Study in Xi'an
Quick Facts
City Overview
Xi'an is one of China's four ancient capitals, capital of 13 dynasties, and the starting point of the Silk Road. The city hosts 10 CSCA-accepting universities including Xi'an Jiaotong University (C9 League member) and Northwestern Polytechnical University (Project 985). The Terracotta Warriors and ancient city walls are UNESCO World Heritage witnessing millennia of history. Living costs are half of Shanghai, making Xi'an ideal for history-culture immersion with high value.
Why Study Here
Five reasons to study in Xi'an: 1) C9 university—Xi'an Jiaotong University has top-tier engineering; 2) Historical culture—Terracotta Warriors, City Wall World Heritage sites; 3) High value—living costs half of Shanghai; 4) Aerospace powerhouse—NPU is one of the Seven Defense Universities; 5) Food paradise—Roujiamo, Yangrou Paomo and Shaanxi cuisine.
Detailed Living Costs
Xi'an has very affordable living costs among new first-tier cities. International students typically spend ¥1,500-2,500 per month. Yanta and Beilin districts are main university areas.
On-campus dorm: ¥600-1,200/mo; Off-campus shared: ¥1,000-2,000/mo
Canteen: ¥10-20/meal; Off-campus: ¥15-35/meal; Shaanxi food is delicious and cheap
Subway: ¥2-7/trip; Bus: ¥2; Xi'an Metro covers major universities
Mobile plans: ¥40-100/mo
Money-saving tips: Muslim Street is touristy with higher prices—try local spots like Sajin Bridge; Campus canteens offer great value; Xi'an noodles are cheap and delicious.
Climate
Xi'an has a temperate continental monsoon climate with four distinct seasons. Spring (Mar-May) is warm but dusty; Summer (Jun-Aug) is hot and dry, reaching 38°C; Autumn (Sep-Nov) is cool and pleasant—the best season; Winter (Dec-Feb) is cold, around -5 to 5°C, with central heating.
Transportation
Xi'an Metro has 8 lines covering the main city and universities, operating roughly 6:00 AM - 11:00 PM. Xianyang International Airport (XIY) connects via airport buses and Metro Line 14. Xi'an North Railway Station is a HSR hub—Beijing (4.5 hrs), Shanghai (6 hrs), Chengdu (3 hrs) are easily accessible.
Student Life
Student life in Xi'an is fulfilling with rich historical experiences. Terracotta Warriors is a must-visit with half-price student tickets. Cycling on the ancient city wall is a unique experience. Muslim Street offers various Halal foods. Big Wild Goose Pagoda Square is a public leisure center. Bell and Drum Towers are city center landmarks. Weekend trips to Mount Huashan for hiking. Universities have vibrant student communities.
Safety
Xi'an has good public security and is one of China's safer major cities. Emergency numbers: 110 (police), 120 (ambulance), 119 (fire). Top-tier hospitals like Xijing and Tangdu Hospital offer high-quality care. International student medical insurance is arranged by universities.
Language Environment
Locals speak Shaanxi dialect, but Mandarin is universal. English proficiency is average, lower than Shanghai/Beijing. English is more common on campus, but basic Chinese is recommended off-campus. Xi'an Jiaotong University and Northwest University offer Chinese language programs.
Tips for Students
- Terracotta Warriors half-price for students—bring student ID
- Cycling around the ancient city wall is a must-do
- Try various Xi'an noodles—delicious and cheap
Universities in Xi'an (8)
Northwestern Polytechnical University
西北工业大学
Xi'an Jiaotong University
西安交通大学
Chang'an University
长安大学
Northwest University
西北大学
Xi'an Shiyou University
西安石油大学
Xidian University
西安电子科技大学
Xi'an International Studies University
西安外国语大学
Shaanxi Normal University
陕西师范大学
Scholarships in Xi'an (10)
Northwestern Polytechnical University - Xi'an "One Belt, One Road" Scholarship for Foreign Students
Northwestern Polytechnical University "Presidential Scholarship for Studying at NWPI"
Northwestern Polytechnical University Scholarship for International Students ("Wu Yajun" Scholarship)
Specialized Scholarship for International Students from Northwestern Polytechnical University ("Guangdong, Hong Kong and Macao" Scholarship)
Xi'an Jiaotong University - Xi'an Municipal Government "Belt and Road" Scholarship for Foreign Students
Cost Estimate
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to live in Xi'an as a student?
The average monthly living cost in Xi'an for international students is approximately ¥2,000 (about $282). This includes accommodation, food, transportation, and daily expenses.
How many universities in Xi'an accept CSCA exam scores?
Xi'an has 8 universities that accept CSCA exam scores for international student admission. Of these, 33 English-taught programs are available.
What is the total cost for a 4-year bachelor's degree in Xi'an?
The estimated total cost for a 4-year bachelor's degree in Xi'an is approximately ¥196,000 (about $27,606), including tuition and living expenses.
How to choose between Xi'an Jiaotong Univ and Northwestern Polytechnical?
Both are top 985 universities with different focuses. Xi'an Jiaotong: C9 League member, more comprehensive, electrical, mechanical, management top nationally; NPU: Strong in aerospace and defense, distinctive in aviation, aerospace, and marine. Choose based on your intended major.
What must-try foods are there in Xi'an?
Xi'an food represents Northern Chinese noodles: Roujiamo (Chinese burger), Yangrou Paomo (hand-torn bread with lamb soup), Liangpi (cold noodle skin), Biangbiang noodles (wide noodles), Hulata (spicy soup). Muslim Street and Sajin Bridge are food hubs. Affordable—¥20-40 per person for a good meal.