Study in China from Europe
European applicants use different school-leaving and university qualifications, but the core route is similar: choose a specific programme, verify recognition and language requirements, prepare documents and arrange the student visa after admission.
A Europe-wide application route
- 1 Translate your qualification into evidence
Shortlist programmes that accept your national school-leaving qualification, IB or university degree. Ask how grades, subject prerequisites and previous study are assessed.
- 2 Compare English and Chinese routes
English-taught degrees may ask for IELTS, TOEFL, prior English-medium study or an internal test. Chinese-taught degrees usually specify HSK levels.
- 3 Check recognition with the right authority
A Chinese degree may need recognition in your home country for regulated professions or further study. Check the relevant national authority before enrolling, not after graduation.
- 4 Arrange the visa after admission
Use the admission notice and JW201/JW202 with the current Chinese visa application centre instructions for your European country.
Common document set
- School-leaving certificate, university transcript and degree certificate as relevant.
- Certified translations where the university requests them.
- Recommendation letters for programmes that require references.
- Motivation letter, study plan, CV or portfolio when specified.
- Language evidence and the Foreigner Physical Examination Form where applicable.
Language and recognition
- English-taught programme requirements vary between IELTS, TOEFL, previous English-medium study and internal tests.
- Chinese-taught programmes typically ask for HSK 4 or 5, with higher levels for demanding subjects.
- Professional recognition is separate from university admission and must be checked with the regulator in your home country.
Application calendar
- September is the main intake, with a smaller spring intake at some universities.
- Programme deadlines often fall between January and May; scholarship deadlines may close earlier.
- Allow extra time for translation, authentication, references and visa appointments.
Common questions from European students
Will my European school qualification be accepted?
Many Chinese universities assess national school-leaving qualifications and IB, but recognition is programme-specific. Confirm grade and subject requirements with the university.
Can I study in China in English?
Many English-taught programmes are available, especially in business, engineering, computing and some health fields, but the exact degree and intake must be checked.
Will my Chinese degree be recognised in Europe?
Recognition depends on the country, profession and institution assessing it. Check the relevant national recognition authority or regulator before committing.
Related universities
More answers
- Documents required to study in China
- How the CSC online application portal works
- When to apply: a practical timeline
- Do you need HSK to study in China?
- X1 or X2: which student visa do you need?
- Dormitory or apartment: where do students live?
- Can Muslim students find halal food and prayer facilities in China?
- Can international students wear a hijab at Chinese universities?
Scholarships
Other countries
- Study in China from France
- Study in China from Germany
- Study in China from Ireland
- Study in China from the Netherlands
- Study in China from Spain
- Study in China from Sweden
- Study in China from Switzerland
- Study in China from the United Kingdom
- Study in China from Australia
- Study in China from Bangladesh
- Study in China from Canada
- Study in China from Ethiopia
Research first, then verify at the source
VisChat is an independent information and data site. Compare programmes here, then use current university and government pages to confirm the details that apply to you.