Study in China from Zambia
Zambian students can enter Chinese universities with the School Certificate, an A-level style qualification or a completed degree, and can apply either directly or through the CSC scholarship route. This page covers the steps in order.
How the application works
- 1 Choose programmes, not just universities
Entry requirements are set programme by programme, and two faculties of the same university can differ. Shortlist 3 to 6 concrete programmes and read each programme page.
- 2 Prepare your documents
Grade 12 School Certificate (ECZ) and transcripts for a bachelor's degree; degree certificate and transcripts for a master's; two recommendation letters, passport page and the foreigner physical examination form.
- 3 Decide which route you are applying through
Directly to the university, or through the CSC scholarship, which in Zambia is usually administered through the Chinese embassy in Lusaka. Filing both in parallel is common, because the two deadlines are different.
- 4 The visa after admission
With the admission letter and the JW201/JW202 form, apply for the X1 visa at the Chinese visa application centre.
Documents and certification
- Grade 12 School Certificate and transcripts for undergraduate entry; degree certificate and transcripts for postgraduate.
- Two recommendation letters from teachers or lecturers, on letterhead with a signature.
- Passport photo page and a recent passport-style photograph.
- The foreigner physical examination form, completed by a doctor — it is usually valid for six months.
- Ask the university whether it wants certified or translated documents, or only scans. Getting this wrong is the most common reason an application stalls.
Language of study
- English-taught programmes: HSK is normally not required; some universities ask for IELTS or TOEFL.
- Chinese-taught programmes: HSK 4 or 5 depending on the university and the subject.
- A one-year Chinese preparatory course is available at many universities for students who plan to switch to a Chinese-taught programme.
- For bachelor's applicants, some universities require the CSCA test and others accept the School Certificate — check the programme page.
When to apply
- The main intake is in September, with a smaller spring intake at some universities.
- Applications generally open in the previous autumn and close between January and April.
- Scholarship deadlines fall earlier than university deadlines, so start with the scholarship if you are counting on one.
Common questions
Do I need HSK?
Not for English-taught programmes. For Chinese-taught programmes, HSK 4 or 5 is normally expected.
Is my Grade 12 certificate enough for a bachelor's degree?
Yes, the School Certificate with transcripts is the usual basis for undergraduate entry. Some universities also ask for the CSCA test.
Can I work while I study?
The student visa is issued for study. Any part-time work needs the university's approval and an internship-style arrangement; check with the international office before accepting any job.
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
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.