Tongji University for Kenyan Students

🇨🇳 Shanghai, China · 985 Project / QS Top 200
Direct Entry Available 3 Scholarships ✓ Verified 2026-04
World Ranking #192
Founded 1907
Students 43,000+
Last updated: 2026-04 · Always verify with the official university website
Quick Facts — Kenyan Students
KCSE Accepted Not Accepted
Minimum GPA (Masters) 3 / 4
IELTS Required 6 overall
Tuition Range ¥30,000 – ¥40,000/yr
Scholarships Available Yes – 3 available
Application Deadline October–January for September intake
Processing Time 4–10 weeks

Entry Requirements by Level

Academic Requirements

Foundation Year required via Chinese Language Foundation Year (1 year, university-run) (¥14,000/year). KCSE accepted as O-level equivalent. Architecture and urban planning undergraduate programs are world-class. Tongji is located in Shanghai with access to one of Asia's most dynamic built environments.

Fees & Deadline

Annual tuition: ¥20,000–¥28,000. Application deadline: March–May (annual intake).

Academic Requirements

Minimum GPA: 3/4. Bachelor's degree in a relevant field required. Architecture, urban planning, and civil engineering are Tongji's strongest programs. Kenyan students interested in urban infrastructure and housing development are particularly well-served here. Belt and Road Scholarship available.

English Language

IELTS: 6+ overall. TOEFL iBT and PTE Academic also accepted — contact admissions for equivalencies.

Fees & Deadline

Annual tuition: ¥30,000–¥40,000. Application deadline: October–January for September intake. Decision time: 4–10 weeks.

Documents Required

Official academic transcript (translated & certified)
Motivation letter (500–1,000 words)
Two academic references
Valid international passport
IELTS/TOEFL score report
Financial evidence (bank statement or sponsor letter)

Available Scholarships

Chinese Government Scholarship (CSC)

Full tuition + free accommodation + ¥3,000/month stipend + medical insurance Deadline: January–April (annual)

by Chinese Government (MOE) · Undergraduate, Masters, Phd

Learn more →

Belt and Road / Silk Road Scholarship

Full tuition + accommodation + ¥1,500–2,500/month stipend Deadline: March–May (annual)

by Chinese Government · Masters, Phd

Learn more →

Tongji University Scholarship for International Students

Partial or full tuition waiver + ¥1,000–2,000/month stipend Deadline: March–May (check Tongji international admissions)

by Tongji University · Masters, Phd

Learn more →

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Tongji University accept KCSE for Kenyan students?

Yes, KCSE is recognised for undergraduate foundation program admission. For Masters in architecture or civil engineering, your Kenyan bachelor's degree qualifies for direct entry. Tongji has a large African student community and experience with East African applications.

What GPA is needed for Masters at Tongji University?

Tongji requires a minimum GPA of 3.0/4.0. Architecture and urban planning applicants should present a strong portfolio alongside academic transcripts. Engineering programs value relevant work or internship experience.

Are there scholarships for Kenyan students at Tongji?

Yes. The CSC scholarship is the main route covering full tuition plus ¥3,000/month — apply through the Chinese Embassy in Nairobi. The Belt and Road Scholarship and Tongji University Scholarship are additional options. Kenya's Belt and Road infrastructure projects make Tongji civil engineering degrees highly relevant.

Tips for Applying to Tongji

Tongji University is the premier destination in China for African students in architecture, urban planning, and civil engineering. For Kenyan students, the connection between Tongji's programs and Kenya's ongoing infrastructure development agenda — including Chinese-funded roads, railways, and urban projects — makes a Tongji degree particularly strategic. The Belt and Road Scholarship targets Kenyan applicants specifically.

Official source: Tongji University ↗

Cost of Living in Shanghai

Accommodation ¥2,500 – ¥4,500/month

On-campus rooms available from ¥2,000/month. Tongji is in Yangpu district, well-connected by metro.

Food & Groceries ¥800 – ¥1,200/month

University canteen meals from ¥10–30. Affordable options near campus.

Transport ¥200 – ¥400/month

Shanghai metro is extensive and connects Tongji campus easily.

Estimated Total Monthly Cost ¥3,500 – ¥6,100/month