Dear students,

Are you preparing for undergraduate studies in China and have questions about the China Scholastic Competency Assessment (CSCA) test?

The CSCA is a standardized exam launched by the China Scholarship Council to assess students' language proficiency and academic readiness, helping you prepare more effectively for undergraduate studies in China. It is a mandatory requirement for applicants to undergraduate programs at Chinese Government Scholarship universities for the 2026 and 2027 academic years. Your CSCA transcript, along with your high school academic records and other supporting materials, will serve as a key reference for university admissions and scholarship evaluations.

Here is a practical guide to answer some frequently asked questions about the CSCA to help you start your academic journey with clarity and confidence.

Question 1: Do I have to take the CSCA exam?

A: Yes, it is mandatory for most applicants.

Starting from the 2026 and 2027 academic years, all international students applying to undergraduate programs at Chinese Government Scholarship universities must take the CSCA exam and include their scores in the required materials.

 

Question 2: What subjects are covered in the exam?

A: The exam includes four subjects: Professional Chinese, Mathematics, Physics, and Chemistry. The latter three are categorized as Fundamental Subjects.

1. Professional Chinese

Professional Chinese is offered in two categories: Humanities and STEM.

• Applicants applying for Chinese-taught undergraduate programs should take the Professional Chinese test corresponding to their intended major category.
• Applicants to fully English-taught undergraduate programs are exempt from the test.
• Applicants to Chinese Language undergraduate programs may be exempt from the test if they provide a valid HSK Level 4 score.

2. Fundamental Subjects

(1)Mathematics (Mandatory): Mathematics tests foundational academic skills and logical reasoning. It is required for all programs.

(2)Physics and Chemistry (Optional): Requirements vary by university and program. Applicants to science, engineering, agriculture, or medicine programs are required to take at least one of these subjects.

3. Test language

Mathematics, Physics, and Chemistry tests are available in both Chinese and English. Applicants can choose the test language based on the requirements of your university.

4. Test duration

Professional Chinese: 90 minutes

Fundamental Subjects: 60 minutes per subject

5. Question types

All CSCA subjects are multiple-choice.

Professional Chinese: 80 questions

Fundamental Subjects: 48 questions per subject

6. Score range

All subjects are scored on a 100-point scale.

Question 3: Can I take the exam if I'm not applying to a Chinese Government Scholarship university?

A: Yes. CSCA is open to all students planning to study in China. A strong score can enhance your application to any Chinese university by showcasing your academic abilities.

Click to view the list of universities in Shanghai under the Chinese Government Scholarship at https://english.shanghai.gov.cn/en-ApplyforScholarships/20241224/b3cd33c7ff684756a3ca5053b433d0b6.html.

 

Question 4: When can I register, and what are the fees?

1. Registration period

The first exam opened for registration in November 2025.

- Registration for the exam on Dec 21, 2025, is now closed.

- Registration for the exam on Jan 25, 2026: Dec 23, 2025, to January 10, 2026.

- Registration for the exam on March 15, 2026, will open soon.

Please visit the official website at https://csca.cn for exact dates.

2. Registration fees

• Single subject: 450 yuan (approximately $64)
• Two or more subjects: 700 yuan

3. Required materials

Materials include an ID photo, valid identification, and a credit card. Check the official CSCA website for the complete list of requirements.

 

Question 5: When is the exam held? How many times a year?

A: Starting from 2026, the CSCA exam will be held five times a year, in January, March, April, June, and December. The first exam date will be on Dec 21, 2025.

Exam schedule (Beijing Time)

- Professional Chinese: 1 pm to 2:30 pm

- Mathematics: 3:30 pm to 4:30 pm

- Physics: 5:30 pm to 6:30 pm

- Chemistry: 7:30 pm to 8:30 pm

Time zone variations will be considered to accommodate global candidates.

Sessions in December, April, and June will be scheduled for daytime hours in the Asia-Pacific region, while sessions in January and March will be geared toward Europe, Africa, and the Americas.

Please take note of the breaks between subjects and plan accordingly.

Question 6: What is the test format?

A: The CSCA uses a hybrid testing model. you can choose the most suitable format.

1. Computer-based testing

Taken at an authorized test center under standardized conditions.

2. Paper-based testing

Taken in traditional test format at an authorized test center.

3. Home-based online testing

Taken at home under real-time online proctoring.

Beginning in December 2025, the first batch of on-site test centers will open in Vietnam and Thailand, with more locations planned.

For details on test formats and centers, please visit the official website of CSCA.

 

Question 7: How can I check my scores after the exam?

A: After the exam, you can log in to the CSCA official website to check your scores.

Score release times vary by exam format:

- For home-based online testing and computer-based testing, scores are available within seven working days.

- For paper-based testing, scores are released within 14 working days.

 

Question 8: Are there tips for preparing for the exam?

A: Applicants are encouraged to visit the official website of CSCA for updates. You can download and review preparation resources, including exam outlines, test materials, and simulation tests, directly from the platform.

 

We hope this article answers your questions and helps you prepare effectively and confidently. Wishing you success on your academic journey!

 

Sources: Official WeChat account of China Scholarship Council (ID: "gh_afaa09c3e5f3"), official website of CSCA