University Comparison
Shanghai Jiao Tong University vs Sun Yat-sen 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
Sun Yat-sen University
Ranking in China
#4
#8
QS World Ranking
#45
#331
SICA Rating
4.7 / 5
4.5 / 5
Location
Shanghai, China
Guangzhou, China
Type
Public University
Public University
Established
1896
1924
Total students
42,000+
52,000+
International students
2,500+
2,000+
Undergraduate tuition
¥22,000 - 29,000/yr
¥19,000 - 26,000/yr
Graduate tuition
¥24,000 - 38,000/yr
¥21,000 - 34,000/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
Top 5 at Sun Yat-sen University
- Business Administration
- Clinical Medicine
- Philosophy
- Sociology
- Marine Science
Disciplines offered
Shanghai Jiao Tong University disciplines
EngineeringComputer ScienceBusinessMedicine
Sun Yat-sen University disciplines
BusinessMedicineSocial SciencesMarine Science
FAQ
QIs Shanghai Jiao Tong University better than Sun Yat-sen University?▾
It depends on your goals. Shanghai Jiao Tong University is ranked #4 in China (QS World #45); Sun Yat-sen University is ranked #8 in China (QS World #331). 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 Sun Yat-sen University?▾
Shanghai Jiao Tong University charges ¥22,000 - 29,000/yr for undergraduates and ¥24,000 - 38,000/yr for graduate students. Sun Yat-sen University charges ¥19,000 - 26,000/yr for undergraduates and ¥21,000 - 34,000/yr for graduate students. Tuition varies by program.
QDo both Shanghai Jiao Tong University and Sun Yat-sen University offer scholarships to international students?▾
Yes. International students at both Shanghai Jiao Tong University and Sun Yat-sen 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 Sun Yat-sen University?▾
Yes — most international students apply to multiple universities in parallel. SICA helps coordinate applications to both Shanghai-based and Guangzhou-based programs, so you can maximize your chances without doubling your workload.
Ready to apply to Shanghai Jiao Tong University or Sun Yat-sen University?
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