Shanghai Conservatory of Music

Founded in 1927 as China’s first higher music education institution, the Shanghai Conservatory of Music combines conservatory training with research and public performance in the heart of Shanghai. Its teaching units span musicology, composition, conducting, keyboard and orchestral instruments, Chinese instruments, vocal and opera performance, music education, music engineering, musical theatre and digital media arts. Students can connect their studies to performance practice through the conservatory’s ensembles, opera and concert facilities.

The 2026 international admissions materials publish 18 undergraduate majors or fields and extensive master’s and doctoral research and professional performance directions. Undergraduate programs last four or five years, master’s programs three years, and doctoral programs normally three to six years. Applicants select a field and complete the relevant conservatory admissions process, which includes a portfolio, examination or audition as specified. Separate systems and application windows apply to undergraduate and graduate candidates.