CSCA Online Exam Requirements: A Complete Guide to Equipment, Environments and Rules
Planning to take the CSCA online exam? This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know, including device requirements, network setup, exam environment, rules, and the procedure for successfully completing the Remote Home Testing (RHT) proctoring process.
Core Requirements at a Glance
1. Device and Network Requirements
Dual-Device Monitoring System
CSCA online exams employ a dual-device monitoring system to ensure fairness and impartiality.
💻 Primary Device (Test Computer)
Used for answering questions and front-facing monitoring
- OS: Windows 10/11 64-bit
- Memory: ≥ 4GB RAM
- Resolution: ≥ 1366×768
- Hard Drive: ≥ 2GB available space
- Camera: ≥ 720P (1080P recommended)
- Audio: Speakers + Microphone
📱 Auxiliary Device (Mobile Phone/Tablet)
For rear 45° angle monitoring
- Device: Smartphone or tablet
- Camera: Capable of clear recording
- Position: Approximately 45° rear angle
- Mount: Tripod or stable mount
- Power: Continuous charging or fully charged
- Mode: Airplane mode + WiFi
- Windows-only support — Apple computers (MacBook, iMac, etc.), iPad, and Android tablets cannot be used for the exam. A computer running Windows must be used.
- Virtual machines are not supported — If your computer runs macOS, you cannot run Windows via "virtual machine software" (e.g., Parallels, VMware, VirtualBox) to take the exam. The exam client will detect this and refuse to run
- Dual-boot computers are not supported — Even if you have installed Windows on your Mac via Boot Camp, it cannot be used for the exam. Simply put: Apple hardware itself does not support Windows, regardless of the operating system installed
- Wireless headphones — The use of any type of wireless headphones (including AirPods, Bluetooth headphones, etc.) is strictly prohibited.
- Privacy screens — Privacy filters or anti-glare screens are not permitted.
Plain explanation: You need a "genuine" Windows computer (e.g., laptops or desktops from brands like Lenovo, Dell, HP, or Asus). Any Apple product (MacBook, iMac, iPad) or Android tablet is unacceptable, even if you manage to install Windows on them.
| Item | Requirement | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Operating System | Windows 10/11 64-bit | Windows 7 SP1 or later also acceptable; MacOS not supported |
| Screen Resolution | ≥ 1366×768 | Ensures full display of exam interface |
| Memory | ≥ 4GB | Ensures smooth operation of exam client |
| Hard Disk Space | ≥ 2GB | Not recommended for installation on C: drive |
| Webcam | ≥ 720P | Built-in or external USB webcam; 1080P recommended |
| Audio Device | Speakers + Microphone | External devices required for desktops |
| Exam Client | Official CSCA client | Must be downloaded and installed in advance |
| Power Supply | Continuous connection | Strongly recommended to use power adapter throughout |
Network Connection Requirements
| Item | Minimum Requirement | Recommended Configuration |
|---|---|---|
| Bandwidth | ≥ 20 Mbps | Symmetrical upload/download |
| Connection Speed | ≥ 500 KB/s | Actual speed to exam platform |
| Connection Type | Stable broadband | Wired connection strongly recommended |
- Preferred: Use an Ethernet cable to connect directly to the router for the most stable connection
- Preferred: Position yourself close to the router; avoid using WiFi through walls
- Alternate: Prepare a 4G mobile hotspot as an emergency backup solution
- Verify: Use the built-in speed test tool after logging into the client
2. Expert Tips for a Successful Exam
Based on real exam experience, here are key recommendations to help you avoid technical issues:
🏆 Network Stability Tips
Best Practice: Use an Ethernet Cable
If possible, connect directly to the router via Ethernet cable. This provides the most stable and reliable network connection, avoiding WiFi signal fluctuations.
Alternative: Position Near the Router
If no Ethernet cable is available, position yourself as close to the router as possible, avoiding walls or large obstacles that block the signal.
🛠️ Device Preparation Tips
Avoid installing new software 2-3 days before the exam
New software may conflict with the exam client or cause system issues. Maintain system stability.
Use the power adapter throughout the exam
For exams lasting over 4 hours, relying solely on battery power may cause performance degradation or unexpected shutdowns.
2.5 Exam Preparation Strategies and Pitfall Avoidance Guide
Six-Step Review Method (Progressive Approach)
Be bold when tackling problems; trust that you can handle them. Excessive nervousness can hinder your performance.
Study foundational knowledge thoroughly and meticulously; avoid rushing into difficult problems.
