分类： TIPS

Many international students spend weeks memorizing basic Chinese greetings like “nǐ hǎo” and simple daily sentences before coming to China. Yet once you arrive, you will quickly find that real‑life scenarios such as taking online taxis, scanning codes for meals, and passing through subway gates require more down‑to‑earth language. To help you adapt to local life effortlessly and communicate with confidence in various occasions, here are ten highly practical Chinese sentences tailored for overseas students.

I. Daily Transportation

1. 手机尾号多少？Shǒujī wěihào duōshǎo?English: What are the last four digits of your phone number? Русский: Какие последние четыре цифры вашего номера телефона? Français: Quels sont les quatre derniers chiffres de votre numéro de téléphone ?

Online car‑hailing is extremely prevalent across China. To verify passenger identity before picking you up, drivers often ask for the last four digits of your phone number. Keeping this simple sentence in mind allows you to confirm your ride quickly and avoid unnecessary communication barriers.

1.jpg

2. 师傅，前面靠边停。Shīfu, qiánmiàn kàobiān tíng.English: Sir, please pull over at the roadside ahead. Русский: Уважаемый, остановитесь у обочины впереди, пожалуйста. Français: Monsieur, veuillez vous garer sur le bord de la route plus loin.

Addressing service workers such as taxi drivers as “Shīfu” is a polite and widely accepted local custom in China. When you need to stop ahead of the exact navigation destination, this natural phrase can help drivers understand your needs accurately and park safely on the roadside.

2.jpg

II. Mobile Payment

1. 扫码支付 / 出示付款码Sǎomǎ zhīfù / Chūshì fùkuǎn mǎ.English: Scan the QR code to pay / Show your payment code. Русский: Оплатите по QR‑коду / Покажите код для оплаты. Français: Scannez le code QR pour payer / Montrez votre code de paiement.

China boasts a mature mobile payment ecosystem that covers almost all consumption scenarios. For street vendors, fruit stalls and small shops, you can scan their static QR codes to complete payments. In shopping malls, supermarkets and chain restaurants, you only need to present your personal payment code for merchants to scan and charge.

3.jpg

2. 微信还是支付宝？Wēixìn háishì Zhīfùbǎo?English: Will you take WeChat Pay or Alipay? Русский: Принимаете WeChat Pay или Alipay? Français: Acceptez‑vous WeChat Pay ou Alipay ?

WeChat Pay and Alipay are the two dominant payment tools in China. Some stores only support one of the two platforms, so asking this question in advance can effectively avoid payment failures and streamline your consumption process.

4.jpg

III. Catering & Dining

1. 扫码点餐Sǎomǎ diǎncān.English: Scan the QR code to order dishes. Русский: Сканируйте QR‑код, чтобы сделать заказ. Français: Scannez le code QR pour commander vos plats.

Most restaurants in China adopt QR code self‑service ordering. By scanning the code on the dining table, you can browse menus, select dishes, adjust taste preferences and finish payment independently, which greatly saves time and reduces face‑to‑face communication pressure.

5.jpg

2. 这个辣吗？/ 不要辣 / 微辣 / 中辣 / 重辣Zhège là ma? / Bù yào là / Wēi là / Zhōng là / Zhòng là.English: Is this dish spicy? / No spice / Mild spicy / Medium spicy / Extra spicy. Русский: Это блюдо острое? / Без остроты / Слабая острота / Средняя острота / Очень острое. Français: Ce plat est‑il épicé ? / Pas d’épices / Légèrement épicé / Moyennement épicé / Très épicé.

Chinese cuisine features diverse flavors, with spiciness being one of the most distinctive tastes. It is common for diners to customize spiciness levels in restaurants, campus canteens and street food stalls. You can directly use these expressions to inform staff of your taste habits.

Tip: The mild spicy level in Chinese catering is already flavorful for most foreigners. It is not recommended to try extra spicy food casually to avoid discomfort.

6.jpg

IV. Social Communication

1. 我可以加你的微信吗？Wǒ kěyǐ jiā nǐ de Wēixìn ma?English: May I have your WeChat contact? Русский: Могу ли я добавить вас в WeChat? Français: Puis‑je vous ajouter sur WeChat ?

WeChat is the core social and communication platform in China, serving as the main tool for daily contact, academic communication and social interaction. Exchanging WeChat accounts is equivalent to building a stable social connection, making it the most essential sentence for making new friends in class and daily life.

7.jpg

2. 我们AA吧。（普通关系）Wǒmen AA ba.English: Let’s split the bill equally. Русский: Давайте разделим счёт поровну. Français: Partageons l’addition équitablement.

