The Ultimate Study Guide

Examination purpose

This examination aims to assess international students’ mastery of mathematical knowledge with a particular focus on their fundamental mathematical skills, logical thinking ability, and problem-solving competence. It ensures that students possess the academic foundation required for undergraduate studies at Chinese universities and lays a solid groundwork for further learning in mathematics and related science and engineering disciplines.

Format and structure

• Duration: 60 minutes
• Total Score: 100 points
• Language: Chinese or English
• Question Type: Multiple Choice (Single Answer)
• Number of Questions: 48

Content and scope

• Sets and Inequalities: Definition, operations, and representation of sets. Basic properties and solution methods of inequalities (e.g., quadratic and rational inequalities).
• Functions: Concepts and properties of functions (domain, range, monotonicity, parity). Basic elementary functions (power, exponential, logarithmic, trigonometric). Sequences (general term formula and summation of arithmetic and geometric sequences). Basics of derivatives and calculus (definition, geometric meaning, simple applications).
• Geometry and Algebra: Plane analytic geometry (equations and properties of lines, circles, ellipses, hyperbolas, parabolas). Vectors and complex numbers. Solid geometry (rectangular coordinate system in space and properties of simple solids).
• Probability and Statistics: Classical probability model and probability calculation. Numerical characteristics of data (mean, variance). Basic concepts of normal distribution.

Examination purpose

This examination aims to assess the core physics competencies required for international students to pursue undergraduate studies in science and engineering programs in China. It assesses students’ mastery of the fundamental physical knowledge system, understanding of scientific thinking, and ability to apply knowledge across disciplines. These core competencies form the foundation of university-level physics courses, provide essential support for disciplines such as mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, and materials science and engineering, and lay a solid groundwork for students’ future research, innovation, and engineering practice.

Format and structure

• Duration: 60 minutes
• Total Score: 100 points
• Language: Chinese or English
• Question Type: Multiple Choice (Single Answer)
• Number of Questions: 48

Content modules

• Mechanics: Kinematics (displacement, velocity, acceleration, uniform acceleration motion, free fall). Newton's laws of motion and their applications. Momentum and impulse, conservation of momentum. Work and energy, conservation of mechanical energy. Circular motion.
• Electromagnetism: Core topics as set out in the CSCA syllabus.
• Thermodynamics: Core topics as set out in the CSCA syllabus.
• Optics: Core topics as set out in the CSCA syllabus.
• Modern Physics: Core topics as set out in the CSCA syllabus.

Examination purpose

This examination aims to assess the core chemistry competencies required for international students to pursue undergraduate studies in science and engineering programs in China. It assesses students’ mastery of the fundamental chemical knowledge system, understanding of scientific thinking, and ability to conduct experimental inquiry. These core competencies form the foundation of university-level chemistry courses, provide essential support for disciplines such as chemistry, chemical engineering, materials science, and environmental engineering, and lay a solid foundation for students’ future research, innovation, and engineering practice.

Format and structure

• Duration: 60 minutes
• Total Score: 100 points
• Language: Chinese or English
• Question Type: Multiple Choice (Single Answer)
• Number of Questions: 48

Content and scope

• Basic Chemical Concepts and Calculations: Classification and state changes of matter. Chemical notation and equation writing. Solution concentration and pH calculations. Calculations involving the amount of substance. Application of the ideal gas law.
• Properties and Reactions of Substances: Properties of common inorganic substances (elements, oxides, acids, bases, salts). Basic organic compounds (hydrocarbons and their derivatives). Identification of redox reactions. Ionic reactions and testing methods.
• Chemical Theories and Laws: Atomic structure and periodic law. Chemical bonds and intermolecular forces. Reaction rate and chemical equilibrium. Theories of electrolyte solutions.
• Chemical Experiments and Applications: Laboratory safety and use of apparatus. Preparation and identification of common gases. Methods for separation and purification of substances. Analysis of industrial chemical processes (e.g., ammonia synthesis).

Format and structure

Two papers are offered: STEM Chinese and Humanities Chinese. Applicants to Chinese-taught undergraduate programs take the paper corresponding to their major.

