Objective: To explore the application of grid health education model in improving college students health literacy. Methods: The clustered stratified random sampling method was used among the pre-formative education freshmen in a Xi-an university, with 1 123 students randomly selected totally. The intervention group (578) received health literacy education based on grid health education model, while the control group (545) receuved the original health education model. The effect of gird model of health education on health literacy was compared between two groups of college students after one-semester intervention. Results: Insufficient health literacy was found among freshmen participants in Xi an(17.12%, 17.61%); health literacy on prevention and treatment of chronic diseases (15.92%, 16.70%) was significantly lower than the national average level of urban residents(22.73%). Health literacy of the two groups of college students was significantly improved(47.75%, 27.71%, χ 2=20.50, 5.47, P<0.05). The grid health education model had significant effects in improving health literacy among college students, except for health literacy on safety and emergency(P<0.05). Conclusion Health literacy of college students is insufficient compared to that of urban residents in China. Grid model of health education model is superior to conventional health education model, which is in line with the requirements of health education in colleges in the new era.