If you're coming to Shenzhen University (SZU) as an international student, you'll most likely live on campus. SZU offers different room types on its Yuehai and Lihu campuses, with a significant price gap between campus options. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about dormitory life at SZU, from room types and fees to practical tips for making the most of your campus experience.
Why This Guide Matters
Choosing the right accommodation is crucial for your study experience in China. SZU's dormitory system offers various options, but understanding the differences between campuses, room types, and associated costs will help you make an informed decision that fits your budget and lifestyle preferences.
This guide combines official SZU information with practical insights from current and former international students to give you a complete picture of what to expect when living on campus at Shenzhen University.
Campus Locations and Student Distribution
🏫 Yuehai Campus
The main campus where most international students are housed. Offers single and double room options with higher-end facilities and amenities.
- Location: Main campus area
- Room types: Single and double rooms
- Target: International students seeking more privacy
- Facilities: Modern amenities and closer to academic buildings
🏫 Lihu Campus
A secondary campus offering more affordable accommodation options, primarily four-bed rooms for budget-conscious students.
- Location: Secondary campus area
- Room types: Four-bed rooms
- Target: Students seeking affordable options
- Facilities: Basic amenities with communal living spaces
Room Types and Official Fees
🏠 Yuehai Campus Options
Single Rooms: RMB 4,000-8,000 per semester per student
Double Rooms: RMB 2,400-4,000 per semester per student
- Private or semi-private bathroom options
- Air conditioning included
- Basic furniture: bed, desk, wardrobe
- Utilities (water/electricity) charged separately
🏠 Lihu Campus Options
Four-Bed Rooms: RMB 750 per semester per student
- Shared bathroom facilities
- Communal living space
- Basic furniture for each student
- Utilities charged separately
⚠️ Important Note
All accommodation fees exclude utilities (water and electricity). Students typically pay an additional RMB 200-500 per month for utilities, depending on usage and room type.
Mandatory Fees and Registration Process
🏥 Insurance Requirement
Cost: Approximately RMB 400 per semester
All international students must purchase designated group insurance during registration. This is mandatory and cannot be waived.
🏠 Accommodation Payment
Dormitory fees are paid during the admission/registration process. Payment methods include:
- Bank transfer (domestic Chinese account)
- Alipay/WeChat Pay
- Cash (for smaller amounts)
- International transfer (with additional fees)
📋 Registration Requirements
During on-campus registration, you'll need:
- Original passport and visa
- Admission notice
- JW201/JW202 form (if applicable)
- Academic certificates and transcripts
- Passport-sized photos
What's Included vs. Extra Costs
✅ Included in Room Fee
- Basic furniture (bed, desk, wardrobe)
- Air conditioning unit
- Basic room maintenance
- Access to common areas
- Basic campus Wi-Fi (with usage limits)
💰 Additional Costs
- Utilities: Water and electricity (RMB 200-500/month)
- Internet: Personal internet top-ups if campus Wi-Fi quota is exceeded
- Laundry: Coin-operated washing machines (RMB 3-5 per load)
- Bedding: Mattress provided, but you need sheets, pillows, and blankets
- Personal items: Toiletries, cleaning supplies, etc.
Daily Campus Life: What to Expect
👥 Roommate Dynamics
Yuehai Campus: Double rooms are common for international students, offering a good balance of privacy and social interaction.
Lihu Campus: Four-bed rooms create a more communal living experience, great for making friends but with less privacy.
🏢 Campus Facilities
- Dining: Multiple cafeterias with Chinese and international food options
- Shopping: Convenience stores, bookstores, and small shops
- Services: Laundry shops, bike rental, and repair services
- Transportation: Campus shuttle buses and bike parking areas
- Study spaces: Libraries, study rooms, and computer labs
🌐 Internet and Technology
Campus Wi-Fi is available but may have usage limits. Many students:
- Purchase additional mobile data plans
- Use VPNs for accessing international services (check local regulations)
- Buy personal routers where allowed
- Rely on mobile hotspots for heavy usage
Practical Rules and Check-in Guidelines
📅 Registration Timeline
Follow the SZU admission calendar carefully. International students must register on campus at the specified date and location shown on your admission notice.
📋 Document Verification
Keep all original documents ready for on-site verification. Dormitory allocation is finalized only after successful registration and document verification.
🏠 Dormitory Policies
- Guest Policy: Visitors must register with dormitory management
- Quiet Hours: Typically 11 PM - 6 AM on weekdays
- Curfew: Some buildings have entry restrictions after midnight
- Maintenance: Report issues promptly to avoid delays
Essential Move-in Checklist
📄 Documents
🛏️ Bedding & Personal Items
🔌 Electronics & Study Materials
💰 Financial & Safety
Student Tips and Recommendations
💡 Budget vs. Comfort Trade-offs
If your budget allows, consider paying more for a double or single room on Yuehai Campus for better privacy and quieter nights. The cheaper four-bed rooms on Lihu Campus are great for socializing but offer less privacy.
🔒 Security and Organization
- Bring a small lock and label your belongings in shared spaces
- Keep digital backups of all important documents
- Attend the housing orientation for emergency contacts and repair procedures
- Get to know your dormitory management staff
🌍 Cultural Integration
- Participate in dormitory activities and events
- Be respectful of different cultural backgrounds
- Learn basic Chinese phrases for daily communication
- Join student organizations and clubs
Important Contacts and Resources
🏫 Primary Contacts
- College of International Exchange (CIE): Main contact for accommodation and international student services
- Housing Office: Dormitory management and maintenance requests
- International Student Office: General support and guidance
📱 Useful Resources
- Official SZU Website: Latest accommodation information and policies
- Student Forums: Current student experiences and tips
- Campus Groups: WeChat groups for international students
- Application Portals: CUAS and other platforms with detailed room information
Quick FAQ
Q: Can I choose my roommate?
A: Roommate requests are sometimes possible, especially if you know another international student. Contact the housing office early to make arrangements.
Q: What if I'm not satisfied with my room assignment?
A: Room changes are possible but subject to availability and additional fees. Discuss options with the housing office after arrival.
Q: Are there laundry facilities in the dorms?
A: Yes, most dormitories have coin-operated washing machines. Some buildings also have dryers, but many students air-dry their clothes.
Q: Can I cook in my dorm room?
A: Cooking in individual rooms is generally not allowed due to safety regulations. However, some dormitories have shared kitchen facilities.
Q: What about transportation to and from campus?
A: SZU campuses are well-connected by public transportation. Campus shuttle buses run between different areas, and metro stations are within walking distance.
Final Recommendations
Living in SZU dormitories offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in campus life and build lasting friendships with students from around the world. While the accommodation options vary significantly in price and comfort, each provides a solid foundation for your academic journey in China.
Remember to start your accommodation application early, as popular room types fill up quickly. Keep in touch with the College of International Exchange for the most current information, and don't hesitate to reach out to current students for practical insights about daily life on campus.
If you're still in the process of choosing a university and want to explore other options, use our university selector to find institutions that match your preferences for accommodation, location, and academic programs.