Shantou University MBBS Vs. Tongji University MBBS

Shantou University Medical College (SUMC) and Tongji University School of Medicine (TJUSM) are among China’s most acclaimed and competitive medical schools. Both offer English-medium MBBS programs, provide the best facilities and practical experience for students.

However, while SUMC and TJUSM have much in common, there are also some points of difference. Here’s a look at how these two top medical schools compare on some key factors!

Shantou University MBBS Vs. Tongji University MBBS

Factor Shantou UniversityShantou University logo Tongji University

Program duration 5 years 6 years
Tuition fee 40,000 RMB per year 45,000 RMB per year
Passing rate in National
Medical Licensure Exam
Over 90% 20-40% higher pass rate compared
to national average level
Facilities Has one of the most state-of-the-art facilities among medical schools in China. SUMC’s Simulated Medical Center and Human Life Science Hall are the first of its kind in China. Has numerous key laboratories for research and advanced facilities and infrastructure for teaching.
Clinical experience 5 affiliated hospitals with over 6,000 patient beds and six associated partner hospitals 8 affiliated hospitals in Shanghai
Faculty Over 62% hold doctorate degrees and 47% have international experience Large number of professors have MD and PhD degrees and have tenured in well-known universities worldwide
Eligibility to take International Medical Licensure Exams Acknowledged by WHO’s “Directory of World Medical Schools”. Eligible to take licensure exams from medical councils such as MCI, PMDC, PLAB, USMLE, HPCSA and SCHS. Acknowledged by WHO, and graduates can take MCI, PMDC, USMLE, HPCSA, SCHS etc.
Location  Shantou City, Guangdong Province Shanghai City

Should I choose Shantou University MBBS or Tongji University MBBS?

A view of the Medical Education Center at SUMC main campus

Both SUMC and TJUSM offer the best MBBS programs in China, but if you want to complete the program faster, SUMC has a slight advantage. SUMC is one of the few medical colleges in China offering a five-year MBBS degree. This is one of the reasons SUMC is popular among international students.

Additionally, MBBS programs from both schools also offer the best clinical experience, but TUJSM has more affiliate hospitals than SUMC.

TJUSM building in Tongji University

As for location, SUMC is in Shantou, a smaller city compared to Shanghai where SUMC is located. Shantou is a great place if you want a slower pace of living, surrounded by the beauty of nature, particularly coastlines and seas.

By contrast, Shanghai life is more fast-paced. The city has an international vibe because it is influenced by Western culture. You will see plenty of Western fast food chains, shopping malls and expats. Though Shanghai has many parks and is generally a “green” city, you don’t have the same beachfront opportunities as you would in Shantou.

The decision which MBBS program to choose mainly depends on you. Learn more about SUMC’s MBBS program here and TUJSM’s MBBS program here.

How to Apply 

Chinese Universities are still accepting MBBS applicants for September 2022 intake.

You can search programs and click “Apply Now” here:

China has 45 approved medical schools offering English-medium MBBS programs. If you want to see more MBBS programs, check for the complete list here.

  • Step 1: Make an account on China Admissions here
  • Step 2: Find your program here and click “Apply Now”
  • Step 3: Upload all your documents and pay the application fee
  • Step 4: China Admission will review your application and contact you if there is anything to fix
  • Step 5: We will submit the application to the university
Content crafter at China Admissions with nine years of professional writing experience. Fil-Chinese who honors my heritage every day. On a fascinating journey exploring China and tracing my ancestry. See China through my lens.
Christine Chiu

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