Shantou University
Shantou, ChinaShantou, ChinaNo UCAT RequiredShantou University
Shantou University Medical College is funded by the Li Ka Shing Foundation and offers a uniquely Westernised medical curriculum in English, blending Chinese clinical volume with international educational standards. The low tuition makes it exceptional value.
Annual Tuition
£3,500/year
Did You Know?
About Shantou University
Shantou University Medical College in Guangdong Province was founded in 1983 with a transformative donation from Hong Kong billionaire Li Ka-shing and maintains a distinctive international orientation. The six-year English-medium MBBS programme is recognised by WHO, ECFMG, and GMC, with a curriculum developed in collaboration with Hong Kong and international academic partners. Clinical training takes place at the First and Second Affiliated Hospitals of Shantou University (collectively over 3,000 beds) and the affiliated Cancer Hospital.
The medical college's relatively small size (compared to mega-universities like Fudan or Zhejiang) allows more personalised attention and stronger faculty-student relationships. Research strengths include tumour biology, mental health, and tropical medicine — reflecting Guangdong's subtropical disease environment. Shantou is a coastal city in eastern Guangdong with a mild climate, affordable living, and proximity to Hong Kong.
The Li Ka Shing Foundation continues to fund scholarships, laboratory equipment, and visiting professor programmes. For UK students, the affordable tuition (under £4,000/year) and manageable cohort size offer a supported pathway to a GMC-registrable medical degree.
Programmes Offered
Key Highlights
Li Ka Shing Foundation-funded
Westernised English curriculum
Very low fees
Second-largest teaching hospital in Guangdong
Entry Requirements
Academic Requirements
A-levels or equivalent, no UCAT
No UCAT required. A Level grades are sufficient for admission.
Student Accommodation
On-campus international student dormitories available
Scholarships Available
Shantou University offers scholarship opportunities for international students. Contact Medicine Clearing to learn about current funding options for your intake year.
Shantou University vs UK Medical Schools
| Factor | Shantou University | UK Medical Schools |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition (Annual) | £3,500/year | £9,250/year |
| Duration | 6 years | 5 years |
| UCAT Required | No | Yes (33 schools) |
| Teaching Language | English/Chinese | English |
| Acceptance Rate | Higher — focused entrance criteria | ~8% average |
| GMC Pathway | Under review | Direct Registration |
| Gap Year Risk | None — rolling admissions | High — 12-month UCAS cycle |
| NHS Eligibility | Under review | Yes — direct |
Application Timeline — Shantou University
| Step | Phase | Timeframe |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Free Strategy Consultation | Week 1 |
| 2 | Eligibility Assessment & University Match | Week 1 |
| 3 | Document Preparation & Personal Statement | Weeks 1-2 |
| 4 | Application Submission to Shantou University | Weeks 2-3 |
| 5 | Entrance Exam / Interview Preparation | Weeks 3-4 |
| 6 | Offer Confirmation | Weeks 4-5 |
| 7 | Visa Processing & Accommodation | Weeks 5-7 |
| 8 | Pre-departure Briefing & Arrival Support | Weeks 7-8 |
Quick Reference — Shantou University
Frequently Asked Questions — Shantou University
Student Reviews
Write a Community Review
Studied at Shantou University? Your insight helps thousands of UK students make informed decisions. All reviews are moderated before publication.
Ready to Apply to Shantou University?
Our admissions team has placed 107+ UK students in top medical schools worldwide. We will guide your application from document preparation to enrolment.