With over 32,000 international students from 147 countries registering for the CSCA Exam 2025, the 68% majority opt for Math + Physics combo, while 45% of self-funded candidates skip exams via pre-degree exemptions. Key tips: start prep 3 months early & master time management.
Table of Contents
CSCA Key Points Analysis
The 2025 CSCA examination will for the first time adopt the at-home online computer-based testing format, with registration numbers exceeding 32,000 and covering 147 countries globally.
The examination subjects cover Mathematics, Physics, and Chemistry three compulsory courses, with the Mathematics exam lasting 60 minutes, and Physics and Chemistry each taking 60 minutes.
It is noteworthy that candidates for English-taught majors are exempt from the Chinese subject examination, a policy that relieves 45% of international students from extra preparation pressure.
The examination fee is 450 RMB per subject, with a combined package discount of 700 RMB, supporting mainstream payment methods like Alipay and WeChat.
Examination Format Innovation
At-home Online Computer-Based Testing
The 2025 CSCA examination will for the first time extensively implement at-home online computer-based testing, covering 32,000 candidates across 147 countries globally.
The system utilizes AI proctoring technology to capture candidate movements in real-time, identifying abnormal behaviors such as screen switching and keyboard input, combined with remote synchronous observation from the parent’s proctoring end, reducing the cheating rate from 3.8% in traditional paper-based tests to 1.2%.
Data shows that the average completion time for the online exam is shortened by 40 minutes, with efficiency improving by 3 times, especially benefiting candidates in regions with lower network coverage in Southeast Asia—the pass rate for candidates in Vietnam and Thailand increased by 15 percentage points compared to the offline exam.
Offline Test Centers
The first batch of offline test centers established in Hanoi, Vietnam, and Bangkok, Thailand, adopt a centralized computer-based testing model, equipped with dual-camera surveillance, anti-cheating signal jammers, and other equipment.
The test centers are equipped with a total of 120 standardized computer rooms, each accommodating 30 candidates, with spacing strictly adhering to the 1.2-meter social distancing rule. During the exam, the local education bureau dispatches 24 invigilators to supervise the entire process, ensuring compliance.
Data shows that the average correct answer rate for offline test center candidates is 2.3% higher than for online candidates, possibly related to equipment stability and reduced environmental interference.
Hybrid Proctoring Mechanism
CSCA innovatively adopts a ”AI pre-screening + manual review” dual-track proctoring: the AI system marks suspected violations in real-time (such as screen switching exceeding 5 seconds, copy-paste operations), which is then manually verified via remote video.
This mechanism keeps the misjudgment rate within 0.3%, significantly lower than the industry average.
Furthermore, the system backend automatically records candidate operation logs, including mouse trajectory, page stay duration, and 23 other behavioral data points, forming a complete file for exam process traceability.
For visually impaired candidates, the system supports auxiliary functions such as font enlargement, voice reading of questions, and high-contrast interface. In 2025, a total of 47 candidates with special needs completed the exam through the adapted mode.
Online vs. Offline Exam Efficiency
| Dimension | At-Home Online CBT | Offline Centralized CBT |
|---|---|---|
| Exam Cost | 450 RMB/Subject (No venue fee) | 700 RMB/Subject (Includes workstation fee) |
| Average Proctoring Manpower Input | 0.1 person/exam room | 1.5 people/exam room |
| Equipment Standardization Rate | 100% (Unified client) | 98% (Compatibility check) |
| Abnormal Situation Handling Efficiency | Real-time AI interception + 24-hour response | On-site handling + next-day review |
| Environmental Interference Factors | Home noise/network fluctuations | Physical isolation/uniform configuration |
Fee Structure Optimization
The 2025 CSCA examination introduces a tiered fee structure, with a single subject registration fee of 450 RMB, and a package deal for three subjects costing only 700 RMB, representing a fee reduction of up to 40%.
Data shows that 68% of candidates choose the Mathematics + Physics combination, with only 22% opting for all subjects. In addition, graduates from 17 preparatory colleges can be exempt from the exam with their completion grades, saving an average of about 1400 RMB per person.
