Fudan University, China

Name: Fudan University

Campuses: Main campus is Handan, with additional campuses in Fenglin, Zhangjiang, and Jiangwan.

Highlights: Fudan is one of China’s most prestigious universities, ranking consistently in the top 5 nationwide and renowned globally for research. It has a strong focus on international exchange and has partnerships with institutions worldwide.

Student Population: Approximately 45,000.

Type: Public

Website: Fudan University website

3 places available (Not available to students pursuing the CIVICA Engage Track or PPE students).

Applicants must be in their second year and must return to LSE after the year abroad to complete their degree.

To be eligible for consideration, you must have an overall average of 60% or above from all of your first year courses. Applicants with individual module scores under 60% will be considered, as long as the overall average grade is 60% or above.

As part of your application, you must provide your marks from your first year modules at LSE and the name and contact details of one academic referee. Your referee can be any academic member of staff from your department at LSE.

Note: Effective Spring 2027, Fudan University have stipulated that students of Chinese nationality are no longer eligible to participate in the Fudan university-level exchange program.

Fudan-Specific Requirements:Proficiency in Chinese (if taking courses in Chinese) is essential; some programs may require specific prerequisites.

Available Courses: Full catalogue available on Fudan’s course listings can be found here

Academic Calendar: 18 weeks per semester (16 teaching weeks + 2 exam weeks).

Course Load & Credits: 6-15 credits for one semester (2-8 courses)(10 credits per semester on average).

Prerequisites: Some courses may require proficiency in related subjects; consult course descriptions for more information here.

Disability services: Please note, Fudan University currently does not provide specific disability services to students.

Induction & Orientation: Orientation week with introduction to campus, local resources, and administrative processes.

Language Support: Chinese language classes are available for exchange students.

Medical Services: On-campus clinic, with referrals to local hospitals.

On-Campus Housing: Limited spaces in dormitories specifically for international students. Due to limited availability, on-campus housing is not guaranteed.

Private housing estimated costs: 3000-6000 RMB per month.

Estimated living costs:

• Food/Meals: 6000 RMB for one semester.
• Personal expenses (Laundry, sundries, transportation): 1000 RMB per month.
• Academic expenses: 500 RMB for one semester.
• Insurance: 400 RMB for one semester.

Health Insurance Requirements: Mandatory to purchase Chinese health insurance or show proof of comprehensive international health insurance.

Campus Safety: Security personnel and emergency contact points are available across campuses.

Emergency Services/Procedures: Fudan provides emergency protocols and assistance; contact information distributed during orientation.

Student Clubs and Associations: Student clubs are available, covering a wide range of interests from academic, cultural to sports-related activities.

Cultural Activities: Events, excursions, and cultural immersion programs, including festivals, lectures, and performances.

Exchanges students are required to hold a valid student visa (X1 or X2 visa) to participate in the exchange programme.

Main Contact for Exchange Program: International Student Office

Email: iso@fudan.edu.cn

Phone: (86)-(21)-65642250

Address: 220 Handan Road, Shanghai, China, 200433

Social Media: Official accounts on WeChat and other platforms will be shared post-admission for community updates and engagements.

Studying abroad at Fudan University in Shanghai was one of the most rewarding experiences of my time at university. Living in such a vibrant city allowed me to encounter a different way of life and gain a much deeper understanding of Chinese culture. It also pushed me beyond my comfort zone and helped me become more confident in unfamiliar situations. A major highlight was being able to immerse myself in everyday life in Shanghai. Exploring the city, trying local food and taking part in cultural activities made my experience feel much richer than simply visiting as a tourist. I became more open-minded through meeting people with different backgrounds and perspectives, and I began to appreciate how much can be learned through ordinary daily interactions. My time in Shanghai was also especially valuable for my language learning. Being surrounded by Mandarin gave me the opportunity to practise regularly in real-life situations rather than only in a classroom. Although communicating was sometimes challenging, using the language in shops, restaurants and conversations with local people gradually made me more comfortable. It was satisfying to notice my confidence improve over time and to see how language could help me connect more closely with the culture around me. Living abroad also encouraged me to become more independent. I had to adapt to a new environment and learn how to handle challenges without relying on familiar routines. This helped me trust my own judgement and become more resilient. Academically, studying at Fudan exposed me to new ideas and a different educational setting. Overall, my time in Shanghai broadened my perspective and had a lasting impact on my personal growth. I would highly recommend studying abroad to other LSE students, as it is an opportunity to learn not only about another country, but also about yourself.

By Jo Lee, GO LSE Student 2025/26