In order to kick off a successful application, one of the most important things to know is what documents are needed in order to apply. This entirely depends on what you want to apply for. Generally speaking, we can help you apply for four different categories of programs: Non-degree, Bachelor, Master, and PhD programs. As a rule of thumb, you can remember that the higher the level of education, the more documents are required. The graphic below broadly summarizes the document requirements:
*Note: Many universities are now also requiring non-criminal records (proving that you have never been charged with a crime before)
Non-Degree Programs (Chinese language, Exchange & Foundation Programs)
Most non-degree programs that we help students to apply for are Chinese language courses, exchange programs and foundation programs.
- Chinese language courses: you will only need to provide these four documents.
- Foundation programs: you will need to provide a Passport, Graduation Certificate, Photo, Official transcript of grades, Personal statement and the Guarantor letter
- Exchange Programs: usually require the same documents as Master Programs
Check out the section “What is a guarantor letter?” to download this document and find out what it is.
Useful links:
- What are the best Chinese Language courses to apply to?
- What are the best Foundation Programs to apply to?
Bachelor Programs
If you are looking to study a bachelor’s program, you need to provide the same documents as for Foundation programs. In addition to that, you are required to also provide a TOEFL or IELTS certificate
Master Programs
Master’s programs have the same document requirements as bachelor’s programs. In addition it is necessary to provide two letters of recommendation. These letters should be written and signed by your professor/employer and contain their contact details.
PhD Programs
PhD studies require the same documents as master’s programs but require you to also provide a research proposal. Please note, that for PhD studies you will also have to contact a supervisor. We can also help you finding a supervisor (more info here).
Is admission guaranteed if I provide these documents?
If you prepare these documents, you are eligible to study in China. But please note that just because you are eligible to study, success or admission is not guaranteed. In order to increase your chances of admission read this article here, it explains how to avoid common mistakes and how to improve your documents.
What is a Guarantor Statement?
A guarantor is a person who will help you in case of financial or medical emergency. The guarantor statement is mostly signed by a close relative of yours. You have to submit it because the University needs to know that in case of emergency there will be a person who will take responsibility for you. You can download the guarantor statement here.
Can I study without having a TOEFL or IELTS certificate?
For degree programs taught in English a TOEFL or IELTS certificate is needed. However, there are some. If you are a native English speaker then you don’t need any English certificate. If you are a non-native speaker, universities don’t require a TOEFL/IELTS certificate If your previous education was taught in English. Just provide evidence that the medium of instruction of your previous education was English. Sometimes this is already stated on your graduation certificate but if not, please provide a letter from the university/school confirming this with seal and signature (you can download a draft letter here). Very few universities also accept other English certificates for specific programs.
Do I need to take an entry exam?
In general…no, there is no universal entrance exam for international students applying to Chinese universities.
However, some top universities offer their own private exams you need to take. If you are studying an MBA, you may need the GMAT or GRE. Learn more here.
What is a medical examination form, is it really needed?
The medical examination form (same as physical examination form) is usually just required by Beihang University. For all other universities it is usually not required so you don’t need to provide it unless the university specifically asks for it. In some cases universities ask for it after your application has been submitted. In this case please download the form here and consult your local doctor to fill it out for you.
Additional Documents
Additional documents are not needed unless you are specifically asked to provide further documents. In some cases universities require additional documents after the application has been submitted. This usually has one of the two reasons:
- The university has unique document requirements
- The university wants to better understand and evaluate your background
If the university has unique document requirements, we will inform you about it. However in some cases the university asks for other additional documents to better evaluate your background or it might be needed in order to make sure that all documents are ready to prepare a visa later on. For this it is hardly possible to prepare but the universities usually don’t ask for anything that is very hard to obtain.
Get ready to apply!
If you haven’t started your application yet, you can do so by following these 3 simple steps below. Also make sure to read this article here, it explains the procedure in more detail and how to find a program that suits your needs.
Please note: We can only review your application if you have submitted your application (step 3). If you are unsure about anything or you need some guidance from us prior to paying the application fee, contact us via apply@china-admissions.com
We want your dreams to become reality, start your application now!
Some frequently asked questions:
- Which is the right Chinese language program for me and how do I apply?
- What documents are required?
- Why do I have to pay an application fee?
- How can I pay the application fee?
- Are there scholarships available?
- How can I apply for PhD programs
- Other FAQ’s
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