If you asked someone to name a symbol synonymous with China, I suspect the first image they would think of is the Chinese dragon.
One could say the same for Wales. The red dragon is often seen as symbolising all things Welsh- it adorns the badge of our national football team, our government and our distinctive national flag.
But the dragon is not the only thing our two nations have in common. We have increased our links - economically, culturally and academically - to be stronger now than ever before.
Academic excellence
Wales is a nation where learning is valued. As part of the UK higher education system, our universities offer qualifications that are respected across the world.
Around 129,000 students are enrolled at Welsh universities, including around 22,000 international students, attracted by a culture of academic excellence. In the UK's last Research Excellence Framework, more than three quarters of our universities were judged to be 'world leading' or 'internationally significant'.
Diversity and support
Wales is famous for its warm welcome and strong sense of community, where people from all backgrounds have the opportunity to thrive.
There is a fantastic range of student support available at universities in Wales, from wellbeing and mental health support, to extra help with academic studies, such as English language. Every student in Wales has a 'personal tutor' who can help during your studies.
Wales is open, tolerant, friendly and welcoming to international students.
We are proud of our diverse student, staff and research base and greatly value their contribution to campus and community life.
Student satisfaction
It is perhaps no surprise therefore that in the last Whatuni Student Choice Awards, four of the UK top 10 - including the number-one spot -were taken by Welsh universities. And in the latest National Student Survey, the student satisfaction rate for Wales was higher than the UK average.
Wales also offers an affordable and cost-effective standard of living that enables students to experience a varied lifestyle and become immersed in our culture, all within a couple of hours of the main UK transport hubs of London and Manchester.
For all these reasons, not to mention our unique history and culture, our beautiful landscape and ancient castles, Wales has become a desirable destination for students from China.
To learn more and plan your time in Wales, please visit the Study in Wales website: www.studyinwales.ac.uk
