Shanghai Jiao Tong University offers an enriching student life experience across its multiple campuses. The main campus in Minhang District covers 300 hectares and features modern teaching buildings, extensive research laboratories, a large library with millions of volumes, multiple sports facilities including gymnasiums, swimming pools, football fields, and basketball courts, and comfortable international student dormitories. The historic Xuhui campus in downtown Shanghai offers a more traditional university atmosphere with century-old buildings and tree-lined pathways.
International students at SJTU can participate in over 200 student clubs and organizations covering sports, arts, culture, academics, and volunteer service. The International Student Union organizes orientation programs, cultural festivals, city tours, and social events throughout the academic year. Popular events include the International Cultural Festival where students showcase their home countries food, music, and traditions, and the Sports Day competition between international and Chinese students.
Living in Shanghai itself is a major advantage of studying at SJTU. Shanghai is China most international city with a large expat community, world-class restaurants, vibrant nightlife, and excellent shopping. The efficient metro system connects all parts of the city, making it easy to explore attractions like the Bund, Oriental Pearl Tower, Yu Garden, and French Concession. Students can also easily travel to other Chinese cities during breaks using the high-speed rail network, with Beijing just 4.5 hours away and Hangzhou only 45 minutes by train.