The affordability of study and living cost in China is pretty most the main characteristic enticing international students to turn their direction towards China. Where countries like UK, USA and Australia are offering high standards of education, altogether they are an expensive option. Compared to them China is investing huge amount of money in improvement of its educational sector and ensuring international quality of education in cost effective tuition fee. Scholarships and fee waiver programmers being run by Chinese Government is another contributing factor in making China a popular study abroad destination. An economically progressive country China hosts over 489,000 international students each year and the numbers are increasing. Internationally recognized degrees, professional grooming, affordable living and cultural and historical adventure of China make it a top study abroad choice. We have written the following guide to give an estimation of cost of study in living in China:

China is home to many of top ranked international universities such as: Peking University, Tsinghua University, Fudan University and Shanghai Jiao Tong University. The public universities have relatively lower tuition fee than private universities which have their own tuition fee criteria. The tuition fee also depends on the study program and duration of study program and academic level.

• On average, the tuition fee in public universities for different courses will range between 3,300 and 10,000 USD/year.

• On average, the tuition fee in private universities for different courses will range between 8,000 USD/year to 15,000 USD/year.

Note: The above estimation of fee is for courses other than medicine, engineering and business management.  The courses related to engineering, medicine and business management are expensive than others.

The tuition fee for medicine, engineering and business management study programmes at different academic levels in public universities of China is estimated as:

Under Graduate (Medicine Field):

English taught program in Chinese University will cost 2200-5000 USD/year. Chinese taught program will cost about 3000-4000 USD / year.

Post Graduate Masters (Medicine Field):

English taught program will cost 2500-6000 USD /year. Chinese taught program will cost about 2000-4500 USD / year.

Post Graduate PhD (Medicine Field):

English taught program will cost 3000-7000 USD/year. Chinese taught program will cost about 3000-6000 USD / year. 

Diploma in Engineering:

English taught program will cost you about 1500 USD / year. Chinese taught program will cost you about 1500 USD / year.

Under Graduate (Engineering Field):

English taught program will cost you about 2200-3500 USD / year. Chinese taught program will cost you about 2000-3000 USD / year.

Post Graduate Masters (Engineering field):

English taught program will cost you about 3000-4500 USD / year. Chinese taught program will cost you about 2500-4000 USD / year.

Post Graduate PhD (Engineering field):

English taught program will cost you 4000-6000 USD/ year. Chinese taught program will cost you about 2500 -5000USD / year.

Diploma in Business and Management Field:

English taught and Chinese taught programs both will cost you about 1500 USD / year.

Under Graduate (Business and Management field):

English taught program will cost you about 2000-5000 USD / year. Chinese taught program will cost you about 1500-4000 USD / year.

Post Graduate Masters (Business and Management field):

English taught program will cost about 3000-5000 USD / year. Chinese taught program costs about 2000-4500 USD / year.

Post Graduate PhD (Business and Management Field):

English taught program will cost about 4000-6000 USD / year. Chinese taught program will cost about 2500-5000 USD / year.

Tuition Fee in Branch Campuses of UK and USA Universities in China:

The branch campus of UK Universities such as: (Nottingham, Leicester and Lancaster) in China will cost approximately 12,000 USD/year for a Bachelor’s degree and 13,500 USD/year for a Master’s degree. The branch campus of American University in China costs around 8,000 USD/year to 15,000 USD/year.

Tuition Fee in High Ranking Chinese Universities:

Peking University: The fee of under graduate English taught program at Peking University will cost £10,686 for whole four years of study.

Tsinghua University: The fee for English taught under graduate program will cost 7,500 USD/year.

Fudan University: The fee for English taught under graduate program will cost from 8,000 to 11,000 USD/year.

The cost of living mainly depends on your spending habits and your life style. China is an affordable country to live in. The accommodation, transportation, health care and food expenditures will never be hard on your pocket if you manage your expenses with consideration and modesty. The living expenses will also fluctuate based on the location and city of China you wish to live. For Example: Beijing and Shanghai are expensive most cities of China but mostly top rated universities are situated there.

Expected Living Cost in Urban Cities of China

• The monthly living expenses of living in Beijing are expected to be around 1,000 to 1,200.

• In Shanghai, the monthly expenses of one person are expected to be around 850 to 1,200 per month.

In less populated cities and rural areas, the living expenses will be quite lower than main stream cities so can expect the living cost in such cities to be around 600 – 1,000 USD/month.

Accommodation Cost in China for Pakistani Students

For accommodation selection also, you can expect the rents to be higher in urban cities. But some areas in Beijing and Shanghai are affordable in terms of rent. The students can explore the rents through internet in detail before finalizing. The monthly rents of various types of accommodation in China are estimated as:

• Halls of residence: One room monthly rent will be around 150 to 400 USD.

• Hostel: One room monthly rent is expected to be around 18 USD per night.

• Private Flat Rent: depending on various locations in the city and facilities. A one bed room private flat can be around 300 and 1,000 USD per month.

• Home stay: You can expect to spend 350 and 550 USD per month on home stay accommodation.

• Utility bills: monthly cost 50 USD.

• Security deposit amount required for renting any type of accommodation in China: 300 to 460 USD.