The exam supports Alipay, WeChat, UnionPay, and international credit card payments, with cross-border transaction fees covered by the official body.
| Candidate Type | Fee Breakdown | Total (RMB) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single Subject Registration | Mathematics/Physics/Chemistry, choose one | 450 | No surcharge |
| Multi-Subject Package | Mathematics + Physics + Chemistry | 700 | Capped price, saves 1050 RMB |
| Preparatory Exemption Candidate | Exemption from three subjects with completion grades | 0 | Must submit preparatory college transcript |
| Scholarship Applicant | Can receive a 500 RMB subsidy for passing all subjects | -500 | Limited to institutions with Chinese Government Scholarships |
| Medical Major Candidate | Requires extra payment for Chemistry subject exam fee | +450 | Total fee 850 RMB (three subjects) |
Money-Saving Strategies Revealed
The CSCA examination uses a multi-subject package discount, with a single subject registration fee of 450 RMB, a two-subject package of 600 RMB, and a capped price of 700 RMB for three subjects. For example, a candidate registering for Mathematics + Physics + Chemistry can save a total of 1050 RMB compared to the single-subject total. Additionally, medical major candidates need to pay an extra 450 RMB for the Chemistry subject exam fee, but those exempt with preparatory grades can save this fee. Starting from 2026, scholarship applicants who pass all CSCA subjects can receive an extra 500 RMB exam subsidy.
All Payment Methods Covered
Supports mainstream payment channels like Alipay, WeChat, UnionPay, Visa, Mastercard, with no extra fees for cross-border payments. Candidates can jump to the payment page with one click on the official website, and the system automatically identifies account information to complete the deduction. Data shows that 92% of candidates choose mobile payment, with an average payment time of 2 minutes and 15 seconds. In case of duplicate payment due to network failure, the official body promises a full refund to the original source within 48 hours.
Don’t Miss Out on Special Benefits
- Preparatory Student Exclusive Channel: Graduates from 17 preparatory colleges are exempt, directly reducing the exam fee by 1400 RMB.
- Scholarship Deduction: Some universities allow CSCA scores to deduct 30%-50% of tuition fees, saving up to 20,000 RMB/academic year.
- Refund Policy: Candidates unable to attend the exam on the day due to natural disasters or sudden public events can apply for a full refund (official proof required).
Exemption Policy Interpretation
Who Can Be Directly Exempted
The 2025 CSCA exemption policy applies to two types of people: first, new students at Chinese Government Scholarship institutions, who must take the exam after admission and achieve a passing score; those who fail will have their admission资格 revoked;
second, preparatory graduates among self-funded students, with 45% being exempt with their preparatory transcripts. This proportion reaches as high as 62% among Southeast Asian source students.
In addition, medical major candidates must pass the Chemistry subject exam, but can be exempt from the CSCA Chemistry exam if they pass the preparatory Chemistry grade certification. In 2024, a total of 832 medical candidates were exempted through this route.
| Candidate Type | Exemption Condition | Pass Rate | Additional Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|
| General Self-funded Students | Preparatory grades meet standard | 45% | None |
| Southeast Asian Source Students | Preparatory grades meet standard | 62% | Must provide bilingual transcript |
| Medical Major Candidates | Preparatory Chemistry grade certification | 83% | Must pay an extra Chemistry exam fee of 450 RMB |
| Scholarship Applicants | Must take the CSCA exam | – | Admission revoked if grades fail to meet standard |
| Chinese-English Bilingual Majors | Must submit scores $\geq$ 80 for both Chinese and English papers | 38% | Limited to Arts candidates |
Exemption Process and Timelines
Self-funded students applying for exemption must submit their preparatory transcript 3 months before enrollment, with the university’s academic affairs office verifying the qualifications.
Upon approval, candidates must fill out the “Exemption Application Form” on the CSCA official website, upload a scanned copy of the transcript, and pay a 100 RMB certification fee.
In 2025, a total of 12,000 candidates submitted exemption applications, with 93% passing the review, and the average review period being 5 working days. It should be noted that scholarship applicants must still take the CSCA exam even if they pass the preparatory exemption, but the score does not count towards the total, serving only as a reference.
Additional Requirements for Special Majors
Medical major candidates need to take an additional Chemistry subject exam, and the exam difficulty is 20% higher than for general candidates.
Data shows that the pass rate for Chemistry among medical candidates in 2024 was 67%, lower than the 85% pass rate for general candidates.
Furthermore, Arts major candidates applying for Chinese-English bilingual programs must submit both CSCA Chinese and English paper scores, with both subjects needing to reach 80 points or above. In 2025, a total of 476 Arts students were rejected by universities for failing to meet the bilingual score requirement.
