Comprehensive Guide to Applying for Zhejiang University

Zhejiang University (ZJU) stands as one of China's largest and most prestigious research-oriented institutions, offering comprehensive degree programs at bachelor's, master's, and doctoral levels, along with non-degree Chinese language and exchange options. This comprehensive guide provides international applicants with the essential information needed to navigate the application process successfully, drawing from ZJU's official international admissions requirements and program catalogs.

Quick Overview of Application Channels

ZJU offers multiple pathways for international students, each with distinct requirements and application procedures:

• Degree Programs: Full-degree enrollment leading to a ZJU diploma in undergraduate, master's, or PhD programs. Applicants may apply as self-funded students or through scholarship channels such as the Chinese Government Scholarship (CSC), provincial scholarships, or ZJU internal scholarships.
• Non-degree Chinese Language & Culture Programs: Semester or short-term courses with separate fees and application windows, ideal for students looking to improve their Chinese proficiency.
• Exchange Programs: Coordinated through partner home universities with separate nomination procedures and transcript issuance at semester end.

Where to Apply

All international applicants must use ZJU's Online Application System for International Students to submit applications, upload documents, and pay fees. If online payment fails, the university provides a bank account for remittance, and you must upload proof of payment.

1. Undergraduate (Bachelor) Programs

Eligibility Requirements

• Nationality: Non-Chinese citizens with valid foreign passports
• Age: Usually under 25 years of age
• Education: High school graduates or applicants with pre-graduation certificates (diploma must be submitted by registration)

Language Requirements

• Chinese-taught programs: HSK certificate required (specific level depends on the major)
• English-taught programs: TOEFL/IELTS or equivalent for non-native English speakers

Required Documents

• Photocopy of passport (valid well beyond planned enrollment date)
• High school diploma or pre-graduation certificate
• Full high school transcripts
• Language test report (HSK or TOEFL/IELTS as applicable)
• Personal statement (Chinese or English, minimum ~800 words)
• Two recommendation letters from high school teachers
• Academic awards or certificates related to study

Fees and Deadlines

• Application fee: RMB 800 (non-refundable)
• Tuition: Varies by discipline and language of instruction
• Deadlines: Generally late February (Feb 28), with some majors extending to May 31

2. Master's Degree Programs

Eligibility Requirements

• Nationality: Non-Chinese citizens
• Age: Typically under 35 (flexibility for strong candidates)
• Education: Bachelor's degree required (pre-graduation allowed, final diploma must be submitted by registration)

Language Requirements

• Chinese-taught programs: Chinese proficiency per program rules
• English-taught programs: TOEFL/IELTS or other evidence of English proficiency

Supervisor Contact

Applicants are encouraged to search for suitable supervisors in advance and contact them. Many research programs expect a Form for Provisional Acceptance from a ZJU supervisor, which significantly strengthens the application.

Required Documents

• Passport copy and bachelor's diploma (or pre-graduation proof)
• Full undergraduate transcripts
• Language test report (HSK or TOEFL/IELTS as applicable)
• Personal statement (minimum ~1500 words, including study/work experience and research proposal)
• Two recommendation letters from professors or associate professors
• Form for Provisional Acceptance by a ZJU supervisor (if available)
• Publications or research evidence

Fees and Deadlines

• Application fee: RMB 800 (non-refundable)
• Tuition: Published by discipline, English-taught programs may have additional fees
• Deadlines: Self-funded applications typically due Feb 28, with some extending to May 31

3. Doctoral (PhD) Programs

Eligibility Requirements

• Nationality: Non-Chinese citizens
• Age: Typically under 40 (with possible flexibility)
• Education: Master's degree required (pre-graduation allowed, final diploma must be submitted by registration)

Language Requirements

Follow the doctoral language proficiency document for HSK or English test requirements depending on instruction language.

Supervisor Contact

Doctoral applicants are expected to identify and contact potential supervisors. ZJU provides a supervisor database and a Form for Provisional Acceptance that applicants should submit if possible.

Required Documents

• Passport copy and master's diploma (or pre-graduation proof)
• Full transcripts from both undergraduate and master's study
• Language test reports (HSK/TOEFL/IELTS as applicable)
• Personal statement/research proposal (minimum ~1500 words)
• Two recommendation letters from professors
• Academic evidence: published papers, patents, project proofs
• Provisional acceptance form or email from a supervisor (if available)

Fees and Deadlines

• Application fee: RMB 800 (non-refundable)
• Tuition: Published by discipline, English-taught programs may have additional fees
• Deadlines: Typical self-funded application deadline around Feb 28

4. Non-degree Chinese Language Programs

Program Structure

• Semester or short-term schedules (spring/summer vs. autumn/winter semesters)
• Placement tests determine class level
• Semesters typically run 17-18 weeks with around 18 class hours per week
• Includes electives and cultural activities

Eligibility and Requirements

• Age: Typically 18-65 for language programs
Application fee: RMB 400
• Tuition: RMB 9,000 per semester (varies by program)
• Insurance and accommodation fees apply

5. Exchange Students

Program Details

• Exchange students come via home university nomination
• No universal credit requirement imposed
• Transcripts issued at semester end and sent to home universities
• English test scores typically not required for exchange students
• Chinese course enrollment has HSK/Chinese proficiency requirements

Requirements

International students (including exchange students) must purchase mainland China comprehensive medical insurance as part of registration requirements.

6. Step-by-Step Application Process

1. Choose your target program: Check the program catalog and specific admission page for language requirements, required tests, tuition, and deadlines.
2. Register an account: Use ZJU's international student application portal and fill in the online form.
3. Prepare documents: Translate and notarize required documents, then scan and upload clear copies.
4. Secure recommendations: Obtain recommendation letters and, for graduate/PhD applicants, contact potential supervisors.
5. Pay application fee: Pay online or by bank remittance and upload proof if paying by transfer.
6. Monitor application: Check the portal and email for updates, interview invitations, or document requests.
7. Post-admission: Follow admission notice for tuition payment, visa application (X visa), insurance purchase, and registration.

7. Documentation Checklist

8. Tuition, Fees, and Payment

Fee Structure

• Application fee: RMB 800 for degree applicants, RMB 400 for non-degree language programs
• Tuition: Published per program and discipline, English instruction may add extra fees
• Payment methods: Online system or bank remittance to university account

9. Deadlines and Timing

Typical self-funded admissions have a late February (Feb 28) deadline, with some majors extending to May 31. Scholarship channels have separate deadlines, with some requiring earlier application. Always verify your specific program and scholarship deadline in the catalog and admission page.

10. Practical Application Strategies

Conclusion

Applying to Zhejiang University is straightforward when you prepare documents carefully, respect deadlines, and engage with potential supervisors early (especially for graduate and doctoral applicants). Use ZJU's online application portal for submission and consult specific program catalogs for discipline-level variations in requirements, tuition, and special requirements. With thoughtful preparation and adherence to official instructions, you'll maximize your chances of a successful application to one of China's most prestigious institutions.