Cost of Food

• A basic menu meal for one person in an inexpensive restaurant of China: 3.71 USD

• A basic menu meal for two person in mediocre restaurant of China: 22.27 USD

• Meal at Mc Donalds or Mc Meal or any equivalent fast food chain for one person: 4.75 USD

• Half liter Coca Cola bottle: 0.49 USD

• 1.5 liter water bottle: 0.31 USD

• 1 liter milk bottle: 1.88 USD

• A loaf of fresh bread (White): 1.60 USD

• 1 kg rice: 1.03 USD

• A pack of dozen eggs: 1.79 USD

• 1 kg local cheese: 12.85 USD

• 1 kg boneless chicken meat: 3.78 USD

• 1 kg beef meat: 10.01 USD

• 1 kg of apples: 1.76 USD

• 1 kg of bananas: 1.09 USD

• 1 kg of oranges: 1.72 USD

• 1 kg of tomatoes: 1.20 USD

• 1 kg of potatoes: 0.86 USD

• 1 kg of onions: 0.95 USD

Transportation

The transportation cost in China is also cheap cost. The public transportation system in China is wide spread and well managed. You can use metro trains and buses for your daily travelling in the city. The average cost is estimated below:

• One way ticket in local train: 0.37 USD

• Monthly pass of local transport: 17.82 USD

• City bus one way ticket: 0.3 USD

• Taxi rate per kilometer: 0.33 USD

Other Expenditures

• Monthly internet bill: 14.83 USD

• Fitness club fee monthly: 36.62 USD

• Cinema ticket: 7 USD

Studying in China ensures inclusive education from renowned institutions and ensures career opportunities. International students from UK, USA and Canada are shifting their direction towards China to experience the lifestyle of fastest growing economy of the world and learn their work ethic. Besides getting high quality education and internationally recognized degrees, the students acquire a life changing experience in China that shapes them to undertake any challenge in life. Your studying abroad years in China will be in affordable expenses, cultural diversity, and rich history and among one of the hardest working nations of the world. International students require student visa to study in China, the step to step process of attaining student visa of China is explained in the guide below:

All Pakistani students who wish to enter China for educational motive have to acquire a student visa. The Student visa for China is called X Visa. The X Visas has two types. The types of X visas are divided into two parts on basis of duration of your study programme in China.

X1 Student Visa

The X1 visa has validity of 5 years. It is for applicants from anywhere in the world taking admission in under graduate or post graduate full time study programmes having time duration of longer than 6 months. The X1 visa holders are allowed to have multiple entry visas enabling them to enter or exit China on X1 visa in the duration of 5 years. The holders of X1 visa had to apply for Temporary Residence Permit of China within 30 days of their entry in China. They will apply for Temporary Resident Permit of China at a local Exit and Entry Administration Bureau. By having Temporary Residence Permit of China the holders will be registered as temporary resident in the country for the duration of their study program.

X2 Student Visa

The X2 student visa has validity of 6 months. It is for international students belonging from any country of the world who wish to enroll in study program or course which has not more than 6 months study duration. That course can be training course, internship or language course which will be completed in 6 months duration. The holder of X2 student visa cannot have multiple entry visa they will only be granted single entry visa. However, in case of any exception or academic demand, the applicant can extend the visa for more than 6 months but the application for extension of X2 visa must be registered before 180-day mark.

After getting your offer letter or letter of acceptance from Chinese University where you had applied for admission you can visit Chinese Embassy or Consulate nearest to your area to know the perquisites of visa application. The international students belonging from UK, Canada, Australia and European countries can apply for student visa of China through CVASC (Chinese VISA Application Service Centre). All other international students will visit Chinese Embassy or Consulate in their home country and place their visa application personally. The visa application can be submitted through travel agency or study abroad consultants in case there is a genuine reason due to which you can’t come to Embassy in person. You cannot mail your visa application because it will be refused by Chinese Embassy. You can visit Chinese Embassy in business hours and working days anytime but it is preferable to visit before 11:00 am so that you can take all the needed information in detail without rush.

It is recommended to apply for student visa of china one month before your study programme commence in China. Applying three months before than your study programme commencement in China will be too early. Chinese Embassies are very efficient in their work, you can expect your visa application to be processed and approved within one week or two maximum.

• Valid passport of applicant ( the passport must be valid for at least 6 month and it must have at least one blank page for visa stamp)

• Completely and accurately filled student visa application form

• Two recently taken passport size photographs of applicant

• Acceptance letter or offer letter from Chinese university (it must be original and a copy of the same will also be required)

• Proof of paid visa application fee (the fee is around 600 USD)

• Resident permit (it is applicable to you If you are applying from a country where you are living on a resident permit, the Chinese Embassy will need a proof of your legal status in that country)

• Proof of arranged accommodation in China for the duration of your stay

• Arrangement of airplane ticket for your travel and return back to your country ( return ticket ensures that your sole intention of travelling to China is educational).

• Medical examination certificate (the applicant who are enrolled in a full time study program in China are required to prove that they are in good health, for that they will have medical examination certificate declaring them as fit to travel and stay in China for study)

• JW201 or JW202 form (The State Education Ministry of China issues JW201 and JW202 to international students. The JW201 form in for those students who are going to study in China on scholarship funded by the Chinese Government whereas the JW202 form is for those students who are going to study in China in self funding).

• Language Proficiency Test Certificate (IELTS, TOEFL for English language study program and HSK for Chinese taught study program) the applicant will also have to prove his proficiency in English or Chinese language during interview in Embassy for student visa.

