Picking wrong subjects is the most expensive CSCA mistake: wasted fees, wasted months, sometimes a missed intake. The rules depend on your major, your program language and your scholarship channel. This guide maps every case — then confirm the final word on csca.cn and your university notice. Once your list is set, learn what each score means — cutoffs only matter for papers you sit.
Mathematics: mandatory for everyone
Every applicant sits Mathematics — 48 multiple-choice, 60 minutes, offered in English or Chinese. Start here no matter your major: the mathematics study hub has full chapter lessons, and the practice bank drills every topic. Budget the sitting with the registration checklist — ¥450 for one subject, ¥700 for two or more.
Physics / Chemistry: science, engineering, medicine
At least one of Physics or Chemistry is required for science, engineering, agriculture and medicine majors — medicine programs often require Chemistry specifically. Each is 48 multiple-choice in 60 minutes, English or Chinese. Check the syllabus hub for what each paper covers. If Physics is on your list, the 90+ Physics playbook shows how to study it by weight.
| Paper | Format | Who sits it |
|---|---|---|
| Mathematics | 48 MCQ · 60 min · EN/CN | Everyone — mandatory for every applicant |
| Physics | 48 MCQ · 60 min · EN/CN | Science, engineering, agriculture, medicine (at least one of Physics/Chemistry) |
| Chemistry | 48 MCQ · 60 min · EN/CN | Same group; often specifically required for medicine |
| Professional Chinese | 80 MCQ · 90 min · CN only | Chinese-taught programs; exempt if English-taught (HSK-4 exception for Chinese majors) |
Professional Chinese: who must sit it, who is exempt
- Required for Chinese-taught programs — Humanities or STEM stream matching your major (90 minutes, 80 questions, Chinese only).
- Exempt if your program is fully English-taught.
- Chinese Language majors may be exempt with a valid HSK Level 4 — confirm in writing with your university.
Confirm before you pay
Do I need Physics or Chemistry for computer science?
Most science and engineering programs require at least one of the two — check your university's admission guide, since the exact requirement varies by school.
Can I take the CSCA in English?
Mathematics, Physics and Chemistry may be offered in English or Chinese depending on the session. Professional Chinese is Chinese-only.
If I am exempt from Chinese, what do I sit?
Typically just Mathematics plus any science subject your major requires — often a single-subject ¥450 sitting.
Not sure about your route?
4 questions map you to your exact required subjects.
