CHINA · SHENZHEN
Southern University of Science and Technology
public · Founded 2010 · Languages: en, zh
In short
Southern University of Science and Technology (SUSTech) is a rapidly rising research university in Shenzhen, China, offering science, engineering, medicine, business, humanities, and arts programs in English and Chinese. It provides a dynamic learning environment with strong industry ties and various scholarship opportunities for international students.
Key facts
- Type
- Public
- Founded
- 2010
- Students
- 11,000
- International students
- 800
- Acceptance rate
- 8%
- Tuition (intl)
- €4–8k/yr
- Languages
- EN, ZH
- Location
- Shenzhen, China
Southern University of Science and Technology (SUSTech), founded in 2010 in Shenzhen, China, is one of the world's fastest-rising research universities, ranked #160 globally by the Times Higher Education (2026) and #24 among young universities worldwide. Built from the ground up to challenge traditional Chinese higher-education models, SUSTech emphasises interdisciplinary research, international faculty, small class sizes, and close integration with Shenzhen's thriving technology and innovation ecosystem. It offers programmes across science, engineering, medicine, business, humanities, and arts, taught in both Chinese and English.
Why study here
- One of China's fastest-rising universities — ranked #160 globally (THE 2026) in only 15 years.
- Located in Shenzhen, China's tech capital, with direct industry ties to Huawei, Tencent, BYD and hundreds of startups.
- Small class sizes and mandatory undergraduate research placements for hands-on learning.
- International faculty and bilingual (Chinese/English) teaching environment.
- Generous government and university scholarships available for high-achieving international students.
Student life
Campus life at SUSTech is compact and community-oriented. Residential colleges keep the community close-knit, and student clubs span sports, arts, debate, entrepreneurship, and cultural exchange. The Center for Language Education runs multilingual exchange programmes including language corners, debate clubs, and film societies. Shenzhen itself — just 30 minutes from Hong Kong by high-speed rail — offers world-class dining, tech parks, beaches, and cultural venues, making weekends rich with options.
Fees
InternationalCNY 28,000–65,000 per year (approx. EUR 3,500–8,000) depending on programme level and discipline
HomeCNY 5,000–26,000 per year for domestic students
LivingCNY 24,000–40,000 per year for accommodation, food, transport and personal expenses in Shenzhen
Shenzhen's cost of living is higher than most Chinese cities but remains substantially lower than comparable global tech hubs. Scholarship recipients may have tuition fully or partially waived.
Admissions
Undergraduate (Domestic)National college entrance exam (gaokao) — 60%; SUSTech autonomous ability test — 30% (5% interview component); high school proficiency test — 10%
Undergraduate (International)Completion of high school with strong results in mathematics and sciences; SAT, A-Level, IB or equivalent international qualification recognised
Graduate (Master's / PhD)Bachelor's degree from a recognised institution; strong academic record; relevant research background preferred; recommendation letters required
IELTS Academic6.0 overall (graduate programmes may require 6.5)
TOEFL iBT80 overall (graduate programmes may require 90)
PTE Academic58 overall
Rankings
Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2026160
QS World University Rankings 2026343
Times Higher Education Young University Rankings 202424
US News Best Global Universities 2025123
Academic Ranking of World Universities (ARWU) 2025125
University scholarships
Chinese Government Scholarship (CSC)Full tuition + CNY 3,000/month living stipend
Guangdong Government ScholarshipCNY 15,000–20,000 per year
SUSTech President's ScholarshipFull tuition waiver for outstanding international students
Shenzhen Government Talent ScholarshipVaries by programme and nationality
Accreditation
Public research university established with approval from the Ministry of Education of the People's Republic of China and funded by the Shenzhen Municipal People's Government. Member of Universitas 21 international network.
Programs
a selectionSouthern University of Science and Technology · China
Advanced Biotechnology Program
The Advanced Biotechnology program at Southern University of Science and Technology (SUSTech) offers a comprehensive curriculum for students interested in cutting-edge biological research and applications. Building on a strong foundation, this program delves into areas such as gene editing, gene therapy, and understanding plant stress responses. The program is designed to provide students with advanced knowledge and practical skills, preparing them for impactful careers in research, industry, and academia. With a focus on innovation and scientific inquiry, SUSTech aims to foster the next generation of leaders in biotechnology.
