Complete Application Guide for Zhejiang University (2026 Intake)
Zhejiang University (ZJU), ranked #47 in QS World University Rankings 2026, welcomes international students from over 150 countries each year. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about applying to ZJU as an international student.
Step 1: Choose Your Program
ZJU offers a wide range of programs taught in English and Chinese:
Undergraduate Programs
- MBBS (Bachelor of Medicine & Bachelor of Surgery) — 6 years, English-taught
- Computer Science & Technology
- Electrical Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Civil Engineering
- International Economics & Trade
- Chinese Language & Literature
Graduate Programs
- M.Sc./Ph.D. in Computer Science
- M.Sc./Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering
- MBA & Executive MBA
- M.Sc. in International Business
- Ph.D. programs across Engineering, Medicine, Sciences, Agriculture & Humanities
Step 2: Check Admission Requirements
Academic Requirements
| Program Level | Minimum Requirement |
|---|---|
| Undergraduate | High school diploma, minimum 75% average or equivalent |
| Master’s | Bachelor’s degree, B average or above (GPA 3.0/4.0) |
| Ph.D. | Master’s degree with research experience and publications preferred |
| MBBS | High school science stream (Biology, Chemistry, Physics), 80%+ average |
Language Requirements
| Program Type | Minimum Score |
|---|---|
| English-taught programs | IELTS 6.0+ (no band below 5.5) or TOEFL iBT 80+ |
| MBBS (English-taught) | IELTS 6.5+ or TOEFL iBT 90+ |
| Chinese-taught programs | HSK 4 (180+ score) or HSK 5 preferred |
Step 3: Prepare Required Documents
- Academic transcripts & certificates (notarized and translated to Chinese or English)
- Two recommendation letters from professors or academic supervisors
- Study plan or research proposal (500-800 words for undergraduate, 1000-1500 for graduate)
- Valid passport copy (at least 6 months validity remaining)
- Passport-sized photos (white background, 2-inch)
- Physical examination record (within 6 months)
- Non-criminal record certificate (within 6 months)
- English/Chinese language proficiency certificate
- Application fee: ¥400 – ¥800 (non-refundable)
Step 4: Submit Online Application
All applications are submitted through the ZJU International College Online Application Portal.
- Create an account on the portal
- Fill in personal and academic information
- Upload all required documents
- Select your program and scholarship preferences
- Pay the application fee online
- Submit and note your application number
Step 5: Application Deadlines
| Intake | Application Period | Decision Timeline |
|---|---|---|
| Fall Semester (Sept 2026) | October 2025 – May 2026 | 4-8 weeks after submission |
| Spring Semester (Feb 2027) | September – December 2026 | 3-6 weeks |
| MBBS Program | January – June 2026 | 4-8 weeks |
| CSC Scholarship Applicants | November – March | June – July |
Step 6: After Admission
- Receive admission letter and JW202 form
- Apply for X1 student visa at Chinese embassy/consulate
- Arrange accommodation (on-campus or off-campus)
- Book flight to Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport (HGH)
- Register at ZJU International College within the specified period
- Complete medical check-up and residence permit application within 30 days
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply to multiple programs?
Yes, you can select up to 3 programs in order of preference on the application form.
Is there an interview?
Some competitive programs (MBBS, MBA) may require an online interview.
Can I work while studying?
Yes, international students can work part-time on campus (up to 20 hours/week) with university permission.
Is the application fee refundable?
No, the application fee is non-refundable under any circumstances.
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Research ZJU Programs
Zhejiang University offers undergraduate, master, and PhD programs across engineering, science, medicine, agriculture, humanities, and business. The ZJU International Campus in Haining offers joint programs with the University of Edinburgh and the University of Illinois. Browse programs at the ZJU international admissions portal. Each program has specific requirements and deadlines. English-taught programs are available at the graduate level and at the International Campus.
Application Requirements
Undergraduate applicants need a high school diploma with strong grades. Master applicants need a bachelor degree with minimum 3.0 GPA. PhD applicants need a master degree with research experience. For English-taught programs, IELTS 6.0 or TOEFL 80 is required. For Chinese-taught programs, HSK Level 4 or 5 is needed.
Document Preparation
Required documents include notarized diploma, transcripts, passport copy, study plan of 800 words, two recommendation letters, language test scores, and a physical examination form. All documents must be in English or Chinese with notarized translations if needed. Upload color scans through the ZJU online application system.
Submit and Follow Up
Create an account on the ZJU application portal, complete the form, upload documents, and pay the application fee of approximately 800 RMB. Submit before the deadline. Scholarship applicants also apply through the CSC portal. The review process takes 4 to 8 weeks. Successful applicants receive the admission letter and JW202 visa form. Apply for an X1 visa at the Chinese embassy and register at ZJU within 30 days of arrival.
Application Timeline and Checklist
October to December is the ideal time to research ZJU programs and prepare documents. January to March is the application period with CSC deadlines in February and March. April to June is the review period. June to August is when admission letters are issued and visa applications are processed. September is the arrival month. To ensure a complete application, prepare your notarized diploma, official transcripts, valid passport, study plan of 800 words, two recommendation letters, language test scores, and a physical examination form. Submit all documents through the ZJU online portal and pay the application fee before the deadline for your chosen program.
When preparing your ZJU application, pay special attention to the study plan. This 800-word document should explain your academic background, your reasons for choosing ZJU specifically, and your future career plans. Mentioning particular professors, research centers, or programs at ZJU demonstrates genuine interest. Your recommendation letters should come from professors who know your academic work well. All documents must be complete before submission as incomplete applications cause processing delays. After submitting, monitor your email for updates and respond promptly to any requests. The ZJU International College provides support throughout the application process for prospective international students.
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