A considerable number of international students from Eastern European countries received training at CFAU in the 1950s; many of them have now held senior diplomatic posts in their respective countries, or have become experts in international studies. Since the 1980s CFAU resumed its enrollment of international students. In 2017, there are over 170 international students from more than 50 countries enrolled at CFAU.
In addition, entrusted by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of Commerce of China, CFAU has been organizing professional programs for diplomats and media professionals from foreign countries for years. The training programs cover the Chinese language, International Relations, Diplomacy, National Conditions of China, Media, etc. From 1994 to the end of 2017, over 5000 participants from 150 countries have joined the programs. In the year of 2008, authorized by the State Council of China, CFAU became one of the first five national foreign aid training centers in China.
China Foreign Affairs University is a member of the Meeting of Deans and Directors of Diplomatic Academies and Institutes of International Relations, and sends its delegation to attend the meeting each year. Since 2003,CFAU has invited renowned experts, scholars and leaders in all fields from inside and outside of China to speak at the China Foreign Affairs University Forum.
The old campus of CFAU (Zhanlan Road Campus) is located in the downtown area between western 2nd ring road and 3rd ring road of Beijing, about 7 kilometers from Tiananmen. Beijing Exhibition Center, Meilanfang Theater, Capital Stadium, National Library and other cultural sites are within walking distance from CFAU. The campus enjoys a serene and pleasant environment for study and living.
Since September 2012, the first-year, second-year and third-year undergraduates and first-year postgraduates have moved to the new campus in Shahe, Changping District, which is around 30km to the downtown area. With more advanced facilities and even more beautiful environment, the Shahe campus provides students with better study experience.