10 Best Medical Schools in China (2025)
Here is a look at China's top medical schools renowned for excellence in education, research, and clinical training for both domestic and international students.
China’s medical education system boasts a rich history and a global reputation for excellence. The country has also become a popular destination for international students seeking quality medical education
China’s top medical schools combine impressive academic programs with sophisticated research and extensive clinical training. This article provides an in-depth look at the top medical schools in China, highlighting their notable alumni, key strengths, tuition fees, scholarship opportunities, and other pertinent information.
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1. Peking University Health Science Center (PUHSC)
Established in 1912, PUHSC is the medical school of Peking University and is located in Beijing. It was the first institution in China to teach Western medicine and has since maintained a leading position in medical education and research.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Beijing, China |
| Established | 1912 |
| Programs Offered | Undergraduate, Master’s, Doctoral degrees in various medical fields |
| Tuition Fees | Affordable |
| Scholarships | Various scholarships are available for both domestic and international students, including the Chinese Government Scholarship. |
| Affiliated Hospitals | 14 teaching hospitals |
| Website | e.bjmu.edu.cn |
Notable Alumni:
- Tu Youyou: Co-recipient of the 2015 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine for her discovery of artemisinin, a groundbreaking treatment for malaria.
- Zhong Nanshan: Renowned respiratory expert who identified the SARS coronavirus in 2003.
Key Strengths:
- Comprehensive medical programs covering basic medical sciences, clinical medicine, preventive medicine, and more.
- Strong emphasis on research with numerous national key laboratories and research centers.
Admission Requirements:
- Recommendation letters from teachers or professors.
- High school diploma with strong academic performance.
- Proficiency in English (TOEFL/IELTS scores may be required) for international students.
2. Shanghai Medical College of Fudan University
Founded in 1927, Shanghai Medical College is part of Fudan University and is located in Shanghai. It is one of China’s most prestigious medical schools, known for its rigorous academic programs and extensive research facilities.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Shanghai, China |
| Established | 1927 |
| Programs Offered | Bachelor’s, Master’s, Doctoral degrees in clinical medicine and related fields |
| Tuition Fee | Expensive |
| Scholarships | The university offers various scholarships, including the Shanghai Government Scholarship for international students |
| Affiliated Hospitals | Multiple teaching hospitals |
| Website | shmc.fudan.edu.cn/eng |
Notable Alumni:
- Zhao-you Tang: An internationally respected professor of surgical oncology.
- Tang Zhaoyou: Renowned liver cancer specialist and academician of the Chinese Academy of Engineering.
It is also worth noting that Chen Haozhu, who is the pioneer of modern cardiology in China, taught as a professor at Zhongshan Hospital, the affiliated hospital of the school.
Key Strengths:
- Strong emphasis on research with multiple key laboratories and research centers.
- Extensive clinical training opportunities through affiliated hospitals.
Admission Requirements:
- Personal statement and recommendation letters.
- Completion of high school with excellent grades in science subjects.
- English language proficiency for international students.
3. Zhongshan School of Medicine (Sun Yat-sen University of Medical Sciences)
Zhongshan School of Medicine is the medical school of Sun Yat-sen University.
Located in Guangzhou, Sun Yat-sen University was established in 1924 and has a strong reputation for its medical education and research programs.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Guangzhou, China |
| Established | 1924 |
| Programs Offered | MBBS, Master’s, Doctoral programs in various medical disciplines |
| Tuition Fees | Affordable. |
| Scholarships | The university Offers various scholarships, including the Chinese Government Scholarship and university-specific awards |
| Affiliated Hospitals | Several top-tier hospitals |
| Website | zssom.sysu.edu.cn |
Notable Alumni:
- Chi-Chao Chan: Esteemed Chinese-born American ophthalmologist and physician-scientist who was senior investigator and chief of the American National Eye Institute (NEI) immunopathology section.
Key Strengths:
- Comprehensive MBBS program tailored for international students.
- Strong research capabilities with numerous affiliated hospitals providing extensive clinical training.
