Application Requirements

One of the biggest dreams for many students is to study abroad. In recent years, China has emerged as a popular destination for international students, thanks to the wide variety of attractive scholarships it offers. Studies show that this trend is expected to continue growing, as China provides world-class education at a much lower cost compared to many Western countries.

While the application process might seem complicated at first, applying to a Chinese university is actually quite straightforward once you understand the requirements. To study in China, students need to prepare and submit a set of essential documents. Below are the full details and requirements for applying to a degree program in China.

Required documents for the application are listed below:

  1. A valid passport (Scan Copy)
  2. A passport-sized photograph (Scan Copy)
  3. All Education/Academic Transcript And Certificate (must be notarized)
  4. CV/Resume
  5. Physical examination form- medical results
  6. Police clearance
  7. Bank statements (Minimum 5000 USD).
  8. English Proficiency Certificate 
  9. HSK certificate of proficiency in Chinese (if you have one)
  10. Two recommendation letters (Ms/Ph.D.) depend on the university
  11. Study Plan/ Research Proposal (Ms/PhD)
  12. Study Gap Certificates
  13. Self Introduction Video
  14. A completed application form

Extra

  1. Personal Statement/ Motivation Statement
  2. Research publications – Not required but guarantees the admission decision (PhD postgraduate)

Step 1 : A Valid Passport (Scan Copy)

Before you can apply to any university in China, you must have a valid passport.  When traveling abroad, this is the most crucial document.  You cannot apply for a Chinese visa or leave your country without it. You should apply for a passport in your own country as soon as possible if you don’t already have one.  Verify the expiration date if you already have one.  Make sure your passport is still valid for the duration of your studies in China, as outdated passports cannot be used.

When applying to universities, you must attach a clean scanned copy of the passport’s primary page—the one that contains your photo and personal information PASSPORT.jpg

Step 2: Passport-Size Photo

To apply to Chinese universities, you are required to submit a recent passport-size photo that meets specific guidelines. The standard size for this photo is 50mm x 40mm, with a plain white or off-white background. The image must be clear and in color, showing your full face without any filters or edits. It’s important that the photo is taken within the last six months and that your facial features are fully visible. Glasses should be removed to avoid glare, and selfies or cropped group photos are not accepted. The height of your head in the photo should be between 28mm and 33mm, and the width between 21mm and 24mm. Make sure the photo looks professional and meets these requirements, as it will be used for official university and visa documentation.

 Here is an example of a proper passport-size photo Pasport-Size Photo.jpg.

 

Step 3: Academic Transcripts and Certificates (Notarized Copies Required)

When applying to Chinese universities, you must submit notarized copies of your most recent academic transcripts and certificates. For bachelor’s degree applications, provide your high school documents. For master’s degrees, include your undergraduate transcripts and certificates. Ph.D. applicants must provide both undergraduate and postgraduate academic records. These documents help universities evaluate your academic background and suitability for your chosen program. All documents must be officially notarized in English or Chinese, which you can arrange through a government-authorized advocate.

Here is a sample notarized copy of Certificate.jpg and  Notarized Transcript.jpg

Step 4: CV / Resume

You will also need to submit a CV or resume outlining your educational background, academic achievements, and relevant experiences. Although work experience isn’t always a priority for universities, it’s important to mention any research papers, group projects, extracurricular activities, or think-tank participation. Include your academic qualifications, personal details, and accomplishments. This document should reflect your academic journey and interests clearly and professionally.

Here is a sample of a 个人简历Resume.docx

Step 5: Physical Examination Form (Medical Report)

All international applicants must undergo a complete medical examination. The results must be documented using the official Foreigner Physical Examination Form, signed by a licensed doctor and stamped by a recognized hospital. The completed form is valid only when properly signed and sealed. You must bring your original medical documents to China upon arrival, as the Ministry of Public Health and Public Security will issue the final medical certificate based on these results.

Here is a sample of the Physical Examination Form.jpg.

Download the Foreigner_Physical_Examination_Form.pdf

Step 6: Police Clearance Certificate (Non-Criminal Record)

Applicants must provide a Police Clearance Certificate (also known as a Non-Criminal Record Certificate), confirming that they have no criminal history. This certificate must be issued by your local police department or a government agency. It is valid for six months from the date of issuance. If you are already in China, you must obtain this certificate from your local police station within the country.

Here is a sample of the Home Country police clearence.jpg

If you are in China, you need a Non-criminal record certificate from our local police station.

Here is a sample of the Chinese Non-Criminal Certificate.jpg

Step 7: Bank Statement (For Self-Funded Students)

Students who are not on scholarship must submit a bank statement as proof of financial support. This document is used to show that you or your sponsor can cover your tuition and living expenses while studying in China. The statement can come from any sponsor—it does not necessarily need to be from your parents.

Here is a sample of a Bank Statemment.jpg and bank solvency.jpg

Step 8: English Proficiency Certificate

To demonstrate English language ability, applicants must submit an English proficiency certificate. While IELTS or TOEFL scores are not mandatory, they are highly recommended. Acceptable certificates include:

  1. IELTS (minimum score: 6.0) TOEFL iBT (minimum score: 80)
  2. Duo-lingo English Test (minimum score: 90) A Medium of Instruction (MOI) certificate from your school or university . An official English Proficiency Statement signed and stamped by your institution . Applicants whose native language is English do not need to submit any certificate.

Here is sample of  IELTS Certificate.JPG and  Medium Of Instruction Certificate.JPG

Step 9: HSK Certificate (For Chinese-Taught Programs)

If you’re applying for a Chinese-taught program or a CSC scholarship, you’ll need to submit an HSK certificate showing your Chinese language proficiency. While this is not required for English-taught programs, having an HSK certificate may give you an advantage. The test is administered by the HSK Center of Beijing Language and Culture University.

Here is a sample of the HSK-Certificate.jpeg

Step 10: Recommendation Letters (Master’s/Ph.D. Only)

Applicants for Master’s or PhD programs must submit two recommendation letters. These should be written by professors, supervisors, or colleagues familiar with your academic background or research capabilities. The letters must include the referee’s contact information and clearly highlight your strengths, character, and potential as a graduate student.

Here is a sample of a Recommendation letter.jpg

Step 11: Study Plan or Research Proposal (Master’s/Ph.D. Only)

Applicants for graduate programs must also submit a study plan or research proposal written in English or Chinese, with a minimum length of 800 words. This document should outline your academic goals, research interests, and how your chosen program and scholarship will help you achieve them. A well-structured and detailed plan demonstrates your readiness and commitment to higher education.

Here Download this study-plan.pdf.pdf  Here

Step 12: Study Gap Certificate (If Applicable)

If you have taken a break in your education, you must submit a Study Gap Certificate explaining the reason for the gap. This affidavit should be written on non-judicial stamp paper and notarized. It should clearly state that you were not enrolled in any academic program during the gap period. You can obtain this document through a local advocate or legal office.

Here is a sample of  Study Gap Certificate.jpg

Step 13: Application Form

Finally, you must complete the university application form, which must be filled out in either Chinese or English. Ensure that all sections are completed accurately and honestly. Once filled, submit the form along with the rest of your application documents.

Click here to get the \Downloads\Application Form for International Students- (2).docx  sample.

  1. Submission Instructions:
    Please send all the required documents to our official email: nusaibaedu7742@gmail.com

For more information, feel free to contact our consultants at: +86 17203991539