Artificial Intelligence Education in China: Report on University Programs and Eligibility Criteria

I. Introduction

The field of artificial intelligence (AI) has emerged as a transformative force across numerous sectors globally, driving innovation and shaping the future of technology. Recognizing the strategic importance of AI, China has made significant investments in fostering a robust ecosystem for AI research and development, including a strong emphasis on education and talent cultivation. This report provides a comprehensive analysis of the landscape of AI-related academic programs offered by leading universities and colleges in China, targeting prospective international students seeking undergraduate, Master’s, or PhD degrees in this dynamic field. The information presented herein is based on a thorough examination of recent data and announcements from various academic institutions and relevant online resources. The aim is to offer a detailed guide to the available programs, their geographical distribution across China, and the specific eligibility criteria that international applicants must meet to gain admission.

II. Methodology

The information contained in this report has been compiled through a meticulous process of analyzing publicly available data and resources. This involved a detailed review of university websites, admissions portals, and educational platforms that provide information on academic programs offered to international students in China. The focus of this analysis was to identify universities providing degree programs specifically in Artificial Intelligence or closely related fields such as Computer Science with an AI specialization. For each identified institution, information pertaining to undergraduate, Master’s, and PhD programs was sought. Special attention was paid to the specific eligibility criteria for each program level, including academic prerequisites, language proficiency requirements (both English and Chinese), and any additional qualifications such as research experience or specific subject knowledge. The collected data was then organized geographically, categorized by province or major administrative division, to provide a structured and easily navigable overview of AI education opportunities across China.

III. Landscape of AI Education in China: Top Universities and Emerging Trends

China is rapidly establishing itself as a global hub for AI research and education, with several of its universities achieving top international rankings in this domain . Among these leading institutions, Tsinghua University stands out as a prominent center for AI studies, holding the top position in Asia for AI and ranking among the top three globally for Computer Science . Tsinghua University has demonstrated a strong commitment to advancing AI through the establishment of a dedicated College of AI, an initiative focused on fostering interdisciplinary innovation and cultivating top-tier talent in the field . This strategic move underscores the university’s ambition to be at the forefront of AI development and education.  

Similarly, Shanghai Jiao Tong University is recognized for its strong emphasis on AI and data science, actively concentrating on frontier technologies and emerging industries crucial for national development . The university’s AI research center collaborates extensively with various technology companies to develop innovative solutions in AI applications, ensuring its curriculum remains relevant to the evolving demands of the AI landscape . Fudan University has also launched significant initiatives to cultivate interdisciplinary AI talent through innovative programs and research, with plans to introduce at least 100 AI-related courses in the 2024-25 academic year . This initiative aims to transform the university into a leading force in science intelligence education and talent cultivation, further highlighting the growing importance of AI across academic disciplines.   

Zhejiang University is another institution recognized for its interdisciplinary approach to AI research, integrating fields such as robotics, big data, and cognitive computing . The university’s AI research initiatives are focused on real-world applications, positioning it as a leader in practical AI solutions. The University of Science and Technology of China (USTC) is also known for its cutting-edge research in AI, having produced numerous influential papers in the field, with a research focus on areas such as machine learning algorithms and AI ethics . These examples illustrate the commitment of China’s top universities to expanding and enhancing their AI-related academic offerings.  

A notable observation is the close relationship between top AI programs and established Computer Science departments . Universities with a strong foundation in Computer Science often serve as the base for the development of comprehensive AI programs. This connection is logical as AI inherently relies on core computer science principles, algorithms, and data structures. The consistent appearance of the same universities in rankings for both AI and Computer Science reflects this underlying interconnectedness.   

Furthermore, there is a clear trend among leading Chinese universities to actively expand their AI-related academic programs and increase student enrollment in these areas . This expansion is frequently accompanied by the creation of new AI-focused schools or departments and the introduction of innovative, interdisciplinary AI curricula. This trend likely reflects the Chinese government’s strategic focus on AI as a critical technology for national progress and global competitiveness. Universities are responding to this national priority by strengthening their AI education capabilities to meet the anticipated high demand for AI professionals. This expansion signifies increasing opportunities for both domestic and international students interested in specializing in AI within China.   

IV. State-wise List of Universities Offering AI Programs and Eligibility Criteria

This section provides a state-wise breakdown of universities in China offering Artificial Intelligence programs at the undergraduate, Master’s, and PhD levels, along with their respective eligibility criteria for international students.

