The CSCA exam: what it is and how to prepare

What CSCA is

CSCA (China Scholastic Competency Assessment) is a new unified academic test for international bachelor's applicants, introduced starting in 2026. Unlike HSK, which tests language ability alone, CSCA evaluates academic readiness as a whole: specialized Chinese language plus subject knowledge in mathematics, physics and chemistry. It's a computer-based, multiple-choice test, available online or at accredited test centers.

Who needs CSCA, and when

For international bachelor's applicants, CSCA may be part of the requirements at particular universities and programmes. Confirm whether it is needed, which subjects apply and the relevant deadline through the official target-university and CSCA guidance for your admission year; an exam score does not replace the other admission criteria.

What the exam covers

CSCA has four subject sections, some of which can be taken in different languages depending on your intended major.

• Specialized Chinese — split into two tracks: one for STEM fields, one for humanities
• Mathematics — available in either Chinese or English
• Physics — available in either Chinese or English
• Chemistry — available in either Chinese or English

How it's administered and what it costs

The test is computer-based with multiple-choice questions, and can be taken either online from home or in person at an accredited center — applicants generally choose the format at registration. Starting in 2026, it's offered five times a year — in January, March, April, June and December — giving applicants room to pick a convenient window and, if needed, retake it. The official registration fee is roughly 450 yuan for a single subject and about 700 yuan for two or more; it's worth confirming the exact current fee and the list of accredited centers directly on the official portal before registering, since terms are updated periodically. Scores are valid for two years.

What counts as a good score

Each university sets its own threshold, but there are general benchmarks: a score in the 650–699 range is usually considered competitive for most Project 985/211 universities, while 600–649 is acceptable for many regional universities. For strong scholarship spots at C9 League universities, a score in the top percentiles meaningfully improves your odds. These numbers are a general guide, not a guaranteed cutoff — always confirm exact requirements with your target university.

How to prepare

Preparing for CSCA effectively combines two tracks — language preparation in specialized Chinese and reviewing your subject material in the language you'll be tested in — so it's worth starting well ahead of time rather than a month before the nearest window. Since the score needs to be ready before you apply, not by the start of classes, it's worth scheduling your test registration with a real buffer before your scholarship or university application deadline — otherwise you risk missing the right testing window and having no score in hand when it's time to apply.