If you are studying in China, you (or your family) will need to move money there. The two things that matter most are the fee and the exchange rate — a “cheap” service with a poor rate can cost more overall.
Options compared
| Method | Speed | Typical cost pattern |
|---|---|---|
| Bank wire | 1–5 business days | Fixed fee + margin on the exchange rate |
| Online transfer services | Often 1–2 days | Lower fee; uses the mid-market rate + small fee |
| Card top-ups / services | Varies | Convenience fee; check limits |
| Carrying cash | Immediate | Risky; limits; no recourse |
What to compare
- The total amount your recipient receives, not just the fee.
- The exchange rate and whether it includes a hidden margin.
- Speed and limits.
- Whether the service supports transfers to China and to your bank.
Paying tuition and living costs
- Tuition: universities usually give exact payment instructions — follow them.
- Living costs: regular smaller transfers are often cheaper than one large wire.
A practical approach
- Use a mid-market rate as your baseline.
- Compare the all-in cost from two or three providers for the same amount.
- Start with a small test transfer before moving larger sums.
VisChat may earn a commission from some links at no extra cost to you. Fees, rates and availability change — always check the current numbers yourself.