This paper makes an in-depth analysis of the operation mechanisms of eight influential foreign highlevel university-affiliated think tanks, aiming at providing references for the future development of whole new university-affiliated think tanks in China. Through literature review and website investigation,it divides the eight think tanks into four categories, and summarizes each category’s features in terms of organization, personnel,funding and project operation. On this basis, it proposes that Chinese university-affiliated think tanks should improve their management,expand their funding resources,build their competitive talent teams,and strengthen their communication and co-operation with all kinds of institutions home and abroad.