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Language & HSK

When a Chinese test score is required, what English-taught study still involves, and the tests the official guides name.

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Do I need to speak Chinese to study in China?

Not always. Chinese is the basic teaching language, but universities that are equipped to may teach degree courses in a foreign language. The language condition for each programme is set in the university's admission brochure.

Order No. 42, Articles 18 and 19Ministry of Education — Administrative Measures for the Enrolment and Education of International Students by Schools (Order No. 42, Chinese)

Will I have to take Chinese classes on an English-taught degree?

Yes. Chinese and an Overview of China course are compulsory for degree students.

Order No. 42, Article 16Ministry of Education — Administrative Measures for the Enrolment and Education of International Students by Schools (Order No. 42, Chinese)

Can I write my thesis in English?

If your degree is taught in a foreign language, the thesis may be written in that language, with an abstract in Chinese. The university decides whether the defence may be held in a foreign language.

Order No. 42, Article 19Ministry of Education — Administrative Measures for the Enrolment and Education of International Students by Schools (Order No. 42, Chinese)

What HSK level does the Chinese Government Scholarship need?

For Chinese-taught programmes: HSK Level 4 for a master's or doctorate, and Level 3 for senior scholars and for general scholars outside Chinese language majors. For programmes taught in another language you meet the university's own requirement.

Application guide, section IVCampus China (China Scholarship Council) — Application Guide for Chinese Government Scholarship

What is the CSCA?

The China Scholastic Competency Assessment. The scholarship guide requires bachelor's applicants to take it and upload a valid score report, and tells them to ask the university which test subjects their major needs.

Application guide, section IV, item 7Campus China (China Scholarship Council) — Application Guide for Chinese Government Scholarship

Does the Chinese Government Scholarship need IELTS or TOEFL?

The guide sets no English score. For programmes taught in a language other than Chinese, it asks for the language certificate the university requires, and gives IELTS and TOEFL reports as examples.

Application guide, section VI, item 5Campus China (China Scholarship Council) — Application Guide for Chinese Government Scholarship

Official sources

Study in China Q&A