The international student being granted X1 visa has to apply for temporary resident permit of China within 30 days of their arrival in Chinese soil. During 30 days, the X1 visa serves as a legal stamp for their stay but beyond 30 days they will need a resident permit which replaces their X1 visa. The resident permit will remain valid only until their study program ends in China. To apply for Temporary Resident Permit of China they will visit the local Public Security Bureau (PBS). After getting resident permit of china the students would also be needed to visit the local police station near their residence and register their name. The student will also be required to inform the local police station in case any family member or relative of resident permit holder comes to China to visit him. Moreover, if the student stay in China even after his/her resident permit has been expired, USD 72 to USD 1,440 will be charged as fine and 15 days of detention will be sentenced as a punishment.

International students studying in China on X1 visa and having a resident permit can do part time job after getting permission from their hosting Chinese University and immigration department of China. The students will write an application to their hosting Chinese university for consent to work part time and also certificate from employer will be required. After getting consent letter from your hosting Chinese university you will visit local police station near your residence and have your residence permit marked with part time work. But according to Chinese law international students are not allowed to change your job frequently. International students are allowed to work 20 hours a week part time on their residence permit. Their work can include paid internships and traineeships as well.

Since the process of studying abroad in China requires arrangement of documents and following a peculiar procedure, it can be confusing. The students who are unable to grasp the whole process, they can take guidance from study abroad consultants for their student visa. By taking services of study abroad consultant, your chances of visa application approval gets higher as they are professional in this field and they handle many student visa cases on daily basis. To contact study abroad consultants in various cities of Pakistan you can visit this section.

International students should find increasing levels of investment in tertiary education to be a compelling reason to study in China.

The number of colleges and universities in China has doubled in the last decade to 2,409. The country’s current five-year plan, which extends to 2015, focuses on many development priorities that are appealing to western college graduates. And many Chinese universities are focusing on developing technologies that increase competitiveness with the West.

Important but common China Student Visa Interview Questions:

WHY China?

• Why do you wish to study in the China and not in Pakistan?
• What if you get a China degree here, would you like to go to China again for higher Studies?
• Why did you select China for higher studies? Isn't this course offered by any university or college in Pakistan?
• What is the purpose of your trip?
• Have you ever been to China?

ABOUT YOUR ACADEMIC BACKGROUND

• Where did you do your last course of study?
• What is your specialization?
• What is your High School, Degree or Master's percentage or grade?
• What are your subjects in last course of study (High School, Degree or Master's)?

ABOUT YOUR INSTITUTE

• Which university are you planning to go to?
• Can you tell me some details about your university?
• Why have you chosen this specific university?
• Can you tell me the location of the university/college?
• How many universities did you apply for? (Both admits and rejects)
• Can you mention the names of some professors?
• Did you receive any scholarships?

ABOUT CURRENT JOB/BUSINESS

• Show your Experience Certificate. (if applicable)
• (If you are currently working) Why are you leaving your current job?

 stuyd in UK study in China study in Italy

China is certainly a progressive wonder of the world. It is just hard to ignore the presence of China in any field of life whether it is in economical sector, infrastructure, education, politics, health or space sciences. It is a super power which has left its mark in every walk of life. It is leaving behind super powers like UK and USA behind in terms of development and progress. There can be extensive reasons to declare China as a top favorite study abroad destination because of its superlative qualities but ulterior one is its high standard of education. Many of Chinese universities are ranked among world’s top 100 best universities by QS and TIMES university rankings. China can be regarded as the best study abroad destination especially for students belonging from Asian countries like Pakistan, India and Sri Lanka. Why consider China as your study abroad destination? The reasons are detailed below:

• Get Education From World’s Best Institutions in China

In recent years, China has spent a large amount of money for improvement and quality assurance of its academic institutions which has resulted in enhancing their global reputation and world rankings. China has world’s best universities which have remarkably excelled in engineering, medicine and IT and economics fields. The Chinese Universities have signed collaborative partnerships with numerous world recognized institutions of UK, USA, Australia, Japan and Canada which offer internationally accredited degrees.

• China’s Towering Economic Growth and Your Professional Merchandizing

The recruiters and employer’s prefer hiring fresh graduates who have studied in abroad because of their widened approach, adoptability and personal growth. When it comes to China, it is expected to become an economical giant till 2030 estimating by the rate of its rapidly increasing GDP rate. China is attracting investor’s by providing cheap labor, technical assistance with excellent mastery, hard work and professionalism. Having a degree from China, a global economic market will surely add a towering value to your CV. In addition, China offers paid internships to international students, by the time you complete your degree from there you would already have professional experience from experts themselves.

• Paradise for Adventure Seekers

Besides top quality education and global economical market, China is a top favorite tourist destination. China is very vast in area and there is much to explore within the country. From visiting the Great Wall of China to do hiking in mountains, or soaking in beeches to encountering the beauty of rice terraces of the Guangxi, being part of man- made wonder Ice Sculpture Festival or taking a trip to rural areas of China to experience scenic landscape. The climate of China will make you witness freezing cold temperature to meltingly hot temperature. Living in China will not be less than a challenge but it will be worthwhile.

• Learn About World’s Oldest Civilization

There is not a doubt that China is modernizing and developing faster than no other country in the world. Yet, its cultural roots are 5000 years old. Chinese medicine, calligraphy, cupping therapy, Taichi, cousins and history will be worth exploring during your educational years. You will take a life changing experience back after completing your education.

• Cheap Cost of Living and Scholarships in China for Pakistani Students

Chinese government is running many scholarship programmes to encourage international students to take admission in its universities as part of its globalizing strategy. The merit for admission is also not competitive as compared to UK and USA. Moreover, the living costs of China will be extremely accommodating to your pocket. You will get education from world recognized institution in half the cost, live in international atmosphere and in reasonable cost. What more can one asks for?

