How To Prepare Your Highest Education Certificate When Applying To Study In China 2026

How to Prepare Your Highest Education Certificate When Applying to Study in China.When applying to study in China, one of the most essential documents you'll need to submit is your highest education certificate. This certificate proves your academic background and eligibility for the program you’re applying for — whether it's undergraduate, master’s, or Ph.D. Here's a complete guide to help you prepare it properly.

How to Prepare Your Highest Education Certificate When Applying to Study in China

When applying to study in China, one of the most essential documents you’ll need to submit is your highest education certificate. This certificate proves your academic background and eligibility for the program you’re applying for — whether it’s undergraduate, master’s, or Ph.D. Here’s a complete guide to help you prepare it properly.

1. Submit Your Highest Education Certificate Based on Your Current Level

Depending on your current academic level, you need to provide the relevant certificate:

For Undergraduate Program Applications: Submit your high school graduation certificate (or junior high school certificate if applying for certain vocational programs), or Year 12 graduation certificate.
For Master’s Program Applications: Submit your bachelor’s degree graduation certificate. Diploma certificate CANNOT apply master’s program in China.
For Ph.D. Program Applications: Submit your master’s degree graduation certificate.
If you have completed only part of a degree program, contact the university in China to confirm which academic documents are acceptable.

Ensure that the document clearly shows your name, graduation date, and the issuing institution.

2. Include the Degree Certificate If You Have One

Some countries issue two separate documents:

A graduation certificate
A degree certificate

📄 If you have both, submit both documents to strengthen your application. Some Chinese universities require both, especially for postgraduate programs.

3. Translate Non-English Certificates into English

If your highest education certificate is not in English or Chinese:

You must submit an official English translation along with the original.
The translation should be done by a certified translator or an authorized translation agency.
Always submit both the original certificate and the translated copy.

This helps Chinese universities verify your academic background and speeds up the application process.

4. Notarization May Be Required

Some Chinese universities — especially top-ranked ones — may require your documents to be notarized:

This means the document has been verified and certified by a notary or government-authorized body in your home country.
In some cases, you may also need to get the document authenticated by the Chinese embassy or consulate in your country.

Carefully check the specific document requirements listed by each university before submission.

5. If the Certificate Is Not Yet Issued, Provide an Official Explanation

In some countries, official graduation certificates may not be issued immediately after final exams:

In this case, request an official statement or temporary certificate from your school or educational authority.
The document should state that you have completed your studies and indicate when the final certificate will be issued.

This temporary document allows you to continue the application process while waiting for the final certificate.

Checklist Before Submission

Your highest education certificate matches the program level you’re applying for
Degree certificate included (if applicable)
Non-English documents are officially translated into English
Notarized copy provided (if required)
Temporary proof included if the certificate hasn’t been issued yet

Final Tips

Double-check university-specific requirements on their official websites
Start preparing these documents early, especially if translation or notarization is needed
Use a Scanner, Not a Camera: A flatbed scanner provides the clearest, most professional results. Avoid using a smartphone camera unless absolutely necessary.
Avoid Reflections and Shadows: Ensure the page lies flat and the lighting is even to prevent glare.
File Format and Quality: Save the scan as a PDF or JPG file with high resolution (at least 300 dpi).
Make Sure It’s Clear: The name, passport number, date of birth, and expiration date must be legible.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: I haven’t received my graduation certificate yet. Can I still apply?
A: Yes. If your official graduation certificate is not yet available, you can submit a pre-graduation certificate or an official letter from your school or local education departments confirming that you have completed your studies and the expected date of certificate issuance.

Q2: What if my certificate is in French/Spanish/Russian/etc.?
A: You must provide an official English translation of your certificate. Some universities also accept Chinese translations. Submit both the original and the translated copies.

Q3: Who can translate my certificate into English?
A: Use a certified translator or a professional translation agency. Translations by unverified individuals (friends, family, or students) are typically not accepted.

Q4: What is the difference between a graduation certificate and a degree certificate?
A:

A graduation certificate confirms you’ve completed your studies.
A degree certificate confirms you have earned a specific academic degree (e.g., Bachelor, Master, Ph.D.).
In many countries, you get both — and both are important for your application.

Q5: Do all Chinese universities require notarization of academic documents?
A: No, not all. Some universities only require notarization if your certificate is in a language other than English or Chinese, or if they cannot verify the authenticity online. Always check the university’s application instructions.

Q6: Can I notarize a photocopy of my certificate?
A: Yes, in most countries, a notary can certify a copy of the original document. However, make sure the notarized copy includes a seal, signature, and clear statement confirming it is a true copy.

Q7: Will an online transcript or digital certificate be accepted?
A: Some universities accept digital or online versions temporarily, especially if issued by official platforms. However, for final admission, you may still be asked to provide a hard copy or notarized version.

With the correct preparation of your education certificate, you’ll clear one of the key steps in your journey to study in China. Proper documentation shows your academic readiness and helps universities process your application smoothly.

Related: Admissions in China

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