About
Shanghai University of Finance and Economics (SUFE), established in 1917, is a renowned public research university based in Shanghai, China, consistently ranked among the top institutions both nationally and globally. SUFE has grown to be one of the leaders of higher education nationwide in the fields of Finance and Economics, in which SUFE enjoys national influence and receives comprehensive government support. SUFE’s strength for quality of teaching and learning spans the full breadth of finance, applied economics, and management science.
Specialising in finance and economics, SUFE offers a comprehensive academic environment that integrates rigorous theoretical learning with practical applications, preparing students to meet the challenges of the global economy. The university is committed to innovation, sustainability, and social responsibility, encouraging students to engage in projects that address contemporary economic and social issues. Through interdisciplinary research, international collaborations, and a strong emphasis on global impact, SUFE plays a significant role in advancing China's economic and social development.
For more information on SUFE's academic reputation, consult SUFE on the QS World Rankings.
Location
Shanghai is a lively, global city that blends rich traditional Chinese culture with modern urban life. The city provides a range of cultural attractions, from the historic Bund to the futuristic Lujiazui skyline. Students can enjoy green spaces, cultural landmarks, and a vibrant arts scene. Whether exploring local markets, experiencing the nightlife, or dining at one of Shanghai’s many restaurants, there is always something to do, making it an exciting place to study and live.
SUFE operates from three primary campuses, with its main campus located at No. 777 Guoding Road in the Yangpu District of Shanghai. The campuses are well-connected via Shanghai’s comprehensive public transportation system, including the metro (explore Shanghai's metro), buses, and taxis, allowing for easy travel between campuses and throughout the city. Cycling is also a popular and affordable option, with numerous bike-sharing services available.
Each campus typically hosts different academic faculties and facilities. The main Guoding Road campus is home to the university’s key academic departments, administrative offices, and student services. Study areas, libraries, and recreational spaces and many canteens are spread across the campuses, offering convenient access to resources and a comfortable environment for both academic and social activities.
Level of competitiveness
This exchange is only open to students in the School of School of Business and Management, School of Economics and Finance, and only students studying a Modern Languages degree within the School of the Arts.
- School of Business and Management agreement: Competitive **
- School of Economics and Finance agreement: Less competitive *
- School of the Arts (Modern Languages students only): Less competitive *
The level of competitiveness (Less competitive * / Competitive ** / Very competitive ***) refers to one's chances of being allocated an exchange space at this partner. This is an approximation determined by the number of applications received for this destination during the last academic year versus the total number of exchange spaces available to Queen Mary students.
Language of Instruction
Students who do not speak any or limited Chinese may follow a full courseload taught and examined entrely in English.
Students can choose courses in both English and Chinese, depending on their language proficiency. Nonetheless, classes taught in Chinese are only available to international exchange attendees taking the Intensive Chinese Language Study modules (see more below under Courses).
Academic Calendar
The academic calendar is divided into two semesters:
- Orientation (mandatory): final days of August
- Autumn semester: September – mid-January (exam period starting from last week of December)
- Spring semester: February – early July (exam period starting from mid-June)
Courses
SUFE offers about 20 economics and accounting-related courses in English, covering subjects like corporate finance, game theory, intermediate and advanced macroeconomics, microeconomics, and international economics. Additionally, students have the option to enroll in two Chinese language courses called Comprehensive course I and Comprehensive course II —one designed for complete beginners and another for those with basic knowledge of Chinese. While many students opt for English-taught courses, those proficient in Chinese can access a wider range of subjects.
Most courses have specific prerequisites, so students should carefully check the academic requirements before enrolling. During this first week, students are encouraged to consult with staff if they need assistance with their selections. However, please note that the registration deadline is strict. Once the portal closes, students will no longer be able to switch or select new modules.
It’s essential to highlight that SUFE also provides several law courses taught in English, focusing on Anglo-American legal systems, which adds to the academic diversity available to international students.
For exchange studies starting from the autumn (Fall), the confirmed listing of course information will be available around mid-June, when admitted exchange participants shall expect to receive updates regarding course selection. The course selection link is only accessible with SUFE credentials.
Students are assessed via a combination of attendance, assignments and tests with exams.
Credits
Students must enrol on a full courseload equivalent to 60 Queen Mary credits for the semester/120 for a full academic year.
At SUFE, this is 15 local credits (corresponding to 4-6 units of study) per semester.
Grading
Local marking/grading system: Examinations at SUFE are assessed on a numerical scale (0-100). Each course has its own specific requirements (like at Queen Mary), nonetheless for most courses class participation and assignments will impact final grades.
While at Queen Mary a passing grade is anything above 40, at SUFE in China the passing grade is 60. This is confirmed in the GPO's published grade conversion tables; find out more about Queen Mary’s credit transfer and grade conversion process.
Accommodation
International students who are recommended by partner institutions as incoming exchange students (this is how Queen Mary would nominate you, if you receive a Conditional offer of exchange for SUFE from the GPO team) may apply for on-campus accommodation. Eligibility for accommodation is contingent upon the confirmation of enrollment and the submission of an online application for on-campus housing, with detailed guidance provided in the admission materials that Queen Mary students nominated for an incoming exchange to SUFE will receive.
