University Comparison
Tsinghua University vs Shanghai Jiao Tong 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
Tsinghua University
Shanghai Jiao Tong University
Ranking in China
#1
#4
QS World Ranking
#20
#45
SICA Rating
4.9 / 5
4.7 / 5
Location
Beijing, China
Shanghai, China
Type
Public University
Public University
Established
1911
1896
Total students
50,000+
42,000+
International students
4,000+
2,500+
Undergraduate tuition
¥23,000 - 30,000/yr
¥22,000 - 29,000/yr
Graduate tuition
¥25,000 - 40,000/yr
¥24,000 - 38,000/yr
Application deadline
See website
See website
Popular programs
Top 5 at Tsinghua University
- Computer Science
- Electronic Engineering
- Business Administration
- Architecture
- Economics
Top 5 at Shanghai Jiao Tong University
- Mechanical Engineering
- Computer Science
- MBA
- Biomedical Engineering
- Naval Architecture
Disciplines offered
Tsinghua University disciplines
EngineeringComputer ScienceBusinessArchitecture
Shanghai Jiao Tong University disciplines
EngineeringComputer ScienceBusinessMedicine
FAQ
QIs Tsinghua University better than Shanghai Jiao Tong University?▾
It depends on your goals. Tsinghua University is ranked #1 in China (QS World #20); Shanghai Jiao Tong University is ranked #4 in China (QS World #45). 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, Tsinghua University or Shanghai Jiao Tong University?▾
Tsinghua University charges ¥23,000 - 30,000/yr for undergraduates and ¥25,000 - 40,000/yr for graduate students. Shanghai Jiao Tong University charges ¥22,000 - 29,000/yr for undergraduates and ¥24,000 - 38,000/yr for graduate students. Tuition varies by program.
QDo both Tsinghua University and Shanghai Jiao Tong University offer scholarships to international students?▾
Yes. International students at both Tsinghua University and Shanghai Jiao Tong 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 Tsinghua University and Shanghai Jiao Tong University?▾
Yes — most international students apply to multiple universities in parallel. SICA helps coordinate applications to both Beijing-based and Shanghai-based programs, so you can maximize your chances without doubling your workload.
Ready to apply to Tsinghua University or Shanghai Jiao Tong University?
SICA's team helps you with everything — application prep, scholarship matching, visa documents, and pre-departure. Get a free assessment within 48 hours.