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How to Apply to Fudan University as an International Student — 2026

Fudan University - Zibin Garden

This guide consolidates official instructions from Fudan’s International Students Office (ISO), the Graduate School Admissions Office (GSAO) and central Admissions pages into one action plan. Always verify program pages for updates.

Cross‑reference our C9 League Guide, CSC Scholarship Guide, and University Database while planning.

Key Official Starting Points

Choose Your Program & Language Track

Confirm whether your track is Chinese‑taught or English‑taught. Use the ISO undergraduate/graduate pages and the GSAO site for detailed program notices, including English‑taught lists for postgraduate programs.

Apply Through the Official Portal

  1. Create an account at istudent.fudan.edu.cn/apply.
  2. Complete the online form and upload all required documents.
  3. Graduate applicants should also follow GSAO announcements and any interview systems it references.

Payment/filing tips: see our China payment guide. After admission, review the Student Visa Guide.

Core Documents to Prepare

  • Passport bio page & recent photo
  • Degree certificates and official transcripts (with notarized translations if needed)
  • Personal statement / study plan / research proposal
  • Two–three recommendation letters (check if referees submit online)
  • Language proof (IELTS/TOEFL or HSK) as required
  • Foreigner Physical Examination Form
  • Statement of Financial Support / bank proof (ISO template)
  • Program‑specific items (portfolio, tests, audition materials)

Follow ISO’s “Instructions on Filling in and Uploading Documents” to avoid rejections.

Deadlines & Timeline (Plan Backwards)

Deadlines vary by program and scholarship route. Typical flow: choose program → prepare documents → submit online → departmental screening/interview → offer → scholarships (if needed) → visa → arrival.

Scholarships & Funding

  • Chinese Government Scholarship (CSC): follow CSC and Fudan notices; agency codes and windows differ by route.
  • Shanghai Municipal Scholarship: see ISO announcements for eligible programs.
  • Confucius Institute Scholarship: for language/culture programs.
  • Fudan Internal Scholarships (e.g., Boxue): merit/need‑based support listed on ISO scholarships page.

Read: CSC Scholarship Guide, CSC Type A, CSC Type B.

After Offer — Visa & Residence Permit

  • Visa types: X1 (long‑term, for residence permit) vs X2 (short‑term). Apply at embassy/consulate.
  • JW201/JW202 or DQ documents: confirm which you will receive.
  • Residence permit (for X1): apply within 30 days after entry; prepare ISO Introduction Letter and required docs per ISO visa pages.
  • Physical exam: follow ISO instructions and recommended clinics.

Accommodation & Arrival

International dorm booking is handled on ISO dorm pages (room booking/change forms). Off‑campus students must complete temporary residence registration within 24 hours of moving in.

Campus Life & Academic Environment

Fudan is a comprehensive research university in Shanghai with affiliated hospitals and research centres supporting clinical and medical programs. Orientation schedules, associations and services are maintained by ISO and Admissions.

Practical Checklist

  1. Select program & confirm language track on ISO/GSAO pages.
  2. Register at the Online Application portal and save credentials.
  3. Read ISO upload instructions and program notice (file format/naming).
  4. Prepare scans of diplomas, transcripts, passport, photo, finance statement, recommendations (+ translations if needed).
  5. Upload & submit before the deadline; monitor email/portal for interviews.
  6. Upon offer: request JW/DQ (if applicable), apply for scholarships, and prepare visa.
  7. Arrange dorm or housing; complete police registration within 24 hours after moving.
  8. Attend orientation and complete on‑site registration with ISO.

Also try the China Study Test and browse Application Tips for statement writing.