Target weak areas with focused practice and clarify any remaining uncertainties.
Review forgotten concepts and maintain an error log.
Begin tackling practice tests to gauge your mastery of the material.
Complete comprehensive practice tests of varying difficulty levels, strictly adhering to time limits to simulate real exam conditions.
❌ Pitfall 1: Obsessing Over Difficult Problems While Neglecting Fundamentals
90% of exam scores come from foundational questions. Overly focusing on challenging problems wastes time and erodes confidence. Mastering core topics like high school algebra and chemical equations is paramount.
❌ Pitfall 2: Blindly Solving Problems Without Reflection
The essence of practice lies in mastering one question type, not quantity. Repeatedly analyzing classic examples to distill problem-solving logic is more effective than solving 100 similar problems.
❌ Pitfall 3: Dividing Time Equally Across Subjects Without Prioritizing
With limited prep time, focus on strengthening weak subjects.For instance, if your chemistry foundation is weak, practice computational and experimental scenario questions extensively instead of spreading your efforts thinly across all subjects.
❌ Pitfall 4: Confusing CSCA with HSK
These two tests are complementary! HSK assesses general Chinese proficiency, while CSCA's Chinese test emphasizes specialized terminology. For programs taught in Chinese, you must meet both requirements—don't neglect either preparation.
📊 Score Value
Scores serve not only as admission criteria but also display global percentile rankings, directly reflecting your academic competitiveness.
⏱️ Time Constraints
Primarily multiple-choice for science subjects, but with a high volume (48 questions per subject) and tight time limit (60 minutes per subject). Mastering speed techniques is essential.
🎯 Subject Selection
Physics/Chemistry are mandatory for STEM majors. Select subject combinations based on your target program's requirements.
Starting in 2026, applicants for Chinese Government Scholarships must take the CSCA exam. With five testing opportunities annually, begin preparation three months in advance. Solidify your foundation + avoid common pitfalls, and top-tier university offers and scholarships will be within your reach!
3. Test Environment Requirements
Testing Space Standards
Parks, internet cafes, restaurants, open-plan offices, and other public or non-enclosed spaces
| Allowed ✅ | Prohibited ❌ |
|---|---|
| Standard desk and chair | Bed, sofa, lap |
| Computer, keyboard, mouse | Mobile phones (except assistive devices) |
| Whiteboard + erasable markers | Books, notes |
| Clear document holder + blank paper | Scratch paper, sticky notes |
| ID card, admission ticket | Pencils, ballpoint pens |
Drafting Tools Policy
✅ Permitted
- Whiteboard + erasable marker
- White paper in transparent document folder + erasable pen
❌ Prohibited
- Regular Draft Paper, Sticky Notes
- Pencils, ballpoint pens
- Any other paper materials
Before and after the exam, you must show the whiteboard or transparent document pouch to the proctor. At the end of the exam, you must erase all notes in the presence of the proctor; failure to do so will be considered a violation.
Primary Camera (Computer):
- Positioned above the screen, facing the examinee
- Clearly captures the full face and shoulders centered front-on
- Clean background with adequate lighting
- Must remain stationary, uncovered, and operational throughout
Secondary Camera (Phone/Tablet):
- Positioned approximately 45° behind the candidate
- Clearly showing the candidate's profile, shoulders, arms, hands, and computer screen
- Secured using a stable mount
4. Exam Rules and Conduct
Pre-exam Checks and Preparation
📋 Mandatory Pre-Exam Steps
- Platform Test: Verify that the exam client, camera, microphone, and network environment meet requirements
- Mock Exam: Strongly recommended to participate in the official CSCA-organized mock exam to familiarize yourself with the entire process
Candidates must log in and complete device setup 30-60 minutes before the exam starts. Candidates who have not completed verification after the exam begins will not be permitted to enter.
