How To Prepare A Bank Statement For Your Application To Study In China 2026

How to Prepare a Bank Statement for Your Application to Study in China.Below is a step-by-step guide to help you prepare a proper and valid bank statement.

How to Prepare a Bank Statement for Your Application to Study in China

When applying to study in China, one of the required documents is a bank statement, also known as a proof of financial support. This document shows that you or your guardian have the financial ability to cover your education and living expenses during your time in China.

Below is a step-by-step guide to help you prepare a proper and valid bank statement.

1. What Is a Bank Statement (Proof of Financial Support)?

A bank statement is a document issued by a bank that proves an applicant (or their financial sponsor/guardian) has enough funds to study in China. It is a key requirement in many university and visa applications.

The purpose is to ensure that international students can support themselves financially — covering:

Tuition fees
Accommodation fees
Daily living expenses
Miscellaneous costs (insurance, travel, etc.)

2. Who Should Provide the Bank Statement?

In most cases, the statement is provided by the student’s financial sponsor or legal guardian — usually a parent or relative.

If you are self-funded, you may submit your own bank statement. However, guardians are typically preferred, especially for undergraduate applicants.

3. How Much Money Should Be in the Account?

The required balance varies by university and city, but as a general rule:

The amount should cover at least one full academic year’s total cost
The account should show a minimum of USD $4,000 (or equivalent) for the past 6 months
Some top-tier universities or cities may require higher amounts (e.g., $8,000–$10,000)

Be sure to check the specific requirements of your target university or scholarship program.

4. Where and How to Get the Bank Statement?

You must obtain the bank statement from a recognized and licensed bank in your home country.

Key requirements:

Must be issued within the last 3–6 months
Must include the bank’s official stamp or seal
Must be on official bank letterhead or format
Preferably printed in English or with a certified English translation

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Can I use an online banking screenshot as proof?
A: No. Only official bank-issued statements with stamps and signatures are accepted.

Q2: What if I have multiple bank accounts?
A: You can combine balances from multiple accounts, but each statement must meet the same official and stamped requirement.

Q3: Does the bank statement need to be notarized?
A: Not usually. But some universities or visa offices may request notarization — check their specific requirements.

Q4: Can my sponsor be someone who is not a family member?
A: Yes, but you’ll need to provide a signed sponsorship letter explaining the relationship and financial support commitment.

Q5: How recent should the bank statement be?
A: Ideally issued within the past 30–90 days. Anything older may be rejected.

Important Notes & Tips

Use a trusted bank with international credibility
Always request the bank’s official stamp and signature
Include a sponsorship letter if the account is under your guardian’s name
Translate non-English statements into English with certified translation
Don’t apply too early — the statement should be valid when you submit your application
Keep multiple copies — some schools or embassies require originals

Summary

Your bank statement is more than just a document — it’s a guarantee to Chinese universities and embassies that you are ready, responsible, and financially capable of studying abroad. Prepare it carefully, ensure it meets all requirements, and always double-check for authenticity.

Financial readiness is a key step toward studying in China — make sure you show it clearly!

Related: Admissions in China

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