Registration and Qualification

1. Who is eligible to take the CSCA exam?

A: CSCA is designed for non-Chinese students who plan to apply for undergraduate programs at universities in mainland China . Holders of Chinese passports or residence permits for Hong Kong, Macao and Taiwan residents are not eligible to apply.

2. Is there an age limit for registration?

A: There is no age limit, but candidates under the age of 14 must have the consent and assistance of their guardian to complete the registration.

3. How do I register?

A: Candidates need to register an account, fill in the information, and complete the payment on the CSCA official website. Once you receive a confirmation email, your registration is successful.

4. What do I need to prepare when registering?

A: We recommend that candidates prepare the following materials and information before registering:

1. A valid email address (for receiving confirmation emails and notifications);

2. Valid identification document (see www.csca.cn for specific requirements );

3. Electronic ID photo (see www.csca.cn for specific requirements );

4. Bank card information (see www.csca.cn for specific requirements )

5. Is a passport required for registration? What if my passport is about to expire?

A: A passport is the only acceptable form of identification. If your passport is about to expire, please renew it as soon as possible. You must ensure that the passport you present on the day of the exam is the original and valid; expired passports or photocopies will not be accepted, otherwise you will not be allowed to take the exam.

6. How do I choose the subjects to take?

A: Your subject selection should primarily depend on the requirements of the universities and programs you plan to apply to. We recommend that you review the admission brochures of your target universities in advance to understand their specific suggestions or requirements regarding CSCA exam subjects.

7. What is the maximum number of subjects I can register for in each exam session?

A: There is currently no limit to the number of applications. It is recommended that candidates choose their subjects reasonably based on their own preparation and the requirements of their target universities.

8. Can I choose different exam languages for different subjects?

A: Yes. For basic subjects (mathematics, physics, chemistry), you can choose to take the exam in Chinese or English for each subject individually . However, all subjects in the professional Chinese language program are offered only in Chinese.

The language requirement for the final exam will be based on the requirements of the university you are applying to; if the university does not have specific requirements, candidates may choose their own language.

9. After submitting my application, can I still modify my application information?

A: Once submitted, registration information is locked and cannot be modified by the candidate in the system. If corrections are needed, the candidate must submit a correction request before the admission ticket is generated. After the admission ticket is generated, all information cannot be modified.

10. Can I transfer or withdraw from the exam?

A: For the 2025 exam, only cancellation is supported; transfer is not allowed. Candidates must submit a cancellation application before the admission ticket is issued; cancellations will not be accepted after the admission ticket is generated.

11. Can I take the CSCA exam multiple times? Is there a limit to the number of times I can take it?

A: Yes. CSCA does not limit the number of times you can take the exam; you can register multiple times. Scores are valid for two years. When applying, you can usually submit your best score within the validity period, but specific requirements depend on the policies of your target universities.

12. My city has offline test centers, can I still apply for online testing from home?

A: No. Home-based online testing is only available to countries/regions that do not yet have the conditions for centralized computer-based or paper-based testing.

13. When can I download my exam admission ticket?

A: The admission ticket will be available for download on the registration system before the exam. Candidates can log in to the system to print it themselves. A notification email will be sent to the candidate’s registered email address when the system makes the ticket available for download.

14. What information is included on the examination admission ticket?

A: The admission ticket will display the candidate’s name, gender, nationality, admission ticket number, document type and number, exam time, exam subject, exam center name and address, exam room and seat number, as well as instructions for candidates.

15. What should I do if there is an error in the information on my admission ticket?

A: The information on your admission ticket cannot be modified after it is generated. Inconsistencies between the information and your identification will result in being denied entry. Please carefully check your information during registration and confirm it again after downloading your admission ticket.

Exam preparation

16. What equipment do I need to prepare to take the online exam from home?

A: Candidates need to prepare one compliant computer (main camera) and one mobile phone/tablet (secondary camera). Home-based online testing requires dual-camera monitoring: the main camera is used for answering questions and frontal monitoring, while the secondary camera is positioned at a 45° angle from the candidate’s side and rear to record the entire process. For specific equipment requirements and details on the placement of the secondary camera, please refer to “Equipment and Network Requirements”.

17. What are the requirements for network speed and stability?

A: For online exams taken from home, a minimum of 20Mbps upload and download bandwidth is required, and a system connection speed of at least 500KB/s is recommended. A direct wired broadband connection is advised, and all unrelated software and background programs should be closed on the day of the exam. Candidates can use the speed test function within the client application to verify connection quality. It is also recommended to prepare a backup 4G hotspot for quick switching in case of network issues.

18. How should the examination environment be set up?

A: Candidates must complete the exam in a private, quiet, well-lit, enclosed space, keeping their desks clean. Answering questions on non-standard locations such as beds or sofas is prohibited. See “Examination Environment Setup” for detailed setup requirements.

