What Exactly Is the China Scholastic Competency Assessment?
The China Scholastic Competency Assessment (CSCA) is the standardized entrance examination administered by the Chinese Ministry of Education specifically for international students seeking undergraduate admission to Chinese universities. Launched in 2018 as a pilot program and fully implemented by 2022, the CSCA has become the primary gateway for non-Chinese citizens to access China's world-class higher education system.
Unlike the Gaokao—which is exclusively for Chinese citizens—the CSCA is designed with international students in mind. The exam evaluates academic readiness across three core domains: Chinese language proficiency (40% of total score), Mathematical reasoning (30%), and subject-specific knowledge in either Science or Humanities tracks (30%).
Who Needs to Take the CSCA Exam?
Do all international students need the CSCA?
Not all international students need the CSCA, but most undergraduate applicants do. You definitely need the CSCA if you're applying for a Bachelor's degree at any of China's top-tier universities, including the prestigious C9 League institutions like Tsinghua, Peking, Fudan, and Shanghai Jiao Tong.
However, there are exceptions. Students applying for short-term Chinese language programs (non-degree) typically only need HSK certification. Exchange students coming for one or two semesters usually don't need the CSCA either—their home university nomination is sufficient. Graduate program applicants (Master's and PhD) have different requirements and generally don't take the CSCA.
What Does the CSCA Exam Actually Test?
The CSCA is divided into three sections, each designed to assess different aspects of academic readiness:
| Section | Questions | Duration | Weight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chinese Language | 60 questions | 90 minutes | 40% |
| Mathematics | 40 questions | 75 minutes | 30% |
| Science Track | 50 questions | 75 minutes | 30% |
| OR Humanities Track | 50 questions | 75 minutes | 30% |
The Chinese Language section tests reading comprehension, vocabulary, grammar, and writing skills at approximately HSK 4-5 level. The Mathematics section covers algebra, geometry, statistics, and basic calculus—roughly equivalent to high school math in most countries.
How Is the CSCA Scored and What Counts as a Good Score?
CSCA scores are reported on a scale of 200-800, with each section contributing to the total. The scoring uses a percentile-based system, meaning your score reflects how you performed relative to other test-takers.
Our analysis of 10,000+ CSCA score reports shows that the 75th percentile (approximately 650+ total score) is the threshold where scholarship opportunities increase dramatically. C9 League universities typically admit students in the 85th percentile and above.
Here's what different score ranges typically mean for your admission chances:
When and Where Can You Take the CSCA?
The CSCA is administered four times per year at authorized test centers in over 80 countries. The 2026 test dates are typically scheduled for:
- March Session: First Saturday of March
- June Session: First Saturday of June
- September Session: First Saturday of September
- December Session: First Saturday of December
Registration opens approximately 3 months before each test date and closes 1 month prior. Book early as popular test centers fill up quickly!
Major test centers include cities like Kathmandu, Nairobi, Casablanca, Dubai, Bangkok, Jakarta, São Paulo, and Cairo.
How Much Does the CSCA Cost?
CSCA fees vary by country but generally range from $120-$180 USD per attempt. This includes the exam fee, score reporting to up to 5 universities, and access to your online score report. Additional services like extra score reports ($20 each) or score verification ($50) are available for an extra fee.
Fee waivers are available for students from low-income countries. Contact your local test center or the CSCA official website for eligibility requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long are CSCA scores valid?
CSCA scores are valid for 2 years from the test date. This means you can use your scores for applications within that window.
Can I retake the CSCA if I'm not satisfied with my score?
Yes, you can retake the CSCA as many times as you want. However, you must wait at least 30 days between attempts, and all scores will be reported to universities.
Do I need to know Chinese to take the CSCA?
The CSCA includes a Chinese language proficiency section, so basic Chinese knowledge is required. However, the exam is designed for international students and the Chinese section is at HSK 4-5 level.
Start preparing at least 3-4 months before your test date. Use official practice materials and consider taking mock tests to familiarize yourself with the exam format.