Tip: Splitting bills evenly is a mainstream and polite way of dining settlement among classmates and colleagues in China.

3. 我来付，下次你请！（亲密好友）Wǒ lái fù, xià cì nǐ qǐng!English: It’s my treat today, and you can treat me next time! Русский: Сегодня плачу я, в следующий раз угощаете вы! Français: C’est ma tournée aujourd’hui, à toi de payer la prochaine fois !

Treating friends to meals is a classic way to maintain interpersonal relationships in Chinese culture. Saying this sentence not only allows others to accept your kindness naturally without embarrassment, but also implies your expectation of future gatherings and deeper friendship.

Tip: Shared dining experiences play a vital role in integrating into local social circles. Small interactions over meals can effectively narrow the distance between people.

8.jpg

V. Campus Study & Life

1. 老师，可以把这节课的课件发给我吗？Lǎoshī, kěyǐ bǎ zhè jié kè de kèjiàn fā gěi wǒ ma?English: Teacher, could you please send me the course slides of today’s class? Русский: Учитель, не могли бы вы прислать мне слайды сегодняшнего занятия? Français: Professeur, pourriez‑vous m’envoyer les diapositives du cours d’aujourd’hui ?

Many university teachers in China do not actively upload course courseware to online learning platforms. When you miss key content or need review materials after class, this polite and standard sentence can help you successfully obtain learning resources from teachers.

9.jpg

2. 同学，我可以加入你们组吗？Tóngxué, wǒ kěyǐ jiārù nǐmen zǔ ma?English: Hi, may I join your group for the project? Русский: Товарищ студент, можно мне присоединиться к вашей группе? Français: Camarade étudiant, puis‑je rejoindre votre groupe pour le projet ?

Group cooperation and team projects are indispensable parts of university study in China. For international students who are new to the campus, this gentle and appropriate expression helps you integrate into student groups quickly and participate in academic activities smoothly.

10.jpg

Adapting to life in China is far more approachable than most international students imagine. Grasping these practical daily Chinese expressions can help you cope with various life and study scenarios with greater ease. More importantly, taking the initiative to speak and communicate bravely is the best way to integrate into local culture. Your overseas study journey in China is filled with unique warmth and surprises. Every cross‑cultural communication and every small adaptation breakthrough will become precious growth memories, making your study abroad experience unique and unforgettable.

The global education landscape is constantly evolving, with more international learners seeking diverse, high-quality, and cost-effective overseas study experiences. In recent years, China has emerged as a leading global study destination, perfectly integrating top-tier academic resources, cutting-edge innovation vitality, and profound traditional culture. Pursuing higher education in China is far more than simply earning an academic degree. It is a life-changing experience that broadens global vision, shapes cross-cultural thinking, and creates invaluable personal growth opportunities. Below are ten distinctive advantages that make China an ideal choice for your overseas study journey.

1. Influential Global Status & Development Momentum

As the world’s second-largest economy and a vital cooperative partner for more than 150 countries and territories worldwide, China occupies a core position in global economic trade, technological innovation, and international diplomatic cooperation. Studying in China allows international students to witness and engage with the world’s fastest-growing major economy up close, helping them develop forward-looking global perspectives and gain unique insights into international development trends.

1.jpg

2. Prestigious Universities & World-Class Research Strength

China’s higher education system has achieved remarkable global progress and gained widespread international recognition. According to the 2026 QS World University Rankings, a total of 112 Chinese universities are listed in the global ranking, among which 8 prestigious institutions rank among the world’s top 50. Covering engineering, business administration, humanities, social sciences, and emerging fields such as artificial intelligence, Chinese universities are equipped with elite teaching teams, advanced teaching facilities, and sufficient scientific research funds. Regardless of your academic major or research direction, China’s top universities can provide a solid platform to support your academic pursuits and research breakthroughs.

2.jpg

3. Globally Accredited Academic Qualifications

China has established educational cooperation ties with 183 countries worldwide and signed mutual degree recognition agreements with 61 countries and regions. This comprehensive recognition system ensures that academic degrees issued by Chinese universities, especially elite key universities, are fully acknowledged and highly valued across the globe. Graduates with Chinese academic credentials possess stronger global employability, enabling them to compete in international talent markets and access diverse career development opportunities worldwide.

3.jpg

4. Complete Innovation Platforms & Rich Research Resources

China continues to increase investment in scientific research and technological innovation, building a complete and open innovation ecosystem for global students. OECD statistics show that China’s R&D expenditure increased by 8.7% in 2023, growing far faster than many developed economies. A large number of Chinese universities have established in-depth cooperative relationships with multinational enterprises, jointly building advanced laboratories and innovation bases. International students can participate in frontier scientific research projects, solve practical technical problems, and accumulate valuable hands-on innovation experience during their studies.