19. Is scratch paper allowed for online exams taken from home?

A: Traditional paper draft paper, sticky notes, and other paper-based items are not allowed.

However, you can use the following specified draft tools:

• Small whiteboard with erasable markers.

• Alternatively, place a piece of paper in a transparent document bag and write on the surface of the bag using an erasable marker .

20. What software do I need to install before the exam?

A: The primary computer needs to have the CSCA designated exam client installed in advance, and the secondary computer (phone/tablet) needs to have the monitoring app installed. Detailed installation instructions and download links will be simultaneously released through the official CSCA registration system and the candidate’s registered email address. Please be sure to check your inbox and complete the installation in advance.

21. What should I do if I encounter problems during software installation?

A: If you encounter installation problems, we suggest you:

1. Prioritize self-check: Please first consult the official operation guide and frequently asked questions, and check step by step.

2. Seek support: If the problem persists, you can enter the technical support meeting room during the platform’s open testing period for one-on-one assistance; or submit a screenshot of the problem through official customer service, and we will answer it for you as soon as possible.

22. Are there any platform tests or mock tests before the official exam?

A: Yes. We strongly recommend that you participate in the following two key pre-exam steps:

• Platform test: Used to verify whether your equipment and network infrastructure meet the exam requirements.

• Intensive mock tests: These tests fully simulate the entire process of the real exam, providing you with in-depth practice to familiarize yourself with the operation and identify potential problems.

Examination Day Procedures and Rules

23. How far in advance do I need to log into the exam system? Can I still take the exam if I’m late?

A: Candidates can log in to the examination system 60 minutes before the start of the exam to complete device checks, facial recognition, and identity verification. Access to the examination system will be restricted once the exam has officially begun.

24. What items do I need to bring on the day of the exam?

A: On the day of the exam, candidates must prepare the following items: 1. Original valid ID; 2. Paper admission ticket; 3. Small whiteboard/paper and erasable marker placed in a transparent document bag. Please refer to “Exam Environment Setup” for specific requirements.

25. What should I do if I forget to bring my admission ticket or ID on the day of the exam?

A: Your admission ticket contains your username and password for logging into the exam, while your ID is used for identity verification. If you lack a paper admission ticket, you will not be able to log in to the system to take the exam; if you lack a valid ID, you will not be able to pass identity verification to enter the exam room. Missing either item will be considered an absence from the exam, and the exam fee will not be refunded. Please prepare in advance to avoid missing the exam due to omissions.

26. Can I use an electronic version of my ID for identity verification?

A: No. For online exams conducted from home, identity verification must be performed using the original valid ID document; electronic versions or photocopies are not accepted.

27. What should I do if I encounter technical problems during the exam?

You can call the proctor for help through the exam client or proctoring app. The technical support team and proctors will provide remote assistance.

28. Is it permissible to submit the exam paper early during the exam?

A: No. All candidates must complete the exam within the allotted time. The system will collect all papers after the exam. Except in cases of sudden health or emergency with the chief examiner’s approval, submitting the paper early or leaving the exam room without permission is considered a violation.

Exam results

29. When will the results be released?

A: Results will be announced within 7 business days after the exam. Any delays due to unforeseen circumstances will be announced on the official website.

30. How do I obtain and send my transcript?

A: After the results are released, candidates can log in to the official CSCA registration website to download the electronic score report. This electronic report is an official document, and all institutions that recognize CSCA scores accept this version. No additional application or mailing is required; candidates can submit it directly to the institutions they are applying to.

31. How do Chinese universities use CSCA scores?

A: Universities that recognize CSCA scores can verify the authenticity of transcripts through their official systems during the admissions review process, and simultaneously view the percentile ranking of those scores among global test takers. This ranking helps admissions officers gain a clear understanding of an applicant’s global academic competitiveness and allows for a comprehensive evaluation in conjunction with their own university’s standards.

1. Main computer (used for answering questions and frontal monitoring)

✅Operating System: Genuine Windows 10/11 or Windows 7 SP1 and above 64-bit system (⚠Mac OS is not supported)

✅ Recommended configuration: Screen resolution no lower than 1366×768, RAM no less than 4GB

✅Hard drive requirements: The partition where the exam client is located must have at least 2GB of free space (it is recommended to avoid installing it on the C drive).

✅Camera : A built-in USB webcam on the laptop or an external webcam positioned above the screen, with a resolution of ≥720P (1080P recommended).

✅Audio equipment: Desktop computers require external speakers and microphones; wireless headphones are strictly prohibited .

✅Exam Client: You need to download and install the CSCA-designated exam client in advance.

✅Power requirements: Keep the battery fully charged; it is recommended to keep the device plugged in at all times.

Note: Computers used for the exam must not have screen protectors such as privacy films or anti-glare screens installed. During the exam, it must be ensured that the invigilator can clearly see the content on the computer screen.

