Study at Central South University
Central South University in Changsha is one of China's best universities for medicine and metallurgical engineering. Known for the Xiangya School of Medicine, one of China's oldest and most respected medical schools, it offers excellent medical training at very affordable tuition.
✓ Double First ClassQuick Facts
| Founded | 1952 |
| QS World Ranking | #452 |
| Times Ranking | #401 |
| Students | 55,000 |
| International Students | 3,500 |
| Tuition Range (USD/year) | $1500 - $4000 |
| Halal Food Available | Yes |
| English-Taught Programs | Yes |
Academic Strengths
Available Programs
Scholarships Available
Admission Requirements
| Bachelor's | Master's | PhD | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Minimum GPA | 60% | 65% | 70% |
| Language Requirement | HSK 4 or IELTS 5.5 | HSK 5 or IELTS 6.0 | HSK 5 or IELTS 6.0 |
| Entrance Exam | Not Required | Not Required | Not Required |
City Guide: Changsha
Learn More: Student Guide: Living in Changsha →
Costs, entry and fit
Central South University is a public university in Changsha, Hunan province, founded in 1952. It teaches around 55,000 students, about 3,500 of them international.
Tuition runs $1,500–$4,000 a year, below the $2,200 median across the 149 Chinese universities in Foorsa's catalogue. Living costs in Changsha average $420 a month, so a full year comes to roughly $6,540–$9,040 including rent, food and transport.
It is ranked #452 in the QS World University Rankings — 24th of the 49 ranked universities we list. It belongs to the Double First Class list. 3 of the universities in this catalogue are in Changsha.
Teaching is in Chinese and English. English-taught degree programmes are available, so a Chinese qualification is not a prerequisite for every course. Halal food availability in Changsha is rated moderate, and the campus itself reports halal catering.
Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to study at Central South University?
Tuition is $1,500 to $4,000 per year. Living costs in Changsha average $420 a month, which puts a full year at roughly $6,540–$9,040 including accommodation, food and transport.
What are the entry requirements for a bachelor's degree at Central South University?
A minimum average of 60%, HSK 4 or IELTS 5.5, and no entrance exam. For a master's the bar is 65% with HSK 5 or IELTS 6.0.
Can I study at Central South University in English?
Yes. Central South University runs degree programmes taught in English alongside its Chinese-language courses.
Which scholarships can I apply for at Central South University?
Students here can apply for the Chinese Government Scholarship (CSC), university scholarships and provincial government scholarships. Eligibility depends on your grades, degree level and nationality.
Is halal food available at Central South University?
Yes — the university reports halal catering on campus. Halal food availability across Changsha is rated moderate.
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Last verified: 2026-03-06