College in China vs US College Admissions
The US university admissions process is complex. If you aren’t already familiar with it, learning how to navigate the many steps required to gain entry to top US colleges and universities can be intimidating. However many students from all over the world apply to US colleges every year. In fact, China is the leading country of origin for US international students, meaning that plenty of Chinese students choose to forgo college in China to study in the US.
However, as an international applicant, you may not know what exactly to expect from the US college application process. In this article, we will explore the similarities and differences between college in China vs the US. We’ll review application requirements, college admissions essays, and cost considerations, as well as the importance of education in China.
We’ll discuss:
- Quick facts about college in China vs US
- What the college admissions process is like in the US
- How to apply to Chinese universities
- Considerations for first-generation and international students
- How to pay for college in the US
- Tips for navigating the US college admissions process
We hope that by the end of this article, you will have a better understanding of requirements for college in China vs US. And, that you’ll feel more comfortable tackling US college applications.
To start, let’s begin with a brief overview.
College in the US vs China: Quick Facts
For decades, the majority of international students in US schools have been from China. From 2010-2020, there was a steady increase in Chinese students studying in the US, reaching peak enrollment numbers just before the COVID-19 pandemic. However, since then, there’s been a persistent downward trend in Chinese international students. This could be due to a host of factors and considerations, including cost, safety, and politics, as well as the lasting effects of the pandemic.
Though enrollment is still lower than it was pre-pandemic, thousands of students from China are still pursuing degrees in the United States. So, let’s take a quick glance at some of the similarities and differences between college in China vs U.S.
College in China vs. U.S Colleges
| United States | China | |
| Types of colleges | – Public Universities – Private Universities – Community Colleges – Technical Schools | – Comprehensive Universities – Technical Institutes – Normal Universities – Vocational Colleges |
| Top rated colleges | – Harvard University – Massachusetts Institute of Technology – Stanford University – Princeton University – Yale University | – Tsinghua University – Peking University – Fudan University – Zhejiang University – Shanghai Jiao Tong University |
| Types of degrees | – Associate’s – Bachelor’s – Master’s – Doctoral | – Bachelor’s – Master’s – Doctoral |
| Academic quality/reputation | – Highly regarded – Diverse and specialized programs – Strong research programs | – Strong STEM offerings – Emphasis on research |
| Curriculum/flexibility | – Flexible curriculum – Elective courses – Opportunities for double majors | – Rigid curriculum – Standardized courses |
| Career opportunities post grad | – Less new graduates being hired into the job market – Higher underemployment; more college graduates working jobs that do not require a college degree | – Record number of college graduates – Unemployment rates growing amongst young people – Government is working to create new job opportunities |
If you’re considering applying to college as an international student, it is important to understand the differences in college admission requirements for higher education in China vs the US. In the following sections, we’ll do a deep dive into the US admissions process and how it compares to college admissions in China.
US College Admissions vs. College in China
Students applying to schools outside of their home country must successfully navigate different university admissions requirements. As you begin your research, you’ll find some college admissions requirements for applying to college in China and the US are in fact similar. For one, both countries utilize standardized testing in the admissions process.
However, when you look at the “how” of admissions side by side, you’ll see the process of how students are evaluated and eventually admitted is actually quite different. So, let’s learn a bit more about what the process actually looks like. We will also provide tips and considerations for international students to help you succeed in your college applications, whether you choose to study at a college in China or the US.
Applying to College in the US
To begin, let’s review some recent trends in US university admissions. In the past decade, we’ve seen a significant increase in the number of college applications submitted per student. As a result, acceptance rates at top universities have decreased due to the higher number of applications. For instance, Ivy League schools often have acceptance rates below 10%. However, when you look outside of these ultra-selective schools, you’ll find that many US schools have far higher acceptance rates.
As for cost, the application fee for each college ranges from $50 to $100. Additionally, you may also have to pay for standardized test fees, score reports, and travel to campuses for interviews or campus visits. However, students with demonstrated financial need can often apply for fee waivers via their selected application platform or institution.