• Getting Ready for Future With Best Opportunities

China allows international students to work in its territory post graduation from Chinese Universities. China is the land where future seems to be promising and fruitful. The companies and local firms in China are working collaboratively with international firms. They have strong ties around the globe, working in China will give you an access to a broad network and opening of doors where you did not even realize were present. Working in China after graduation means adding a huge value to your resume, enhancing your professional skills and enduing you with a strong work ethic and agility.

Economical growth is impossible without progress and improvement in education sector of any country. As a matter of fact, China has enabled its current massive economical prosperity by enhancing the quality of education of its institutes. In last few decades, Chinese Universities have made remarkable performance at national and international level. Chinese universities have made startling improvement because of collaborations with academic experts and international institutes. The Chinese Government is spending a large amount of its GDP on higher education sector and scholarships for encouraging enrolments. The degrees attained from Chinese institution hold high prestige and recognition internationally. The following guide will help you understand the step to step admission requirements for study abroad in China:

1. Choosing a Study Program.

2. Choosing a Chinese University for Admission.

3. Academic Requirements.

4. Language Requirements.

5. Method of Application.

6. Submitting Required Documents.

7. Admission Submission Deadlines

8. Waiting for Admission Approval.

The first step to study in abroad is to choose a stream of education which interests you and has potential of career success in the future. Every stream of education is widely explored in recent times and there is plethora of courses for you to choose from. In fact, the main complication of choosing a study programme is availability of many options. Chinese Universities are offering plenty of study programmes at all academic levels. A student must contemplate upon following factors before while choosing a study program:

• Your interest in subjects

• Search the scope of career your chosen study program has

• The subjects you choose as your study majors must match your intellectual capabilities or else it will be complicated for you to continue studying in the middle of the course

• Every study programme has entry requirement different from other, make sure you meet those requirements

• Read the course outline of all semesters

• The medium of instruction of your chosen study programme must be the language you have command over.

Start searching for a right Chinese university for you as soon as you finalize the steam of education and study program you want to pursue your degree in. There are many factors that must be considered while selecting a right university for you. It is recommended to explore maximum universities online and shortlist them in order of preference and apply for admission in at least three of them.

• Check the tuition fee of your study program and compare the fee with other universities,

• Confirm that if the university you are choosing for your education is located in the city of China where you want to study,

•  Check the global ranking of the university,

•  Check admission eligibility criteria,

• Application submission deadline,

•  Documents requirements,

• Availability of on campus residence and

• Check if the university offers any scholarships and fee waivers and if any check eligibility criteria.

The academic requirements for each of study program in China will be different. There are age limits set by Chinese institutions for each of academic level and there are minimum grades set for admission. The Age Requirements for each of academic level set by Chinese institutions are as follows:

• For admission in under graduate study programme, the age of applicant must be under 25 years.

• For admission in post graduate study programme (Masters), the age limit of applicant must be under 35 years

• For admission in post graduate study programme (PhD), the age limit of applicant must be under 40 years.

Academic Requirements:

• For admission in Under Graduate programme, the applicant must have passed a High School Diploma or equivalent (A-Level) from a recognized institution of his country. Your chosen Chinese institution might take an entrance exam to assess your capabilities and passing that entrance exam in good grades will ascertain your admission. The GCSE holders are not granted admission in Chinese universities for under graduate courses; they will have to take admission in foundation course of 1 year duration first before taking admission in Under Graduate study programme.

• For admission in post graduate (Masters) programme, the applicants must have passed Bachelor’s degree from a recognized institution of their country in good grades. Passing an entrance exam is also compulsion for admission in many Chinese Universities that you will have to ascertain before choosing the university in China. The applicant will also be needed to provide two recommendation letters from two of his/her professors.

• For admission in post graduate (PhD) programme, the applicants must have passed Masters Degree from a recognized institute of his/her country in good grades. Two recommendation letters from his/her professors will be required. The Chinese Institution you choose for study might also take an entrance exam which you will have to pass in good grades.

Chinese language is medium of instruction in all of the Chinese Universities. However, many of Chinese universities are offering study programmes in English language which you must ascertain before selecting a study programme. Even if you choose a study program in English, some command over Chinese language will be required for living in China and you will learn it eventually while your stay there. For admission in Under Graduate or Post Graduate courses, the English Proficiency Test Certificates accepted by Chinese Universities are IELTS and TOEFL and for admission in study programmes with Chinese as medium of instruction you will have to pass Hanyu Shuiping Kaoshi (HSK) test. There are three difficulty levels of Hanyu Shuiping Kaoshi (HSK) test which include primary, medium level and advanced level. The level required in Hanyu Shuiping Kaoshi (HSK) test depends on your study programme and academic level and you will prepare for it accordingly. For example for Science, Engineering and IT Courses in Chinese Language, HSK Elementary Test will be required and for Liberal Arts, Economics and Management Courses in Chinese Language HSK Intermediate Test will be required.

International student can apply for admission directly at their chosen Chinese university through their website or they can choose any of the following two methods of application:

• CUCAS Application Method: - CUCAS is an online application platform which serves as mediator between applicants and Chinese Universities for admissions. By using CUCAS application method you can apply at your chosen Chinese University.

