Last updated: 29 August 2026 · Written by the Redream team
Key takeaways (30-second read)
- CSCA is an admissions test, not a scholarship, and it is different from CSC.
- From 2026/2027, many international undergraduate applicants need it, especially for Chinese Government Scholarship routes.
- Mathematics is compulsory; Professional Chinese, Physics and Chemistry depend on the program.
- Published fees are CNY 450 for one subject and CNY 700 for two or more.
- Register and check dates at csca.cn; there is no universal pass score for every university.
Short answer: the CSCA is a standardized assessment of whether an international student is academically ready for an undergraduate degree in China. Mathematics is the common requirement, while Professional Chinese, Physics and Chemistry depend on the teaching language and major. Always confirm the exact subject combination with your target university before paying.

What is the CSCA test?
CSCA stands for China Scholastic Competency Assessment. It is a standardized assessment for international students applying to undergraduate programs in China. It evaluates the academic foundations needed before university entry. The exam is organized within the China Scholarship Council ecosystem, but it is not a scholarship and does not guarantee admission.
CSC vs CSCA: the important difference
| Term | Meaning | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| CSC | China Scholarship Council | Administers Chinese Government Scholarship programs |
| CSCA | China Scholastic Competency Assessment | Academic test for undergraduate admission |
If funding is your priority, read our complete Chinese Government Scholarship guide. CSCA may support the academic part of your application, but it does not replace the university or scholarship application.
Who needs CSCA in 2026/2027?
- International students applying for a government-funded undergraduate program when the route requires the test.
- Self-funded applicants whose chosen university has made CSCA mandatory.
- Medicine, engineering and science applicants who may need Physics or Chemistry.
- Applicants to Chinese-taught programs who need to demonstrate subject-specific academic Chinese.
The decisive rule is the official admission notice for your university and major. Use our guide to the requirements for Moroccan students in China to check the rest of your application documents.
CSCA subjects by program
| Program type | Typical subjects | What to verify |
|---|---|---|
| Humanities, economics, business | Mathematics + Professional Chinese for Chinese-taught programs | English-taught programs may be exempt from Professional Chinese |
| Engineering and computer science | Mathematics + Physics, sometimes Chemistry | The university sets the final combination |
| Medicine, pharmacy and health sciences | Mathematics + Chemistry and/or Physics | Check the exact MBBS requirements |
| Chinese-taught program | Professional Chinese + major subjects | Some rules may allow an exemption with valid HSK 4 |
Important: Mathematics is required for all applicants under the published guidance. Do not add extra subjects “just in case” before checking the exact notice for your program.
Fees, test dates and results
| Item | Published information |
|---|---|
| One subject | CNY 450 |
| Two or more subjects | CNY 700 |
| Test sessions | January, March, April, June and December |
| Computer-based result | Usually within 7 working days |
| Paper-based result | Usually within 14 working days |
Deadlines, centers and delivery modes may change. Use the official CSCA platform as the final source and choose a session that leaves enough time for your score to arrive before the university or scholarship deadline.
How to register for CSCA
- Choose your university, major and teaching language.
- Copy the required subjects from the official admission notice.
- Create an account at csca.cn.
- Enter your passport and academic details carefully.
- Select an available test session and delivery mode.
- Choose the subjects, pay the fee and keep the receipt.
- Check identity, equipment and timing instructions before test day.
A practical preparation plan
- Diagnose your level in algebra, functions and geometry first.
- Schedule Physics or Chemistry revision if your major requires it.
- Practice with a timer instead of reading notes only.
- Use current instructions and sample material from the platform or university.
- For Chinese-taught study, revise academic vocabulary specific to your field.
- Review the full application early to avoid preventable errors; see the common reasons Chinese university applications are rejected.
Frequently asked questions
Is CSCA a scholarship?
No. CSCA is an academic test; CSC administers scholarship programs.
Must every Moroccan student take it?
Not in every case. It depends on the university, program and funding route, but it is particularly important for 2026/2027 undergraduate applications.
What is the CSCA pass score?
There is no single national pass mark for every program. A university may set its own threshold or assess the score alongside the rest of the application.
Do English-taught programs require Chinese?
English-taught applicants are generally exempt from Professional Chinese, but the scientific subjects required by the major still apply.
Can I take CSCA from Morocco?
The platform lists the delivery modes and centers available for each session. Confirm the option shown when registration opens for your date.
Official sources
- Official CSCA website
- China University of Mining and Technology: CSCA introduction
- GDUFS: 2026 admission notice
- Sichuan University: fees, results and instructions
Need help choosing subjects and preparing your file?
The Redream team can match CSCA requirements to your major, universities and application plan.
