Dear students,

As you embark on your journey of studying in China, three essential cards will become your most reliable companions. This guide explains how to obtain your campus card, mobile SIM card, and bank card to help you settle into campus life and enjoy China’s convenient digital services.

Campus card

The campus card is a multi-functional card issued to students by Chinese universities. It not only serves as proof of your student identity but also offers exclusive discounts and convenient services, making it an indispensable tool for campus life.

1. Key functions

• Campus payments: Use it for meals, laundry, printing, and more services.

Reminder: University canteens in China offertasty yet inexpensive meals. Anutritious lunch usually costs just 10 to 20 yuan ($1.41 to 2.82). Remember to top up your card regularly.

• Identity verification: Required for occasions such as event check-ins and borrowing books from the library.
• Access pass: Swipe to enter campus gates, dormitories, laboratories, gyms, and other school facilities.
• Facility reservations: Book and use sports grounds, swimming pools, and other venues.
• Off-campus discounts: Numerous museums, science centers, parks, and public transportation, such as buses and subways, offer student special discounts with a campus card.

2. How to obtain it

Your first campus card is typically issued by the university upon enrollment. Most universities offer both a physical card and a virtual card that should be bound via the WeChat mini-program or the school's official app. Follow your school's instructions to activate and use it.

If lost, report it to your school immediately and bring a valid ID to apply for a replacement.

Mobile SIM card

Obtaining a Chinese SIM card will save you significant costs on international roaming and allow you to adapt quickly to the local digital lifestyle.

1. Options available

China has four major communication service providers: China Mobile, China Unicom, China Telecom, and China Broadnet. Each network offers different levels of coverage, subscription packages, and services. Once you choose one provider, your call, data, and communication services will be provided only by that provider.

2. What are campus SIM plans?

Many universities partner with the aforementioned providers to offer exclusive campus SIM plans. These typically include generous local data and call allowances tailored to students on campus and in the surrounding areas.

On-campus service halls or outlets make it easy to apply. Be sure to review plan details and fees before signing up, or consult the provider beforehand.

3. How to obtain it

Bring your passport to a service hall or an authorized outlet to apply. After obtaining your SIM card, you can check your phone charges, track data usage, and top up via the provider's app or official WeChat account.

Bank card

A Chinese bank card is essential for online consumption, international transactions, and campus transactions in China. It is the key to accessing convenient mobile payments.

1. Which bank should I choose?

Almost all banks in China offer card opening services for foreign nationals, and some accounts can be opened even within five minutes.

Different banks have different advantages and features. For students, we recommend banks with a branch on or near campus for easier access to services like deposits, withdrawals, and consultations.

2. How to apply

To apply for a Chinese bank card, prepare the following documents:

• A valid passport
• Proof of residence, such as dorm registration
• Proof of enrollment
• Contact information

Requirements may vary from bank to bank. Before visiting an offline branch or making an application, it is advisable to confirm the required materials and other regulations. At the bank, follow the relevant instructions to complete the process at a self-service terminal or counter.

Note: When filling in personal information, ensure your name, passport number, and other details, including spaces and letter case, match your passport exactly to avoid unnecessary mistakes.

In just minutes, you'll receive your own Chinese bank card. Download the bank's app, register with your real name, bind your card, and you can immediately check your account balance and transaction history.

From the moment you step onto campus, you'll find that life on and off campus becomes smoother and easier with these three cards.

We wish you a fulfilling and wonderful time in China.

Source: Official WeChat account of China Scholarship Council at "gh_afaa09c3e5f3"