Typically, international students can reside in the Sanmen Road Dormitory, which is conveniently situated just a 15-minute walk from the main university campus. The dormitory in Sanmen Road usually feature two bathrooms, six individual rooms, a living room, and a kitchen. All the rooms are equipped with a wardrobe, a desk, and a bed. However, the rooms differ in size, and one of them includes a balcony, with prices varying accordingly. Students can choose their preferred room, subject to availability, or opt for off-campus accommodation if they prefer to arrange it themselves.
For further details about the on-campus accommodation options, including facilities and the application process, please visit: SUFE On-Campus Accommodation.
Cost of living
China is generally considered a budget-friendly country for students, with living costs typically lower than in many Western countries and considerably lower than in London. However, in a major city like Shanghai, expenses can vary significantly based on individual lifestyle and accommodation choices. While private housing in central areas can be costly, there are more affordable alternatives available. You can find more general, up-to-date information about the cost of living in Shanghai here. Please consult the estimated minimum and maximum cost of living figures for this destination country available in our “Estimated Costs of Living” document available on our Finance page.
Important: As Shanghai is more expensive than other cities in China, students must assess their financial situation carefully. It's crucial to create a balanced budget, accounting for both confirmed financial support (such as scholarships or savings) and personal spending habits, especially in relation to housing, food, and transportation.
SUFE provides information on the cost of living as a student (ignore the references to tuition fees). Incoming exchange students do not pay administration fees, however:
- Students must purchase internet access, with several packages available depending on the stay and speed of access. This gives access to Wi-Fi across all university buildings and the dormitories.
- Students must also purchase a subscription to a VPN service, as it is not possible to use Western apps without it (this includes maintaining a connection to your Queen Mary email and submitting documentation, etc.). Therefore, nearly all incoming exchange students coming into China know this in advance and will make plans to purchase a VPN subscription for the length of their stay. A VPN subscription will incur an extra annual or monthly cost (which can be costly, depending on the subscription chosen). For students who are eligible for GPO managed funding such as through the Turing Scheme or the GPO Study Abroad Bursary, this funding works to offset such additional costs of going abroad for students in need.
Support services
Incoming exchange students who need general, emotional or academic support should directly contact the team who supports international students, who will do everything within their power to accommodate students' needs and work together to find a solution.
Health Care Services
Medical services at SUFE are designed to provide comprehensive care in several areas, including Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), specialty medicine, physiotherapy, psychiatry, and more. On-campus physicians include specialists in family medicine, sports medicine, gynecology/obstetrics, orthopedics, endocrinology, internal medicine, pediatrics, and psychiatry. These services accept most local insurance plans, ensuring accessible healthcare for students.
International Medical Services Off-Campus
For international students seeking medical care off-campus, Shanghai offers a range of multilingual and highly-qualified international medical services.
Insurance Plans
All incoming international students are required to have insurance that covers Accident Injury Medical Treatment and Hospitalisation Medical Treatment. For more details, visit the SUFE international student insurance page.
As a student, you can also find a summary of the available health and safety support services, including non-emergency health care, mental health, and specialized accommodations on the SUFE website. These resources ensure that students can access the medical care and support they need during their studies in Shanghai.
Activities and Societies
When you arrive at SUFE before classes begin, there is a special welcoming day where the staff greet new students and provide important information about life on campus and in China. This day helps you get familiar with essential apps like WeChat and WeCom, sort out registration, and resolve any Wi-Fi or technical issues before the academic year starts.
Student associations at SUFE play a vital role in fostering a well-rounded cultural environment on campus.
There are currently 78 student clubs at SUFE, catering to a variety of interests. These clubs are generally grouped into five categories: academia, art and literature, sports, practical experience, and public welfare. Including the Tea Arts Club, Karate Club, Golf Club, Sunshine Public Welfare Club, and Hand-in-Hand Environmental Protection Club. With opportunities ranging from academic forums to cultural events and sports competitions, SUFE offers a rich and diverse student life where everyone can find something to get involved in.
In addition, throughout the year, SUFE organises various events to help international students engage with Chinese culture. These activities include cultural festivals, traditional Chinese celebrations, offering a unique opportunity for international students to experience and connect with local customs and traditions. These events aim to foster a deeper understanding of Chinese culture and create lasting connections between international and local students.
While studying at SUFE, activities and events are often advertised on WeChat or WeCom, which are the apps you will use during your studies (see more below). These platforms are essential for staying updated on campus events, connecting with fellow students, and accessing important information throughout your time at the university.
Essential Apps for Students in China: WeChat, Alipay and Wecom
WeChat and Alipay are essential tools for students in China, playing a vital role in their daily lives. Both platforms are the only apps used for cashless payments, making it convenient for students to pay for everything from meals and transportation to school supplies, often with just a scan of a QR code. Additionally, WeChat as well as Wecom (formerly known as WeChat Work) serve as a hub for social networking, academic group discussions, and staying connected with classmates and teachers. Alipay also offers financial services like budgeting tools, helping students manage their expenses.
Together, these apps simplify life, including for incoming exchange students in China, fostering greater efficiency and connectivity.
