University Comparison
Sun Yat-sen University vs Tsinghua 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
Sun Yat-sen University
Tsinghua University
Ranking in China
#8
#1
QS World Ranking
#331
#20
SICA Rating
4.5 / 5
4.9 / 5
Location
Guangzhou, China
Beijing, China
Type
Public University
Public University
Established
1924
1911
Total students
52,000+
50,000+
International students
2,000+
4,000+
Undergraduate tuition
¥19,000 - 26,000/yr
¥23,000 - 30,000/yr
Graduate tuition
¥21,000 - 34,000/yr
¥25,000 - 40,000/yr
Application deadline
See website
See website
Popular programs
Top 5 at Sun Yat-sen University
- Business Administration
- Clinical Medicine
- Philosophy
- Sociology
- Marine Science
Top 5 at Tsinghua University
- Computer Science
- Electronic Engineering
- Business Administration
- Architecture
- Economics
Disciplines offered
Sun Yat-sen University disciplines
BusinessMedicineSocial SciencesMarine Science
Tsinghua University disciplines
EngineeringComputer ScienceBusinessArchitecture
FAQ
QIs Sun Yat-sen University better than Tsinghua University?▾
It depends on your goals. Sun Yat-sen University is ranked #8 in China (QS World #331); Tsinghua University is ranked #1 in China (QS World #20). 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, Sun Yat-sen University or Tsinghua University?▾
Sun Yat-sen University charges ¥19,000 - 26,000/yr for undergraduates and ¥21,000 - 34,000/yr for graduate students. Tsinghua University charges ¥23,000 - 30,000/yr for undergraduates and ¥25,000 - 40,000/yr for graduate students. Tuition varies by program.
QDo both Sun Yat-sen University and Tsinghua University offer scholarships to international students?▾
Yes. International students at both Sun Yat-sen University and Tsinghua 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 Sun Yat-sen University and Tsinghua University?▾
Yes — most international students apply to multiple universities in parallel. SICA helps coordinate applications to both Guangzhou-based and Beijing-based programs, so you can maximize your chances without doubling your workload.
Ready to apply to Sun Yat-sen University or Tsinghua University?
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