Exchange guide Fudan University
Courses, housing, visa, campus life and exchange basics for studying at Fudan University in Shanghai, China.
Snapshot
Shanghai's most prestigious comprehensive university. Strong in social sciences, journalism, and international programs, with a vibrant campus in Wujiaochang.
Why students shortlist it
One of China's top two universities, consistently among the world's best for humanities, social sciences, and medicine. Shanghai location adds a global-city dimension — arguably the best all-round Chinese university experience for exchange students.
Teaching languages: Chinese (primary); English-taught tracks available including Fudan International Semester programme
Before You Land
A few practical setup details students usually sort before arrival
Connectivity, insurance, and secure public WiFi are the boring things you only notice when you need them. Keep them on your checklist, but keep the guide itself front and centre.
Arrival Connectivity
Sort an eSIM before you land
Maps, ride apps, 2FA codes, and WhatsApp are usually the first things students need from the airport.
Coverage Check
Confirm your travel insurance
Even when the university gives guidance, students usually need to double-check what is covered before departure.
Public WiFi
Have a backup for shared networks
Campus halls, airports, and cafés are convenient, but many students prefer an extra privacy layer when they first arrive.
Exchange Basics
Requirements
Good academic standing (typically GPA 3.0+ or equivalent). Proof of English proficiency (TOEFL 90 / IELTS 6.5) for English-taught classes, or Mandarin proficiency (typically HSK 4-5) for Chinese-taught classes.
Nomination Process
Home university coordinators must submit official nominations through the host university portal, followed by student online application submission.
| Semester | Nomination | Application |
|---|---|---|
| March | April-May |
Arrival Checklist
- Apply for your X1 or X2 Student Visa using the official JW202/DQ form
- Register for the mandatory student health insurance plan (Ping An)
- Reserve on-campus housing or secure verified off-campus accommodation
- Register at the local police station (within 24 hours of arrival if off-campus)
- Attend the international student welcome briefing and complete course registration adjustments
Academics
Course Registration
Exchange students can take courses across multiple faculties. Good English-taught course catalog compared to most Chinese universities.
Credit System
Chinese credits. Fudan provides detailed syllabi to help with ECTS conversion.
Grading System
Standard percentage-based grading scale (0-100) or letter grade system: A (90-100, Excellent), B (80-89, Good), C (70-79, Fair), D (60-69, Pass), F (<60, Fail).
Exam Culture
Fudan runs an intensive Chinese semester rhythm with mandatory attendance (typically 80–90%) for both lectures and seminars. Most modules weight 40–60% on final written exam; the rest on mid-term tests, group projects, and class participation. International programme tracks (FISIP, Fudan International Summer Session) are more case-based and discussion-driven. Resit policies strict — some courses don't allow retakes within the same semester.
Tuition & Fees
| Student Type | Amount | Note |
|---|---|---|
| EXCHANGE | CNY 0 exchange / CNY 22,000–32,000 self-funded | Bilateral exchange tuition fully waived. Self-funded/non-exchange students pay ¥22,000–32,000 per semester depending on uni and programme. Mandatory student … |
| Full degree – international | CNY 26,000–50,000/year | Fudan international full-degree: undergrad humanities/social science CNY 26,000/year, science/engineering CNY 32,000–38,000, MBA/medical CNY 45,000–50,000. C… |
CNY 0 exchange / CNY 22,000–32,000 self-funded
Bilateral exchange tuition fully waived. Self-funded/non-exchange students pay ¥22,000–32,000 per semester depending on uni and programme. Mandatory student …
CNY 26,000–50,000/year
Fudan international full-degree: undergrad humanities/social science CNY 26,000/year, science/engineering CNY 32,000–38,000, MBA/medical CNY 45,000–50,000. C…
Fees change annually — verify current rates on the official exchange office page
Where to Stay
Insurance & Campus Support
Mandatory Insurance
Yes. Valid health coverage is required for the exchange period.
EHIC Accepted
No
Campus Clinic
Use university student health/wellbeing services first for local care routing, prevention, counselling, and referrals.
Mental Health
Most universities route students through student health, wellbeing, or counselling services. Ask early, not only during exam stress.
Ping An government insurance
Varies by status / nationality
Confirm exact plan eligibility with the host university International Office before arrival.
Private international
Varies by status / nationality
Confirm exact plan eligibility with the host university International Office before arrival.
Campus Services
International Students Office (ISO)
Visa, housing, academic advising, cultural immersion programs.
Main University Library
Access to extensive print collections, online international academic databases, quiet study rooms, and computer terminals.
International Students Office (Fudan)
Fudan ISO: visa and residence permits, health insurance, international student scholarships, dormitory reservation, and cultural activities management.
English Portal (Fudan)
Fudan University English portal: admissions, academic programs, campus life, research, and student services information for international students.
Student Life
Student Clubs
- Strong debate society, international student association, and tech/startup groups.
Buddy Program
Fudan's 'Buddy Program' pairs you with a local student for the semester.
Sports & Recreation
- Modern sports facilities, swimming pool, and intercollegiate competitions.
Public Groups & Erasmus Communities
WeChat groups via ISO. Also join 'Fudan International Students' on various platforms.
Your First 2 Weeks
- Complete police registration and residence permit process.
- Attend the ISO welcome orientation.
- Get your campus card and explore the Wujiaochang commercial district.
- Join the Buddy Program to make local friends fast.
Key Dates
Nomination & Application Window
March to May (for Fall intake) / October to November (for Spring intake)
Home university nominates students, who then complete host institution portal registration.
Welcome Week & Orientation
Late August or Early September (Fall) / Late February (Spring)
Mandatory campus check-in, visa validation, health insurance activation, and campus tours.
Semester Classes & Exams
September to January (Fall) / March to July (Spring)
Academic terms running for 16-18 weeks, followed by a 2-week final exam period.
Application window (Autumn intake)
March – May
JW202/JW201 admission form issued by host university; required for X-visa application.
Application window (Spring intake)
October – November
Same flow for February/March arrival. Allow 6–8 weeks for visa processing.