Master's
Level
—
Tuition
36 mo
Duration
Southern University of Science and Technology · China
Automation and Intelligent Manufacturing - Southern University of Science and Technology
Southern University of Science and Technology (SUSTech) offers a Master's program in Automation and Intelligent Manufacturing within its College of Science and Engineering. This program focuses on advanced topics in automation, control systems, robotics, and intelligent manufacturing processes. It aims to equip students with theoretical knowledge and practical skills necessary for research and development in these rapidly evolving fields. The curriculum is designed to foster innovation and problem-solving abilities, preparing graduates for careers in academia and industry.
Master's
Level
—
Tuition
36 mo
Duration
Southern University of Science and Technology · China
Computer Science and Technology
Southern University of Science and Technology (SUSTech) offers a Master's program in Computer Science and Technology, focusing on cutting-edge research in areas like Artificial Intelligence, Cognitive Science, and Computational Linguistics. The program aims to equip students with advanced knowledge and research skills in these fields. Students will have the opportunity to work with experienced faculty on innovative projects, contribute to academic publications, and engage with a vibrant research community. The program encourages interdisciplinary approaches, drawing from computer science, linguistics, and psychology to understand complex phenomena like language and cognition. SUSTech is committed to fostering a global perspective and providing a supportive environment for international students. The program is designed to prepare graduates for advanced research positions in academia or leading roles in the technology industry.
Master's
Level
—
Tuition
24 mo
Duration
Southern University of Science and Technology · China
Master of Science in Computer Science and Engineering
The Master of Science in Computer Science and Engineering program at Southern University of Science and Technology (SUSTech) offers advanced study in the rapidly evolving fields of computing. Situated within the vibrant ecosystem of Shenzhen, SUSTech fosters an interdisciplinary approach to education and research, preparing students for leadership roles in technology and innovation. The program leverages the expertise of its faculty, many of whom have international experience and research backgrounds, to provide a rigorous academic experience. Students will engage with cutting-edge research areas, including control theory and applications, machine learning theory and algorithms, robotics, autonomous systems, and smart grids. The curriculum is designed to equip graduates with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, enabling them to contribute to the advancement of computer science and engineering globally. The university's commitment to internationalization ensures a diverse and dynamic learning environment.
Master's
Level
€6k
Tuition
24 mo
Duration
Southern University of Science and Technology · China
Master of Science in Mechanical and Energy Engineering
The Master of Science in Mechanical and Energy Engineering program at Southern University of Science and Technology (SUSTech) offers advanced studies in areas critical to modern energy solutions and mechanical systems. This program aims to equip students with in-depth knowledge and research skills in fields such as electrochemical energy storage, advanced materials, and thermal engineering. It fosters an interdisciplinary approach, drawing from mechanical engineering, energy science, chemistry, and materials science to address complex challenges. Students will engage in cutting-edge research under the guidance of experienced faculty, many of whom are recognized globally for their contributions. The program emphasizes both theoretical understanding and practical application, preparing graduates for impactful careers in academia, research institutions, and the high-tech industry. The curriculum is designed to be rigorous, with a strong focus on developing independent research capabilities and innovative problem-solving skills.
Master's
Level
—
Tuition
24 mo
Duration
Southern University of Science and Technology · China
Master of Science in Physics
The Master of Science in Physics program at Southern University of Science and Technology (SUSTech) focuses on advanced theoretical and experimental aspects of physics. The program aims to equip students with in-depth knowledge and research skills in specialized areas of physics. Students will engage in rigorous coursework and research projects under the guidance of experienced faculty. The department offers opportunities for students to contribute to cutting-edge research in fields such as superconductivity, correlated topological states, and numerical simulations of strongly correlated systems. This program is designed for students who have completed a bachelor's degree in physics or a related field and are seeking to pursue graduate studies. The curriculum is structured to provide a strong theoretical foundation and practical research experience, preparing graduates for careers in academia, research institutions, or advanced R&D roles in industry. The university emphasizes interdisciplinary collaboration and a research-intensive environment, fostering innovation and scientific discovery.
