Studying abroad is one of the biggest decisions a student can make, especially for a Master’s degree. After completing my Bachelor’s in Electrical Engineering from NFC IET Multan, I decided to pursue my Master’s in China. Today, I can confidently say that this was one of the best decisions of my academic life.

This detailed guide explains my entire journey—why I selected China, how affordable higher education is, what life is like in Qinhuangdao, the academic environment at Yanshan University, and how AI, machine learning, and power electronics are shaping the future here.

If you are planning to study abroad, this article will help you understand what China offers to Pakistani students.

Why I Selected China for My Master’s Degree

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There are many reasons why I chose China for my Master’s degree, but the three biggest reasons were:

1. Affordable Education Compared to Western Countries

A Master’s in China is significantly cheaper than in Europe, Australia, or America.
My annual tuition fee at Yanshan University is only ¥25,000–30,000 RMB, which is roughly Rs 11 lakh.

2. High-Quality Engineering Programs

China is rapidly becoming a global technology powerhouse. Universities here specialize in engineering, robotics, AI, and power electronics.

3. Scholarships for International Students

I received a Presidential Scholarship which covers:

Full tuition
Living stipend

This made my education even more affordable.

4. International Exposure

Students from more than 30 countries study here, making the environment extremely multicultural.

My University: Yanshan University (YSU), Qinhuangdao

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Yanshan University is located in the coastal city of Qinhuangdao. It is known across China for its specialization in:

Mechanical Engineering
Materials Science
Power Engineering
Robotics
Artificial Intelligence

The university is part of China’s national level engineering institutions and is recognized for its industry-level research facilities.

Why YSU Stands Out

Strong engineering programs
Modern laboratories
International student community
Coastal environment with peaceful lifestyle
Affordable education with scholarships

I arrived here in August 2024, just in time for the Fall semester.

AI, Machine Learning & Power Electronics – The Future Fields in China

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One of the first things I noticed was how deeply Chinese students are engaged in AI, machine learning, robotics, and power electronics. These fields are not just academic concepts—they are integrated into daily research work.

How China Approaches AI

Professors use AI tools daily
Labs are equipped with high-end simulation software
Projects focus on real-world applications
Students learn Python, MATLAB, and AI modelling

My own professors are researching:

Smart grid management using AI
Robotics controlled by machine learning algorithms
Renewable energy integration
Power management systems

This environment pushes every student to think beyond theory.

My Academic Routine at Yanshan University

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A typical day for me includes:

Advanced Power System Lectures

We study:

Renewable energy integration
High-voltage systems
Power distribution algorithms

Signal Processing Classes

These classes help us understand:

Data interpretation
Frequency analysis
Digital control

Hours in the Laboratory

My recent project involved building a smart grid simulation model. The lab equipment is state-of-the-art, and our professor guided us through every step.

China’s approach focuses on understanding:

“How” a system works
And more importantly: “Why” it works that way

This critical thinking mindset is transforming my academic abilities.

Living in China – My Daily Life & Experience

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1. Accommodation

I live in the international student dormitory on campus.

Twin-sharing room
Private bathroom
Shared kitchen
Cost: ¥10,600 RMB per year

It is simple but comfortable.

2. Food

Managing a halal diet can be challenging, but YSU has a Muslim canteen, which helps a lot.

My meals usually cost: ¥10–20 RMB.
Most of the time, I cook for myself using the dorm kitchen.

I especially miss Pakistani doodh patti chai, so I make my own using spices I brought from home. Even my Chinese friends love it.

3. Language Challenges

Although my degree is in English, daily life requires basic Chinese. Over time, I learned conversational Chinese, which makes life easier.

Chinese students are extremely:

Disciplined
Focused
Hardworking

They often study late into the night.

4. Cultural Experience

My Chinese friends often cook with me, share their festivals, and help with language.

Exploring Qinhuangdao – A Beautiful Coastal City

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Qinhuangdao is a peaceful, scenic coastal city with plenty of places to explore.

Walks along the Bohai Sea

The calm waves and cool breezes make it a perfect weekend escape.

Visiting the Great Wall at Shanhaiguan

This part of the Great Wall is stunning.
Climbing its steep steps, feeling the centuries-old history, and seeing the wall disappear into the mountains was an unforgettable experience.

Blending history with modern China

It’s amazing how ancient sites and modern engineering universities co-exist.

My First Eid Away From Home

Being away from home during Eid felt emotional, but my Chinese classmates made it special. They:

Arranged a small gathering
Drank tea
Ate the sweets my family sent
Listened to my stories about Eid traditions

This made me appreciate cultural exchange even more.

How Studying in China Changed My Life

My Master’s at Yanshan University is more than an academic journey—it is a transformation.

I learned independence

Living away from home makes you more mature.

I became globally aware

Interacting with students from 30+ countries changed my worldview.

I gained practical engineering skills

AI, machine learning, and power electronics are now part of my skillset.

I experienced a new culture

Chinese values of discipline and hard work inspired me.

I explored beautiful places

From Bohai Sea to the Great Wall—every place taught me something new.

Should Pakistani Students Choose China for Master’s?

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YES — because:

Affordable fees
High-quality engineering programs
Scholarships available
Safe and modern campuses
Practical research opportunities
Multicultural environment

China offers one of the best value-for-money Master’s programs in the world.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is China good for engineering studies?

Yes, China is one of the global leaders in engineering, robotics, and AI.

2. How much does a Master’s degree cost in China?

Around ¥20,000–40,000 RMB per year, depending on the university.

3. Do Chinese universities offer scholarships?

Yes — many provide CSC, Provincial, and Presidential Scholarships.

4. Is it difficult to live in China as a Pakistani student?

Not at all. You can find halal food, friendly locals, and safe campuses.

5. Is the language a problem?

Academic programs are in English, but daily life requires basic Chinese.