When I first arrived in China as an international student, one of the biggest challenges I faced was figuring out how to manage my living costs. Coming from Bangladesh, I knew that the cost of living in China would be different, and I had to be smart about how I spent my money. If you're planning to study in China, understanding and managing the living costs in China for international students is crucial to making the most of your experience.
A little about myself - I'm Samaun Turkey, a BBA student at Nanjing University of Posts and Telecommunications. My journey to pursue a bachelor's degree in China from Bangladesh led me to establish this community where international students can receive the necessary help and guidance to study in China. In this article, I will share how you can afford living costs in China as an international student.
Table of Contents:
Understanding the Living Costs in China
First things first - let’s talk about what you can expect in terms of living costs in China. On average, the cost of living in China for international students can vary significantly depending on where you choose to study. For example, cities like Beijing and Shanghai are more expensive compared to smaller cities like Nanjing or Yangzhou. On average, you might spend anywhere from $200 to $500 USD per month on living expenses, depending on your lifestyle and the city you’re in.
Housing is likely to be your biggest expense, with on-campus free accommodation being the most affordable option. Off-campus housing can be more expensive, especially in major cities. Food, transportation, and leisure activities also add up, so it’s important to have a clear picture of your monthly expenses. Remember, understanding these living costs in China will help you budget more effectively.
Budgeting and Financial Planning
One of the first things I did after arriving in China was to create a budget. It might sound boring, but trust me, it’s a lifesaver. Knowing exactly how much you have to spend each month and where that money is going can help you avoid unnecessary stress. A simple spreadsheet or a budgeting app can be really helpful in tracking your expenses.
Start by listing all your expected monthly expenses: rent, food, transportation, utilities, and entertainment. Then, allocate a portion of your income (whether it’s from scholarships, savings, or part-time work) to each category. It’s important to stick to your budget and review it regularly to see where you might be able to cut back. Financial planning is about ensuring you have enough to enjoy your time in China without constantly worrying about money.
Affordable Housing Options
When it comes to housing, there are generally two options: on-campus and off-campus accommodation. On-campus housing is usually the most affordable, with some universities offering free accommodations. Paid accommodations range from $150 to $300 per month, depending on the university and location. Living on campus also means you’re closer to your classes and university facilities, which can save you time and transportation costs.
Off-campus housing offers more freedom and possibly better amenities, but it comes at a higher price. To make it more affordable, consider sharing an apartment with other students. This way you can split the rent and also reduce the cost of utilities and internet. Websites like SmartShanghai or The Beijinger are good places to start your search for off-campus accommodation. Remember, finding a place that fits your budget and lifestyle is key to managing the living cost in China for international students.
Managing Daily Expenses
Daily expenses like food, transportation, and leisure can quickly add up if you’re not careful. One of the best ways to save money on food is by cooking at home. Groceries in China are relatively affordable, and cooking your own meals can be much cheaper than eating out every day. If you’re living on campus, check if there are communal kitchens available.
For transportation, public transit is your best friend. Most cities in China have efficient and affordable public transportation systems, including buses and subways. A monthly transportation pass can save you a lot of money if you’re commuting regularly. If you’re in a smaller city or a university town, biking can also be a cost-effective and healthy option.
When it comes to entertainment, there are plenty of free or low-cost activities to enjoy. Many universities offer free access to sports facilities, libraries, and cultural events. Exploring local parks, museums, and historical sites can be both educational and budget-friendly.
Scholarships and Financial Aid
One of the best ways to manage the cost of living in China for international students is by securing a scholarship. Many Chinese universities offer fully funded scholarships that cover tuition and accommodation. Fully funded scholarships in China can significantly reduce your financial burden, allowing you to focus more on your studies and less on how you’re going to pay the bills.
I am studying at Nanjing University of Posts and Telecommunications with a scholarship that covers my tuition fees. After studying and connecting with universities here in China, I realized that there are many university scholarship opportunities available for international students. However, due to the lack of information, resources, and support, international students are having a hard time getting these scholarships.
That’s when I decided to build Global Scholar China, a community to help international students get full scholarships across universities in China in a simple, hassle-free, and affordable process. Feel free to take a look at our scholarship process guide for more information on studying in China with full scholarships.
Part-Time Jobs and Internships
Working part-time while studying is another way to offset living costs. However, it’s important to know the regulations surrounding work for international students in China. Typically, students are allowed to work part-time on campus or intern with companies that have agreements with their university. Jobs like tutoring, translation, or working in a university office are popular among international students.
Internships are also a great way to gain experience and earn some extra money. Many internships offer stipends that can help cover your living expenses. Plus, internships provide valuable work experience that can be beneficial when you start your career after graduation.
Conclusion
Managing the living cost in China for international students might seem discouraging at first, but with the right planning and resources, it’s definitely doable. By understanding the costs, creating a budget, finding affordable housing, and exploring scholarships and work opportunities, you can make your time in China both enjoyable and financially manageable. Remember, the key is to plan ahead and take advantage of the resources available to you.
Interested in pursuing a bachelor’s or master’s degree in China but don’t know where to start? Let’s chat and discuss how you can start your journey of studying in China.