Xi’an International Studies University (XISU) (西安外国语大学) | International Student Guide: 2026 Programs, Entry Requirements, Costs and Application Support — Ranking, Fees, Admission

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If you are looking for a comprehensive Xi’an International Studies University (XISU) international student guide, you are in the right place. Xi’an International Studies University (西安外国语大学), established in 1952, is one of China’s earliest four foreign language institutions and the only government-run foreign language university in Northwest China. This guide is designed to help international applicants understand what XISU offers, from language programmes to full-degree studies, and how to navigate the student application process. UNILINK is suitable for providing application information and support based on your background, helping you prepare a complete submission for Xi’an International Studies University (XISU).

UNILINK provides application information and support tailored to your academic background and study goals. We do not make any admission or visa promises, and all outcomes depend on the university’s current entry requirements and official offer documentation. A team member will contact you within one business day to discuss your options.

About Xi’an International Studies University (XISU)

Xi’an International Studies University traces its roots back to 1951, when the Northwest Russian College was approved by the Ministry of Education, enrolling its first students in 1952. The institution was renamed Xi’an Foreign Languages Institute in 1958 and began cultivating postgraduate students in 1979. It was authorised as a master’s degree granting unit in 1986, and in 2006, it formally adopted its current name: Xi’an International Studies University.

The university achieved a significant academic milestone in 2013 by obtaining the right to confer doctoral degrees in the first-level discipline of Foreign Languages and Literature, followed by the establishment of a postdoctoral research station in 2014. Today, XISU operates across two campuses: the main Chang’an campus and the older Yanta campus. The Chang’an campus, located in the southern part of Xi’an, offers a spacious environment with views of the Qinling Mountains. Facilities across the university include multimedia classrooms, language laboratories, computer labs, electronic reading rooms, and satellite TV reception systems.

XISU has built a broad international network, maintaining cooperative relationships with around 262 universities and research institutions across 48 countries and regions. It is a recognised host institution for Chinese Government Scholarships and Confucius Institute Scholarships, and it has established three overseas Confucius Institutes in Kazakhstan, Argentina, and France.

Programmes for International Students

XISU offers a range of study options across multiple disciplines, with around 57 programmes spanning four degree levels. For international students, the university provides both degree-seeking and non-degree pathways.

Non-degree programmes include a Summer Programme and a Long-term Chinese Language Programme. The Summer Programme typically begins in mid-July and runs for several weeks, providing an intensive introduction to Chinese language and culture. The Long-term Chinese Language Programme has two intakes each year: a spring semester starting around early March and a fall semester starting around early September. Students can enrol for either one semester or a full academic year.

At the undergraduate level, programmes are available across various fields, with tuition generally falling within a range of approximately RMB 16,000 to RMB 26,000 per year. Postgraduate options include master’s programmes, with tuition around RMB 20,000 per year, and doctoral programmes, with tuition around RMB 24,000 per year. Exact programme availability, entry intakes, and current tuition figures should be confirmed on the university’s official website at the time of application.

The university’s School of Translation and Interpreting maintains exchange partnerships with institutions such as the University of Westminster and Heriot-Watt University in the United Kingdom, offering additional international exposure for students in those specific programmes.

Entry Requirements

Admission to Xi’an International Studies University depends on the programme and degree level you are applying for. For Chinese-taught programmes, applicants typically need to demonstrate Chinese language proficiency at a level prescribed by the university, often through HSK scores. The specific HSK level required varies by programme; postgraduate degrees generally demand a higher level than non-degree language programmes.

For English-taught programmes, where available, applicants may need to provide IELTS, TOEFL, or equivalent certification. Academic requirements also vary: undergraduate applicants usually need a senior high school diploma or equivalent, while master’s and doctoral applicants must hold a relevant prior degree.

Because requirements differ across faculties and are subject to change, you should check the current entry criteria for your chosen programme on XISU’s official admissions page before submitting your application. UNILINK can help you interpret these requirements and prepare your documents accordingly.

Fees and Cost of Living

Studying at XISU involves several cost components. Based on aggregated secondary sources, here is a general overview of what to expect. All figures should be treated as indicative ranges, and the final amounts must be verified on the university’s current official fee schedule.

