Shanghai Jiao Tong University (SJTU) is one of the oldest and most influential universities in China. It is formerly the Nang Yang Public School, which was founded in 1896 by Mr. Sheng Xuanhuai. It is one of th oldest universities in China. The University, through its century-long history, has nurtured large numbers of outstanding figures and made significant contributions the development of science and technology. Since its adoption of the reform and opening up policy in China, SJTU has taken the lead in the management system reform in the institutions of higher learning; thus regaining its vigor and vitality as well as momentum for rapid growth as never seen before. Its Chinese language department offers a variety of courses for all levels. The campus is large and energetic with great scenery and greenery.

The University has 2,800 faculty members; among them there are 22 academics from the Chinese Academy of Sciences and Chinese Academy of Engineering. The total enrollments in SJTU are about 40,000, including 20,000 undergraduate students, 12,000 graduate students, and 7,000 professional students. There are currently about 2,000 foreign students studying in the university, including about 500 in undergraduate programs and 100 in graduate programs.

Located in one of the major international metropolitan areas, SJTU has been actively involved in international exchange and cooperation. To date, it has established relations with more than 100 renowned universities and colleges in the world as well as connections with many research institutions, corporations and enterprises at home and abroad. SJTU has invited more than 100 famous scientists and specialists as honorable professors or consulting professors, including the Nobel prize winners and physicists Yang Zhenning, Li Zhengdao and Ding Zaozhong. SJTU sends excellent teachers and students abroad every year to give lectures, to study or to attend international academic conferences, meanwhile SJTU invites foreign specialists and scholars to give lectures or to have academic exchanges. SJTU is the nodal point of “China Education Science and Research Networks” in east China region, and through computer networks, SJTU has faster and closer connection with universities, scientific research institutions and corporations both at home and abroad.

With its long-term goal of becoming a world-class university, SJTU is making special efforts in improving the quality of faculty, research, and graduate education. Internationalization has become one of its major strategies in the next five years. It is also emphasizing on contribution to the development of economy and society, particularly on collaborations with industries and technology transfer.

Due to its location, abundance and flexibility of language courses, and its large number of foreign students, Jiao Tong is a popular choice with students wishing to learn mandarin in Shanghai.