – January
Applications Open
The online international admissions portal opens for the following September intake.
- By March 30
Recommended Submission
Submit early to be considered for CSC, Jiangsu Government and President scholarships.
- April – May
Admission Review
Faculties review applications and conduct interviews for shortlisted candidates.
- June – July
Admission Results
Successful applicants receive their Admission Notice and scholarship decisions.
- July
JW202 & Visa Documents Issued
NJU mails your Admission Notice and JW202 form so you can apply for your student visa.
- July – August
Apply for X1 Visa
Apply for your X1 student visa at the Chinese embassy or consulate in your country.
- Early September
Arrival in Nanjing
Arrive on campus, move into your dormitory and attend international student orientation.
- Mid September
Registration
Complete registration, medical check and residence permit—then classes begin.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to the questions international students ask most about Nanjing University.
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Project 985Project 211Double First-Class
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English / Chinese
Competitive
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