A. Beijing

• 1. Tsinghua University:

  • Undergraduate AI Program(s): Tsinghua University, consistently ranked as a premier institution for AI, offers various undergraduate programs, including those taught in English .
    • Eligibility Criteria:
      • General Admission: Foreign citizens in good health, friendly towards China, holding a high school graduation certificate .   
      • Academic Performance: Demonstrated outstanding academic performance through transcripts, graduation/matriculation exam results, and standardized test scores (e.g., SAT, ACT, A-Level, IB) .   
      • Language Proficiency:
        • English-taught programs: High level of English proficiency required, with test reports (TOEFL, IELTS) for non-native speakers .   
        • Chinese-English taught programs: HSK Level 5 (score > 60 in each subject) or initial HSK Level 4 (must reach Level 5 within the first year). Native Chinese speakers or those with Chinese high school education may apply for an HSK waiver. High English proficiency also required .   
      • Age: Minimum 18 years old by September 1, 2025. Applicants under 18 need to provide additional documents .   
      • Other: Compliance with Document No. 12 (2020) of the Ministry of Education of the PRC .   

       
  • Master’s AI Program(s): Tsinghua University offers Master’s level AI programs, building on its strong foundation in computer science and technology .
    • Eligibility Criteria:
      • Citizenship: Non-Chinese citizens with a valid personal ordinary passport .   
      • Educational Background: Bachelor’s degree or equivalent from a recognized institution, obtained before the 2025 registration date. Degrees from overseas universities require CSCSE authentication; mainland degrees require CSSD authentication .   
      • Health and Conduct: Good physical and mental health, good moral character, abiding by Chinese laws and university rules .   
      • Language Proficiency: Specific requirements vary by program, as detailed in the Catalog of Graduate Programs 2025. Generally, HSK Level 5 or above may be required, and English proficiency is expected .   
      • Academic Transcript: Undergraduate transcript required. GPA certification needed if not on the transcript. Final transcript required before registration for current students .  
      • Degree Certificate and Authentication: Bachelor’s degree certificate required. Overseas degrees need CSCSE authentication; mainland degrees need CSSD authentication. Expected graduation certificate is acceptable initially, with the degree and authentication needed before registration .   
      • Additional Documents: Personal statement, passport copy, two academic recommendation letters .   

       
  • PhD AI Program(s): Tsinghua University provides doctoral programs in AI, attracting top research aspirants .
    • Eligibility Criteria:
      • Citizenship: Non-Chinese citizens with a valid personal ordinary passport .   
      • Educational Background: Master’s degree or equivalent. Exceptional Bachelor’s degree holders may apply directly under specific conditions .   
      • Health and Character: Good health and moral character, willingness to abide by laws and regulations .   
      • GPA (for Bachelor’s to PhD): Minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.5/4.0 or B+ or 85/100 .   
      • Language Proficiency:
        • Bachelor’s to PhD: HSK band 4 (score > 195), with potential exemptions for English-taught programs .   
        • Non-native English speakers: TOEFL > 85 or IELTS > 6.5 .   
        • General AI PhD: Requires English fluency .   
      • Academic Transcripts: Transcripts from undergraduate and graduate studies (if applicable) .   
      • Degree Certificates and Authentication: Bachelor’s and Master’s certificates (if applicable) with CSCSE/CSSD authentication .   
      • Personal Statement and Research Plan: Detailed statement and comprehensive research plan required .   
      • Letters of Recommendation: Two academic recommendations from associate professors or higher. For Bachelor’s to PhD applicants, letters should attest to research ability .   
      • Passport: Valid personal ordinary-type passport .   

       

• 2. Peking University:

  • Undergraduate AI Program(s): Peking University is a highly regarded institution offering undergraduate programs, including those in AI-related fields .
    • Eligibility Criteria:
      • Nationality: Non-Chinese citizens with a valid passport. Specific rules for former Chinese citizens .   
      • Health and Conduct: Good physical and mental health, no criminal record, compliance with laws and regulations .   
      • Educational Background: Full-time high school graduation degree (excluding Chinese ordinary high schools). Primary to high school education should align with an overseas system .   
      • Age: Typically 17-23 years old .   
      • Language Proficiency:
        • Chinese-taught: HSK Level 6 (score > 200, writing > 65). Some sources mention HSK Level 5 .   
        • English-taught: TOEFL iBT > 75 (undergrad), > 100 (grad) or IELTS > 6.5 (undergrad), > 7.0 (grad) .   
      • Academic Transcript: Original high school transcript. Notarized translation if not in English or Chinese .   
      • Personal Statement: In Chinese or English .   
      • Letters of Recommendation: Two original letters, one from a high school teacher/head teacher .   
      • Passport Copy: Valid passport with expiry beyond July 2025 .   
      • Letter of Commitment: Signed letter in Chinese or English .   
      • Optional Materials: SAT, IB, A-Levels, ACT scores, other awards, HSK transcripts .   
      • Entrance Examination: May be required (Chinese, English, Mathematics). Exemption possible with high standardized test scores .   