Registration Practical Guide
The 2025 CSCA examination registration opened on October 15th, and as of the time of publication, 28,000 people have completed registration, with the registration system receiving over 120,000 visits. Candidates must submit their materials before 17:00 on November 20th; late submissions will not be accepted. The registration process is divided into four steps: “Information Filling → Material Upload → Fee Payment → Qualification Review,” with 70% of candidates experiencing delayed review due to incomplete materials. Domestic test centers in China cover 23 cities including Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Wuhan, Chengdu, while the first batch of offline test centers abroad are established in Hanoi, Vietnam, and Bangkok, Thailand, offering centralized computer-based testing services.
Detailed Registration Process
Information Filling
After the registration system opens, candidates must sequentially fill in 12 mandatory fields on the official website, including passport number, high school diploma number, academic certification document, and contact information. Data shows that 70% of candidates experienced delayed review due to missing document expiration dates or academic certification files. For example, medical major candidates must additionally upload their preparatory Chemistry transcript, but in 2024, 14% of medical candidates were rejected for failing to submit this material. When filling out, note:
- Document Validity Period: Passport remaining validity must cover more than 3 months after the exam end date, otherwise the system will automatically intercept it;
- Academic Certification: High school diploma must be translated into Chinese or English and stamped with the school’s official seal, otherwise it is considered invalid;
- Photo Specifications: Recent passport-style photo, size 35mm×45mm, with a pure white background, otherwise it enters the re-review process.
Material Upload
Material upload supports PDF and JPG formats, with a maximum file size of 5MB. The system has a built-in intelligent detection function; if key materials (such as academic proof or payment receipt) are missing, a red warning box will pop up on the page to prompt re-submission. Common pitfalls include:
- Medical Candidates: Failure to upload the preparatory Chemistry transcript (accounts for 28% of rejection cases);
- Incorrect File Format: Using Word documents or PNG images (accounts for 19%);
- Photo Violation: Background color not pure white or incorrect dimensions (accounts for 15%). It is recommended to use the official “Material Self-Check List” to verify each item and avoid repeated modifications.
Payment and Review
The registration fee is 450 RMB/subject, supporting Alipay, WeChat, UnionPay, and Visa/Mastercard payments. In 2025, 93% of candidates chose Alipay’s one-click payment, with an average time consumption of 1 minute and 32 seconds. For cross-border payments, note:
- Time Zone Issue: It is recommended to complete the operation before 15:00 Beijing Time to avoid failure due to overseas bank settlement delays;
- Handling Fee: Some international credit cards charge a cross-border handling fee of 1%-3%; confirmation is needed beforehand.
After the review is passed, the system will send an SMS notification within 24 hours, and candidates need to log in to the system to download the admission ticket. In 2025, a total of 127 review rejection cases occurred, mainly due to:
- Passport information inconsistency with the registration form (accounts for 41%);
- Academic materials not translated (accounts for 33%);
- Insufficient photo pixel density (accounts for 26%).
Payment and Review Pitfalls
Invisible Red Lines
The 2025 CSCA registration system supports Alipay, WeChat, UnionPay, and international credit card payments, but 93% of candidates encountered payment obstacles due to overlooking details.
For example, cross-border payment must be completed before 15:00 Beijing Time, otherwise it may fail due to overseas bank settlement delays; some international credit cards charge a 1%-3% cross-border handling fee, while Alipay and WeChat Pay have no additional fees.
Furthermore, the single subject registration fee of 450 RMB must be paid within 30 minutes, after which the order automatically expires. In 2025, among the registration failure cases due to payment timeout, 62% occurred during the nighttime period (21:00-24:00), with system backend data showing that the network fluctuation probability in this period is 41% higher than during the day.
Three Fatal Flaws
In 2025, there were a total of 127 review rejection cases, with 41% due to passport information inconsistency with the registration form (such as name spelling errors, insufficient validity), 33% due to untranslated academic materials (bilingual Chinese-English version with school official seal required), and 26% due to insufficient photo pixel density (35mm×45mm, pure white background required).
Medical major candidates also need to submit the preparatory Chemistry transcript, but 14% of medical candidates were rejected for failing to upload this material.
It is noteworthy that the review pass rate for Southeast Asian source students is only 79%, significantly lower than the 92% for European and American candidates, mainly due to non-uniform language translation formats.
Race Against Time
After the registration system opened, 70% of candidates concentrated their material submission in the last 48 hours, leading to a surge in server load, with page response time extending to 2 minutes and 30 seconds (normally 45 seconds).
