How to Prepare Your Language Certificates for Study in China
When applying to study in China, language proficiency is a critical part of your application. Whether you’re applying for a program taught in English or Chinese, you’ll often need to submit official language certificates to prove you meet the language requirements.
Of course, if you are from an English speaking country and have received education in English, you do not need to provide an English language certificate, but you will need to provide proof of previous English studies.
Here’s a complete guide on how to properly prepare and present your language certificates during your application.
Related: Step-by-Step Guide to Prepare Your Passport for Study in China
1. 🗣️ Prepare All Relevant Language Certificates
Depending on the language of instruction of the program you’re applying for, you may need to submit one or more of the following:
- English-taught programs:
✅ IELTS, TOEFL, Duolingo English Test, PTE Academic, or even GRE (for graduate programs)
These are the most commonly accepted certificates by Chinese universities for non-native English speakers. - Chinese-taught programs:
✅ HSK (Hanyu Shuiping Kaoshi – Chinese Proficiency Test)
✅ HSKK (Oral Chinese Test)
✅ BCT (Business Chinese Test)
✅ MCT (Medical Chinese Test)
✅ YCT (for younger learners) - 📌 Some universities may also accept a certificate of instruction medium from your previous school if your degree was taught in English or Chinese.
2. 📚 Chinese Language Proficiency Certificates (For Chinese Programs)
If you are applying for a program taught in Mandarin Chinese, you are typically required to submit:
- ✅ HSK Level 4 or above for undergraduate studies
- ✅ HSK Level 5 or 6 for graduate studies
- ✅ HSKK for some programs that assess speaking skills
💡 Some universities may offer conditional admission with lower HSK levels if you agree to take a one-year Chinese language course first.
Related: How to Prepare Your Highest Education Certificate When Applying to Study in China
3. 🌍 Other Language Certificates (Optional but Helpful)
If you have knowledge of other foreign languages, you can also submit:
- ✅ DELF/DALF for French
- ✅ TestDaF/DSH for German
- ✅ TOPIK for Korean
- ✅ JLPT for Japanese
- ✅ CELI/CILS for Italian
- ✅ DELE for Spanish
These may not be required, but including them can highlight your multilingual skills and academic versatility, especially for language or international studies majors.
4. ⏳ Use Recently Issued Certificates (Preferably Within 2 Years)
Most Chinese universities prefer:
- 🕒 Certificates issued within the past 2 years
- 📆 This ensures your language proficiency is current and accurate
- ⚠️ Some certificates (e.g. IELTS, TOEFL) may not be accepted if they are older than 2 years
If your language certificate is outdated, it’s advisable to retake the test before applying.
Related: How to Prepare Your Academic Transcript
5. ✅ Ensure Your Certificates Are Verifiable
Chinese universities often verify language certificates through official channels:
- 🌐 Use certificates that can be verified online, such as:
- IELTS (via TRF verification number)
- TOEFL (via ETS code submission)
- HSK/HSKK (via Chinese Testing International platform)
📩 Keep your login info, test ID, or official PDFs ready for uploading or submission.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Do I need an English test if my previous education was in English?
A: Some universities accept a medium of instruction certificate from your school. However, a recognized English test like IELTS or TOEFL is often stronger proof and may be required for scholarships.
Q2: What if my HSK certificate has expired?
A: Most universities require a valid HSK within the past 2 years. If yours is older, consider retaking the test.
Q3: Can I use Duolingo English Test instead of TOEFL/IELTS?
A: Some Chinese universities now accept Duolingo, but not all. Always check the language requirements listed on the university’s website.
Q4: Is GRE or GMAT mandatory for master’s programs?
A: Only some programs (usually MBA or STEM-based) may request GRE/GMAT scores. For most programs, it’s optional but can strengthen your application.
Q5: Do I need to notarize language certificates?
A: Usually no. As long as the certificate is issued by an official test provider and includes a verifiable test number, notarization is not required.
✅ Final Checklist
- 🔲 Submit certificates relevant to your program’s language of instruction
- 🔲 Ensure certificates are issued within the past 2 years
- 🔲 Use official, verifiable certificates with test IDs or URLs
- 🔲 Consider retaking expired tests to strengthen your application
- 🔲 Translate non-English certificates if needed
Conclusion:
Language certificates are your key to proving you’re ready for academic success in China. Whether in English or Chinese, submitting accurate, up-to-date, and verifiable certificates will increase your chances of admission and scholarship support.
Related: HSK 1 to HSK 6 Complete Learning Materials for Downloading
Related: How to Prepare Application Documents for Study in China – The Only Guide You Need
Related: Admissions in China