For years, African students have primarily looked to the U.S., the UK, or Canada for higher education. But that’s starting to change. A new destination is rising fast: China.
With world-class universities, affordable tuition, generous scholarships, and now a new work visa similar to the U.S. H-1B, China has become one of the most attractive choices for students from Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya, Cameroon, and The Gambia, as well as the rest of Africa.
As of 2025, over 80,000 African students are currently studying in China, and the number is about to double, if not triple. I am going to share why you should consider joining them and how the Pay4Me App simplifies the process, from payment application.
1. World-Class Education at an Affordable Cost
China is home to globally respected universities, including Tsinghua University, Peking University, and Zhejiang University. But what most students don’t realize is that many other great universities offer the same quality education at much lower costs.
For example, Lanzhou University in Gansu Province is renowned for its affordable tuition, stunning natural surroundings, and robust science and medical programs. Shandong University, Shandong Province, offers excellent engineering and business programs at moderate tuition fees. Hunan University in Hunan Province is a top choice for international students seeking low living costs and quality degrees. Jiangsu University, situated in Jiangsu Province, is highly regarded among African students for its English-taught programs and welcoming campus environment.
In most of these provinces, living expenses are 50–60% cheaper than in Western countries. Students can study and live comfortably on as little as $2,000–$4,000 per year, including accommodation and feeding.
2. Scholarships and Government Funding
The Chinese Government Scholarship (CSC), along with provincial and university scholarships, helps thousands of African students each year.
Many scholarships cover full tuition, housing, insurance, and even a monthly allowance. Lanzhou University Scholarship offers full or partial tuition waivers. Jiangsu Provincial Scholarship supports talented students from developing countries. Belt and Road Scholarships are designed for students from partner countries in Africa.
With the Pay4Me App, you can pay your application or processing fees in your local currency to meet scholarship deadlines quickly with no international bank delays.
3. The New China K-Visa: A Game-Changer for International Graduates
On October 1, 2025, China launched the K-Visa, a new work and residency visa that functions similarly to the U.S. H-1B visa but with even greater flexibility.
Here’s what makes it groundbreaking:
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No employer sponsorship required. Students can apply directly after graduation.
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Multiple entries and long-term stay options for work, research, or business.
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Focus on STEM, innovation, and entrepreneurship, open to global graduates.
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Easier path to residency for high-performing international professionals.
This means that African graduates can now study, work, and build careers in China without the complex sponsorship barriers common in the West.
You can watch my short explainer IG video here on why I think China's K-Visa is a game-changer for international students and grads.
4. English-Taught Programs and Supportive Communities
You don’t need to speak Mandarin to study in China, as thousands of programs are fully taught in English. Popular fields include engineering, medicine, business, international relations, and computer science.
And if you do want to learn Mandarin, many schools, such as Lanzhou University of Technology and Central South University, offer free or discounted Chinese-language courses. Plus, you’ll probably have a higher chance of getting employed by a Chinese multinational if you can speak Mandarin and English.
African students form vibrant communities on campuses across Lanzhou, Nanjing, Wuhan, and Shanghai, offering friendship, mentorship, and cultural connections.
5. Simplified Application and Payment with Pay4Me App
One of the biggest barriers African students face is paying tuition or application fees abroad. Many Chinese universities require payment in Yuan (RMB) or through restricted banking channels that don’t support African debit or credit cards.
Pay4Me App makes it seamless:
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Pay directly in Naira, Cedis, or Shillings from your phone.
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Get instant confirmation and receipts recognized by your school.
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Avoid unreliable middlemen, forex restrictions, and failed transactions.
With the Pay4Me App, your entire process, from admission to payment, happens smoothly in hours, not weeks.
Some Frequently Asked Questions About Studying in China
Q: Which Chinese universities are most affordable for African students?
Schools like Lanzhou University, Jiangsu University, Hunan University, and Shandong University offer affordable tuition and living costs without compromising quality.
Q: What is the K-Visa, and who can apply?
The K-Visa is a new long-term work/residency visa launched in October 2025 that allows international graduates, including those from Africa, to work, research, or start businesses in China without employer sponsorship.
Q: Do I need to speak Mandarin?
No. Many degree programs are taught entirely in English. Learning Mandarin, however, is a significant advantage for work, daily life, and post-grad opportunities.
Q: Can I pay university fees in my local currency?
Yes. The Pay4Me App allows you to pay directly in Naira, Cedis, or Shillings, and automatically converts to Yuan.
Conclusion
China is emerging as one of the best destinations for African students. Combining top-ranked universities, generous scholarships, low living costs, and now the K-Visa, which creates clear post-study career paths.
And with the Pay4Me App, you can apply, pay, and confirm your Chinese university or visa fees in your local currency, safely and within hours.
Download the Pay4Me App today to start your journey to study and work in China confidently.
PS: If you need help with the China admission and application process, our Ninja study abroad team at Pay4Me can help! Just find the "Study Abroad" button on the Pay4Me App and follow the prompts.
Good luck!
