Documents you need to apply to a Chinese university

Gathering documents is often the slowest part of an application, because several of them come from other offices and take time to issue. This guide walks through the documents most Chinese universities ask for. Requirements vary by university and program, so treat it as a general guide and confirm the exact list with the university you choose.

Core documents

These are asked for in most applications.

• Application form: usually completed on the university's online application portal.
• Valid passport (photocopy or scan): check the expiry date against your planned arrival, and renew it first if it is close.
• Passport-size photos: recent, on a plain background. Size and number vary by university.
• Personal statement or research proposal: many programs ask for a personal statement or study plan, and postgraduate programs often ask for a research proposal.
• Physical Examination Record for Foreigner: completed at a hospital on the official form. Some universities ask for it at application, others later for the visa.
• Non-criminal record: issued by the authorities in your country. Translation or authentication rules vary.
• Financial support statement or guarantee letter: shows who will cover your costs while you study.
• Other university-specific documents: extra forms or certificates requested by your chosen university or program.

Language and academic records

• Diploma or degree certificate: your highest completed qualification.
• Academic transcript: the official record of your courses and grades.
• HSK, TOEFL or IELTS scores, where applicable: Chinese-taught programs ask for HSK, while English-taught programs may ask for TOEFL or IELTS instead.

If you are applying for a master's or doctorate

Postgraduate programs usually add recommendation letters, typically from professors or employers who know your work. The number required varies by university. Give your referees plenty of notice, since good letters take time to write.

If you are applying for a scholarship

Scholarship applications often ask for evidence of your achievements, such as awards, papers, certificates or a portfolio of work. Check the specific scholarship's requirements, which can differ from the university's standard list.

Tips to avoid delays

• Start with the slow items: the non-criminal record, the medical examination and any translation or authentication.
• Use clear scans, and keep both digital and paper copies of everything.
• Make sure your name is spelled identically across your passport, certificates and application form.
• Ask the university whether documents must be in English or Chinese, or translated and certified.
• Re-check the list against the program page shortly before you submit, as requirements can change.

After you apply

Once your application is reviewed and accepted, the university sends your admission letter and the JW201 or JW202 form. You will then use these, together with your medical record and financial documents, for your student visa application.

Not sure what applies to your program? Book a free consultation with EASTARCH and we will help you build a document list that fits your chosen university.