4.jpg

5. Diverse and Promising Career Development Paths

Driven by sustained economic growth, China has a huge demand for international talents with cross-cultural backgrounds and professional expertise. International students can access rich internship and full-time job opportunities in multinational companies, emerging startups, and international institutions. In addition, the Chinese language has been incorporated into the education systems of over 85 countries, with more than 200 million people learning Chinese globally. Mastering professional knowledge combined with Chinese language skills greatly enhances students’ core competitiveness in the global job market.

5.jpg

6. Cost-Effective High-Quality Education

Compared with mainstream overseas study destinations such as the United States, the United Kingdom, and Australia, studying in China offers extremely high cost performance. The annual tuition fee for international undergraduate students in Chinese public universities ranges from 10,000 to 40,000 RMB according to different majors, and postgraduate tuition fees are also significantly lower than those in European and American countries. Meanwhile, the living expenses in most Chinese cities are affordable and reasonable. Students can enjoy high-standard educational resources and convenient urban life without bearing excessive economic pressure.

6.jpg

7. Comprehensive Scholarship and Policy Support

The Chinese government, provincial education authorities, and universities have built a comprehensive scholarship system for international students. Various scholarship programs provide full or partial funding, covering tuition fees, accommodation expenses, and even living allowances for undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral students. The inclusive and complete financial support system enables outstanding students from all over the world to receive high-quality education in China with reduced economic burdens.

7.jpg

8. Diversified and Inclusive International Campus Environment

Up to now, students from more than 195 countries and regions have chosen China as their overseas study destination, forming a rich and diverse international campus atmosphere. To adapt to the learning needs of international students, most Chinese universities offer professional English-taught programs, independent international colleges, and international MBA courses. Students can cooperate with global peers in class, participate in various cultural festivals and campus activities, cultivate cross-cultural communication abilities, and build valuable global interpersonal networks.

CED文章图片.jpg

9. Profound Culture and Splendid Geographical Scenery

China perfectly integrates thousands of years of profound historical heritage with cutting-edge modern urban development. Here, you can experience the futuristic prosperity of new-tier cities such as Shenzhen, appreciate the unique mountain and water terrain of Chongqing, and admire the magical karst landscapes of Zhangjiajie. From snow-capped mountains and vast deserts to ancient water towns and modern metropolises, China boasts diverse and stunning scenery. In addition, global delicacies gather in Chinese cities, allowing international students to experience cultural integration and collision while enjoying diverse food, and gain unique and unforgettable study-abroad memories.

9.jpg

10. Safe, Convenient and Modern Living Conditions

China’s urban modernization level ranks among the top in the world. The high-speed railway network connects the whole country, realizing efficient cross-city travel — the journey from Beijing to Shanghai only takes 4 to 5 hours. Mature mobile payment systems cover almost all daily consumption scenarios, bringing great convenience to life. Meanwhile, China maintains a low social crime rate and complete medical security facilities around university campuses. International students can enjoy safe, comfortable and convenient living conditions throughout their study period.

10.jpg

Start Your Unique Study Journey in China

Studying in China is not only a choice for high-quality education, but also a precious opportunity to integrate into global development and realize personal growth. With its world-class educational resources, broad career prospects, inclusive cultural atmosphere and superior living environment, China is always ready to embrace every global student who pursues progress and dreams.

Congratulations on gaining admission to a Chinese university! You are about to kick off a brand-new overseas chapter filled with brand-new courses, precious friendships, diverse gourmet experiences, and endless exploration opportunities.

Before you pack your luggage and embark on your journey to China, adequate preparation is essential. Properly sorting out official paperwork and daily necessities can greatly simplify your airport entry process and help you adapt to campus life effortlessly in the initial stage. If you are confused about pre-departure arrangements, this comprehensive guide will sort out all key preparation items for you, allowing you to start your academic journey in China with full confidence.

I. Complete Preparation of Official Documents

1. Mandatory Basic Documents

Before departure, please carefully check and prepare the following core documents to avoid entry obstacles:

– Valid personal passport – Valid X1 or X2 Chinese student visa – Official university admission notice – JW201/JW202 study confirmation form (for long-term study) or DQ short-term study information form – Original certificate of your highest academic qualification – Recent passport-sized ID photos – Physical copies and electronic backups of all certification documents

It is recommended to print multiple copies of your passport personal page, visa page and admission letter. Meanwhile, store electronic versions in your mobile phone, personal mailbox and secure cloud disk for emergency use at any time.