Admission Requirements:
- High school diploma with good grades in biology, chemistry, and physics.
- Proof of English proficiency for international students.
- Interview may be required.
4. Zhejiang University School of Medicine
Established in 1912, Zhejiang University School of Medicine is located in Hangzhou and is known for its innovative medical programs and research initiatives.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Hangzhou, China |
| Established | 1912 |
| Programs Offered | MBBS, Master’s, Doctoral programs |
| Tuition Fees | Affordable |
| Scholarships | Various scholarships are available, including the Zhejiang Provincial Government Scholarship. |
| Affiliated Hospitals | Multiple teaching hospitals |
| Website | cmm.zju.edu.cn |
Notable Alumni:
- Chen Wei: An internationally esteemed epidemiologist and virologist specializies in biodefense.
- Yang Huanming: Chairman and co-founder of the Beijing Genomics Institute. Highly regarded genetics researcher
Key Strengths:
- Internationally recognized MBBS program with a blend of traditional Chinese and Western medicine.
- Strong research focus with multiple affiliated hospitals offering diverse clinical experiences.
Admission Requirements:
- High school diploma with strong performance in science subjects.
- English proficiency test scores.
- Recommendation letters and personal statement.
5. Nanjing Medical University (NMU)
Founded in 1934, Nanjing Medical University (NMU) is located in Nanjing, Jiangsu Province. It was among the first in China to offer a six-year medical education program and to confer doctoral and master’s degrees.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Nanjing, China |
| Established | 1934 |
| Programs Offered | MBBS, Master’s, Doctoral programs in various medical disciplines |
| Affiliated Hospitals | Multiple teaching hospitals |
| Tuition Fees | Affordable |
| Scholarships | Nanjing Government Scholarship and other options |
| Website | english.njmu.edu.cn |
Notable Alumni:
- Shen Hongbing: An Epidemiologist and oncologist, he has served as the director of the Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention.
Key Strengths:
- Comprehensive medical programs with a focus on integrating research and clinical practice.
- Seven disciplines ranked among the top 1% of ESI global research institutions.
Admission Requirements:
- Completion of high school with good grades in science subjects.
- English language proficiency for international students.
- Personal statement and recommendation letters.
6. Capital Medical University (CCMU)
Established in 1960, Capital Medical University (CCMU) is located in Beijing and is recognized as one of China’s leading medical institutions. It offers a wide range of medical programs and has a strong emphasis on research and clinical practice.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Beijing, China |
| Established | 1960 |
| Programs Offered | MBBS, Master’s, Doctoral programs in various medical disciplines |
| Tuition Fees | Expensive |
| Scholarships | CCMU offers various scholarships, including the Chinese Government Scholarship, which covers tuition fees, accommodation, and provides a monthly stipend. |
| Affiliated Hospitals | 19 affiliated hospitals and 21 clinical medicine schools |
| Website | ccmu.edu.cn |
Notable Alumni:
- Wang Chen: A renowned pulmonologist and physician. He has been president of the Peking Union Medical College.
Key Strengths:
- Comprehensive medical programs covering various disciplines.
- Strong emphasis on research with numerous affiliated hospitals providing extensive clinical training.
Admission Requirements:
- High school diploma with strong academic record.
- English proficiency (TOEFL/IELTS) for international students.
- Recommendation letters and health certificate.
7. West China School of Medicine, Sichuan University
Established in 1910, the West China Medical Center or West China School of Medicine is part of Sichuan University in Chengdu. It is renowned for its comprehensive medical programs and research contributions.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Chengdu, China |
| Established | 1910 |
| Programs Offered | MBBS, Master’s, Doctoral programs in various medical fields |
| Tuition Fees | Affordable |
| Scholarships | Offers various scholarships, including the Chinese Government Scholarship and university-specific awards. |
| Affiliated Hospitals | West China Hospital |
| Website | wcums.scu.edu.cn |
Notable Alumni:
- Yanping ZHANG: An esteemed rheumatologist who has been Deputy Chief Physician at United Family Healthcare.