Candidates must complete the following verification steps:
- Log in using admission ticket number and password
- Complete facial recognition verification
- ID information must exactly match admission ticket details
Monitoring Requirements
| Monitoring Item | Specific Requirements |
|---|---|
| Camera | Primary and secondary device cameras must remain active throughout; must not be covered or turned off |
| Microphone | Must function properly, capturing ambient sound throughout |
| Video Quality | Clear image with sufficient lighting; proctors must clearly recognize face |
| Device Status | Secondary device connected to stable power source; close non-essential apps; enable Do Not Disturb mode |
Prohibited Actions During Exams
❌ Devices and Software
- Switching screens or using multiple monitors
- Running non-exam applications
- Remote access or screen sharing
- Using wireless headphones
❌ Conduct
- Leaving your seat
- Communicating with others
- Wearing face-obscuring accessories
- Any form of cheating
The system will automatically submit your exam at the end of the allotted time. Early submission is not permitted.
| Violation Severity | Consequences |
|---|---|
| Minor Violation | Cancellation of current exam score |
| Serious Violation | Cancellation of score + Two-year ban on all CSCA exams |
| Extremely Serious Violation | All historical scores canceled + Permanent ban from CSCA exams |
| Involving Illegal Activities | Referred to judicial authorities, may impact study eligibility and visa applications in China |
5. Exam Day Procedures
Exam Day Timeline
60 minutes before exam ──●── Log in to system, begin device check
│
│ ✓ Disable antivirus software and non-exam applications
│ ✓ Verify network stability
│ ✓ Ensure power connection
│
30 minutes before exam ──●── Complete identity verification
│
│ ✓ Enter admission ticket number and password
│ ✓ Complete facial recognition
│ ✓ Connect auxiliary devices
│
Exam Start ──●── System enters full-screen mode
│
│ ✓ Read and confirm the Integrity Pledge
│ ✓ Begin timed answering
│
During Exam ──●── Continuous monitoring of responses
│
│ ✓ System automatically saves answers
│ ✓ Note question number colors(Green = Answered)
│ ✓ Manage time effectively
│
Exam Ended ──●── System automatically submits
│
│ ✓ Wait for "Submission Successful" message
│ ✓ Display and erase whiteboard notes
│ ✓ Exit client (save files)
💻 Primary Device Preparation
- ☐ Disable antivirus software
- ☐ Close non-exam applications
- ☐ Check network stability
- ☐ Connect power adapter
- ☐ Test camera and microphone
📱 Prepare auxiliary devices
- ☐ Launch proctoring application
- ☐ Position at a 45° angle behind the subject
- ☐ Enable Airplane Mode + WiFi
- ☐ Enable Do Not Disturb mode
- ☐ Connect charger
Troubleshooting
- Network Disconnection: You may log back in to continue; the system will retain your previous progress.
- Other issues: Immediately contact the proctor via the exam client or monitoring application
6. Scores and Reports
Exam results are typically released within 7 business days after the test date. Log in to your CSCA account at www.csca.cn to view and download your electronic score report. Notices regarding any delays will be posted on the official website.
Score Validity and Usage
💡 How Universities Use CSCA Scores
- Purpose: A key reference for undergraduate admissions at Chinese universities and a mandatory requirement for Chinese Government Scholarship evaluations
- Validity Period: Score reports remain valid for two years from the date of issuance
- Verification: Universities can validate score authenticity and view global percentile rankings through the official system
7. Frequently Asked Questions
A. Registration & Eligibility
Q1: Who is eligible to take the CSCA exam?
The CSCA is designed exclusively for non-Chinese citizens planning to apply for undergraduate programs at mainland Chinese universities. Individuals holding a Chinese passport or a Hong Kong, Macau, or Taiwan Resident Permit are not eligible to register.
Q2: Are there age restrictions for registration?
There are no age restrictions. However, candidates under 14 years of age must complete registration with parental consent and assistance.
Q3: How do I register?
Candidates must create an account on the official CSCA website, complete all required information, and pay the examination fee. Registration is considered complete upon receipt of a confirmation email.
Q4: What should I prepare before registering?
- A valid and accessible email address
- Valid identification (e.g., passport)
- Digital ID photo
- Credit card information (Visa or MasterCard accepted)
Q5: Is a passport required for registration?
A passport is not the only acceptable form of identification, but it is the most widely used among international candidates. If your passport is nearing expiration, it is strongly recommended to renew it promptly. The identification document presented on exam day must be valid; expired documents will be rejected.
Q6: Can I choose different exam languages for different subjects?
Yes. Core subjects (Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry) can be taken in either Chinese or English. Chinese-language specialized subjects are only available in Chinese.
Q7: Can I modify my application after submission?
Application information is locked once submitted. Any changes must be requested before the admission ticket is generated. Once issued, the admission ticket cannot be altered.
Q8: Can I take the CSCA exam multiple times?
Yes. There is no limit on the number of attempts. Each score is valid for two years. Candidates may submit their best valid score when applying, subject to the receiving institution's policies.
