China continues to rise as a global leader in education, attracting thousands of international students every year. With a strong economy, generous scholarships, cutting-edge research, and a vibrant international student community, Chinese universities are now among the best in the world.
If you’re considering studying in China, here’s a list of the top 10 ranked Chinese universities in 2026, according to global university rankings such as QS, THE, and ARWU.
📚 Top 10 Best Universities in China for 2026
10. City University of Hong Kong (CityUHK)
- Founded: 1994
- Location: Nanjing, Jiangsu Province
- Rankings: #63 Global (QS 2026), #73 Global (THE 2026), #99 Global (ARWU 2025)
City University of Hong Kong (CityUHK) is a dynamic, fast-growing public research university located in the heart of Kowloon, Hong Kong. Known for its innovation-centric approach and rapid rise in global rankings, it is considered one of the most prestigious "young" universities in the world.
9. Nanjing University (NJU)
- Founded: 1902
- Location: Nanjing, Jiangsu Province
- Rankings: #103 Global (QS 2026), #62 Global (THE 2026), #75 Global (ARWU 2025)
NJU is one of the first Chinese universities to welcome international students. Today, over 3,000 students from more than 100 countries study here. It offers a wide range of programs and has strong collaborations with universities across the world.
Learn more about Nanjing University
8. The Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK)
- Founded: 1963
- Location: Shatin, Hong Kong
- Rankings: #32 Global (QS 2026), #41 Global (THE 2026), #99 Global (ARWU 2025)
CUHK remains a top-tier choice for its collegiate system and bilingual environment. While its ARWU ranking is generally lower (top 150), its high standing in QS and THE reflects its excellence in teaching quality and employer reputation.
7. University of Science and Technology of China (USTC)
- Founded: 1958
- Location: Hefei, Anhui Province
- Rankings: #40 Global (ARWU 2025), #51 Global (THE 2026), #132 Global (QS 2026)
Nicknamed the “Cradle of Scientific Elites,” USTC is a top destination for students in STEM fields. It was the first to introduce gifted youth classes and national labs in China. USTC continues to lead in technology, engineering, and physical sciences.
6. Fudan University
- Founded: 1905
- Location: Shanghai (Handan, Fenglin, Zhangjiang, Jiangwan campuses)
- Rankings: #30 Global (QS 2026), #36 Global (THE 2026), #41 Global (ARWU 2025)
A comprehensive and selective university in central Shanghai, Fudan University has over 45,000 students, including a large international population. With strong global partnerships and a wide range of English-taught programs, it’s a top destination for global learners.
Learn more about Fudan University
5. Shanghai Jiao Tong University (SJTU)
- Founded: 1896
- Location: Minhang District, Shanghai
- Rankings: #38 Global (ARWU 2025), #40 Global (THE 2026), #47 Global (QS 2026)
SJTU is recognized for its high-quality research, innovation, and international collaboration. Over 6,000 international students study here, supported by a dedicated international student services department. It’s also home to one of the most advanced business programs in China.
4. Zhejiang University (ZJU)
- Founded: 1897
- Location: Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province
- Rankings: #27 Global (ARWU 2025), #39 Global (THE 2026), #49 Global (QS 2026)
Zhejiang University is part of China’s “Double First-Class” initiative. With over 4,700 international students, generous scholarships, and a vibrant academic environment, ZJU stands out as one of the most internationalized universities in China.
Learn more about Zhejiang University
3. The University of Hong Kong (HKU)
- Founded: 1911
- Location: Pokfulam, Hong Kong
- Rankings: #11 Global (QS 2026), #33 Global (THE 2026), #67 Global (ARWU 2025)
HKU is the most international university on this list and holds the highest singular rank (#11 in QS). It achieved a historic high of #67 in the data-driven ARWU 2025, proving its research capabilities are catching up to its stellar global reputation.
Learn more about The University of Hong Kong
2. Peking University (PKU)
- Founded: 1898
- Location: Haidian District, Beijing
- Location: Beijing
- Rankings: #13 Global (THE 2026), #14 Global (QS 2026), #23 Global (ARWU 2025)
As the oldest university in China, Peking University is rich in Chinese cultural heritage while embracing modern, global education. It’s also home to the largest university library in Asia. International students are drawn to its beautiful campus and the balance between traditional and contemporary education.
Learn more about Peking University
1.Tsinghua University
- Founded: 1911
- Location: Haidian District, Beijing
- Rankings: #1 in Asia (ARWU 2025), #12 Global (THE 2026), #18 Global (ARWU 2025)
Known for excellence in engineering, computer science, and technology, Tsinghua University is the most prestigious university in China. It’s home to over 3,400 international students from 130+ countries and offers more than 500 English-taught courses. The campus has also been listed among the most beautiful in the world by Forbes.
Learn more about Tsinghua University
How Are Chinese Universities Ranked?
University rankings in China are determined by global benchmarks such as the QS World University Rankings, Times Higher Education (THE), and Academic Ranking of World Universities (ARWU). These rankings evaluate institutions based on academic reputation, faculty credentials, research output, and internationalization.
It’s worth noting that while rankings are useful, they don't always reflect the best experience for international students. For a more personalized choice, check out the Top 16 Chinese Universities for International Students.
Are Rankings Important When Choosing a University?
Rankings offer a good starting point, but they shouldn’t be your only guide. We recommend you:
- Look into a university’s strengths and specializations
- Read student stories and reviews
- Consider location, support services, and scholarship opportunities
Choose a university that matches your academic and personal goals — not just the one with the highest ranking.
Not Sure Where to Start?
If you’re feeling a bit lost choosing a university or figuring out how to apply, you’re not alone. Many international students feel the same way.
China Admissions helped thousands of students from all over the world find the right program, navigate deadlines, secure scholarships, and increase to get accepted into top Chinese universities, without the confusion and endless research.
You can read stories from students who were successfully helped by China Admissions here.
