Your First Month in China: Complete Checklist for International Students

Moving to China for the first time can be exciting, but the first few weeks may also feel overwhelming. A new country means adapting to a different language, payment system, transportation methods, university environment, and daily lifestyle. For international students, the first month in China is the most important period to build a comfortable foundation. This guide provides a practical checklist to help you complete essential tasks, understand daily life in China, and start your journey with confidence.

Last reviewed: September 2026 · Part of our Arrival & Settling In guide series.

For more preparation tips, you can also explore our China arrival guides for international students.

Before Your First Month in China Begins

Before your flight, preparing a few important items can make your arrival much easier.

1. Prepare Your Essential Documents

Make sure you have both digital and physical copies of:

• Passport
• Chinese visa
• Admission letter
• Registration documents from your university
• Accommodation information
• Medical examination documents (if required)
• Emergency contact information

It is recommended to keep digital copies stored securely online so you can access them anytime.

2. Download Important Apps Before Arrival

China has a highly digital lifestyle. Many daily services depend on mobile applications. International students can prepare these essential apps before arriving in China to make daily life easier. Prepare these apps before coming:

WeChat (微信)

WeChat is the most important communication app in China. Students use it for:

• Messaging
• University groups
• Contacting teachers
• Paying bills
• Receiving notifications

Alipay (支付宝)

Alipay is one of the most commonly used payment platforms.
International students can learn more about setting up payments through our guide on how to use Alipay in China. You can use it for:

• Mobile payments
• Transportation
• Food delivery
• Shopping
• Paying bills

Baidu Maps (百度地图) / Amap (高德地图)

Useful for:

• Finding locations
• Public transportation
• Navigation

DiDi (滴滴)

China’s main ride-hailing service. Useful when:

• Public transportation is unavailable
• You need to travel with luggage
• You arrive late at night

Week 1: Arrival and Registration

The first week is mainly about completing official procedures and settling down.

1. Complete University Registration

Most universities require international students to register after arrival. Usually, you need:

• Passport
• Visa documents
• Admission letter
• Registration forms
• Photos

Your university’s international student office will usually guide you through the process.

2. Register Your Accommodation

After moving into your accommodation, you may need to complete accommodation registration. If you are still preparing housing before arrival, check our complete guide to finding accommodation in China. This is an important legal requirement in China. If you live in:

University Dormitory

The university usually helps complete the registration.

Private Apartment

You normally need to register through the local police station, often with assistance from your landlord. Keep your registration document safe because it may be needed for future procedures.

3. Get a Chinese SIM Card

Having a local phone number is essential. You will need it for:

• Bank accounts
• Mobile payments
• University communication
• Online services

Major telecom providers include:

• China Mobile
• China Unicom
• China Telecom

Usually, you need:

• Passport
• Visa information

Week 2: Set Up Your Digital Life

China is one of the world’s most digitally connected countries. Learning how to use local digital services will make daily life much easier.

1. Set Up Mobile Payments

Most businesses in China accept mobile payments. Understanding China’s digital payment system is one of the first steps for international students adapting to daily life. You should set up:

• Alipay
• WeChat Pay

You can use them for:

• Restaurants
• Supermarkets
• Online shopping
• Public transportation
• Food delivery

Many small shops may not accept international bank cards directly, so mobile payment is extremely important.

2. Open a Chinese Bank Account

Depending on your situation, you may need a local bank account. Common banks include:

• Bank of China
• Industrial and Commercial Bank of China (ICBC)
• China Construction Bank

A bank account can help with:

• Receiving scholarships
• Paying rent
• Managing daily expenses

Usually required:

• Passport
• Chinese phone number
• Student documents

Week 3: Learn Daily Life in China

Once basic procedures are completed, start exploring your new environment.

1. Understand Transportation

China has convenient transportation systems. You can learn more about subway systems, high-speed rail and travel options in our China transportation guide.

Subway

Most major cities have extensive subway networks. Useful apps:

• Metro apps
• Alipay transportation cards
• City transportation apps

High-Speed Rail

China’s high-speed railway connects most major cities. You can use:

• Railway apps
• Alipay
• WeChat mini programs

Shared Bikes

Shared bicycles are common around universities. They are convenient for:

• Campus travel
• Short-distance trips

2. Learn Basic Chinese Phrases

Even simple Chinese can greatly improve your daily experience. For beginners, learning essential Chinese phrases for daily communication can make everyday situations much easier. Useful phrases:

Chinese	Meaning
你好 (Nǐ hǎo)	Hello
谢谢 (Xièxiè)	Thank you
多少钱? (Duōshao qián?)	How much?
我听不懂 (Wǒ tīng bù dǒng)	I don’t understand
可以用英文吗?	Can we use English?

Learning practical Chinese is often more useful than only studying textbooks.

Week 4: Build Your Routine

After the first few weeks, focus on adapting to everyday life.

1. Explore Your City

Spend time discovering:

• Supermarkets
• Restaurants
• Hospitals
• Transportation routes
• Shopping areas

Understanding your surroundings will make you feel more comfortable.

2. Connect With Other Students

Building relationships helps you adapt faster. You can join:

• University clubs
• International student communities
• Language exchange activities

Making friends with both Chinese and international students can improve your experience.

3. Manage Your Budget

Living costs vary greatly depending on the city. Generally:

Lower-cost cities:

• Xi’an
• Chengdu
• Wuhan

Higher-cost cities:

• Beijing
• Shanghai
• Shenzhen

Track your expenses during the first month to understand your spending habits.

Common Challenges During Your First Month

Language Barrier

Solution:

• Learn basic Chinese phrases
• Use translation tools
• Ask university support staff

Payment Problems

Solution:

• Set up Alipay and WeChat Pay early
• Keep some cash as backup

Cultural Differences

China may have different habits regarding:

• Communication style
• Food culture
• Social interactions

Stay curious and give yourself time to adapt.

First Month Checklist

Use this checklist to make sure you are prepared: ✅ Complete university registration
✅ Register accommodation
✅ Get Chinese SIM card
✅ Set up Alipay and WeChat Pay
✅ Open bank account if needed
✅ Learn transportation systems
✅ Save emergency contacts
✅ Join student communities
✅ Explore your city
✅ Start learning practical Chinese

Final Thoughts

Your first month in China is not only about completing paperwork. It is the beginning of your new life experience. With the right preparation, learning about local systems, and staying open to new experiences, adapting to China can become much easier. The China Helper provides practical guides and resources to help international students understand China, learn Chinese, and build a comfortable life during their journey.

Official resources: China government services portal — official guides to everyday services in China.

Sources

• National Immigration Administration (NIA, English) — visa, residence permit and registration deadlines (accessed 2026-09)
• Your university’s international student office — the official arrival sequence and deadlines for your campus

Disclaimer: Rules, prices and platform features in China change frequently and can vary by city, institution and individual circumstances. Always confirm with the relevant authority or provider before making arrangements.