CKGSB Knowledge Authors

Out to the World: More Chinese Students Studying Abroad

August 01, 2016

More Chinese students are studying abroad than ever before, here are the numbers.

Chinese students are studying overseas in much greater numbers than ever before. Statistics shows that in 2014 alone, more than 459,800 Chinese students went abroad, heading to mostly the United States, Australia, Canada, the UK and Japan. Two-thirds of 4.5 million chose to study in the US. Out of these, 41% were enrolled in undergraduate programs, 39% in graduate programs and 14.2% in practical training programs. Figures also revealed that 31.2% of the international students in the US had a Chinese nationality, and this group added $9.8 billion to the US economy in the 2014-2015 academic year. In the same year, 364,800 Chinese students returned home. Even though 86% of these returnees (called sea turtles in China) found jobs within six months of returning, a report says 77% of them are paid lower-than-expected salaries. Interested in where Chinese students are headed? Click on the infographic to know more.

Sources: Institute of International Education, US Dept. of Commerce, Chinese Ministry of Education, Australian Dept. of Education, Canadian Bureau for International Education, UK Council for International Students Affairs, Japan Student Service Organization, New Oriental, UK Higher Education Statistics Agency

Enjoying what you’re reading?

Sign up to our monthly newsletter to get more China insights delivered to your inbox.

Article Subscribe (1)

Our Programs

Stanford & Silicon Valley Immersion Program

Global Unicorn Program Series

In partnership with Stanford Engineering Center for Global & Online Education

A Silicon Valley immersion for entrepreneurs, intrapreneurs, and investors leading and scaling AI-driven companies.
The program combines academic learning with visits to AI and robotics labs and Silicon Valley companies, giving participants direct exposure to emerging technologies and the businesses developing and applying them.

LocationStanford University Campus, California, United States

Date06 - 11 Dec, 2026

LanguageEnglish with Chinese Translation

Learn more

Emerging Markets: Innovation and Scaling for Exponential Growth – ASEAN

A China-focused innovation program for ASEAN executives and business owners responding to the impact of AI on their industries.
Gain insights from leading Chese thinkers in Jakarta, with an optional immersion in China and opportunities to connect with the business leaders driving innovation. The program offers a closer look at how developments in China could affect your industry and business.

LocationJakarta, Indonesia

Date23–26 March 2027

LanguageEnglish (with Chinese translation)

Learn more

Asia Start: AI + Digital Ecosystem China Expedition

An immersive program for entrepreneurs and executives looking to understand China's AI and digital economy firsthand.

Gain the latest trends and insights, strategies, and connections to overcome challenges and support future business growth in Asia and beyond.

LocationChina (Beijing, Shanghai, Hangzhou & optional Shenzhen)

DateApril 19–24, 2027

LanguageEnglish

Learn more

Intelligent China: AI, EVs & Smart Manufacturing

A three-part program examining China’s advances in AI, electric vehicles, and smart manufacturing.

Through faculty-led sessions, company visits, and exchanges with industry leaders, gain practical insights for your organization's strategy, partnerships, and investment decisions. Join an individual four-day program or complete the full 12-day series.

LocationBeijing, Shenzhen, Shanghai, and Hangzhou

DateSummer – Winter 2027 (three 4-day programs)

LanguageEnglish

Learn more