A grouped directory of the apps international students use most in China. Availability and features change, so treat this as a starting point.
Payments & messaging
- WeChat — messaging, payments and services in one app.
- Alipay — payments, transport and mini-apps.
Transport
- DiDi — ride-hailing.
- Amap / Baidu Maps — navigation and public transit.
- 12306 / rail app — high-speed rail tickets.
Food & delivery
- Meituan — food, groceries and services.
- Ele.me — food delivery.
Learning
- HSK prep apps — vocabulary and listening practice.
- A dictionary app with handwriting/OCR.
Everyday
- Your bank’s app for balances and transfers.
- A translation app with camera mode.
- Your university’s apps (campus card, courses, library).
Set-up notes
- Most apps need a local phone number for registration.
- Complete identity verification with your passport where required.
- Enable in-app payments so you can pay on the go.
Ask your university which apps it uses for campus services — those are the ones you should install first.