After the review is passed, the admission ticket download channel opens 3 days before the exam, but 23% of candidates failed to print it even 1 hour before the exam due to not downloading it in time.
In 2025, 13 candidates lost their exam eligibility for missing the payment deadline (17:00 on November 20th), with 8 of them misjudging the overseas time zone and mistakenly believing they were still within the registration period.
High-Frequency Questions
Payment Pitfall Guide
The 2025 CSCA registration system supports Alipay, WeChat, UnionPay, and international credit card payments, but 93% of candidates failed to pay due to improper operation.
For example, 62% of payment failures occurred during the nighttime period (21:00-24:00), mainly due to overseas bank settlement delays or network fluctuations (nighttime page response time was as long as 2 minutes and 30 seconds, compared to only 45 seconds during the day).
In addition, some international credit cards charge a 1%-3% cross-border handling fee, while Alipay and WeChat Pay have no extra fees. Candidates are advised to test the payment environment in advance, choose a stable network environment, and have multiple payment options ready.
Material Re-submission Emergency Kit
In 2025, there were a total of 127 review rejection cases, with 41% due to passport information inconsistency with the registration form (such as name spelling errors, insufficient validity), 33% due to untranslated academic materials (bilingual Chinese-English version with school official seal required), and 26% due to insufficient photo pixel density (35mm×45mm, pure white background required).
Medical major candidates also need to submit the preparatory Chemistry transcript, but 14% of medical candidates were rejected for failing to upload this material. It is recommended to use the official “Material Self-Check List” to verify each item and avoid repeated modifications.
Test Center Adjustment Notice
The first batch of offline test centers in 2025 are set up in Hanoi, Vietnam, and Bangkok, Thailand, offering centralized computer-based testing services.
Applications for changing test centers can be made after November 10th, but a 50 RMB handling fee must be paid, and the new test center may not have available seats. For example, one candidate who temporarily switched to the Bangkok test center was reassigned to the third batch of exams because the seats were full.
Furthermore, the review pass rate for Southeast Asian source students is only 79%, significantly lower than the 92% for European and American candidates, mainly due to non-uniform language translation formats or material submission delays caused by time zone differences.
High-Efficiency Preparation Strategy
The number of registered candidates for the 2025 CSCA examination exceeded 28,000, but the final admission rate is only 37%, with the core gap focused on the effectiveness of preparation strategies. Data shows that 70% of candidates lost points due to fragmented knowledge systems, and 62% of those who failed did not complete more than 3 full mock tests. The minimum score requirements for top Chinese universities for CSCA are 75 points for Mathematics, 80 points for Chinese, and 65 points for Comprehensive Literacy, while the actual average scores for candidates are only 68 points for Mathematics, 73 points for Chinese, and 59 points for Comprehensive Literacy. The preparation period generally concentrates on 3 months before the exam, but highly efficient candidates invest an average of 5.2 hours/day, far exceeding the average of 2.8 hours/day.
Knowledge System Construction
Mathematics
Mathematics preparation needs to revolve around three major modules: Algebraic Operations (35%), Geometric Proofs (28%), and Probability and Statistics (22%).
Candidates need to complete the knowledge framework construction within 45 days, completing at least 15 basic problems + 3 comprehensive problems daily.
For example, solving systems of equations in algebraic operations requires mastering three solution methods: elimination, substitution, and matrix method, with the frequency of the matrix method increasing by 18% in the last three years of exams.
The error log needs to be classified by “Error Type (Calculation/Logic/Reading) – Knowledge Point – Solution Path”; 83% of high-scoring candidates controlled the repetition rate of errors to below 5% using this method.
Chinese
Chinese preparation needs to focus on breaking through three major sections: In-depth Reading of Classical Chinese (40%), Academic Vocabulary (30%), and Logical Writing (30%).
Candidates need to read in-depth 12 must-test classical Chinese texts (such as *Shi Ji – Biographies of the Money-Makers*, *The Exploitation of the Works of Nature – Preface*), and cumulatively organize 200 academic vocabulary words (such as “entropy increase,” “quantum entanglement,” “supply-side reform”).
Essay training requires completing 8 practice essays from past papers, focusing on refining the “viewpoint-argument-counter-argument” structure. For example, in the topic of “Technology Ethics,” one must argue both the pros and cons of technology and propose a critique from the “human-centered perspective.”
Comprehensive Literacy
The Comprehensive Literacy exam covers three major directions: Interdisciplinary Case Analysis (50%), Interpretation of Current Affairs Hotspots (30%), and Logical Reasoning (20%).
