Introduction
Southwest Jiaotong University (SWJTU), founded in 1896, is one of China’s oldest and most prestigious universities specializing in railway engineering and transportation. Located in Chengdu, it is a national institution under the “Double First-Class,” “Project 985,” and “Project 211” initiatives. SWJTU has made significant contributions to China’s railway development, infrastructure, and transportation research.
While its historic strength lies in civil engineering and rail transit, SWJTU now offers diversified programs in engineering, science, management, economics, and architecture. The university attracts international students—especially those interested in railway systems, urban transport, and infrastructure development.
Location
SWJTU is located in Chengdu, the capital city of Sichuan Province. The city blends modern lifestyle with ancient culture, and is known for its food, relaxed pace, and booming tech industry.
The university’s multiple campuses include the Century City Campus, West Campus, and Hi-Tech Campus, all equipped with modern facilities, research labs, and convenient living spaces. Chengdu offers affordable living costs, a supportive student community, and excellent connectivity.
Programs Available
SWJTU offers a wide range of undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral programs, with particular strengths in railway, civil, mechanical, and transportation engineering, as well as computer science, architecture, and management.
- Rail & Civil Engineering: Railway Signal & Control, Bridge & Tunnel Engineering, Transportation Engineering
- Mechanical & Automation: Mechanical Engineering, Automation, Mechatronics
- Computer & IT: Computer Science, Software Engineering, Big Data
- Urban Planning & Architecture: Landscape Architecture, Urban Design, Architecture
- Management & Economics: Traffic Engineering, Engineering Management, International Business
- Sciences: Mathematics, Physics, Environmental Engineering
Popular English-taught programs:
- Master in Railway Signal and Control
- Master in Transportation Engineering
- PhD in Civil Engineering
- Bachelor in Computer Science and Technology
- International MBA
Scholarships Available
SWJTU offers multiple scholarships to support international students:
- Chinese Government Scholarship (CSC): Full coverage for tuition, accommodation, stipend, and insurance
- Sichuan Government Scholarship: Provincial funding for excellent international students
- SWJTU President Scholarship: Merit-based financial support for degree programs
- Belt and Road Scholarship: Dedicated to applicants from Belt and Road partner countries
Selection is based on academic performance, recommendations, study plan, and interview (if required).
How to Apply
International students apply online through SWJTU’s admission portal. CSC scholarship candidates should also apply via the China Scholarship Council system.
- Step 1: Choose your program and review criteria
- Step 2: Prepare required documents:
- Transcripts and diplomas (with certified translation)
- Language scores: IELTS/TOEFL for English programs; HSK for Chinese programs
- Passport photo page and passport-sized photo
- Study or research proposal
- Two academic recommendation letters
- Medical exam form and police clearance
- Step 3: Submit application via SWJTU and CSC portals
- Step 4: Await admissions and scholarship decisions
- Step 5: Receive admission offer, JW202 document, and prepare for visa
Application Deadlines
- CSC Scholarship: January – March
- SWJTU & Sichuan Scholarships: March – May
- Self-funded Applicants: Deadline by June for September intake
Applying early is essential to secure scholarships and timely visa processing.
Salient Features
- China’s premier university in railway and transportation engineering
- World-class labs: simulators, wind tunnels, smart railway instrumentation
- Located in Chengdu—a hub for culture, technology, and quality of life
- Strong industrial ties with railways, metro systems, and infrastructure firms
- International faculty and extensive student support services
- Spacious modern campuses with collaborative learning environments
- High post-graduation employment rate, especially in rail and transit sectors