Non-degree programme tuition ranges from approximately RMB 4,500 to RMB 14,600, depending on the programme type and duration. Undergraduate tuition falls between roughly RMB 16,000 and RMB 26,000 per academic year. Master’s tuition is around RMB 20,000 per year, and doctoral tuition is around RMB 24,000 per year.

Accommodation in the No. 8 Student Dormitory, offered as a double room, costs between approximately RMB 4,500 and RMB 9,000, depending on the rental period. Monthly living expenses in Xi’an, covering food, transport, and personal items, are estimated at around RMB 2,000 to RMB 2,500.

Application fees range from approximately USD 43 to USD 85. A separate service fee may also apply.

Disclaimer: This cost data has been compiled from publicly available secondary sources. All tuition fees, accommodation charges, and other expenses are subject to change and must be confirmed on Xi’an International Studies University’s official website at the time of application.

Application Support

Preparing an application for an overseas university involves gathering transcripts, language certificates, personal statements, and recommendation letters, then ensuring everything meets the institution’s format and deadline requirements. UNILINK offers structured support to help you through this process.

Our team can assist you in understanding XISU’s specific documentation requirements, reviewing your materials for completeness, and advising on how to present your academic background effectively. We do not guarantee admission, and the final decision rests solely with the university. For more detailed guidance on the application process, see our application guide. If you are exploring alternative routes to university study, you may also find our pathway comparison useful. We also offer a document service to help you prepare certified materials, and we maintain a clear follow-up commitment to keep you informed at each stage. Learn more about our team on the about page.

FAQ

Q1: What is the application deadline for the Chinese language programme at XISU?

The Long-term Chinese Language Programme typically has two intakes. For the spring semester starting around early March, the application deadline is usually in late November of the previous year. For the fall semester starting around early September, the deadline is generally around the end of June. The Summer Programme, beginning in mid-July, normally has a deadline in mid-June. Always confirm exact dates on the university’s official admissions page, as schedules can shift.

Q2: Does XISU offer scholarships for international students?

Yes. Xi’an International Studies University is an approved host institution for Chinese Government Scholarships and Confucius Institute Scholarships. Eligibility criteria, coverage, and application procedures for these scholarships are set by the respective scholarship bodies, not by the university alone. You should review the latest scholarship announcements and confirm your eligibility before applying.

Q3: Where is XISU located, and what is the campus like?

XISU has two campuses in Xi’an, Shaanxi Province. The main Chang’an campus is situated in the Xi’an Guo Du Education, Science and Technology Industrial Development Zone, in the southern part of the city, with views of the Qinling Mountains. The older Yanta campus is in a more central district. The university provides modern teaching facilities, including language labs, multimedia classrooms, and computer labs.

Q4: Can I transfer credits from XISU to a partner university?

XISU maintains exchange partnerships with numerous institutions worldwide, including specific agreements through its School of Translation and Interpreting with universities such as Westminster and Heriot-Watt in the UK. Credit transfer arrangements depend on the specific bilateral agreement between XISU and the partner institution, as well as your programme of study. You should consult the relevant academic department for details on any active exchange or credit recognition pathway.

Q5: What accommodation options are available for international students?

International students can apply for on-campus accommodation, such as the double rooms in the No. 8 Student Dormitory. Costs vary depending on the rental period, with indicative annual rates falling within a range of several thousand RMB. Availability is not guaranteed, and you should confirm current room types, rates, and application procedures directly with the university’s international student office at the time of admission.

信息来源

• Xi’an International Studies University (XISU) – CUCAS institutional profile, checked 2026-07-25
• Xi’an International Studies University (XISU) – International Cooperation and Exchange Office page, checked 2026-07-25
• Xi’an International Studies University (XISU) – School of Translation and Interpreting page, checked 2026-07-25
• Xi’an International Studies University (XISU) – CUCAS programmes page, checked 2026-07-25
• Xi’an International Studies University (XISU) – CUCAS fee structure page, checked 2026-07-25

Last updated: July 2026. Programmes, fees and entry requirements are subject to the institution’s current official pages and offer documentation.