• CUAC Application Method: - CUAC aka China University Application Centre is also an online platform working as a mediator between Chinese University and international students. CUAC is also provides professional guidance regarding course selection in Chinese Universities to applicants.

The documents required may vary from university to university in China and also depends on your study level and study program. For international students the required documents are corresponded with visa documents and national identity of international students. In general, the following documents are required by all of Chinese Universities for admissions to international students:

• 2 recent passport size photographs of applicant

• A photocopy of applicant’s valid national passport

• Photocopy of National Identity Card

• Health Certificate (proving the applicant is in good health)

• Clearance letter from local police station proving the applicant has good character and has no criminal offence registered against him

• Language proficiency test certificate (for English taught courses IELTS and TOEFL for Chinese language taught courses HSK)

• A letter of guarantee( signed by the guardian or parents of the applicant stating that the applicant will abide all the rules and regulations of Chinese government during his stay in China and stating that the guardian take responsibility of the actions of the applicant)

• Proof of Financial Resources for your education and stay in China

• Transcripts of your academic records, diplomas  and certificates

• Recommendation letters from two of applicant’s professors (for post graduate courses)

• You must meet age requirement if the course

• Letter of intent (written by applicant stating why he has chosen certain study programme and explaining his/her professional aspirations)

In China, the academic year is split into two semesters namely spring semester and autumn semester. Some of the universities in China also implement three semester admission schedule. It is better to ascertain the admission deadlines of your chosen Chinese university before planning your admission schedule.  But generally, the admission submission deadlines of most of Chinese Universities have following schedule:

• For admission in spring semester the application must be submitted till 15^th of July

• For admission in autumn semester the application must be submitted till 30^th of April

After submitting the required documents and admission form you can expect the admission process to take 30 to 40 days. If your application gets approved by Chinese university they will send you an acceptance letter or offer letter for admission. You will be asked to pay tuition fee and from there your student visa process will commence. You will have to visit Chinese Consulate for details regarding student visa, purchase health insurance coverage of worth 62,000 USD along with fulfilling other perquisites of student visa.

Part time jobs while studying in abroad is a necessity for international students. By working part time you can support your studying and living expenses and gain experience of work in the job market of China. It will enhance your Chinese speaking skills and give you professional exposure and a deeper look into the culture and life style of China. Although, working part time while studying in abroad is a challenge but it will shape you into efficient professional and make you responsible. In China, part time work for international students was allowed after 2013 to encourage more international enrollments in Chinese Universities. As China is a fastest growing economy of the world, there are many part time job opportunities which are professionally and financially promising.

To work part time the student visa holders of China (X1 visa) had to seek permission from there hosting Chinese institution and the immigration department of China. The procedure to seek permission for part time work has to be done by following steps:

• Write an application to your hosting Chinese institution for consent to work part time

• You will attach certificate from your hiring employer/ company with your application

• Your hosting institution will forward your part time work approval application to immigration department and seek their documented official consent

• Get consent letter from your hosting Chinese institution

• Visit local police station of China nearest to your residence and have your resident permit of China marked with ‘Part Time Work’

• You will be allowed to work part time 20 hours a week in China during semesters and during semester breaks you can work full time

• You cannot change your employer frequently in China for part time work so make sure the job you have selected for part time suits your interest and pays you satisfactory amount.

Teaching English

Getting English teaching job in China is easiest. The teacher for English language does not have to be a native English speaker; he/she must have proficiency in the language and command over grammar. The salary for teacher mainly depends on the city of China you live but approximately you can earn 100RMB to 200RMB per hour. You can find English teaching job ads in news papers, websites and your university’s notice board as your fellow Chinese students can hire you for helping them to learn English.

Translator

A translator can earn $28/hr in China. The job requires a native speaker of German, Romanian, French, Hindi, Urdu, Bulgarian and many other languages to translate text into English language. Initially, the translator will work under supervision of a mentor and with time by gaining experience the salary will increase according to skills gained. It is great way to pave your way into job market and making contacts in Chinese professional sector. There are many multinational companies and telephone companies that require translators for proof reading, reviewing and translating.

Voice Recording

It is another job relating to English language proficiency. The voice recording job is related to media field. The employee would be hired to do English voice over for cartoons, commercials and how to videos. The employee will read out the lines given to them in written form in their native accent. This job will pay you $40 to $60 USD per hour. You can find voice recording job on websites or by dropping your CV directly at related company.

Photographer

The individuals with professional photography skills are not going out of money in China. You can do part time and freelance job of a photographer in China and get paid per gig. On average a professional photographer can earn $12 per hour but depending on your skills and experience you can earn more than that. You can do freelancing and part time photography assignments in weddings, exhibitions, events, concerts and corporate meetings. Since photography is not a complex skill, if you are currently planning to study abroad in China, hone your photography skills and prepare a portfolio of your work.

Graphic Designing

If you have any skill in your hand it can never go in vain. Graphic designing skill is high in demand in China. Whether you have done diploma in graphic designing or learnt it through you tube or other sources, the requirement is your ability to do graphic designing as demanded by employers. You can earn $51 USD per gig or get per hour payment in China for doing graphic designing job. In China, it is a great way to start your career in this field and work on as many projects as you can handle and get your CV ready to be a professional graphic designer in future.

Legal Assistant

The job of a legal assistant is to type and handle paper work which includes proof reading of legal documents, compose legal nature contracts, performing clerical work, handle summons and complaints and preparing routine correspondence of the employer. The individuals having any sectarian or clerical experience will be preferred and those doing law degrees are first choice for this job. This job will pay you $10 USD to $20 USD per hour based on your experience.

