Studying Acupuncture in China | Costs and Facilities 2025

One of the educational options abroad is acupuncture studies in China. China has a long history in traditional medicine, and this tradition continues to this day. Alongside modern medicine, traditional Chinese medicine is also highly regarded within the country’s higher education system. Many of China’s universities have a rich history and provide excellent academic, educational, and training facilities for their students. This contributes to the growing global recognition of Chinese universities and attracts international students to study in China. The cost of acupuncture studies in China depends on the university and academic level. In this article by Elm Vira Migration Group, we explore the topic of studying acupuncture in China. Traditional Chinese Medicine Acupuncture and moxibustion are two therapeutic methods in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), and many people worldwide have been amazed by the effects of these traditional Chinese treatments. As a result, every year, numerous individuals turn to Traditional Chinese Medicine for the treatment of various ailments. Due to the global popularity of this therapeutic method, acupuncture studies in China have become an attractive option for many international students. Studying in China With a population of about 1.5 billion people, China is the most populous country in the world and the second-largest economic power internationally. China preserves and protects its ancient values, including Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), which has been maintained for centuries and continues to thrive in the modern era. China’s higher education system is among the most respected in the world, with the government making significant efforts to enhance it. Many Chinese universities, including those specializing in Traditional Chinese Medicine, are highly regarded. For this reason, studying acupuncture in China is a significant option for those interested in this field. Due to the affordable tuition and favorable conditions for studying in China, along with the rich education in TCM, many students apply for educational migration to China each year. Chinese Universities Offering Acupuncture Programs Given the high importance of Traditional Chinese Medicine, China’s leading medical universities offer acupuncture programs with excellent educational and research facilities. Beijing University of Chinese Medicine (BUCM) is one of the most prestigious universities for studying acupuncture in China. Below is a list of universities offering acupuncture programs in China:

• Anhui University
• Beijing University
• Changchun University
• Chengdu University
• Fujian University
• Guangxi University
• Guangzhou University
• Heilongjiang University
• Henan University
• Hubei University
• Hunan University
• Jiangxi University
• Liaoning University
• Nanjing University
• Shanghai University
• Shandong University
• Tianjin University
• Yunnan University
• Zhejiang University

At these universities, the Traditional Chinese Medicine faculty is led by highly qualified professors and specialists in TCM. The cost of studying acupuncture in China depends on the university and level of study. Among the universities offering acupuncture programs, several are more renowned, with Beijing University of Chinese Medicine standing out for its high prestige. Below, we will introduce two top universities for acupuncture studies.

1. Studying Acupuncture in China: Beijing University of Chinese Medicine (BUCM)

One of the most prestigious medical universities in China is the Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, established in 1956. Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) are among the most renowned programs offered at this university. Since 2011, the university has been part of Project 985, an initiative aimed at developing top-tier universities based on international standards. Therefore, studying acupuncture in China at BUCM is a highly valuable and suitable option for prospective students. The university is home to four research institutes, including:

• Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine Research
• Beijing Institute of Encephalopathy, China
• National Institute for the Development and Strategy of Chinese Medicine
• National Institute of TCM Constitutional and Preventive Medicine

Additionally, BUCM has eight affiliated hospitals for clinical training, which include:

• Shenzhen Hospital
• Third Affiliated Hospital
• Dongfang Hospital
• Dongzhimen Hospital
• Zaozhuang Hospital
• Fangshan Hospital
• San Simiao Hospital
• Xiamen Hospital and Guetang Traditional Medicine Clinic

All these hospitals and research institutes are equipped with modern facilities to support research, teaching, and the development of acupuncture studies in China. Due to the significant advancements in this field within China, the number of students seeking to study acupuncture has been on the rise.

1. Nanjing University

Nanjing University of Traditional Chinese Medicine is another well-respected institution for studying acupuncture in China. Established in 1954, the university currently operates two campuses, Xianlin and Hongzhongmen. Like BUCM, Nanjing University is regarded as one of the best universities for Traditional Chinese Medicine globally. The high-quality education, skilled faculty, and reasonable tuition fees for acupuncture programs are among the key factors contributing to the increase in international students seeking to study acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine in China.

Admission Requirements for Studying Acupuncture in China

The ease of admission for acupuncture programs in China is one of the key factors driving the increasing number of international students choosing to study in this field. As the birthplace of acupuncture, China is home to the most distinguished experts in this discipline, and the tuition fees for acupuncture programs are highly affordable. The language of instruction for Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and acupuncture in China is English, meaning that international students are not required to learn Chinese. However, applicants must provide an official English language proficiency certificate as part of their admission requirements. Additionally, there is no entrance exam for this program. Acupuncture is offered at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels, with the undergraduate program typically lasting five years.

Cost of Studying Acupuncture in China

Tuition fees are an important consideration for those interested in studying acupuncture in China. Given that acupuncture originates from China, the country boasts some of the best TCM professors and specialists in the world. Moreover, tuition fees in China are generally lower compared to prestigious universities in Europe and the United States. As a result, studying acupuncture in China is an affordable option. For instance, tuition fees at Beijing University of Chinese Medicine (BUCM) are approximately $5,090 per year for both undergraduate and postgraduate programs. Additionally, average accommodation costs are around $250 per month, while living expenses range between $620 and $1,212 per month.

Acupuncture Study Programs at Universities in China

Students pursuing acupuncture studies in China will follow a diverse curriculum covering various aspects of traditional and modern medicine. Some of the key courses offered in these programs include:

• Biochemistry
• Human Anatomy
• Fundamentals of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)
• Chinese Herbal Medicine Formulas
• Introduction to Classical Acupuncture
• Basic Physiology
• Basic Pathology
• Acupuncture and Moxibustion Techniques
• Pharmacology
• Principles of Disease Diagnosis
• Radiology
• Internal Medicine
• External Medicine
• Chinese Internal Medicine
• Chinese External Medicine
• Gynecology in Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine
• Pediatrics in Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine

These comprehensive courses provide students with the theoretical knowledge and practical skills necessary to master acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine.

Required Documents for Admission to Acupuncture Programs in China

After reviewing the key aspects of studying acupuncture in China, including universities, tuition fees, admission requirements, and living costs, applicants must submit an admission request to their chosen university. This involves downloading the acupuncture application form from the university’s website and filling in the required details. Applicants must then send the completed form along with scanned copies of their identification documents, academic transcripts, language proficiency certificate, and passport to the university. Upon receiving an admission offer, students must submit the following documents for final registration:

Essential Admission Documents

• High school diploma or university degree with an official translation
• English language proficiency certificate (IELTS 6.0+ or TOEFL 90+ for non-native English speakers)
• Identification documents and passport (with the required minimum validity)
• Proof of application fee payment
• Passport-sized photo
• Student visa
• Official university admission letter

Conclusion

In recent years, acupuncture studies in China have gained significant popularity among international students. The cost of acupuncture education in China is highly affordable compared to other countries, thanks to the presence of expert Chinese professors and China’s historical significance as the birthplace of this medical practice. Due to the global reputation of China’s traditional medicine universities and the reasonable tuition fees, many students choose to study in China. Elm Vira Immigration Institute is a well-established and reputable immigration consultancy with a strong track record of successful student applications. Our team strives to provide comprehensive information about study migration opportunities to various countries. Fill out our free consultation form to connect with our experts.