USTC is a C9 research university founded by the Chinese Academy of Sciences in 1958. This guide compiles the official 2025/2026 admissions policies into a clear, step‑by‑step pathway for international students.
Use alongside our C9 League Guide, CSC Scholarship Guide, and University Database.
Overview & Quick Facts
- International office: USTC International College
- Main portal: ISA online application system (register/login)
- Strengths: Science, engineering, CAS‑linked research training
Who Should Apply (Eligibility)
- Non‑Chinese citizens; good physical and mental health
- Master’s: Bachelor’s degree (or pre‑graduation certificate)
- PhD: Master’s degree (or pre‑graduation certificate)
- Typical age: Master’s under 40; PhD under 45 (check scholarship caps)
- Language: HSK for Chinese‑taught; IELTS/TOEFL for English‑taught where required
Details: Eligibility & Instructions
Programs, Language & Supervisor Contact
Department pages list programs and requirements. You don’t need a supervisor at submission; interviews and supervisor contact may be arranged later.
Browse: USTC English site • International College
2025 Application Timeline
- Online window: Oct 20, 2024 — Feb 15, 2025
- Assessments: Feb–Mar (online interview/assessment)
- Decisions: June–July
Always confirm department‑specific deadlines.
Step‑by‑Step Application (ISA)
- Create account at ISA and start application.
- Fill personal info, education history, program choice; upload documents.
- Attend online assessment/interview if shortlisted.
- Await admission and receive Admission Notice + JW201/JW202 for visa.
Payment tips: see our China payment guide. After admission, prepare the X1 visa.
Required Documents
- Passport copy (valid ≥ 1 year)
- Study/research proposal (≥ 800 words)
- CV/resume
- Two recommendation letters
- Foreigner Physical Examination Form
- Degree certificates + transcripts (notarized; with EN/ZH translations if needed)
- Language certificates (HSK / IELTS / TOEFL as required)
- Other program‑specific items (portfolio, tests) if requested
Assessment & Admission
Selection is based on academics, proposal quality, recommendations, and online assessment performance; departments make final decisions.
Tuition, Fees & Scholarships
- Tuition (reference): PhD 35,000 RMB/year; Master’s 30,000 RMB/year
- Accommodation: On‑campus dorms ~500–1,000 RMB/month (by room type)
- USTC Fellowships: Up to ~7,000 RMB/month (PhD) / ~3,000 RMB/month (Master’s) plus tuition/insurance/accommodation subsidy for top candidates
- Other Scholarships: CAS‑ANSO, national/external calls posted on International College pages
Start with Fees & Scholarships. Also review our CSC Scholarship Guide for alternatives.
Visa, Arrival & Registration
Use Admission Notice and JW201/JW202 to apply for an X1 visa, then complete on‑campus registration as instructed by USTC International College.
Accommodation, Living Costs & Campus Life
Secure dorms early after admission; Hefei living costs are generally lower than Beijing/Shanghai. Check International College pages or contact staff for current guidance.
Practical Checklist
- Choose program and confirm language on USTC/department pages.
- Prepare notarized degree/transcripts (+ translations if needed).
- Draft study/research proposal (≥ 800 words).
- Arrange two academic referees and obtain letters.
- Register on ISA and submit by Feb 15, 2025 (typical window).
- Prepare HSK/IELTS/TOEFL as required.
- Monitor email for assessment notifications and respond quickly.
- After admission, apply for X1 visa and plan arrival/registration.
Also take our China Study Test to assess fit and browse Application Tips for writing statements.
Official Links
- International College: https://ic.ustc.edu.cn/en/
- Eligibility & Guide: Admissions instructions
- ISA Online Application: Apply online
- USTC English Site: https://en.ustc.edu.cn/
- Fees & Scholarships: Summary
- Fellowships: Doctoral • Master’s