2. Supplementary Documents as Required

Based on your enrolled institution, major program, scholarship qualification, age and study duration, you may need to prepare additional supporting materials:

– Foreigner physical examination form and complete medical inspection reports – International student medical insurance purchase certificate – Academic degree authentication report – Scholarship award certificate and financial support proof – Payment vouchers for tuition, accommodation and insurance fees – Pre-registration completion certificate and campus registration QR code – On-campus dormitory reservation proof or off-campus housing arrangement materials – Notarized guardian authorization documents for students under 18 years old – Both old and new passports (if you renewed your passport after submitting the application) – Other original application materials specified by your university

Important Reminder: Never place original official documents in checked luggage. Put all documents in a waterproof file folder and carry it with you throughout the trip. Document requirements vary by university and major. Please always follow the latest official registration notices and email notifications released by your school.

II. Scientific Packing & Digital Account Preparation

1. Must-Carry Daily Items

Universal power adapter: China adopts a 220V/50Hz power supply system, with dual-flat and three-hole sockets as the mainstream types, so a universal adapter is a necessity.

Portable power bank: Only carry power banks with clear and complete 3C certification marks. Products without valid certification, blurred marks or recalled batches are prohibited from taking domestic flights in China.

International bank card: Prepare a bank card with enabled overseas payment function for early overseas consumption.

RMB cash: Carry a small amount of cash for airport transportation and daily emergency expenses. Note that RMB cash over 20,000 yuan or foreign currency exceeding 5,000 US dollars requires mandatory customs declaration.

Daily supplies & medicine: Prepare toiletries, personal care products and conventional medicines sufficient for the first few days of adaptation. For prescription drugs, keep the original packaging intact, carry a doctor’s prescription or medical certificate, and ensure full compliance with Chinese customs entry regulations.

There is no need for excessive packing. Daily groceries, bedding, stationery and seasonal clothes are easily accessible offline and online across China, which can be purchased after arrival.

2. Pre-Arrival Digital Setup

– Complete the online entry declaration form in advance via the official platform of China National Immigration Administration. – Download and register WeChat and Alipay, activate payment functions, and bind eligible overseas bank cards in advance. – Activate public transport QR codes (bus and subway) of your city of residence for convenient daily travel. – Get familiar with the online car-hailing functions embedded in WeChat and Alipay. – If you plan to take high-speed trains, download the Railway 12306 app, complete passport authentication and real-name verification in advance.

III. September Dressing Guide for Different Regions of China

China features a vast territory with distinct regional climates in September. Eastern and southern regions still retain summer warmth and humidity, while northeast and high-altitude areas usher in obvious temperature drops, with cool mornings and evenings.

You can prepare clothes according to regional climate characteristics: – Choose lightweight and breathable clothing for warm and humid southern and eastern cities. – Prepare thin sweaters and casual jackets to cope with cool weather in northern and northeastern China. – Adopt layered dressing for northwest and high-altitude regions to adapt to large day-night temperature differences. – Equip yourself with lightweight rain gear or portable umbrellas for central, eastern and southern areas with frequent autumn rains.

It is unnecessary to pack all seasonal clothes for the whole academic year. China has developed shopping malls and mature online shopping platforms, so winter clothes and seasonal supplies can be purchased locally after settlement.

IV. Guide to Experiencing Chinese Catering Culture

Chinese cuisine boasts rich diversity, with unique flavor characteristics in different regions, forming a colorful food culture. As you start your food exploration in China, you can master these practical tips:

If you cannot tolerate spicy food, you can take the initiative to ask merchants for “non-spicy (bú là)” or “mild spicy (wēi là)” taste. Campus canteens and urban commercial areas provide a wealth of regional Chinese dishes and international cuisines to meet diverse taste needs. Students with special dietary habits such as halal or vegetarian can consult the university in advance about supporting catering services.

You can bring a small number of sealed commercial packaged foods from your home country to adapt to the dietary transition period in the early stage. However, strictly abide by Chinese customs regulations: fresh fruits and vegetables, fresh meat and meat products, most plant and animal products are prohibited from entry. Homemade food and some dairy products also have entry restrictions. For uncertain items, please check the official customs guidelines in advance and take the initiative to declare restricted goods upon entry.

Start Your Wonderful Study Life in China

With complete document preparation, reasonable packing, smooth digital setup, and basic understanding of China’s climate and food culture, you are fully ready for your overseas study journey!

Before boarding, please keep an eye on the latest updates from your university, airline company and Chinese official authorities. Sufficient pre-departure preparation can help you complete entry and registration efficiently, so that you can devote more time to enjoying colorful campus life, making new friends and exploring the unique charm of China.

Wish you a smooth journey and a wonderful study experience in China!