Abstract: The dissymmetry of management system is one of the most important factors that restrict the development of local higher education institution. The management practices of public higher education in the United States, Canada, Germany, and Japan are discussed from the perspective of management and funding system Some common practices of these countries are summarized, for example, provincial/state government is the most important manager and sponsor of public higher education; federal government conducts a macro-management on public higher education; the local government supports the management of public higher education; and the autonomy of university in operating and administrating has been fully emphasized and respected. Combining with the Chinese higher education reform and reality situation of local higher education institutions, it is suggested that the central government indirectly macro-manages higher education, provincial governments conduct integrated management on higher education, and local governments focuse on providing favorable external conditions for higher education.