Costs vary widely by city, school and lifestyle, but China is generally cheaper than most Western countries.
Tuition
Chinese-language or non-degree study runs about ¥15,000–30,000/year; English-taught degrees are higher, roughly ¥20,000–60,000/year. Doctoral study is often fully funded by scholarships.
Housing
On-campus dorms are affordable, about ¥3,000–8,000/year; off-campus sharing ranges from ¥1,500–4,000/month in top cities.
Daily Life
A canteen meal is about ¥10–20; metro/bus rides ¥2–8. Many students live on ¥1,500–3,500/month (less in smaller cities).
City Differences
Beijing, Shanghai and Shenzhen cost more; Hangzhou, Chengdu, Wuhan and Xi'an offer great value and a rich student experience.