Application platforms and common requirements
The Common App and Coalition Application are the most widely used US application platforms. However, some US schools, like MIT and Georgetown, require students to use their own application systems. While college admissions requirements tend to be similar across schools, you may encounter supplemental questions or specific requirements not found on other applications.
Here are some of the common college admissions requirements for US college applications:
Common US College Admissions Requirements
- Deadlines:
- Early Decision/Early Action: Applications are typically due in November, with decisions released in December. Early Decision is binding, while Early Action is not.
- Regular Decision: Applications are generally due between January and February, with decisions released in March or April.
- Rolling Admissions: Applications are reviewed as they are received, and decisions are made throughout the admissions cycle. Applying by priority deadlines can help boost your admissions odds.
- Personal Statement:
- A college admissions essay that allows you to showcase your personality and experiences beyond what may be on your transcript and resume.
- Supplemental Essays:
- Many colleges require additional college admissions essays specific to their institution, often focusing on why you are interested in that school.
- Letters of Recommendation:
- Usually, colleges require 2-3 college admission letters of recommendation from teachers and counselors who can speak to your qualifications.
- Transcripts:
- Official academic records from your high school, detailing your coursework, grades, and GPA.
- Standardized Testing:
- SAT/ACT: Most colleges require either the SAT or ACT scores as part of the application. Some schools have adopted test-optional policies.
For a more detailed review of the US admissions process and how to increase your chances of admission, check out our page on college applications.
The Holistic Admissions Process
In the US, many colleges and universities perform a holistic admissions review. This means that they look at your application as a whole, rather than focusing only on your academic performance. This comprehensive approach ensures that the admissions committee gets a full picture of your capabilities, experiences, and how you may fit into their campus community.
Some factors considered in the holistic university admissions process are your academic records, college admissions essays, and college admission letters of recommendation written by your teachers and counselors. The various components gives you the opportunity to create a balanced and compelling application narrative, emphasizing your strengths and assuaging any potential concerns.
Approaching College Applications as a First-Generation Student
The university admissions process as a first-generation student can be uniquely challenging. Without the advantage of familial guidance through your university admissions process, you may have trouble figuring out where to start.
One challenge you may face as a first-generation student is a general lack of familiarity with the process, like how to research colleges, complete applications, and meet deadlines. Another common challenge faced by first-gen students are financial constraints. First-gen students may come from low-income families, making it difficult to manage application and standardized test fees. Finally, first-gen students may be unsure where to turn to for guidance or how to balance responsibilities like school, part-time jobs, and family obligations.
However, there are many resources available to help students successfully navigate the university admissions process. When beginning your college search and application process, be sure to take advantage of resources such as:
- College counseling and mentorship programs
- Online resources like CollegeAdvisor
- School and community support
- Peer networks for foreign students
By using these resources, you can successfully navigate the university admissions process and take confident steps toward higher education in China or the US.
Considerations for International Applicants
Before you begin your college application process as an international applicant, take some time to consider what will be required of you. Be sure that you are prepared for the additional requirements for international applicants, including English language tests.
International applicants whose first language is not English are typically required to demonstrate proficiency in English. Common tests include TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) and IELTS (International English Language Testing System). Additionally, keep in mind all your application materials must be submitted in English. This includes your transcripts, college admission letters of recommendation, essays, and personal statements.
Students will also need to look into taking standardized tests like the SAT or ACT. Submitting strong test scores is a great opportunity to boost your chances and demonstrate you have the same abilities as your fellow applicants. However, some US schools are now accepting international exam scores in place of the SAT or ACT, including the GaoKao.
Once you have been admitted, international students will need to obtain a student visa to study in the US. This process involves receiving an I-20 or DS-2019 form from your university, paying the SEVIS fee, and scheduling a visa interview at a US embassy.
Applying to College in China
Now, let’s explore the question of how to apply to Chinese universities. Applying to college in China involves a structured and competitive process, which reflects the importance of education in China. Here’s a detailed overview of the general application process for attending college in China.
The National Higher Education Entrance Examination
The GaoKao is the primary entrance examination for college in China. This exam assesses your readiness for higher education in China and plays a critical role in determining your admission and your major.