Master's
Level
—
Tuition
36 mo
Duration
Scholarships
for China
full fundingTsinghua University
Schwarzman Scholars
Open to applicants of any nationality who hold (or will hold) a bachelor's degree by the programme start and are under ~29 years old at the deadline. English proficiency is required; Chinese is not. Selection seeks demonstrated leadership, academic strength, and the potential to bridge China and the world.
full
Funding
€65k
Max
Oct 15, 2026
Deadline
full fundingTsinghua University (sponsored by Siemens Ltd., China)
Siemens China Scholarship at Tsinghua University
International students who meet Tsinghua University's PhD admission requirements, hold a strong academic background in computer science, engineering or AI, apply to one of the approved Siemens research fields, and do not hold another major PhD scholarship at Tsinghua. Applicants should be willing to collaborate on industry-focused research with Siemens.
full
Funding
€22k
Max
Feb 28, 2027
Deadline
full fundingChina Scholarship Council (CSC), Ministry of Education, People's Republic of China
Chinese Government Scholarship (CSC)
Open to non-Chinese citizens in good health who meet the academic and age requirements for their level (under ~25 for bachelor's, ~35 for master's, ~40 for doctoral, as a guideline). Applicants apply via a Chinese university, a Chinese embassy, or another dispatching authority, depending on the programme.
full
Funding
€20k
Max
Apr 30, 2027
Deadline
full fundingTsinghua University / China Scholarship Council (CSC)
Tsinghua University Chinese Government Scholarship (CGS)
For non-Chinese citizens in good health who apply for a bachelor's, master's, or doctoral degree at Tsinghua University in Beijing. The Chinese Government Scholarship is administered by Tsinghua as a designated host university; applicants apply both to the China Scholarship Council (CSC) and for Tsinghua admission, and must meet the relevant age and academic requirements.
full
Funding
€15k
Max
Mar 1, 2027
Deadline
full fundingShanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine (SHSMU)
SJTU School of Medicine Chinese Government Scholarship
Open to non-Chinese citizens in good health who are not currently studying in China. Master's applicants must hold a bachelor's degree and be under 35; doctoral applicants must hold a master's degree and be under 40. Applicants must show excellent academic records and must not hold any other Chinese government or organisation scholarship.
full
Funding
€15k
Max
Apr 14, 2027
Deadline
full fundingSoochow University
Soochow University Chinese Government Scholarship
Open to non-Chinese citizens in good health with a valid passport. Master's applicants need a bachelor's degree with good grades and should preferably be under 35; doctoral applicants need a master's degree with strong academic results and should preferably be under 40. Applicants must not already hold another Chinese government or university scholarship.
full
Funding
€14k
Max
Feb 28, 2027
Deadline
Frequently asked questions
What are the international tuition fees at Southern University of Science and Technology?
+
International tuition fees at SUSTech range from CNY 28,000 to CNY 65,000 per year, depending on the program level and discipline. This is approximately EUR 3,500 to EUR 8,000. Scholarship recipients may have their tuition fully or partially waived.
What is the global ranking of Southern University of Science and Technology?
+
SUSTech is ranked #160 globally by the Times Higher Education World University Rankings for 2026 and #343 by the QS World University Rankings for 2026. It is also recognized as #24 among young universities worldwide by Times Higher Education for 2024.
Does SUSTech offer scholarships for international students?
+
Yes, SUSTech offers several scholarships for international students, including the Chinese Government Scholarship (CSC), Guangdong Government Scholarship, SUSTech President's Scholarship, and Shenzhen Government Talent Scholarship. These can cover full tuition, living stipends, and other expenses.
What are the English language requirements for international applicants?
+
For international applicants, English proficiency can be demonstrated with an IELTS Academic score of 6.0 overall, a TOEFL iBT score of 80 overall, or a PTE Academic score of 58 overall. Graduate programs may have higher score requirements.
What is the cost of living for students in Shenzhen?
+
The estimated living costs for accommodation, food, transport, and personal expenses in Shenzhen are between CNY 24,000 and CNY 40,000 per year. While Shenzhen's cost of living is higher than many Chinese cities, it remains lower than comparable global tech hubs.
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