How to rent an apartment in China

Renting an apartment in China can be very difficult for foreigners who have none or little Chinese proficiency. The main concern is that most information you can find on the internet is written in Chinese language and real estate agents in China don’t usually speak English very well. The rental contract will be written in Chinese language. There are apartment rental websites in English language. However, they are mostly for expats that may not be a good option unless you have a big budget.

We do think international students should stay in on-campus dormitory or serviced apartment during their first semester in China. In some universities, the admission office staffs will assist students to rent off-campus apartments in case on-campus dormitory rooms are fully occupied.