Studying abroad was a transformative experience for many renowned university presidents in China, profoundly influencing their educational philosophies and practices. In terms of educational philosophy, these presidents advocated for a combination of general and professional education to cultivate well-rounded talents. Their academic vision emphasized the coordinated development of disciplines, nurturing emerging fields. They prioritized recruiting outstanding talents and promoting the professional development of faculty members. In academic management, they struck a balance between teaching and research, fostering an inclusive and autonomous academic environment. Furthermore, these leaders embraced cultural integration, seamlessly blending Chinese and Western cultural elements, as well as ancient and modern perspectives, in the construction of campus culture. While China has made significant strides in advancing its higher education system, exposure to international educational experiences remains pivotal for nurturing highly skilled professionals. Such experiences will be instrumental in bolstering the nation’s strategy of leveraging education as a means to enhance its capabilities further. Moreover, they will contribute significantly to the ongoing modernization efforts within China’s educational landscape.