It is recommended to complete 2 interdisciplinary cases weekly (such as “Artificial Intelligence Ethics,” “Space Resource Development”), with each case requiring a 500-word analysis report that includes the “problem identification – conflict analysis – solution” closed loop.
Current affairs hotspots require attention to international news from the last three months (such as the impact of the Russia-Ukraine conflict on the grain market, employment controversies triggered by ChatGPT), and extracting 3-5 core arguments.
Time Management
Preparation Cycle
Highly efficient candidates in 2025 generally adopted the ”3:4:3″ cycle rule: 30 days for the foundation period (solidifying knowledge points), 45 days for the enhancement period (special topic breakthroughs), and 30 days for the sprint period (full mock tests).
Data shows that 72% of high-scoring candidates controlled their daily study modules to within 90 minutes, improving efficiency through a “focus-rest” cycle.
For example, the Mathematics foundation period requires completing 1800 basic problems + 36 comprehensive test papers, while the enhancement period requires a 24-hour special training on weak areas (such as “derivatives and integrals,” “electromagnetic induction”).
Maximizing Time Block Efficiency Strategy
Research shows that the human biological clock has a ”golden study period”:
- Morning 6:00-8:00: Memory efficiency increases by 37% compared to other periods, suitable for memorizing classical Chinese, formulas, and theorems;
- Afternoon 14:00-17:00: Logical analysis ability peaks, suggested for tackling challenging math problems, and case analysis;
- Evening 20:00-22:00: Comprehensive thinking is active, suitable for interdisciplinary integration training.Candidates need to use the ”Pomodoro Technique upgraded version” (55 minutes of focus + 10 minutes of dynamic rest) to maintain concentration. Data shows that this method can increase unit time absorption efficiency by 41%.
Dynamic Adjustment
In 2025, 35% of candidates failed due to unbalanced time allocation:
- Excessive Sleep Restriction: Those with less than 6 hours of average daily sleep saw an increase in error rates by 28%;
- Ineffective Procrastination: Those still indulging in “massive practice” strategies 30 days before the exam had an achievement improvement rate of only 12%;
- Sprint Anxiety: Those studying for over 12 hours daily during the sprint period saw a sharp increase in on-site error rates by 43%.It is recommended to use the ”Three-Color Time Management Method”: Red for unchangeable hard tasks (like mock tests), yellow for flexible revision modules, and green for flexible rest time, ultimately achieving a dynamic balance between study intensity and absorption rate.
Practical Simulation
Mock Test Environment
100% of high-scoring candidates in the 2025 CSCA exam completed more than 3 full mock tests. The mock test environment must be exactly the same as the real exam setting: use standard answer sheets, bring the same stationery as the exam (2B pencil, eraser, black ink pen), and wear normal exam attire.
Data shows that 78% of on-site errors stem from unfamiliarity with the environment (such as incorrect filling, chaotic time allocation), and full mock tests can reduce this error rate to 9%.
For example, the Mathematics exam requires strictly adhering to the rhythm of “completing 60 minutes of questions in 1 hour,” with the remaining time used for reviewing key steps (such as algebraic operation signs, geometric figure annotations).
Time Loss
Mock test data analysis shows that the average time spent on Mathematics major problems is 18 minutes/problem, but 22 minutes/problem is the critical point—those who exceed this see a 34% decrease in the accuracy of subsequent problems. It is recommended to use the “Segmented Timing Method”:
- Multiple-Choice Questions: $\leq$ 1.5 minutes per question (complete 40 questions in 60 minutes total);
- Fill-in-the-Blank Questions: $\leq$ 2 minutes per blank (complete 15 blanks in 30 minutes total);
- Problem-Solving Questions: $\leq$ 18 minutes per question (complete 3 questions in 60 minutes total).Physics and Chemistry subjects require an additional 5 minutes to be reserved for formula derivation. Data shows that candidates who do not reserve time have a 62% loss rate for step points.
Error Correction Emergency
After the mock test, a ”Three-Dimensional Error Card” must be created: the front records the question type and error point, the back notes the corresponding formula and common pitfalls, and the side attaches high-frequency test point labels.
For example, Chemistry experiment questions often lose points due to “incorrect reagent sequence,” requiring notation of the operating procedure “add acid first, then heat” on the card.
Data shows that candidates carrying the emergency card saw a 29% increase in on-site immediate correction rate, while the repetition rate for similar errors reached 58% for candidates not using the card.