Study in China from Zimbabwe
Zimbabwean applicants usually enter Chinese universities with ZIMSEC A-Level results or a completed degree, and can apply directly or through the CSC scholarship route. This page walks through the process in the order it happens.
How the application works
- 1 Choose programmes, not just universities
Requirements are set programme by programme and can differ between faculties of the same university. Shortlist 3 to 6 specific programmes and read each programme page.
- 2 Prepare your documents
ZIMSEC A-Level certificate 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 Zimbabwe is usually administered through the Chinese embassy in Harare. Many applicants file both, because the deadlines differ.
- 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
- ZIMSEC A-Level 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.
- Confirm whether your university wants certified or translated documents, or only uploaded scans. Ask for the exact list in writing before you start.
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 if you plan to move into a Chinese-taught degree.
- Some universities require the CSCA test for bachelor's applicants while others accept A-Level or other international qualifications.
When to apply
- The main intake is in September; a smaller spring intake exists at some universities.
- Applications usually open in the previous autumn and close between January and April.
- Scholarships close earlier than the universities, so start with that route if you need funding.
Common questions
Do I need HSK?
Not for English-taught programmes. For Chinese-taught programmes, expect HSK 4 or 5 depending on the university and the subject.
Can I apply with A-Level?
Yes, A-Level results with transcripts are a common basis for undergraduate entry. Some universities additionally ask for the CSCA test.
Do my documents need certification?
It depends on the university: some accept scans, others ask for certification and translation. Request the exact list before you begin.
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.