FIRST 72 HOURS CHECKLIST
Living in China: Practical Campus Life Guide
Everything you need to set up within your first 72 hours: mobile connectivity, digital payments, bank accounts, and campus amenities.
Editorial Verification: Verified by CSCA Global Academic Standards Desk.
Last Updated: 2026-10-10
Mobile SIM Card: Purchase a Chinese SIM card (China Mobile, China Telecom, or China Unicom) at an airport branch or official telecom hall using your passport. Typical student packages range from 39 to 59 RMB/month for 40-60GB.
Digital Payments: Download Alipay and WeChat. Both platforms support binding eligible international cards (Visa, Mastercard) for daily transactions up to transaction limits without a domestic bank account.
Campus & Police Registration: Check into campus dormitories (where the front desk files your accommodation registration automatically) or register at the local police station within 24 hours if living off-campus to obtain your Registration Form of Temporary Residence (境外人员临时住宿登记表).
Bank Account Opening: After completing university registration, open a domestic debit card account (e.g., ICBC, Bank of China) using your passport, student status certificate, and local mobile number to receive CSC stipends and campus payments.