X1 visa
You are supposed to apply for X1 visa if you are going to stay in China for a long-term study.
The valid period for X visa is 30 days and you are supposed to apply for Residence Permit within 30 days after your entry of China with X visa and you shall not change for any other form of visa. You should also offer the medical certificate issued by Shanghai Entry-Exit Inspection and Quarantine Department.
X2 visa
You are supposed to apply for X2 visa if you are going to stay in China for a short-term study.
The validity of the X2 visa is indicated on the visa page and you may stay for a specified number of days since the date of entry. For instance, your maximum stay is to November 23 of the year since you entry with X2 visa on August 25.
L visa
You are supposed to apply for L visa if you travel to China; Groups traveling to China may apply for L group visa.
S1 and S2 visa
Spouse, parents, children under 18 years old, spouse's parents who visit foreign family members for a long term and stay in China for reasons of work and study, and other persons who need to stay in China for private affairs may apply for S1 visa;
Z visa
You are supposed to apply for Z visa if you work in China.
Residence certificate
You are required to apply for a residence certificate (residence permit) if you study in China for more than 180 days ,and the validity is marked on the residence permit. You may enter China for several times during the period of validity of the residence permit.
ECUST International Students