Hotel/Cafe and restaurant Attendants

The hotel and restaurant attendants in China can earn $9 USD to $10 USD per hour. The job is simple and does not require any working experience. The working hours can be according to your schedule and above all you will enhance your Chinese language proficiency which is highly demanded in job market of China for your later career.

Free Lancing

Online platforms have given a platform to talented and skilled workers to approach employers and demonstrate their talent and earn deserving money per gig. Fiver, Peopleperhour and up work are such websites which are serving as mediator between employees and employers. If you can do web designing, web developing, content writing, proposal writing, social media handling, you can earn $25 per hour sitting at your home. It is a great way to build your professional profile and increase your skills by doing projects.

Internship Programs

The most recommended and proffered part time job type in China is definitely internship. Gaining experience in the field of your study major will train you professionally, deliver required knowledge, make you understand the demands of the job market, prepare you to face professional challenges and above all make your CV ready for getting job right after completing your degree. Recruiters hiring fresh graduates who have done internship in their academic years as they are more knowledgeable and efficient and the firms do not have to train them for work. China is ahead of the game in terms of internship programs for international students. Many Chinese universities have organized on campus internship programs that not only pay them but also grant certificate at end of the internship program. There is a chance depending on your work ethic and performance you might even get a permanent job position by the end of your internship program. You can find many internship programs being run by Chinese government and universities, a few of them are enlisted below:

• International Internships in Hong Kong with The Intern Group

• Connect-123 Shanghai Internships

• Global Experiences Internships in Shanghai, China

• Projects Abroad Internships in China

• Connect-123 Summer Internships Abroad

• Find your potential: Internship Abroad at Fortune 500 in China

• Engineering & Business Internships in China with Mentoring

• CAPA Shanghai: Study & Intern Abroad

• Connect-123 Medical And Healthcare Internships

• CET Shanghai

• Paid Legal and Law Internship in Renowned Law Firms in China- Go Abroad China

Like other top study abroad destination, China is also offering post graduation work opportunities to international students. In the past, the students could only get work in China if they had professional experience of two years. But the new immigration policy of China is very welcoming and accommodating for international students. The experienced clause has been dropped and the points based system of immigration system is allowing you to gain Tier A, B or C work permit visas based on your qualifications, age, employment contract and professional expertise. Though there are extra points if you have gained experience of work in China. Internship programs in China have even made gaining work experience in China according to your study major quite easy because the government and universities are providing plenty of opportunities and encouraging international students through initiating young talent traineeships.  (Visit Permanent Residency of China Article for Details about Tier A, B and C visas and points system). The following sectors in China are rapidly growing; graduates related to these professions are high in demand in China:

• Banking and financial services

• Engineering

• Manufacturing

• Sales and marketing

• Technology

• E- Commerce marketing

• Automotive and Operations

• Retail

• Chemicals

• Consumer products

• Food processing

• Machine building

• Mining

• Technology

• Textiles

• Transport.

When Pakistani students have decided to study in China give a through consideration and time to search the right accommodation for your stay. The accommodation you choose to live will be your home abroad for few most important years of your life; you will make memories of lifetime and most probably it will be your first self managed home. China is densely populated country; there are suburban, exurban and rural areas. Each locality has its own renting costs and facilities but rest assured the costs will be reasonable and easy on your pocket. We have gathered required information in the guide below to give an overview of types of accommodation in China for Pakistani students:

China is not new to international students. Thousands of students travel abroad to China for academic purposes and Chinese universities do their best to accommodate them in any way possible. On Campus housing is the most suitable and affordable type of housing. Especially for the students who are visiting an unknown country for the first time. The on campus housing usually has two categories such as: Halls of Residence and Hostels.

Halls of Residence

The universities in China have arranged a well managed accommodation plan for international students. The halls of residence are usually built purposely to meet the requirements of students belonging from different countries.  The halls of residence are located near to university campuses and you will be living among your fellow faculty mates.

Facilities in Halls of Residence

• Furnished rooms

• Free Internet

• 24/7 security

• Air conditioning, heater, electric water heater in each room

• Private bathroom in each room

• TV set

• Meals can be self catered or university provided

Communal Facilities

• Kitchen and laundry room in each floor for all students

• Study room

• Parking lot

Single or Shared Room facility

The students are offered to rent a single bedroom or have shared bedroom facility in halls of residence. The rent will obviously be different but the facilities will be the same.

Cost

A single bedroom will cost 21900 RMB per year and shared room will cost 10950 RMB per year. The cities like Beijing, Shanghai and Guangzhou are expensive most in terms of housing. For booking, the authorities will ask for your Temporary Resident Permit of China.

Hostels

Hostels have almost similar facilities as halls of residence but they are managed by private student accommodation organization and have commercial purpose but they are affiliated with Universities and Colleges. You will find students belonging from different universities in one hostel. Since, they are management by private student accommodation organizations; you must be assured of aesthetically designed rooms and modern furniture in hostels. The hostels are also located near to major universities and colleges of China but not as near as halls of residence.  To book a room at hostel, you can take assistance of your hosting Chinese University’s accommodation department or rent it on your own. You will be asked to deposit rent of 3 months in advance as a security. The hostels have typically atmosphere of a dormitory but with less scrutiny of managers.