       
  • Master’s AI Program(s): Peking University offers Master’s programs in AI-related fields, building on its strong academic reputation .
    • Eligibility Criteria:
      • Nationality: Non-Chinese citizens with a valid passport. Specific rules for former Chinese citizens .   
      • Health and Conduct: Good physical and mental health, no criminal record, compliance with laws and regulations .   
      • Educational Background: Bachelor’s degree from a university accredited by the Ministry of Education of China. No grade skipping or mid-course joining .   
      • Language Proficiency:
        • Chinese-taught (Science & Engineering): HSK Level 6 (score > 200, writing > 65) .   
        • English-taught: TOEFL iBT > 100 or GRE > 320 or IELTS > 6.5. Some sources mention slightly different scores . Exemption for degrees from English-speaking countries/institutions.   
      • Academic Transcript: Official undergraduate transcript, translated and notarized if needed .   
      • Personal Statement: Including a research plan (around 1500 words) .   
      • Letters of Recommendation: Two letters from professors/associate professors in the applicant’s major .   
      • Passport Copy: Valid passport with expiry after December 2025 .   
      • Degree Certificate and Authentication: Original Bachelor’s degree certificate and authentication (CSCSE for overseas, CSSD for mainland) .   
      • Resume and Commitment: Resume and signed Commitment for Application .   
      • Publications: Table of contents and abstracts if applicable .   

       
  • PhD AI Program(s): Peking University offers doctoral programs in AI and related fields, attracting advanced researchers .
    • Eligibility Criteria:
      • Nationality: Non-Chinese citizens with a valid passport. Specific rules for former Chinese citizens .   
      • Health and Conduct: Good physical and mental health, no criminal record, compliance with laws and regulations .   
      • Educational Background: Master’s degree from a recognized institution. Bachelor’s degree holders in science and engineering may apply directly .   
      • Language Proficiency:
        • Chinese-taught (Science): HSK Level 6 (score > 200, writing > 65) .   
        • English-taught: TOEFL iBT > 100 or GRE > 320 or IELTS > 6.5. Exemption for degrees from English-speaking countries/institutions .   
      • Academic Transcripts: Transcripts from undergraduate and graduate studies .   
      • Personal Statement and Research Plan: Detailed statement including a comprehensive research plan (around 3000 words). Indicate desired supervisor .   
      • Letters of Recommendation: Two letters from professors/associate professors in the applicant’s major .   
      • Passport Copy: Valid ordinary passport with expiry after December 2025 .   
      • Degree Certificates and Authentication: Bachelor’s and Master’s certificates with CSCSE/CSSD authentication .   
      • Resume and Commitment: Resume and signed “Commitment for Application” .   
      • Publications: Table of contents and abstracts if applicable .   

       

B. Shanghai

• 1. Shanghai Jiao Tong University (SJTU):
  • Undergraduate AI Program(s): SJTU is a leading university with AI programs at the undergraduate level .
    • Eligibility Criteria:
      • Academic Requirement: High school diploma or above .   
      • Citizenship: Non-Chinese citizens with a foreign passport, complying with Document No. 12 (2020) of MOE .   
      • Language Proficiency:
        • Chinese: HSK Level 5 (score > 200, writing > 60) or HSK Level 6 (score > 180, writing > 60), or proof of native Chinese speaker .   
        • English: TOEFL (code: D070) or IELTS report, or other proof (e.g., native speaker, English study certificates) . TOEFL iBT > 84 or IELTS > 6.0 also mentioned .   
      • Entrance Exam: Required for applicants passing the preliminary review, includes online written and oral tests (Math, Physics, English, Chinese I & II) .   
      • Additional Documents: High school diploma, transcripts, language certificates, passport, parent’s passport, personal statement, two recommendation letters .   