The exam structure includes subjects like Chinese, math, a foreign language (usually English), and either a science or humanities track. Your score on the GaoKao serves as the primary criteria for admission to college in China. The maximum score varies by province but usually ranges from 600 to 750. The GaoKao is usually held in early June, with results released later in the month.
China’s admissions system
The previous, traditional mechanism, the independent admission (IA) system, allowed students to apply to specific colleges in China before taking the GaoKao. Now, there has been a shift to the parallel admission (PA) mechanism, which allows you to list several colleges in China in order of preference after receiving your GaoKao scores. This system increases the chances of being admitted to your preferred college in China, optimizing the matching process.
There has been a noticeable increase in early admissions programs, like early decision and action in the US. As a result, acceptance rates at top colleges in China are very low, often less than 1%. With the new PA system, students often list 6-10 universities to maximize their chances of admission. In terms of cost, tuition rates for colleges in China are generally lower than in the US.
Requirements for Foreign Students Studying Abroad
Foreign students looking to pursue higher education in China face a different set of eligibility requirements compared to local students. Let’s look at how to apply to Chinese universities for those seeking higher education in China as foreign students.
For programs taught in Chinese, students typically need to demonstrate proficiency in the language. This is often done through the HSK (Hanyu Shuiping Kaoshi), the official Chinese proficiency test.
Many colleges in China offer programs taught in English to attract international students. For these programs, students are required to demonstrate proficiency in English. This can be done through standardized tests such as TOEFL or IELTS. Minimum score requirements vary by institution but generally range from 80-100 for TOEFL and 6.0-7.0 for IELTS.
Unlike local students, foreign students are not required to take the Gaokao. Instead, the college in China you are interested in may have their own entrance exams or assessments tailored for international applicants.
Like colleges in the US, foreign students looking to attend college in China will need to complete the university’s application form, a personal essay, and have college admission letters of recommendation. Additionally, students will need a valid passport and student visa to study at a college in China.
To attend college in China, you may need to provide a medical exam report to ensure that you are in good health and free from infectious diseases. You may also be required to purchase health insurance to cover medical expenses during your time in China, something you should keep on your radar when deciding to study abroad.
By understanding these requirements and being prepared to complete your application properly, you can navigate the application process and successfully enroll in a college in China.
Comparing College Costs: US vs China
In general, the cost of attending college in the US is much higher than the cost of higher education in China. This difference is influenced by various factors, including tuition, length of program, available financial aid, and cost of living, to name a few.
Let’s look at average tuition rates in the US:
Average Tuition Rates in the US
- Public Universities:
- In-State Tuition: The average in-state tuition for public universities is around $10,000 per year.
- Out-of-State Tuition: The average out-of-state tuition is approximately $27,000 per year.
- Private Universities: Tuition at private universities averages around $38,000 per year, with top-tier institutions charging upwards of $50,000 to $60,000 per year.
- Community Colleges: These institutions offer lower tuition rates, averaging around $3,500 per year for in-district students.
- Graduate Programs: Tuition for graduate programs varies widely, typically ranging from $20,000 to $45,000 per year depending on the field of study and institution.
Now, let’s look at average tuition rates for higher education in China:
Average Tuition Rates in China
- Public Universities: Tuition fees for public universities in China are significantly lower, averaging around ¥5,000 to ¥10,000 per year which is about 700 to 1,400 US dollars.
- Private Universities: Tuition at private universities can be higher, averaging around ¥20,000 to ¥30,000 per year which is approximately $2,800 to $4,200.
- Graduate Programs: Graduate tuition fees are also relatively low, typically ranging from ¥10,000 to ¥30,000 per year which is roughly $1,400 to $4,200.
In terms of student debt, the US has one of the highest levels of student debt in the world. The high tuition costs and cost of living contribute to student debt and may take decades to repay. Conversely, student debt in China is relatively low. The lower tuition fees and various government programs allow for less reliance on student loans. Given the importance of education in China, it’s encouraging that students attending college in China typically graduate with less debt than their American peers.