2. Secondary monitoring equipment (for monitoring the side and rear environment)

Purpose: To take photos from the candidate’s side and rear at an angle of approximately 45 degrees, ensuring a clear view of the candidate’s upper body, computer screen, and hands operating the device throughout the entire process.

✅ Second camera equipment

• Can be used with smartphones or tablets

• Capable of running specified CSCA secondary monitoring ports (browser-based).

• The video is clear and unobstructed, with a reasonable angle and stable image.

• Sufficient battery life, enough to cover the entire exam duration.

✅ Supporting equipment

• Stable support or tripod: Used to secure the second device and prevent it from shaking.

• Charging equipment or backup power: Ensure the second device is not interrupted due to power depletion.

3. Network connectivity

✅ Bandwidth requirement: Uplink and downlink symmetrical bandwidth not less than 20Mbps

✅ Internet speed requirement: The examination system must have a connection speed of at least 500KB/s.

✅ Connection method: We recommend using a wired broadband connection ; close all software and background programs unrelated to the exam on the day of the exam.

✅ Speed Test Tool: After logging into the client, you can use the built-in speed test function to verify the connection quality.

✅ Recommended preparation: A backup 4G hotspot, and familiarity with how to quickly switch to a mobile hotspot.

1. Examination space requirements

✅ A private, quiet, well-lit, and unobstructed enclosed space where others are prohibited from entering or disturbing the exam during the exam period.

❌ It is strictly forbidden to take the exam in non-enclosed public places such as parks, internet cafes, restaurants, and open office areas.

2. Desktop and equipment placement

✅ Candidates must complete the exam at a standard table and chair, and place all exam supplies (such as computer, keyboard, mouse, whiteboard, and marker) on the table.

❌ No mobile phones, books, notes or other irrelevant items are allowed in the examination environment; it is strictly forbidden to answer questions in non-standard positions such as beds, sofas or knees.

3. Drafting Tool Specifications

✅ A small whiteboard or blank paper placed in a transparent document bag may be used, along with erasable markers (pencils, ballpoint pens, etc. are not allowed).

✅ Blank sheets of paper in the whiteboard/transparent document bag must be checked by the invigilator before and after the exam. All notes must be erased on the spot at the end of the exam, otherwise it will be treated as a violation.

❌The use of paper draft paper , sticky notes or other paper items is prohibited.

4. Host unit requirements

✅ The host camera must use the built-in webcam of a laptop or an external USB webcam placed directly above the screen and facing the candidate.

✅ Ensure the camera can clearly capture the candidate’s complete frontal face and shoulders.

✅ Candidates must face the camera directly without a hat throughout the entire examination, ensuring that the lighting in the examination environment is even, the background is simple, and no one else enters during the examination.

✅ The main camera must not be moved, obstructed, or turned off in any way during the entire exam.

❌ Camera angle too high/too low, image only showing a portion of the face, side view, or back to the camera, etc.

1. Pre-exam testing and preparation

Platform Test : Candidates must complete the platform test of the examination system and equipment as notified before the exam to verify that the client, camera, microphone, and network environment meet the requirements. Those who fail to complete the test may not be able to log in to the system on the day of the exam.

• Centralized Mock Tests : Candidates are strongly advised to participate in centralized mock tests in order to identify technical or equipment problems in advance, familiarize themselves with the examination process, ensure the smooth conduct of the official examination, and improve overall test-taking efficiency.

2. Login and verification time limits:

Candidates must log in to the system and complete equipment testing 30-60 minutes before the start of the exam. Candidates who fail to log in and verify their identity after the start of the exam will not be able to take the exam.

3. Identity Verification

Candidates must log in to the examination system using their admission ticket number and password.

Candidates must pass online verification through facial recognition and with their original valid ID documents, and the information on the documents must be completely consistent with the information on the admission ticket.

4. Monitoring Requirements

• Always on: The main and secondary cameras and microphones must be on at all times and must not be obstructed or turned off in any way.

• Image quality: The image must be clear and well-lit, allowing for clear identification of the candidate’s facial features and movements.

• Shooting angle: The main camera should capture the candidate’s upper body from the front. The secondary camera should be positioned at a 45° angle to the side and slightly behind the candidate, fully covering the candidate’s side profile, shoulders, arms, hands, and the main camera screen.

• Sound monitoring: The microphone must be able to pick up sound normally and be used to collect ambient sound.

• Device status: The secondary device must maintain a stable power supply, close all non-essential applications, and enable “Do Not Disturb” mode. At the same time, use the “Airplane Mode + Wi-Fi” setting (enable airplane mode first, then manually connect to Wi-Fi) to prevent interference .

5. Examination Discipline

• Equipment and Software: Screen switching, multi-screen display, running non-exam programs, remote control, and screen sharing are prohibited; the use of any type of wireless headset is strictly prohibited.

