How to Apply to Chinese Universities
Applying to a Chinese university is usually simpler than it first appears. Requirements vary by university and degree level, but most applications follow the same basic steps.
This guide explains how to apply to Chinese universities, from choosing a program to preparing documents and submitting your application.
Read ahead to find out how to apply to a Chinese university!
Step 1: Choose your major and university
China offers bachelor’s degrees, master’s degrees, and PhD programs in many fields.
Start by choosing your field of study. Then compare Chinese universities that offer the major you want.
Also check the teaching language. Many universities offer English-taught programs for international students.
You can then compare program content, tuition, location, ranking, and admission requirements.
Admission requirements vary by university and program. After choosing your preferred schools, check each official university website for the latest requirements.
Step 2: Make sure you meet the criteria required by the university
Admission is usually based on your grades from your previous school. Bachelor’s applicants usually submit high school transcripts. Master’s applicants normally submit their bachelor’s degree transcript.
Some programs also require an entrance exam or interview. Check the rules for your chosen major before applying.
Keep in mind that most universities have age limitations for different academic levels. Age rules vary by university, program, and scholarship. Some programs set specific age limits, so always check the current admission notice.
Universities publish their current tuition fees on their official websites. Costs depend on the university, major, and degree level.
International students can also apply for scholarships in China. Some scholarships may cover tuition, campus housing, medical insurance, or a monthly stipend.
Check the university’s scholarship page before applying. You can also read our guide to Chinese university scholarships.
Step 3: Prepare the documents
Applying to several universities can give you more options.
Once you have chosen your schools, prepare the required documents. A typical China university application may include:
- Passport photo
- Photocopy of passport
- A non-criminal record certificate
- A medical examination certificate
- Academic transcripts from your previous school
- Graduation certificate or diploma
- Recommendation letters, usually for master’s and PhD applications
- Proof that you can support your studies in China (for non-scholarship applicants)
- Chinese/English language proficiency certificate
For English-taught programs, many universities accept IELTS Academic or TOEFL iBT. Some schools accept other English tests, so check the requirements for your chosen program.
A number of universities even accept the International English Test (IET) or Duolingo!
Chinese-taught programs usually require an HSK certificate. The required level depends on the university and major. You can understand more about the different levels of HSK!
Step 4: Submit your application!
Before submitting your application, check the official deadline for your university and program.
Most Chinese universities have a fall intake, while some also offer spring admission. Application dates vary widely by university, degree, and scholarship.
Apply early, especially if you also plan to apply for funding.
Once your documents are ready and you have checked the deadline, you can submit your application.
You can submit a China university application in several ways:
- First, you can apply online directly on the university’s website.
- You can also apply directly through the university’s official international admissions portal, if online applications are available.
- You can also apply with Apply For China for support with university selection, document preparation, and application submission.
Final steps:
After you receive your acceptance letter, these are the finals steps you need to take:
- Apply for the Chinese student visa.
- After arriving in China, complete the required residence procedures.
Read our China visa and residence guide for the full process. - Enjoy your academic journey in China to the fullest!
Ready to Study in China?
Planning to study in China involves several steps, from choosing a university to preparing your visa.
Apply For China can help you compare programs, check your documents, and prepare your university application.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Start by choosing your major and university. Then check the admission requirements, prepare your documents, and submit your application through the university’s official portal or with application support from Apply For China.
Most applicants need a passport copy, academic transcripts, graduation certificates, a passport photo, and proof of language ability. Some programs also ask for a personal statement, recommendation letters, medical documents, or proof of funds.
Yes. Many Chinese universities offer English-taught bachelor’s degrees and master’s degrees. English requirements vary by university and degree program.
You usually need HSK if you apply for a Chinese-taught program. The required HSK level depends on the university, major, and field of study.
Application dates vary by university and intake. Most universities offer a fall intake, while some also offer spring admission. Scholarship deadlines may close earlier, so international students should apply early.
Tuition depends on the university, degree, and major. Many programs cost around CNY 15,000–60,000 per year, although fees can be higher for some subjects and universities.
Yes. International students can apply for Chinese Government Scholarships, university scholarships, provincial scholarships, and other funding programs. Some awards may cover tuition, housing, insurance, and a monthly stipend.
After admission, you need to prepare your Chinese student visa. Once you arrive in China, you may also need to complete registration and residence procedures.