Foreign Students in China Recieve Subsidies, Sparking Debate

Ntdtv reported that foreign students in China benefit from extremely favorable policies, drawing criticism from Chinese public opinion. A recent video of an international student at Shanghai Jiao Tong university revealing that their studies are fully funded and they receive a monthly subsidy of 5,500 yuan (RMB) has ignited further discussion.

A recent interview with international students from Shanghai Jiao Tong University went viral on X (formerly Twitter) and Chinese social media. Two students from Pakistan shared that they receive unusually generous treatment while studying in China.

The two students admitted they have been studying in China for six to seven years but still don’t speak Chinese.

The videographer asked, “Why did you choose to study in China?”

One of the female students replied, “Because we have a generous scholarship here, which is fully funded, and everything is subsidized.”

The videographer asked, “Do you receive many subsidies, like for housing and living expenses?”

The student confirmed, “Yes, they (the university) provide it all.”

The other student added that they receive 5,500 yuan per month as a living allowance.

The video quickly gained traction, with many Chinese netizens expressing frustration. Some questioned why foreign students receive such substantial support while domestic students face notable financial burdens. Others pointed to the language barrier as a concern, suggesting that students who cannot learn the local language may not be fully engaged in their studies.

This isn’t the first time preferential treatment for foreign students in China has been a topic of discussion. Concerns have been raised about the allocation of resources and the potential impact on opportunities for Chinese students.