Nankai University is a prominent comprehensive institution directly affiliated with the Chinese Ministry of Education. It is renowned as the alma mater of the esteemed former Premier of the People’s Republic of China, Zhou Enlai, who is recognized globally as a distinguished politician and diplomat. Established in 1919 by the esteemed patriotic educators, Dr. Zhang Boling and Yan Xiu, Nankai University has consistently maintained a balanced approach between the humanities and the sciences, offering a solid foundation alongside a synthesis of application and creativity.
The undergraduate programs for international students at Nankai University are structured according to the 1+3 “Academy System,” with a total duration of four years. The first year is dedicated to general liberal courses, followed by three years of specialized professional studies. Applicants may select two undergraduate programs; however, some colleges may not accept candidates applying for a program as their second choice. Additional details can be found in the attached document, “2025 Undergraduate Programs of Nankai University for International Students.”
Nankai University Information
Established in 1919, Nankai University is a non-profit public higher education institution located in the urban setting of the large city of Tianjin (population range of 1,000,000-5,000,000 inhabitants). Officially accredited and/or recognized by the Tianjin Municipal Education Commission, Nankai University (NKU) is a large (uniRank enrollment range: 20,000-24,999 students) coeducational higher education institution. Nankai University (NKU) offers courses and programs leading to officially recognized higher education degrees such as bachelor degrees in several areas of study. See the uniRank degree levels and areas of study matrix below for further details. This 100 years old higher-education institution has a selective admission policy based on entrance examinations. International applicants are eligible to apply for enrollment.
Eligibility Criteria
- Applicants must be non-Chinese citizens in good health and at least 18 years of age (born before September 1, 2007). Additionally, they must possess a senior high school diploma with commendable academic performance.
- Candidates must have proficiency in the Chinese language, evidenced by an HSK Level 4 certificate with a minimum score of 180. Detailed professional requirements for selected programs are available in the attached document titled “2025 Undergraduate Programs of Nankai University for International Students.”
- Applicants must meet the conditions prescribed by Document No. 12 (2020) issued by the Ministry of Education of the People’s Republic of China.
Offered Benefits
- Chinese Government Scholarships: Covers tuition fees, accommodation fees, comprehensive medical insurance, and a monthly living allowance.
- International Chinese Language Teachers Scholarship: Provides exemptions from tuition fees, accommodation fees, comprehensive medical insurance, and a living allowance.
- Tianjin Government Scholarship: Provides tuition assistance. Application Deadline: May 20, 2025.
- “Study-at-NKU” President Scholarship: Provides tuition assistance, accommodation allowance, or living allowance. Application Deadline: May 20, 2025.
Application Process
Go to Nankai University on rz.moe.gov.cn to apply Applicants must create an account, complete the application form, upload the required documents, pay the application fee online (400 RMB), and submit their application via the Nankai International Students Application System.
Required Documents:
- A valid passport information page (validity extending beyond September 1, 2026). For applicants currently residing in Chinese Mainland, a valid visa or resident permit page is required.
- The highest degree certificate (notarized photocopy). Documents not in Chinese or English must include
- notarized translations in one of those languages. Students who are expected to graduate must provide an official letter indicating their anticipated graduation date and submit the diploma upon admission.
- Official senior high school transcripts or transcripts reflecting current academic achievements. Notarized translations must be provided for transcripts not in Chinese or English.
- A personal statement, composed in either Chinese or English.
- An HSK Level 4 certificate with a minimum score of 180.
- One recommendation letter, written in either Chinese or English.
- Additional materials that demonstrate the applicant’s academic and comprehensive abilities, such as certificates of awards in sports or the arts, specialty certificates, published papers, or undergraduate admission notices from other universities.
- A Record of Physical Examination for Foreigners, which can be completed in either Chinese or English. Testing requirements must be strictly adhered to, as outlined in the provided form. The results must be issued after November 2024 to be considered valid.
- Proof of financial capability.
- Non-criminal record affirmation.
If required, the university may contact applicants for the submission of additional documentation.
UNDERGRADUATE-Office for International Academic Exchanges, International Students Section
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