Top 10 Best Universities in China and Why Education Matters
China, with its large population, currently has more than 230 million children requiring education. Education is a top priority for Chinese parents, and there is a famous slogan that highlights this: “one child but of better quality”. This reflects the cultural belief that parents should invest in their child’s education as a key to future success.
In Chinese culture, it is common for an entire family to pool resources to ensure the success of a child. A good education increases the chances of securing a high-paying job and a comfortable lifestyle. For this reason, Chinese parents carefully select universities with the best programs and strong reputations.
Reputation is crucial in Chinese society, a concept known as Mianzi—maintaining face or social standing. Parents strive to provide not only the best education for their children but also preserve the family’s reputation. Driving luxury cars, consuming high-quality products, and maintaining influential social networks are all part of this cultural practice.
Choosing the right university is considered one of the most important decisions in a parent’s life. Chinese parents aim to secure their child’s future while maintaining family Mianzi. The following list presents the 10 best higher-education institutions in China in 2021, all accredited by relevant authorities.
Source: UniRank – universities selected based on unbiased web metrics provided by independent sources rather than data submitted by the universities themselves.
Based in Beijing, Peking University (PKU) was established in 1898. It offers a wide range of study fields and excellent facilities, including libraries, sports centers, financial aid, and administrative services. PKU is widely regarded as the best university in China.
Also located in Beijing, Tsinghua University (THU) was founded in 1911. Known for producing leaders in science, engineering, politics, business, and culture, THU ranks 15th globally in the QS World University Rankings and is the top university in Asia according to THE Asia University Rankings.
Located in Hangzhou, Zhejiang University (ZJU) ranks 215th globally. It has a selective admission policy based on entrance exams. Successful students may also participate in exchange programs abroad, enhancing the university’s international reputation.
Based in Shanghai, China’s business hub, Shanghai Jiao Tong University (SJTU) was founded in 1896. It has a selective admission process, enrolls about 36,000 students, and provides access to exchange programs and extensive facilities.
Also in Shanghai, Fudan University, founded in 1905, enrolls over 45,000 students. It offers a comprehensive range of programs, including languages, medicine, and technology, with admission based on entrance exams.
Located in Hubei province, Wuhan University (WHU) serves over 40,000 students. Founded in 1893, WHU follows the motto “Self-improvement, Perseverance, Truth-seeking, and Innovation.”
Established in 1958 in Hefei, USTC specializes in engineering, sciences, and technology. The university admits approximately 15,000 students and is recognized by the Department of Education of Anhui Province.
Founded in 1902, Nanjing University (NJU) serves over 40,000 students. Its motto is “Sincerity with Aspiration, Perseverance and Integrity,” and it offers programs in medicine, social sciences, engineering, and more.
Based in Shanghai since 1907, Tongji University enrolls about 40,000 students and offers bachelor’s, master’s, and doctorate degrees. Its motto is “Discipline, Practicality, Unity, and Creativity.”
Founded in 1937 and based in Beijing, Renmin University of China enrolls over 25,000 students. Its motto is “Seek Truth from Facts.” Programs include Arts & Humanities, Business & Social Sciences, Language & Culture, and Sciences & Technology.
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