Finding a place to study is of course important, and you can check our studying Chinese page to find a list of universities. Remember that life in China is "grey" as opposed to the "black and white" of the West, and you can usually change your school once you get here. It just takes some negotiating skills, patience, and persistance.
In terms of accomodation, you will probably live on your university campus. Most people in China are affiliated with a "danwei" work unit, and your approximate danwei is the "waiban" of the school, meaning the foreign affairs office. The waiban staff are assigned to take care of you, and will probably assign you quarters in the designated foreign student housing. Most students are happy to live in a dorm, but if this lifestyle doesn't suit you, there are two official reasons why someone is allowed to move off campus: 1) you're married, or 2) you have a special dietary restriction, and you must have access to a kitchen to cook your own food. You can use these hints as you wish.
You will get a "student visa" that will allow you one entry into China. If you want to leave, and travel to another country, and then come back, you will have to ask your "waiban" for a re-entry visa. These are no problem to get; just a small fee and a few weeks processing time. For more information, see our Visa page.
For more ideas of what to do once you're in Shanghai, take a look at our budget traveler and our nightlife page. And don't forget to find out about all the latest events at What's On!