Key Strengths:
- Comprehensive medical programs with a focus on integrating research and clinical practice.
- Affiliated with West China Hospital, one of the largest and top-ranked hospitals in China.
Admission Requirements:
- High school diploma with excellent grades in science subjects.
- Proof of English proficiency for international students.
- Personal statement and recommendation letters.
8. Southern Medical University (SMU)
Located in Guangzhou, Southern Medical University was founded in 1951 and is a key institution directly under the Guangdong Provincial Government. Formerly known as the First Military Medical University, it offers a variety of medical programs and has a strong focus on research and clinical training.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Guangzhou, China |
| Established | 1951 |
| Programs Offered | MBBS, Master’s, Doctoral programs in various medical disciplines |
| Tuition Fees | Affordable |
| Scholarships | Various scholarships are available, including the Guangdong Government Scholarship |
| Affiliated Hospitals | Multiple affiliated hospitals |
| Website | smu.edu.cn |
Notable Alumni:
- Li-Meng Yan: An internationally known virologist.
Key Strengths:
- Diverse medical programs with a focus on clinical practice and research.
- Multiple affiliated hospitals providing extensive clinical training opportunities.
Admission Requirements:
- High school diploma with strong academic performance in science subjects.
- Proficiency in English (TOEFL/IELTS scores may be required) for international students.
- Recommendation letters from teachers or professors.
9. Guangzhou Medical University (GMU)
Founded in 1958, Guangzhou Medical University (GMU) is located in Guangzhou, Guangdong Province. The university is renowned for its emphasis on medical research and education, particularly in respiratory medicine.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Guangzhou, China |
| Established | 1958 |
| Programs Offered | MBBS, Master’s, Doctoral programs in various medical disciplines |
| Tuition Fees | Affordable |
| Scholarships | Chinese Government Scholarship, Guangdong Government Outstanding Foreign Student Scholarship |
| Affiliated Hospitals | Multiple teaching hospitals |
| Website | gzhmu.edu.cn |
Notable Alumni:
- Zhong Nanshan: A prominent pulmonologist and epidemiologist, Dr. Zhong played a critical role in managing the SARS outbreak in 2003 and the COVID-19 pandemic.
Key Strengths:
- Respiratory Medicine: GMU is acclaimed for its research and treatment in respiratory diseases, housing the State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease.
- Clinical Training: The university operates several affiliated hospitals, providing students with extensive hands-on clinical experience.
Admission Requirements:
- High school diploma with good grades in science subjects.
- Proof of English proficiency for international.
- Personal statement and recommendation letters.
10. Tongji University School of Medicine
Established in 1907, Tongji University School of Medicine is located in Shanghai. It has a long-standing reputation for excellence in medical education and research.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Shanghai, China |
| Established | 1907 |
| Programs Offered | MBBS, Master’s, Doctoral programs in various medical fields |
| Tuition Fees | Expensive |
| Scholarships | Shanghai Government Scholarship, Tongji University Scholarships |
| Affiliated Hospitals | Multiple teaching hospitals |
| Website | Tongji University School of Medicine Official Website |
Notable Alumni:
- Qian Xinzhong: Former Minister of Health of China and former chairman of the National Family Planning Commission, known for his contributions to public health policies.
- Wu Mengchao: A pioneering surgeon in hepatobiliary surgery and a member of the Chinese Academy of Sciences.
Key Strengths:
- Comprehensive Medical Programs: Offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate medical courses with a strong emphasis on research and clinical practice.
- International Collaboration: Engages in numerous international partnerships, enhancing the global perspective of its students.
Conclusion
China’s medical schools offer diverse opportunities for both domestic and international students seeking quality education in the medical field. The institutions highlighted above are renowned for their academic excellence, research contributions, and comprehensive clinical training.
Prospective students are encouraged to visit the official websites of these universities for detailed information on admission requirements, application procedures, and scholarship opportunities.
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