Paying for College in the US
Regardless of overall cost, actually paying for college in the US varies for domestic and international applicants. US applicants are eligible for federal and state financial aid, institutional aid, and private scholarships. Therefore, US domestic students complete the FAFSA and the CSS Profile for aid.
On the other hand, international applicants are not eligible for federal and state aid. So, you’ll have to rely more on institutional scholarships, private scholarships, and personal funds. Some schools require the CSS Profile for international students seeking aid.
While there are discrepancies in the availability of federal and state aid, both US and international applicants are eligible for scholarships, like merit-based, need-based, and external scholarships.
Financial aid for international applicants
Now, let’s talk about some specific avenues of financial assistance for international students. First up is institutional aid. Many US colleges offer need-based and merit-based aid to international students. Check your desired college’s website to see what scholarships and aid opportunities may be available to you.
When figuring out how to pay for your education, make sure you’re doing individualized financial aid searches. Look for scholarships specific to your background, nationality, interested field of study, and extracurricular activities.
While paying for college in the US can be challenging, especially for international students, numerous resources are available. Tailoring your search for financial aid to your specific circumstances will make the financial planning process easier.
Tips for Applying to College in the US vs. College in China
Before we wrap up, here are our top three tips for applying to college as an international applicant:
Tips for Applying to American vs. Chinese Colleges
1. Understand the application process
Before you get started, make sure you have researched and are aware of the application process and requirements of the schools you wish to apply to. Create a checklist of what you need to include in your application, including transcripts, coursework, standardized test scores, personal statements, and letters of recommendation.
2. Research and consider costs
When deciding whether to attend college in China or the US, make sure to consider what it is going to cost you. Higher education in China is generally cheaper than the US. You will want to familiarize yourself with financial aid and scholarship opportunities that may be available to you. Finally, be sure to plan for the cost of living wherever you choose to go. Do not forget to factor in housing, food, transportation, and other personal expenses when budgeting for your education.
3. Explore various programs and their offerings
Be sure to do your research on the different programs and offerings that you’re interested in. Look into the faculty, resources, and research opportunities your desired program offers. You will also want to consider the campus culture, size, and location. Finally, look into support services available for international students, like orientation programs, academic advising, and career services for support adjusting to the new cultural environment.
Keep these tips in mind, and remember you can always reach out to a college counselor for more personalized guidance! And remember, the holistic review process ensures that admissions officers evaluate the whole applicant, not just their test scores. This gives you freedom to showcase other aspects of yourself through your personal essays, recommendations, and extracurricular activities.
US College Admissions vs. China: A Guide for First-Gen Applicants
We hope that this article has given you a better idea of the differences between the admissions process and requirements for US colleges and colleges in China. Let’s review some of the key points of this article.
College admission in the US uses the holistic admissions process, which ensures that admissions officers consider academics, extracurriculars, essays, and recommendations. While standardized tests (SAT/ACT) and your GPA are important, they are not the sole criteria considered. In the US, students apply individually to each institution, so applications include multiple elements to develop a well-rounded profile.
Given the importance of education in China with a heavy emphasis on academic performance, admission to college in China is highly competitive. Moreover, it is highly dependent on academic performance on the Gaokao exam. For college in China, students can rank their college preferences. However, their Gaokao scores are the main factor in admissions decisions.
Advice for International applicants
International applicants applying to schools in the US need to submit proof of language proficiency in English through the TOEFL or IELTS. Academic records must also be reported in English and evaluated for US equivalency. International applicants will need to secure a student visa (F-1) to study in the States. The high cost of attendance at US universities can also be a barrier, so be sure to explore scholarships and make a plan to pay for your education.
As you start your college journey, remember that CollegeAdvisor is here to help you navigate the US college admissions requirements and process. Be sure to take advantage of our resources like personalized application guidance, personal and supplemental essay support, and advice on paying for college.
This article was written by advisor Bailey Bennett. Looking for more admissions support? Click here to schedule a free meeting with one of our Admissions Specialists. During your meeting, our team will discuss your profile and help you find targeted ways to increase your admissions odds at top schools. We’ll also answer any questions and discuss how CollegeAdvisor.com can support you in the college application process.
