Zhejiang Gongshang University (ZJSU) is Hangzhou's specialist university for business, economics and commerce. Its roots go back to 1911, making it one of the earliest commercial schools in China, and it sits in a city that is home to some of the country's biggest e-commerce and technology companies.
ZJSU is the business-focused option among Zhejiang's leading universities. For a wider comparison, read our guide to universities in Zhejiang, China. This guide works through the questions you need to answer to decide whether ZJSU belongs on your shortlist.
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The 60-Second Summary
| Founded | 1911 (as Hangzhou Secondary Commercial School); renamed Zhejiang Gongshang University in 2004 |
| City | Xiasha Campus and downtown campus |
| Co-built by | Zhejiang Provincial Government, Ministry of Commerce, Ministry of Education |
| Strengths | Business, economics, statistics, accounting, e-commerce |
| For international students | Business Chinese bachelor's plus English-taught degrees |
| International students | Nearly 1,000 from about 100 countries, in 56 majors across 17 schools |
| Official site | sie.zjgsu.edu.cn |
Checklist 1: Does Its Academic Focus Match Yours?
ZJSU is strongest if you want to study:
- [x] Business administration, international business or marketing
- [x] Economics, finance or international trade
- [x] Accounting or statistics
- [x] E-commerce
- [x] Chinese language for business
The university also teaches law, literature, science, engineering, history, philosophy and art, but its identity and reputation are business-led. In the 2025 Wu Shulian comprehensive strength ranking, ZJSU placed 6th among Chinese finance and economics universities, according to the university.
Checklist 2: Is There a Programme in Your Teaching Language?
Business Chinese degree. ZJSU's Bachelor of Chinese Language and Literature (Business Chinese) is designed specifically for international students, with modules in areas such as international marketing, international trade practices and international business law. Graduates receive a Bachelor of Arts.
English-taught degrees. ZJSU offers a set of English-taught degree programmes for international students. The exact list changes by intake, so check the College of International Education site.
Chinese-taught degrees. More than 60 full-time Chinese-taught programmes at undergraduate, master's and doctoral level are open to international students.
Checklist 3: Can You Meet the Admission Requirements?
International admissions run through the College of International Education. Based on the university's guides, expect:
- Academic certificates and transcripts.
- Language proof suited to your programme.
- An entrance Chinese language proficiency test for Business Chinese students. Students with HSK level 4 may be exempted from some first-year courses but must earn the credits by examination.
- Passport copy and health forms.
Deadlines and score requirements change each year. Confirm the current admissions brochure before applying.
Checklist 4: Can You Fund Your Studies?
ZJSU accepts recipients of the Chinese Government Scholarship, Confucius Institute Scholarship and Zhejiang Provincial Government Scholarship (listed by ZJSU at RMB 20,000 per year), and also awards a university scholarship. (Editorial review: confirm amounts.)
Tuition varies by programme and language. (Editorial review: add official fees only.)
Checklist 5: Will the Environment Suit You?
Industry access. Hangzhou is home to Alibaba and Geely, and ZJSU highlights industry-academy cooperation for international students, including business tours and internships.
Entrepreneurship. The university runs a pioneer park for international students interested in innovation and entrepreneurship.
International partnerships. ZJSU co-founded the Zhejiang Gongshang University Sharjah Silk Road College with the University of Sharjah in the UAE, and initiated an international university consortium in food science and nutrition.
Cost of living. Hangzhou is one of the pricier cities in Zhejiang. Ask the College of International Education for current dormitory options and rates.
Your Decision
Shortlist ZJSU if you want a business or economics degree, value proximity to China's e-commerce sector, or want a Chinese language degree with a commercial focus.
Look elsewhere if you want medicine, teacher training or a dedicated engineering school. In that case, compare Zhejiang Normal University courses and admissions, Zhejiang University of Science and Technology courses and admissions or [Zhejiang Chinese Medical University programs].
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Zhejiang Gongshang University known for?
Business, economics, finance, statistics and e-commerce. It is one of China's earliest commercial schools, founded in 1911.
Where is Zhejiang Gongshang University located?
In Hangzhou, the capital of Zhejiang, on the Xiasha Campus and a downtown campus.
Does Zhejiang Gongshang University offer English-taught courses?
Yes. ZJSU offers English-taught degree programmes for international students alongside its Chinese-taught programmes.
What is the Business Chinese degree at ZJSU?
A Bachelor of Chinese Language and Literature (Business Chinese) designed for international students, awarding a Bachelor of Arts.
What scholarships does Zhejiang Gongshang University offer?
Chinese Government, Confucius Institute, Zhejiang Provincial Government and ZJSU university scholarships.
How many international students study at Zhejiang Gongshang University?
The university reports nearly 1,000 international students from about 100 countries across 56 majors.
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Conclusion
Zhejiang Gongshang University is a natural fit for students who want a business education in one of China's most commercially active cities. Work through the checklists above, confirm fees and deadlines with the College of International Education, and compare it against the other universities in Zhejiang before applying.