B. Pre-Exam Preparation
Q9: What equipment is required for the Remote Home Test (RHT)?
Candidates must prepare one compliant primary device (computer) and one secondary device (smartphone or tablet). The primary device is used for answering questions and front-facing monitoring. The secondary device must be positioned at a 45-degree angle behind the primary device to capture the entire exam process.
Q10: Can I take the exam using a Mac/iPad/Android tablet?
No. The CSCA exam client currently only supports Windows systems. The following devices cannot be used for the exam:
- Apple computers (MacBook, iMac) — Not supported even with dual-boot Windows (Boot Camp)
- iPad — Not supported, regardless of keyboard connection
- Android tablets — Not supported for any Android tablet brand
- Virtual machines — Windows cannot be run via Parallels, VMware, or similar software on Apple systems for the exam
Solution: You must borrow or purchase a Windows computer (e.g., laptops or desktops from Lenovo, Dell, HP, Asus, etc.). Ensure your device is ready and passes the platform test at least one week before the exam.
Q11: What are the requirements for network speed and stability?
RHT requires a minimum of 20 Mbps symmetrical upload/download bandwidth and at least 500 KB/s connection speed to the exam system. A wired broadband connection is strongly recommended. Close all non-essential software and background processes on exam day.
Q12: Does RHT permit the use of scratch paper?
Traditional paper scratch paper, sticky notes, or other paper materials are not permitted. However, candidates may use a small whiteboard with an erasable marker or place a sheet of white paper inside a transparent document pouch, writing on the pouch's surface with an erasable marker.
Q13: Are there platform tests or mock tests before the official exam?
Yes. Candidates are strongly advised to participate in:
- Platform Test: Verify that your device and network meet technical requirements
- Scheduled Mock Test: Fully simulate the official RHT process to familiarize yourself with the interface and identify potential issues
C. Test Day Procedures and Rules
Q14: How early should I log in to the system?
Candidates may log in up to 60 minutes before the test begins to complete device checks, facial recognition, and identity verification.Login is not permitted after the exam officially begins.
Q15: What if I forget my admission ticket or ID?
Your admission ticket contains login credentials, and ID is required for identity verification. Without both, you cannot access the exam system. In either case, you will be marked as absent and receive no refund.
Q16: What if I encounter technical issues during the exam?
Candidates may contact proctors for assistance via the exam client or monitoring application. Technical support teams and proctors will provide remote troubleshooting assistance.
Q17: Can I submit the exam early?
All candidates must complete the exam within the allotted time. The system will automatically submit answers upon time expiration. Early submission or unauthorized departure will be considered a violation, except for approved medical or emergency situations.
D. Exam Results
Q18: When will exam results be released?
Exam results will be published within seven (7) business days after the exam. Any delays due to special circumstances will be announced on the official website.
Q19: How do I obtain and send my score report?
After results are released, candidates may log into the CSCA official registration system to download their electronic score report. This electronic document is the official, valid record recognized by all institutions accepting CSCA scores. Candidates need not request separate score mailings and may submit it directly to their application institutions.
E. Technical Troubleshooting
Q20: What should I do if I cannot log in to the system?
Solution:
- Check your login username and password
- Important Note: The password is NOT your website registration password—it is the password shown on your admission ticket
- The username is your admission ticket number
- Verify that your network connection is working properly
Q21: What should I do if facial recognition fails?
Solution:
- Adjust lighting conditions to ensure your face is evenly and adequately lit
- Change the recognition angle and face the camera directly
- Adjust the background to a plain, simple backdrop
- Check if your network speed is stable
Q22: What should I do if the system freezes or disconnects during a mock exam or official exam?
Solution:
- Check your network connection status
- Try switching networks (e.g., from WiFi to wired, or use a 4G hotspot as backup)
- Signal the proctor (speak directly to the camera or click the button to call the proctor)
- Tip: The system will retain your previous progress, and you can continue the exam after logging back in
8. Self-Service Troubleshooting Guide
Here are common issues you can resolve yourself. We recommend performing a self-check 2-3 days before the exam to allow time to resolve any potential issues.
