Because of China's development these years, more and more universities in China have become the hot choices for foreign students who want to study abroad. However, study abroad in a foreign country can be a difficult thing if you don't make a preparation in advance. Go on reading and find what is useful for you!

Ways to apply to study in China

Firstly, students can apply for a university in China under the bilateral exchanges agreements between the respective governments. Applying through the inter-college exchanges is also a useful way.

Another way is via individual applications. In other words, individual students may apply through China's relevant agencies or directly to the relevant universities or colleges in China.

Preparation of Application Materials

First, the applicants will need to submit appropriate application forms for studying in China. Second, applicants will be asked to submit a Physical Examination Record for Foreigners form. Third, applicants will need to offer copies of the most recent diploma, courses learned, and transcripts. For those applying for a Master's degree or doctoral degree studies in China, applicants will need to submit recommendation letters by two teachers with titles of or above associate professor.    

What's more, the above materials must be in Chinese or English, or with translation in any of these two languages. Relevant forms may be available from Chinese embassies (consulates) or concerned universities in China.

When to Apply

Foreign students of bilateral exchanges projects between governments should apply through relevant departments of their own countries, which are in charge of choosing and sending students to China, from February 1 to April 30.

For foreign students of inter-college exchange projects and those self-supported students, the time for application is usually from September l5 to December l5 of the previous year for the spring term, and from February 15 to June 15 for the autumn term.

Entrance Examinations and Tests

For those to be undergraduates of arts, enrollment will be on the basis of competitive selection in light of degree certificates, medium stage C level certificates of HSK, and the examinations and tests held by the universities.

For those to be scientific, medical, agricultural, or technological undergraduates, enrollment will be on the basis of competitive selection in light of degree certificates, primary stage C level of HSK result, and the Admission examinations.

Those who are postgraduate applicants should have bachelor's degrees certificates, certificates for courses already attended, transcripts, and recommendations of two associate professors; applicants will also have to pass the entrance examinations arranged by relevant universities. Only by attending courses arranged by the universities and passing courses examinations after they arrive in China can these students gain their qualifications to prepare theses; otherwise they will have to graduate as trainees.

Applicants for doctoral studies must have a Master's degree, with certificates, list of courses accomplished, and two recommendation letters by teachers with titles of associate professor or above; applicants must pass the examinations or tests held by the universities and colleges.

Foreign students who have graduated in China will be granted priority to return for further education.

Mental Preparations

First, it is necessary to dispel the unfavorable influence caused by the cultural shocks. Upon stepping your foot onto Chinese territory, you may find everything fresh and interesting. Some time later, you will feel the agony brought by the cultural differences, such as difficulties in communication, and differences in values and psychology. However, as your understanding of the surrounding environment deepens, you will become adapted to it and your feeling of loneliness will gradually disappear. So, just cherish the fun of living in China and the profound Chinese culture.

Second, one has to dispel the perplexities and inconvenience caused by a different lifestyle and living habits. It is natural to drop your accustomed lifestyle and living habits when coming to a completely different place like China.