Chengdu Hosts World University Games for 6,500 Student-Athletes • China Admissions

Building upon China’s impressive track record of hosting major international sporting events, the spotlight now shines on the recent FISU World University Games at Chengdu University. This year, over 6,500 athletes from 113 countries united for a 12-day celebration of sportsmanship, competition, and cultural camaraderie.

Organized by the International University Sports Federation (FISU), the FISU World University Games, formerly known as the Universiade, is an international multi-sport event specifically designed for university athletes from around the world. They are organized by the International University Sports Federation (FISU) and held every two years, alternating between Winter and Summer editions. And unlike other sports events, the student-athletes compete for their university teams rather than national teams. The event aims to promote higher education, sportsmanship, and cultural exchange among young student-athletes.

“FISU believes that sports values and sports practice work in perfect synchronicity within one’s university studies.

FISU offers opportunity and inspiration to students around the world to play sport. The health, wellbeing, and experiences that students gain from sport help them become active members in our global society.” – FISU

The event brought together 6,500 student-athletes from 113 countries and regions to showcase the vibrancy and achievements of China on a global scale.

The games certainly left a lasting impression on all. China’s outstanding results in the medal tally projected national pride and patriotism. The country secured a remarkable 103 gold, 40 silver, and 35 bronze medals, leading the charts with 178 in total. Japan, with 21 gold medals and 93 in total, stood in second place, while South Korea (58) and Italy (56) competed closely for third and fourth, with South Korea winning two more bronze medals than Italy.

China was an impressive host to this year’s games, which featured impressive stadiums and cutting-edge technologies. The opening and closing ceremonies were an exciting spectacle, with fireworks, artistic performances, and speeches from key figures in the sports world. Athletes were well looked after at the athletes‘ village, and they enjoyed many opportunities for cultural experiences and to embody good-spirited sportsmanship.

The event left a lasting impression on athletes and visitors, who praised China’s modern architecture, efficient transportation, friendly service, excellent cuisine, and the vibrant atmosphere of Chengdu.

Among all the triumph, the Games were not only about competition. They stirred a global curiosity about China, offering university students worldwide a chance to experience the nation firsthand, countering potential misconceptions.

Study Abroad in China

The FISU World University Games provide a glimpse into the vibrant world of studying abroad in China. As one athlete said, “I had never been to China before, but now I love China.” Browse through to discover and apply to programs offered across country on our platform.

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Kay Marlowe

Kay is a marketing assistant at China Admissions. A "third-culture kid" based in Thailand, she has had lifelong exposure to international communities and has worked with top global brands. Having studied abroad herself, she encourages young minds to invest in their self-development and foster an appreciation for new countries and cultures.