Lanzhou University logo

Lanzhou University

Lanzhou, CN · Ranking #33

Lanzhou University (LZU) is a prestigious public research university in Lanzhou, Gansu Province, China, affiliated with the Ministry of Education and part of China’s Project 985 and 211 initiatives aimed at building world‑class institutions. Founded in 1909, LZU offers comprehensive undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs across sciences, engineering, medicine, humanities, social sciences, and agriculture. It is known for strong performance in basic sciences (particularly chemistry and atmospheric physics), extensive national research projects, and contributions to innovative science. The university has multiple campuses and emphasizes academic excellence, international collaboration, and research impact, attracting students domestically and globally.

Lanzhou University logo

Lanzhou University

About the university

Lanzhou University (LZU) is a prestigious public research university in Lanzhou, Gansu Province, China, affiliated with the Ministry of Education and part of China’s Project 985 and 211 initiatives aimed at building world‑class institutions. Founded in 1909, LZU offers comprehensive undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs across sciences, engineering, medicine, humanities, social sciences, and agriculture. It is known for strong performance in basic sciences (particularly chemistry and atmospheric physics), extensive national research projects, and contributions to innovative science. The university has multiple campuses and emphasizes academic excellence, international collaboration, and research impact, attracting students domestically and globally.

Key information

  • Location: Lanzhou, CN
  • Ranking #33
  • QS #751
  • THE #201
  • US News #485
  • National ranking #26
  • Institution type: public

Popular faculties

  • Science
  • Chemistry
  • Atmospheric Science
  • Engineering
  • Medicine
  • Agriculture

Programs (29)

  • Computer Science
  • Engineering
  • Electrical Engineering
  • Mechanical Engineering
  • Medicine
  • Nursing
  • Pharmacy
  • Business Administration
  • Economics
  • Finance and Accounting
  • Marketing
  • Tourism and Hospitality
  • Law
  • Political Science
  • International Relations
  • Philosophy
  • History
  • Linguistics
  • Biology
  • Chemistry
  • Physics
  • Mathematics
  • Environmental Science
  • Psychology
  • Sociology
  • Anthropology
  • Education
  • Fine Arts
  • Music

Student body

  • Total students: 26,000
  • Undergraduate: 19,700
  • Graduate: 3,000
  • International students: 2%

Campus life

LZU’s campus life blends rigorous academics with cultural diversity and student engagement. Students participate in clubs focused on service, culture, science, and athletics. The university hosts festivals, study groups, and academic societies that foster community. Living in Lanzhou, a historical city on the Yellow River, provides affordable living and opportunities to experience Chinese traditions, outdoor activities and regional cuisine. The university organizes cultural events, language exchanges, and research seminars to promote holistic student development.

Housing & accommodation

Housing cost: $150 - $160 / per month

Housing options

  • On‑campus Dormitories
  • Off‑campus Rentals

Student clubs and organizations

  • Cultural Clubs
  • Science Societies
  • Sports Teams
  • Language Exchange Groups

Sports

  • Basketball
  • Badminton
  • Table Tennis
  • Football

Career & internships

Employment rate: 80%

Partner companies

  • Chinese Academy of Sciences
  • Local Research Institutes
  • Tech Firms in Gansu Region
  • Environmental Research Centers

Internships: LZU offers internship and research opportunities, particularly in science, engineering, geography and environmental disciplines. Programs are often project‑based and may include collaborations with Chinese research institutes and local industry partners. Participation may be part of degree requirements or facilitated through departmental arrangements. Practical placements help students apply theoretical learning, improve language skills, and build professional networks, though structured co‑op programs are less common than in Western universities.

Admission requirements

Required documents

  • Application Form
  • Academic Transcripts
  • GPA
  • HSK/Language Test
  • Personal Statement
  • Letters of Recommendation

Minimum GPA: 3

Tuition costs

  • $2,700 - $3,800 / per year
  • Acceptance rate: 60.00%
  • Scholarships available: LZU participates in Chinese Government Scholarship programs and offers university‑level funding covering full tuition waivers, free accommodation, monthly stipends (≈ RMB 3,000 for master’s, ≈ RMB 3,500 for doctoral), and basic medical insurance for international students. Eligibility typically requires non‑Chinese citizenship, good academic performance, and language proficiency (HSK for Chinese‑taught programs or IELTS/TOEFL for English‑taught). Other institutional and partial scholarships (20‑50‑100% tuition coverage) are also available depending on merit and research potential.

Quick facts

  • Founded: 1909
  • Teaching languages: chinese
  • Study formats: offline

Contact