Quick Summary
Based in Lanzhou, China, Lanzhou University is a public with roots dating back to 1909. Ranked #448 globally by QS World University Rankings 2026, it enrolls 33600 students including 2.5% from outside China. Known for strengths in Chemistry, Atmospheric Science, Ecology, it maintains an acceptance rate of 15%.
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Institutional Profile
Who they are
Top-tier academic reputation in Western China, lower cost of living compared to coastal cities, and world-class research facilities in environmental and chemical sciences
Subject Strengths
ChemistryAtmospheric ScienceEcologyPhysicsEarth Sciences
Founded1909
TypePublic
Total Students33600
Intl Students2.5%
Faculty Ratio14.2
CampusUrban/Suburban
Campus Size620 acres
Affiliated Hospitals3
AccreditationMinistry of Education of the People's Republic of China
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Global Standing
Three independent ranking systems
QS World 2026
#448
Quacquarelli Symonds
Times Higher Ed
#601-800
THE World University
ARWU Shanghai
#301-400
Academic Ranking
03
Academics & Research
What you can study
Undergraduate, Masters, PhD, Chinese Language Programs
Programs
103
PhD Programs
Not Available
Online Programs
89
Research Centers
Very High
Research Output
Ministry of Education of the People's Republic of China
Accreditation
04
Admissions Brief
What it takes to get in
Entry Requirements
Acceptance Rate15%
IELTS6
TOEFL80
Min GPA3
GRENot Available
GMATNot Available
SATNot Available
ACTNot Available
Key Dates
FALLApplication Deadline · June 30
SPRINGApplication Deadline · December 30
MAR-APRDecisions Released
Required Documents
TranscriptsSOPEnglish ScoresLORsPassport
Insider Tip
Priority is given to applicants with strong backgrounds in natural sciences and HSK level 4 or higher for Chinese-taught programs.
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Cost Ledger
Amounts in Renminbi
UG Tuition
¥20,000/yr
per year · CNY
Living Cost
¥25,000/yr
per year · CNY
PG Tuition
¥23,000/yr
per year · CNY
Application Fee
$75
one time · USD
Total Estimated Annual Cost
¥45,500/yr
tuition + living + essentials · CNY
Scholarships AvailableChinese Government Scholarship (CSC), Silk Road Scholarship, Lanzhou University Presidential Scholarship, Gansu Provincial Government Scholarship
Avg Scholarship$4,500
Financial AidAvailable via university-specific hardship grants for international students
Work-StudyLimited campus-based assistantships available
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Featured & Popular Programs
A sample from Undergraduate, Masters, PhD, Chinese Language Programs programs total
| Program | Level | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Atmospheric Science | BACHELOR | 3-4 YRS |
| Organic Chemistry | MASTER | 1-2 YRS |
| Nuclear Science | PHD | 3-5 YRS |
| History | MBA | 12-24 MO |
| Biology | BACHELOR | 3-4 YRS |
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Career Outcomes
Where graduates land
$12,000
Average Salary After Graduation
92%
Employment Rate
Internship PlacementStrong partnerships with the Chinese Academy of Sciences and state-owned energy enterprises
Industry Connections
CNPCSINOPECState Grid Corporation of China
Notable Alumni
Qin Dahe, Shui Junyi, Tu Yongqiang, Zhou Qilin
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Campus & Student Life
Life beyond lectures
Housing
On-campus available
Sports Facilities
Integrated sports complex, swimming pool, tennis courts, football stadium
Student Clubs
120
Library Resources
Over 4 million volumes, extensive digital archives including Dunhuang Studies databases
Exchange Programs
Active partnerships with over 150 universities in 40+ countries
Summer Programs
Silk Road Culture and Chinese Language Summer Camp