Frequently Asked Questions

Yes! Many GBA universities offer programs fully taught in English — especially in Hong Kong and Macau. Even in Guangdong, you can find English-taught Bachelor, Master, and PhD programs. Use the language filter on our Programs page to find "English" or "Bilingual" programs. If you want to learn Chinese while studying, many universities also offer language courses alongside your degree.

There is no limit. You can apply to as many programs as you want through a single application. The service fee is $100 for the first 3 programs, and $50 for each additional program. University application fees are paid on your behalf and included in your total. The more programs you apply to, the better your chances — and you only need to submit your documents once.

Yes, you can start your application first and submit language scores later. Many universities allow conditional admission — you apply now, and provide your test scores before the enrollment deadline. We recommend starting your application early while preparing for your language test in parallel.

The standard documents are: (1) Passport copy, (2) Academic transcripts and graduation certificate, (3) Language test scores (IELTS/TOEFL/HSK), (4) Personal statement, (5) Recommendation letters (for Master/PhD), (6) Passport-size photo. Some programs may require additional materials — we'll tell you exactly what's needed after you select your programs.

After you submit your application and documents, the typical timeline is:

• Document review by StudyinGBA: 3–5 business days
• University review and decision: 4–6 weeks
• Admission letter issued: 1–2 weeks after decision

In total, expect 6–8 weeks from submission to admission letter. Some universities process faster, some slower — especially during peak season (May–July). We provide regular updates on your application status so you always know where things stand. Please plan ahead and apply early to avoid missing deadlines.

Your total cost consists of two parts:

1. University application fees — Each university charges its own application fee (e.g., HKU: HK$600, CUHK: HK$500). We pay these on your behalf and show you the exact amount for each program.

2. StudyinGBA service fee — $100 USD for the first 3 programs, plus $50 USD for each additional program. This covers application processing, document review, university liaison, and visa guidance.

Tuition is paid separately to the university after you are admitted.

The service fee is non-refundable once we have submitted your application to universities, as the work has been completed. However, if your application is not submitted due to eligibility issues identified during our initial review, the service fee will be fully refunded. University application fees are non-refundable once submitted to the university.

We support international payments through Flywire — a secure global payment platform used by 3,000+ universities worldwide. You can pay using bank transfer, credit/debit card, Alipay, UnionPay, and many local payment methods available in your country. All amounts are shown in USD, and you'll see the exact total before making any payment.

Tuition is paid directly to the university after you receive your admission letter and before enrollment. Tuition is NOT included in the application fees shown on our platform. Each program page shows the annual tuition amount so you can plan your budget. See our City Cost Comparison on the homepage for a full cost estimate including living expenses.

Visa rejection for university-admitted students is rare, but if it happens, we will help you appeal or re-apply. Common reasons for rejection include incomplete documents or insufficient financial proof — both of which we help you prepare properly before submission. Check our Visa Guide for detailed requirements.

Yes. With an X1 visa and Residence Permit, you can apply for part-time work or internship authorization. Many GBA universities have strong industry connections — especially in Shenzhen and Guangzhou — offering internship opportunities at companies like Huawei, Tencent, BYD, XPeng, and DJI. Hong Kong also allows part-time work for students with a student visa.

The GBA is one of the safest regions in the world for international students. Crime rates are very low, universities have dedicated international student offices, and cities like Shenzhen, Guangzhou, and Zhuhai are modern, clean, and well-connected. Public transport is excellent, and halal food, vegetarian options, and international cuisine are widely available.

Living costs vary by city. Check our City Cost Comparison on the homepage for detailed breakdowns. As a quick reference:

• Guangdong cities (Guangzhou, Shenzhen, etc.): $300–700/month
• Hong Kong: $1,300–2,300/month
• Macau: $770–1,280/month

Compared to the UK ($2,000+/month) or USA ($1,500–3,000/month), the GBA is significantly more affordable.

Most GBA universities provide on-campus dormitories for international students, usually at a much lower cost than off-campus housing. Availability varies by university and program. After you're admitted, we help you coordinate accommodation arrangements with the university. In Guangdong cities, dormitory costs typically range from ¥800–2,500/month ($110–345).