SICA

University Comparison

Shanghai Jiao Tong University vs Peking University

A side-by-side comparison of two of China's top universities. Use the data below to pick the right fit for your program, location, and budget.

Last updated: 2026-06-13 · SICA Editorial Team

Key facts

Attribute
Shanghai Jiao Tong University
Peking University
Ranking in China
#4
#2
QS World Ranking
#45
#14
SICA Rating
4.7 / 5
4.9 / 5
Location
Shanghai, China
Beijing, China
Type
Public University
Public University
Established
1896
1898
Total students
42,000+
47,000+
International students
2,500+
3,500+
Undergraduate tuition
¥22,000 - 29,000/yr
¥22,000 - 28,000/yr
Graduate tuition
¥24,000 - 38,000/yr
¥24,000 - 38,000/yr
Application deadline
See website
See website

Popular programs

Top 5 at Shanghai Jiao Tong University

  • Mechanical Engineering
  • Computer Science
  • MBA
  • Biomedical Engineering
  • Naval Architecture
See all programs

Top 5 at Peking University

  • Philosophy
  • International Relations
  • Law
  • Economics
  • Chinese Literature
See all programs

Disciplines offered

Shanghai Jiao Tong University disciplines

EngineeringComputer ScienceBusinessMedicine

Peking University disciplines

HumanitiesSocial SciencesLawMedicine

FAQ

QIs Shanghai Jiao Tong University better than Peking University?
It depends on your goals. Shanghai Jiao Tong University is ranked #4 in China (QS World #45); Peking University is ranked #2 in China (QS World #14). Both are top-tier. Use the comparison table above to decide which is the better fit for your program of interest, location preference, and scholarship eligibility.
QWhich is more expensive, Shanghai Jiao Tong University or Peking University?
Shanghai Jiao Tong University charges ¥22,000 - 29,000/yr for undergraduates and ¥24,000 - 38,000/yr for graduate students. Peking University charges ¥22,000 - 28,000/yr for undergraduates and ¥24,000 - 38,000/yr for graduate students. Tuition varies by program.
QDo both Shanghai Jiao Tong University and Peking University offer scholarships to international students?
Yes. International students at both Shanghai Jiao Tong University and Peking University can apply for the Chinese Government Scholarship (CSC), Confucius Institute Scholarship, and their own university-specific scholarships. SICA's team can help you identify and apply for the right scholarship for your profile.
QCan I apply to both Shanghai Jiao Tong University and Peking University?
Yes — most international students apply to multiple universities in parallel. SICA helps coordinate applications to both Shanghai-based and Beijing-based programs, so you can maximize your chances without doubling your workload.

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