It was originally established in 1911 under the name “Tsinghua College” and had been renamed several times since then: from “Tsinghua School” which was used one year after its establishment, to “National Tsinghua University” which was adopted three years after the foundation of its university section in 1925.

The university is one of the nine tertiary institutions in the C9 League and, along with Peking University, is frequently regarded the top university in mainland China by most national and international rankings. With a motto of Self-Discipline and Social Commitment, Tsinghua University describes itself as being dedicated to academic excellence, the well-being of Chinese society and to global development.

Tsinghua University is located in the North West of Beijing in the University District (Haidian District). The campus is in between Peking University and Wudaokou which is the centre of the University District. 

Tsinghua University is well known for its beautiful campus with lakes and greenery and beautiful buildings, it is located on the former site of Qing Dynasty royal gardens and retains Chinese-style landscaping as well as traditional buildings, but many of its buildings are also in the Western-style, reflecting the American influence in its history. Along with its rival and neighbor the Peking University, it is known throughout China and the wider world for having one of the most beautiful campuses. Tsinghua University’s campus was named one of the most beautiful college campuses in the world by a panel of architects and campus designers in Forbes in 2010; it was the only university in Asia on the list.

Campus Life:

Tsinghua campus is large with many facilities including high quality sports facilities, swimming pool, library. It is also located close to Wudaokou which is the center of the student district in Beijing and has many international restaurants and bars.

Student Associations:

International students are encouraged to participate in various extracurricular activities and join the student associations of the University. International students office also organizes extracurricular activities for international students, including welcome party for new students, New Year’s party, graduation party, tourist visits to Chinese cultural and historical destinations, sports competitions, etc.

Tsinghua University has more than 110 student associations covering five domains: science and technology, physical training, humanities, arts and public welfare. To name a few: the Students’ Performing Arts Club, Zijing Volunteer Service, Students’ Association of Science & Technology, Photography Association, Foreign Languages Association, Association of Student International Communication (ASIC), etc.

Accommodation:

Located in the north of Tsinghua University, Zijing Apartments (紫荆公寓) is the most modernised student dormitory in China and the largest, able to accommodate 22,400 students. Zijing comprises 26 blocks, with 23 buildings ranging from 7 to 15 stories. The total construction area amounts to 350,000 m2 (3,800,000 sq ft). The cost for the apartments are below.  New students should apply at the reception desk of Zijin Building 19.