• Duration: 90 minutes
• Total Score: 100 points
• Question Type: Multiple Choice (Single Answer)
• Number of Questions: 80

Question types

• 识解汉字 — recognising and interpreting characters
• 选词填空 — cloze / word selection
• 辨析词语 — distinguishing between similar words
• 选词成段 — assembling a passage from given words
• 补全语句 — sentence completion
• 阅读理解 — reading comprehension

Primary device (computer used for taking the test and front-facing monitoring)

• Operating System: Genuine 64-bit Windows 10/11 or Windows 7 SP1 and above. macOS is not supported.
• Configuration: Screen resolution ≥ 1366×768, RAM ≥ 4GB
• Hard Drive: The partition hosting the Testing Client must have ≥ 2GB of free space (installation on the C: drive is not recommended).
• Camera: Built-in laptop webcam or external USB camera mounted at the screen top, resolution ≥ 720P (1080P recommended).
• Audio: Desktops require external speakers and a microphone; wireless headphones are strictly prohibited.
• Testing Client: The official CSCA Testing Client must be downloaded and installed in advance.
• Power: Ensure sufficient battery charge; continuous connection to a power source is recommended.

Secondary device (smartphone or tablet used for monitoring)

Purpose: to allow remote proctors to clearly monitor the candidate's upper body, testing area, and computer screen at approximately a 45° rear-side angle throughout the entire test.

• Device requirements: A smartphone or tablet with a functioning camera, capable of running the designated CSCA Secondary Camera Portal (browser-based). The camera must provide a clear, unobstructed and stable view at an appropriate angle.
• Supporting equipment: A stable stand or tripod to prevent shaking, and a charger or backup power source so the device cannot shut down mid-test.

Network connection

• Bandwidth: Symmetrical upload/download bandwidth ≥ 20Mbps
• Speed: Connection speed to the Testing Platform ≥ 500 KB/s
• Connection Type: A wired broadband connection is strongly recommended; close all non-essential software and background processes on the test day.
• Speed Test Tool: After logging in to the Testing Client, use the built-in speed test tool to verify your connection quality.
• Recommendation: Prepare a backup 4G mobile hotspot and be familiar with how to quickly switch to it if needed.

Testing space requirements

• The testing space must be independent, quiet, well-lit, and fully enclosed, with no obstructions. No other persons are allowed to enter or cause disturbance during the test.
• It is strictly prohibited to take the test in public or non-enclosed spaces such as parks, internet cafés, restaurants, or open-plan offices.

Desk and equipment setup

• Candidates must take the test at a standard desk and chair, with all permitted items (computer, keyboard, mouse, whiteboard, marker) placed on the desk.
• Unauthorized items such as mobile phones, books, or notes are strictly prohibited in the testing area. Taking the test on a bed, sofa, lap, or any other non-standard surface is not allowed.

Scratch tool policy

• Candidates may use a small whiteboard, or a blank sheet placed inside a transparent file bag, along with an erasable marker. Pencils and ballpoint pens are not permitted.
• The whiteboard or transparent file bag must be shown to the proctor before and after the test. All notes must be erased in front of the proctor at the end of the test; failure to do so will be treated as a violation.
• The use of paper scratch paper, sticky notes, or any other paper-based materials is prohibited.

Pre-test checks and preparation

• Platform Test: Candidates must complete the required system and device checks before the test as instructed, verifying that the Testing Client, camera, microphone and network environment meet the technical requirements. Failure to complete the platform test may prevent access to the Testing Platform on the test day.
• Scheduled Mock Test: Candidates are strongly advised to attend the scheduled mock test organized by CSCA. This official rehearsal follows the full test-day procedures.
• Login and Verification Deadline: Candidates must log in to the Testing Platform and complete device setup 30–60 minutes before the test begins. Candidates who have not completed login and verification after the test starts will not be permitted to enter.
• Identity Verification: Candidates must log in using their Admission Ticket number and password, and complete facial recognition and ID verification. The ID information must match the details on the Admission Ticket exactly.

Monitoring requirements

Cameras and microphones on both the primary and secondary devices must remain on throughout the entire test. They must not be covered, switched off or disconnected at any point.

Test conduct

• Devices and Software: Switching screens, using multiple monitors, running non-test applications, remote access, or screen sharing are prohibited. The use of any type of wireless headset is strictly forbidden.
• Behavior: Candidates must not leave their seat, communicate with others, or wear accessories that obscure their face. They must remain clearly visible to the proctor at all times.
• Integrity and Confidentiality: Any form of cheating, recording, or sharing test questions or answers is strictly prohibited. Candidates must not seek or provide external assistance in any form.
• Submission: The system will automatically submit the test at the end of the allotted time. Early submission is not permitted.

Upon verification of any violation, the following disciplinary actions will be imposed based on the severity of the case.