Zhengzhou University's international student education began in 1981. It is one of the earliest universities in China to admit foreign students and offer Chinese language instruction. It is also the first university in Henan province approved by the Ministry of Education to receive international students sponsored by Chinese government scholarships.
The School of International Education, officially established in October 2005, integrates multiple functions, including international student education, Sino-foreign cooperative programs, the cultivation of talent in international Chinese education and international educational and cultural exchanges. In 2013, the Ministry of Education designated the university as one of "the first national demonstration bases for international student education".
The school's primary responsibilities include managing all aspects related to international students at the university, covering formulating and supervising the implementation of international student policies, and organizing Chinese language instruction for international students.
It is also responsible for managing and implementing Zhengzhou University's Chinese language education programs, international Chinese teacher training programs, and Confucius Institute (classroom) projects.
The school actively introduces high-quality overseas educational resources and management systems and, continues to expand its international cooperative education and exchange platforms.
Zhengzhou University offers both degree and non-degree programs for international students. Degree programs include undergraduate, master's, and doctoral education in various disciplines. Non-degree programs include foundation programs, Chinese language programs, and short-term and long-term training programs at different academic levels across diverse disciplines.
As of April 2024, the school hosts a total of 2,196 international students from over 80 countries and regions worldwide.