Visas are issued according to the purpose of visit:

Students studying in China for less than 6 months require an F visa while students studying in China for more than 6 months require an X visa, as well as a physical examination. Those on short-term group programs in China can apply for F visas for groups, by invitation letters from the authorized school. Family members of international students in Beijing can apply for visas by invitation letters from the Chinese school or they can visit China on a tourist visa.