     
  • Master’s AI Program(s): SJTU offers Master’s programs in AI and related fields .
    • Eligibility Criteria:
      • Citizenship: Non-Chinese citizen .   
      • Health: Good physical and mental health .   
      • Academic Performance: Outstanding academic performance and potential .   
      • Educational Background: Bachelor’s degree required .   
      • Language Proficiency: Proficiency in Chinese and/or English. Details at https://isc.sjtu.edu.cn/EN/content.aspx?info_lb=185&flag=2 . TOEFL iBT > 79 or IELTS > 6.0 or TOEIC > 800 mentioned for some programs .   
      • Application Materials: Online application, degree certificates, transcripts, language proficiency proof, passport, photo, personal statement, study plan, two recommendation letters .   

       
  • PhD AI Program(s): SJTU provides doctoral programs in Computer Science and Technology with AI specializations .
    • Eligibility Criteria:
      • Educational Background: Master’s degree required .   
      • Transcripts: Undergraduate and graduate transcripts required .   
      • Language Proficiency: English-taught program. Proof of English proficiency required. TOEFL iBT > 85. GRE (Verbal > 160, Quantitative > 160, Analytical > 3.5) and GMAT (> 550) also mentioned .   
      • Additional Materials: Degree certificates, passport copy, photo, personal statement, study plan, two academic recommendation letters . Contacting supervisor beforehand may be needed for some schools .   

C. Zhejiang Province

• 1. Zhejiang University (ZJU):
  • Undergraduate AI Program(s): Zhejiang University, located in Hangzhou, is a top-ranked institution offering undergraduate programs .
    • Eligibility Criteria:
      • Age: Under 25 years old. Under 18 need guardian documents . Some sources mention 18-25 .   
      • Health: Good mental and physical health .   
      • Academic: High school diploma or above, academically excellent. Pre-graduation certificate for fresh graduates . Good background in math, physics, chemistry for engineering courses .   
      • Citizenship: Non-PRC citizen. Specific rules for former Chinese citizens (valid foreign passport for 4+ years, resided abroad for 2+ years in the past 4) .   
      • Criminal Record: No criminal record, no drug addiction history .   
      • Language Proficiency:
        • Chinese-taught: HSK4 > 180. Some majors need HSK5+. Exemption for Chinese-taught secondary education .   
        • English-taught: Native English speaker or English as official language, or IELTS 5.5/TOEFL 60, or English-taught high school . English fluency required .   
      • Entrance Exam: Required .   
      • Application Materials: Application form, passport copy, highest education certificate, transcripts, language proficiency certificate, health certificate, non-criminal record certificate, recommendation letters (for graduate), specific documents for former Chinese citizens .   

       
  • Master’s AI Program(s): Zhejiang University offers Master’s programs in AI and related areas .
    • Eligibility Criteria:
      • Age: Under 35 or 40 (flexible with experience) . Minimum 18, maximum 45 mentioned elsewhere .   
      • Health: Good mental and physical health .   
      • Academic: Bachelor’s degree required . Relevant STEM background encouraged . Minimum GPA of 3.0/4.0 for some collaborative programs .   
      • Language Proficiency:
        • Chinese-taught: HSK Level 5 or higher . HSK Level 4 mentioned elsewhere .   
        • English-taught: IELTS 6.0/TOEFL 80 or IELTS 6.5/TOEFL 90, or native English speaker, or English-taught degree . English fluency required .   
      • Application Materials: Application form, passport copy, highest education certificate, transcripts, language proficiency certificate, health certificate, non-criminal record certificate, two recommendation letters . Personal statement, research proposal may be needed .   

       
  • PhD AI Program(s): Zhejiang University offers doctoral programs in AI and related fields .
    • Eligibility Criteria:
      • Age: Under 40 (flexible with experience), maximum 65 mentioned elsewhere .   
      • Health: Good mental and physical health .   
      • Academic: Master’s degree required .   
      • Language Proficiency:
        • Chinese-taught: HSK Level 5 or higher .   
        • English-taught: IELTS 6.0/TOEFL 80 or IELTS 6.5/TOEFL 90, or native English speaker, or English-taught degree . GRE/GMAT scores encouraged .   
      • Application Materials: Application form, passport copy, highest degree certificates, transcripts, language proficiency certificate, personal statement (including study proposal), two recommendation letters, supervisor acceptance form (if applicable), publications (if applicable), specific documents for former Chinese citizens, commitments form . Research proposal required .   