• Code of Conduct: Candidates must remain seated and communicate with others throughout the examination, and must not wear jewelry that obscures their face; they must always remain within the invigilator’s view.

• Integrity and Confidentiality: Cheating in any form is strictly prohibited. Test questions and answers must not be disclosed, recorded, or disseminated in any form; no external assistance may be sought or provided.

• Submission Rules: The system will automatically collect the papers when the exam time ends, and candidates may not submit their papers in advance.

Important Note: Candidates must obey all instructions from the invigilators. Please refer to the “Candidate Instructions and Declaration” and the “Integrity Examination Commitment” for complete regulations.

6. Handling of Violations

Once a violation is verified, the following actions will be taken depending on the severity of the offense:

• For minor offenses: Cancel the exam score for that session.

• More serious offenses: The student’s exam score will be cancelled, and the student will be prohibited from taking the exam again for two years from the date of the violation.

• Serious offenses: All past scores will be cancelled, and the candidate will be banned from taking the CSCA exam for life.

• In particularly serious cases: the case may be transferred to judicial authorities for legal processing, and may affect the student’s eligibility to study in China and visa application.

1. Registration Method

Candidates must register an account and complete the registration and payment through the official CSCA registration website ( www.csca.cn ) using their personal , long-term valid email address.

2. Registration Deadline

Please log in to the registration system or check the official website announcement to find out the specific registration deadline for the current exam.

3. Information accuracy

When registering, please ensure that the personal information you fill in (name, ID number, etc.) is true and accurate, and completely consistent with the information on the valid ID you present on the day of the exam; otherwise, you will not be able to participate in the exam.

4. Payment of Fees

Exam fees must be paid online during registration. Please refer to the registration page for specific fee details and supported payment methods (such as VISA, MasterCard, UnionPay, etc.).

5. Examination Admission Ticket

Your admission ticket will be available for download within the specified time before the exam . A download notification will be sent to your registered email address. Please log in to the official website to download it promptly and carefully check it to ensure that the information on your admission ticket is completely consistent with the valid identification document you will bring on the day of the exam. This is an essential document for taking the exam; those whose information does not match will not be allowed to take the exam.

1. Exam preparation (30–60 minutes before the exam)

• Main computer (for answering questions): Exit antivirus software and all non-exam software; check network stability, wired network is recommended; ensure sufficient power (plugging in is recommended).

• Secondary camera (monitoring phone/tablet): Open the proctoring app, fix it at a 45° angle to the side and behind, and ensure that the screen covers the candidate’s upper body, computer screen and hands; turn on airplane mode and connect to Wi-Fi, and turn on Do Not Disturb or silent mode, and close all irrelevant applications; keep the battery fully charged (it is recommended to plug it in).

• Required items: Place your original ID and admission ticket on the table for inspection.

2. Login and Verification

• Startup and Testing: Open the exam client, select the language, and follow the instructions to complete the system and network tests.

• Login and facial recognition: Log in with your admission ticket number and password, and complete facial recognition after confirming your identity information.

• Connect to the secondary monitoring station: Scan the QR code on the screen or enter your account to log in to the secondary monitoring station’s monitoring app and ensure a smooth viewing experience.

• Cooperate with the inspection: Show your credentials as instructed by the invigilator, take a 360° environmental photo, and present a blank drafting tool.

• Read the exam instructions: Carefully read the “Integrity Examination Commitment” displayed on the system and click the confirmation button.

3. Start the exam and answer questions.

• Enter the exam: After the countdown ends and you confirm your agreement, the system will automatically enter the full-screen answer interface, and the exam timer will start simultaneously.

• Answering and Saving: Use the mouse to answer directly; the system will automatically save your progress. Please pay attention to the question number color on the left (green indicates answered) and check whether you have completed all questions.

• Time Management: You can go back and modify the questions you have already answered within the exam time. Please allocate your time wisely.

• Troubleshooting: If the network is interrupted, you can continue answering the questions after logging back in, and the system will retain your original progress; if you encounter other technical problems, please ask the proctor for help.

4. Exam ends

Please do not fill in repeatedly.

• The system will automatically collect the scroll when the time is up. Please exit only after you see the “Scroll submitted successfully” message.

• Show and erase the contents of the drafting tool as instructed by the proctor.

• Exit the exam system, but do not delete the client files yet; wait for the results to be released.

1. Results Announcement

Exam results are typically released within 7 business days after the exam . Please log in to the official CSCA registration website to check and download your electronic score report. Any delays due to unforeseen circumstances will be announced on the official website.

2. Validity of Results

• Purpose: This score is an important reference for undergraduate admission to Chinese universities, and it is also an essential application material for the evaluation of Chinese government scholarships.

• Validity period: Valid for 2 years from the date of certificate issuance .