The Beijing International Studies University (BISU) is a public teaching and research university based in the city of Beijing, China. Founded in 1964, it was part of the national initiative to promote tertiary foreign language education. The institute grew out of a 1956-established subsidiary of Xinhua News Agency and has developed into one of the most notable universities of foreign languages and cultural studies in China.[7] Today, the University pioneers in the fields of tourism studies, hospitality management and international trade.[8][9][10] It maintains links with national institutions including the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences and the National Tourism Administration. In addition, it holds formal collaborative agreements with more than 140 universities and academic institutions of about 40 countries spanning the continents, providing a wide range of study opportunities for inbound and outbound students alike. According to the China Education and Research Network, the University is ranked fourth for the most satisfactory international admissions and services among Chinese universities.[11]