       

D. Anhui Province

• 1. University of Science and Technology of China (USTC) (Hefei):
  • Undergraduate AI Program(s): USTC in Hefei is a prestigious university offering AI programs .
    • Eligibility Criteria:
      • Age: Under 35 years old . Typically 18-25 for Indian students .   
      • Academic: High school graduation certificate required . Good academic performance . Top 0.3-0.5% of high school graduates for general admission . Strong background in science and mathematics recommended .   
      • Language Proficiency:
        • Chinese-taught: HSK Level 4 required .   
        • English-taught: TOEFL > 80 or IELTS > 6.0 for some programs . Proof of English proficiency required .   
      • Entrance Exam: Required for bachelor’s (Chinese program) .   
      • Application Materials: Passport, high school certificate and transcripts (notarized if needed), HSK transcript (for Chinese programs), recommendation letter, photograph . Non-criminal record, financial guarantee, health certificate also mentioned . Study plan, bank statement, other supporting documents for English-taught program .   

       
  • Master’s AI Program(s): USTC in Hefei offers Master’s programs in various fields .
    • Eligibility Criteria:
      • Age: Under 40 years old . Under 30 mentioned elsewhere .   
      • Academic: Bachelor’s degree required (equivalent to Chinese bachelor’s) . Excellent academic performance expected .   
      • Language Proficiency:
        • Chinese-taught: HSK Level 4 or above . HSK5 or HSK6 also mentioned .   
        • English-taught: English language skills required . IELTS > 6.5 or TOEFL > 80 mentioned . Proof of English proficiency needed .   
      • Application Materials: Passport, bachelor’s degree and transcript (notarized), two recommendation letters, language proficiency certificate, study plan, CV, proof of financial guarantee, non-criminal record certificate, health certificate . Research proposal may be required .   

       
  • PhD AI Program(s): USTC in Hefei provides doctoral programs in various disciplines .
    • Eligibility Criteria:
      • Age: Under 45 years old . Under 35 mentioned elsewhere . Under 40 also mentioned .   
      • Academic: Master’s degree required (equivalent to Chinese master’s) . Bachelor’s degree with strong academic record may be considered .   
      • Language Proficiency:
        • Chinese-taught: HSK Level 4 or above . HSK5 or HSK6 also mentioned . HSK 6 > 180 mentioned .   
        • English-taught: English language skills required . IELTS > 6 or TOEFL > 80 mentioned . TOEFL 80 or IELTS 5.5 or equivalent also mentioned .   
      • Application Materials: Passport, bachelor’s and master’s degree certificates and transcripts (notarized), two recommendation letters, language proficiency certificate, study/research plan, CV, proof of financial guarantee, non-criminal record certificate, health certificate . Research proposal required .   

       

V. Conclusion

This report has illuminated the extensive opportunities available for international students seeking to pursue academic degrees in Artificial Intelligence within China. Leading universities across the country, particularly in major educational hubs like Beijing, Shanghai, and Zhejiang, offer comprehensive programs at the undergraduate, Master’s, and PhD levels. These institutions are not only recognized for their academic excellence and global rankings but are also actively expanding their AI-related offerings, reflecting China’s national strategic focus on this transformative technology.

Prospective international students must recognize the importance of consulting the official websites of their target universities and specific programs. The eligibility criteria outlined in this report provide a general overview, but the most accurate, detailed, and up-to-date information regarding admission requirements, application procedures, deadlines, and program-specific prerequisites will always be found on the official university sources.

A critical factor for international applicants is the language of instruction for their chosen program. Many programs are offered in English, while others are taught in Chinese or a combination of both. Therefore, students must carefully assess their language proficiency in either English or Chinese and ensure they meet the stipulated requirements, including achieving the necessary scores on standardized tests such as TOEFL, IELTS, and HSK.

While this report has primarily focused on academic eligibility criteria, international students should also plan for other essential aspects of studying abroad, such as the student visa application process, exploring accommodation options (both on-campus and off-campus), and understanding the estimated costs associated with tuition fees and living expenses in China.

In conclusion, China offers a vibrant and rapidly growing environment for international students to receive high-quality education in Artificial Intelligence. The country’s increasing prominence in AI research and application, coupled with the commitment of its leading universities to academic excellence in this field, presents compelling opportunities for students worldwide to advance their knowledge and careers in AI.

Key Valuable Tables:

1. Table: Top Universities in China for Artificial Intelligence

2. Table: Summary of Language Proficiency Requirements for Top Universities (Selected)