Xi’an
Shaanxi Province Regional hubThe ancient capital of thirteen dynasties and the eastern end of the Silk Road, Xi’an is today one of China’s biggest university cities — Xi’an Jiaotong University, Northwestern Polytechnical University and dozens more host well over 100,000 students. For international students it combines strong engineering programs, a deep historical backdrop and famously halal-friendly food culture.
- One of the largest student cities in western China
- The Muslim Quarter — China’s most famous halal district
- Terracotta Warriors and Tang-dynasty heritage on your doorstep
Living here
Monthly budget
CNY 2,000–3,500 (USD 280–490) / month incl. dorm or shared flat
Dorm beds CNY 400–900/month; shared flats CNY 900–1,800/month.
Getting around
Metro system in operation. Xianyang International Airport with growing direct connections to Central Asia, the Middle East and Southeast Asia.
Halal food
Outstanding — the Huimin (Muslim) Quarter is one of China’s most famous halal food districts, and halal eateries citywide.
Healthcare
Top-tier hospitals including Xijing Hospital and Tangdu Hospital; major hub for international students in western China.
Climate
Continental: dry with cold winters (-5°C typical) and hot summers; dust storms possible in spring.
An expanding metro links the main campus districts and the Muslim Quarter; the city is compact by Chinese standards and easy to navigate.
Factual fields as of 2026-09-21 — editorial estimate, not official figures.
Universities in Xi’an (14)
5 English-taught programs tracked in this city — see them.