Chinese-Taught vs English-Taught Degrees in China: How to Choose

The two study modes

Chinese universities offer international students two broad routes: degrees taught in Chinese and degrees taught in English. The right choice depends on your field, your language plans and your goals — neither route is universally better, and this guide sets out the trade-offs neutrally rather than declaring a winner.

The specific programs, teaching language and entry rules are set by each university and change over time, so use this as a framework and confirm the details on the official admissions page.

Availability by level

As a general pattern, English-taught programs tend to be more common at master's and PhD level, while undergraduate degrees are more often taught in Chinese. This is only a starting point — availability differs widely by university and subject, and many institutions publish a specific list of English-taught programs.

• If you want an English-taught undergraduate degree, check each university's published English-taught program list rather than assuming it exists.
• Postgraduate applicants usually have more English-taught options, but this still varies by field.
• Some universities offer the same subject in both languages — compare entry rules for each version.

Language proof for each route

Chinese-taught degrees require proof of Chinese, normally an HSK score at a level the university sets. English-taught degrees require proof of English, typically IELTS or TOEFL, or an exemption if your prior education was in English.

The exact required score or HSK level is program-specific and changes over time, so we do not quote fixed cut-offs. Verify the accepted tests and levels on the official program page, and see the HSK-for-admission guide for how Chinese requirements work.

Trade-offs to weigh

Consider these factors rather than a ranking: a Chinese-taught degree can support deeper day-to-day integration and opens more program choices, but it requires time to build your Chinese to the required HSK level first. An English-taught degree lets you start sooner without high-level Chinese, though the number of programs and fields may be narrower, and some Chinese is often still expected for daily life.

There is no single correct answer — the better fit depends on your subject, timeline and language goals.

How to decide and verify

Shortlist programs in your field, then compare each one's teaching language, language-proof requirement, intake and fees on the official university site. If you would need to reach an HSK level first, factor the extra language-study time into your plan.

Apply only through official channels, and remember that no agent or website can guarantee admission — treat any paid guarantee as a scam.