Facilities

• Furnished rooms

• Free internet

• Gas, Water and Electricity bills will be included in rents

• Meals self catered

• Air conditioner, heater and electric water heater

• Private bathroom in each room

Communal Facilities

• Laundry (paid)

• 24/7 security

• Group study rooms

• Parking lot

• Kitchen in each floor for use of all students

Single Room and Shared Room Facility

Similar to dormitories the students can take shared rooms or single rooms in Hostels. The rooms will have similar facilities but the rent will be half in shared facility. If you will enjoy company of a roommate and it is not odd for you renting shared room will save your money.

Cost

The cost of renting a single room may vary according to the location of your hostel and city in China. But on average the cost of single room will be ?50 RMB per month and ?25 RMB for shared room.

The international students enrolled in post graduate programmes are allowed to live in off campus housing facility. To search an off campus housing facility, there are websites, real estate agents and even the international student department of your hosting Chinese university will assist in this pursuit. The location and city of your intended stay will be the factor behind monthly rent.  To live in off campus housing facility knowing the city well is extremely important, it is not for those who are travelling to China for the first time. But if you want to stay off campus you must either know someone in China, have a friend or relative known to whereabouts of the country or you must stay in hotel for short term and then search for off campus housing. There are private flats, studio apartments and home stay options in off campus housing each has different facilities and monthly rents. After knowing China and making new friends that are reliable and trustworthy, many international students book an off campus housing facility with their friends and share monthly bills. That way they can divide their home chores, cut the cost to half and live independently.

Private Flat

A furnished three bedroom flat in cities like Beijing and Shanghai is expensive deal. To find one you can take services of your Chinese friends, real estate agents, and websites and news papers ads. Private flat is for those students who prefer private atmosphere and want silence to focus on their education. In on campus housing, the atmosphere is obviously crowded and there is limited freedom. But it has its own benefits. In a private flat you will definitely have freedom to do things according to your desire. Invite your friends at any time of the day or night you want. There is no restriction on your arriving and departing timings but the security is your own responsibility. You can cook your own meals per week and refrigerate it and do stuff according to your own wishes.

Facilities

• Furnished rooms

• Sitting area

• Attached Bathroom with each room

• Private Kitchen

• Balcony

• Laundry room

Cost

The costs of a private flat with one bedroom will b around $ 435 per month in urban cities of China. The bills of electricity, internet and gas are not included in rent. Besides monthly rent the students have to deposit 3 months’ rent in advance and also pay certain amount to real estate agent as commission.

Studio Apartment

China is a fast paced and economically growing country. The infrastructures of the cities are modernly designed owing to the needs of working class people. You can find contemporary designed studio apartments in China quite easily.

Facilities

• Two bedrooms

• Sitting room

• Balcony

• Furnished house

• Equipped kitchen and laundry room

Cost

The cost of renting a studio apartment in China will be around $ 435 /Month to $ 573 /Month. The internet, electricity, gas and water bills are not included in the rents

Home Stay

Home stay is in another off campus housing option for international students in China. The home stay ads for home stay accommodation will be found in websites, news papers and real estate agents can also assist you in finding one. Home stay accommodation is for those students who would prefer living in family atmosphere and can follow rules and regulations set by their hosting family. It is a great way to learn culture of China and hone your Chinese language skills. But before booking home stay accommodation keep in mind your privacy will be compromised and you cannot invite friends over to your place frequently as it might disturb your hosting family.

Facilities

• Furnished bedroom

• Private bathroom

• Meals (depends on your hosting family)

Cost

The rent of home stay accommodation will be around $23 to $40 USD per night. The utility bills of electricity, water and gas will be divided from total bills according to your usage.

• Compare the rents in different locations of city and types of accommodation before finalizing

• Don’t commit to an accommodation that does not suit your living habits

• Read the rental contract and terms and conditions carefully before signing

• Confirm there are no hidden charges involved except than offered deal

• Ask the real estate agents or student accommodation services to let you survey your accommodation before you make payment

• Make sure the accommodation you have chosen contains your required facilities

• If you are booking an accommodation which involves roommates ask the accommodation services to fix your meeting with your roommate so that you may know the person you are going to share facilities with

• Make sure the area you have chosen to live is secure for an expat

• Make sure the accommodation is near to public transport and central city

• Keep the rental contract copy in a safe place.

The Chinese Government is offering work permits and permanent residency of China to international students including Pakistani Students post-graduation which is a major attraction. For obvious reason, the international students travelling to China for education have ulterior purpose of gaining work experience from job market of China’s booming economy. Chinese Government has set target to invite 500,000 foreign students to China for education till 2020 and for that it has initiated simpler work permit process. We have thoroughly explained the process different work visas and permanent residency of China for your understanding in the guide below:

The international students studying in China can extend his student visa 7 days before it expires. They can visit PSB (Public Security Bureau Entry and Exit Administration Office) and place an application of visa extension there. To avail work permit they must get an employment contract while their stay in China on student visa or they will have to return to their country and apply for work permit from there. Since 2017, the State Administration of Foreign Experts Affairs (SAFEA) and the Human Resources and Social Security Bureau (HRSS) has reformed the old immigration criteria and introduced a new unified work permit system for foreign students and expats. Under this system, the international students can apply for Tier A, B and C level visas based on points system which is categorized by qualification, age, work experience, skills and annual salary of candidate.