Monitor Count Issues
Problem: Multiple monitors detected
- Disconnect external monitors — Unplug external monitor cables (HDMI/VGA/DP); for laptops, ensure no external displays are connected
- Change projection settings — Press
Win + P, select "PC screen only" - Check display settings — Right-click desktop → Display settings, confirm only one monitor is shown
System Proxy Issues
Problem: System proxy is enabled (may cause network connection issues)
- Press
Win + Ito open Settings - Click "Network & Internet"
- Click "Proxy" on the left sidebar
- Set "Use a proxy server" to "Off"
- Press
Win + R, typeinetcpl.cpl, press Enter - Click the "Connections" tab
- Click "LAN settings"
- Uncheck "Use a proxy server for your LAN"
- Click "OK"
Network Connection Issues
Problem: Cannot connect to CSCA exam server (ly.csca.cn)
- Check network connection — Confirm your computer is connected to the network (wired or WiFi), try opening other websites to test
- Disable VPN and proxy — Completely close all VPN software, disable system proxy
- Check firewall — Temporarily disable Windows Firewall to test, or add an exception rule
- Flush DNS — Open Command Prompt as administrator, type
ipconfig /flushdns - Restart router — Turn off router power, wait 30 seconds, then turn it back on
- Contact network administrator — If on a school/company network, confirm ly.csca.cn is not blocked by firewall
Insufficient Memory Issues
Problem: Insufficient available memory (at least 2GB recommended)
- Close unnecessary programs — Press
Ctrl + Shift + Escto open Task Manager, end programs using large amounts of memory - Close background apps — Close browsers (especially Chrome), Office applications, chat software
- Restart computer — Memory is released after restart; run the checker tool first before opening other programs
- Disable startup items — Task Manager → "Startup" tab → Disable unnecessary startup items → Restart
VPN/Proxy Software Issues
Problem: VPN or proxy software detected running
Clash / Clash for Windows:
- Right-click the system tray icon
- Click "Exit"
- Confirm the process has ended in Task Manager
V2RayN:
- Right-click the system tray icon
- Select "Exit"
- Check that proxy settings have been restored
Other VPNs (NordVPN, ExpressVPN, OpenVPN, etc.):
- Disconnect and completely exit the application
- Check that system proxy settings are disabled
Remote Control Software Issues
Problem: Remote control software detected running (TeamViewer, AnyDesk, ToDesk, etc.)
- Completely exit the software — Find the software icon in the system tray (bottom right), right-click → "Exit" (not minimize)
- Check background services — Open Task Manager → Services, find related services and stop them
- Uninstall (if not needed) — Control Panel → Programs and Features → Find software → Uninstall
Antivirus Software Issues
Problem: Antivirus software may interfere with the exam client
| Software | Steps |
|---|---|
| 360 Security | Right-click tray icon → "Exit" |
| Tencent PC Manager | Right-click tray icon → "Exit PC Manager" |
| Kingsoft Antivirus | Open software → Settings → "Exit" |
| Other antivirus | Right-click tray icon → "Temporarily disable protection" |
Remember to re-enable antivirus software after the exam!
Exam Client Startup Issues
Problem: Double-clicking the startup file does nothing or shows an error
| Cause | Solution |
|---|---|
| Not running as administrator | Right-click → "Run as administrator" |
| Windows Defender blocking | Click "More info" → "Run anyway" |
| Path contains special characters | Move files to a simple path, e.g., C:\CSCA\ |
| Antivirus false positive | Add the exam client to your antivirus whitelist |
Error: "Cannot load file because running scripts is disabled on this system"
- Open PowerShell as administrator
- Type:
Set-ExecutionPolicy -ExecutionPolicy Bypass -Scope CurrentUser - Type Y to confirm
Error: "File contains a virus or potentially unwanted software"
- This is a false positive; add the file to your antivirus whitelist
Quick Self-Check Checklist
Before the exam, please verify the following:
| Check Item | Status |
|---|---|
| ☐ Using only one monitor | |
| ☐ All VPN and proxy software closed | |
| ☐ System proxy settings disabled | |
| ☐ Remote control software closed (TeamViewer, AnyDesk, etc.) | |
| ☐ Screen recording software closed (OBS, Bandicam, etc.) | |
| ☐ Available memory ≥ 2GB | |
| ☐ Can access ly.csca.cn normally | |
| ☐ Running exam client as administrator | |
| ☐ Computer connected to power | |
| ☐ Network stable (wired connection recommended) |
Next Steps
our online practice system to familiarize yourself with the exam format and difficulty level
Review the 2026 CSCA exam schedule to plan your preparation
Browse the university database to find ideal institutions that accept CSCA scores
Review city guides to learn about living costs and environments in different cities
Official Website: www.csca.cn
Official Contact: cscasupport@cscdf.org
This guide is based on the official CSCA guidelines. For the latest information, please visit the official website.