The procedure of attaining work visa typically involves three major steps:

1. Submitting application for employment license

2. Submitting application at Chinese Embassy for work visa

3. Obtaining Employment permit

Previously, the applicants of the work permit had to apply for issuance of employment license at the Human Resources and Social Security Bureau (HRSS) and for employment they had to apply at the State Administration of Foreign Experts Affairs (SAFEA). But now the State Administration of Foreign Experts Affairs (SAFEA) is solely responsible for all of work permit license and permit issuance. In fact, SAFEA has efficiently quickened the work permit process and simplified its attainment.

The international students can attain either of the Tier visas based on points scoring system For Tier visa the applicant must score 85 points, for Tier B visa the applicants must score 60-85 points and for Tier C visa the applicant must score points below 60. The points scoring system is explained in the chart below:

• The applicant scores 85 points in above mentioned points system

Other than meeting points score the eligibility requirements of getting Tier ‘A’ Visa are as below:

• If the applicant is employed by one of China’s regional plans (introduction of foreign talent)

• If they meet the eligibility requirements of global talent according to internationally recognized standards of their field of work such as:

• If the applicant have been awarded for showing excellent performance in their field of work

• If the applicant have assumed leadership position at well reputed academic institutions or international organizations

• If the applicant had made contribution in field of Science and Technology as chief editor or senior editor at one of the world’s well reputed journal

• If the applicant had been working as assistant professor, professor, or at management position at internationally reputed academic institution

• If the applicant had been working as a senior manager at Fortune 500 company

• If the applicant had been working as a senior employee at one of the world’s reputed banks or financial institutions

• Pulitzer awards holders

• If the applicant had worked on senior level position at government organizations, NGO’s, or renowned international institutions

• If the applicant is successful entrepreneur (earning over 10 million annually)

• If the applicant is under 40 years of age and is doing post doctoral research and he/she has graduated from top ranking university of the world.

• If the applicant earn 6 times more than the average local  salary per year

• If the applicant scores 60 to 84 points in the above mentioned points table

Other than meeting points score the eligibility requirements of getting Tier ‘B’ Visa are as below:

• If the applicant has a Bachelor’s degree or above level and has two years of work experience in the field of his study major

• If the applicant is a skilled worker in the field which is urgently required in labor market of China

• If the applicant can teach a foreign language (their native language)and hold a Bachelor’s level degree, has two years or above experience in teaching field, or any internationally recognized teaching language diploma

• If the applicant earns four levels more than the average local salary per year

• If the applicant scores under 60 points in the above mentioned points table

Other than meeting points score the eligibility requirements of getting Tier ‘C’ Visa are as below:

• If the applicant holds work permit under the old points system but is not qualified for Tier ‘A’, and ‘B’ visa

• If the applicant is doing short term work in China (under 90 days)

• If the applicant is doing internship in China

• If the applicant qualifies for quotas introduced by Chinese Government that encourage young talents.

The candidate interested to work in China post graduation can apply for above mentioned TIER visas. The maximum validity duration of TIER visas is 5 years. But it is seldom granted at once, the candidate will be initially granted one year visa validity which he/she can extend for one more year till maximum 5 years.

Method of Application

The method of application for applying any TIER visa is through online platform of China (Management Service System) controlled by SAFEA. The applicant and the employer will the application and fulfill documents requirements. The application and documents requirements are almost cut to half and they are more simplified. The following documents will be required to apply for any type of TIER visas:

• A completely filled visa application form for work permit

• A verified employment contract (past employment)

• Verified academic certificates, diplomas, degrees

• A document proving the applicant has no criminal record

• Medical examination certificate (proving the applicant is in good health and is not suffering from any medical disease which can be regarded as health threat to general public of China)

• Offer Letter or Appointment Letter or Job Contract

• A valid passport

• Identity card

• Information of any family member accompanying the applicant to China

Required Documents from Employer in China

• Registration form

• Business license

• Organization code certificate

• ID information of the employer

• Document of Industry License

The permanent residency visa of China is called D type visa. It allows candidate less than 18 years of age to live for 5 years in China and an adult to live for 10 years. To get permanent residency of China you must meet following requirements:

• If you are a spouse of citizen or permanent resident of China (you must be married for 5 years at least)

• If you are child who has come to China to live with his/her parents

• If you are an investor who has invest a large amount of money in China’s market in last 3 years and your business is earning stable amount

• If you have been living in China under work permit for last 4 to 5 years and are a high profile employee

• If you are a foreigner who has made a major contribution to China through your outstanding work

• If you are over 60 years of age and have come to China to live with your reliant

• The applicant of resident permit of China is restricted to live in China for at least 9 months per year

• The visa application process of resident permit will cost you 1,800 CNY.

Documents Required for Pakistani Students to Apply for Resident Permit of China

• Proof  that you have no criminal record

• Health Certificate

• A Valid Passport or ID

• Two Passport Size Photographs

• Employment Contract (prove that you can support your living expenses)

The resident permit holders of China are allowed to change jobs and invite their family members to China to stay with them. Their family members are eligible to apply for Q type visa of China to avail benefits.

To get citizenship of China you have to meet following requirements:

• If you are an immediate relative of Chinese citizen

• If you are settled in China on resident permit

Required Documents

• Birth certificate

• Proof you qualify eligibility clause (proof that you are a immediate resident of Chinese citizenship)

• A Valid Passport

• Other Travel documents

• Letters of employment

• Resident Permit

• Tax returns

• Proof of Residence

• The fee for citizenship application of China is 250 CNY.

• Those applying for a Chinese citizenship would have to give up their citizenship rights in another country. China does not allow its citizen to have multiple citizenships.