The medical examination is a mandatory part of every CSC scholarship application. You cannot skip it. The exam must follow a specific format using the official “Foreigner Physical Examination Form” issued by the Chinese government. If you skip tests or use the wrong form, your application may be rejected for incomplete documentation.
Here is everything you need to know.
The official form
The form is called the “Foreigner Physical Examination Form” (外国人体格检查表). It is a standardized form that your doctor fills out during the examination. You can download it from:
- The CSC Study in China website (campuschina.org)
- Your target university’s international student website
- Your country’s Chinese embassy website
The form has multiple sections that must all be completed. Partial forms are rejected.
Required tests
| Test | What it covers |
|---|---|
| General physical exam | Height, weight, blood pressure, heart rate, vision, hearing |
| Blood test | Complete blood count, liver function, kidney function, blood sugar |
| HIV test | Standard HIV antibody test |
| Syphilis test (RPR/VDRL) | Standard screening |
| Hepatitis B surface antigen | HBsAg test |
| Chest X-ray | Screening for tuberculosis and other lung conditions |
| Electrocardiogram (ECG) | Heart rhythm assessment |
| Urinalysis | Standard urine test |
| Abdominal ultrasound | Some clinics include this; not always required but often done |
Some clinics or hospitals include additional tests. More is generally fine. Less can cause problems. When in doubt, complete every section on the form.
Where to get the exam
You must go to a licensed medical facility. Options include:
- Government hospitals: Often the most affordable option. May require booking in advance.
- Private clinics or international hospitals: Usually faster but more expensive.
- Designated medical centers: Some countries have specific clinics authorized for Chinese visa/scholarship medical exams. Check with your Chinese embassy.
The doctor must sign the form, the hospital must stamp it, and photos must be attached to the form.
Cost
Medical examination costs vary widely by country:
| Country | Approximate Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Pakistan | $30-60 |
| Nigeria | $50-100 |
| Indonesia | $40-80 |
| Bangladesh | $30-50 |
| Kenya | $40-70 |
| India | $30-60 |
| Philippines | $50-80 |
| Egypt | $40-70 |
These are estimates. Actual costs depend on the hospital and whether any follow-up tests are needed.
Validity period
The medical examination is valid for 6 months from the date of the examination. If your exam was done in November 2025, it expires in May 2026. If your enrollment is in September 2026, you would need to get the exam done in March 2026 or later.
Plan the timing carefully. Too early, and it expires before you need it. Too late, and you might miss the application deadline.
For most applicants applying by March 2026, getting the exam done in January or February 2026 is ideal.
Tips for a smooth examination
Fast before the exam. Most blood tests require 8-12 hours of fasting. Schedule your appointment for the morning and do not eat after dinner the previous night.
Bring your passport. The form requires your passport number, and the clinic needs to verify your identity.
Bring passport photos. The form requires 2-3 photos attached. Bring extras in case the clinic needs more.
Print the form in advance. Do not expect the clinic to have the Chinese medical examination form. Print it yourself and bring it. Some clinics will charge extra just to print it for you.
Wear comfortable clothes. You will need to change for the chest X-ray. Avoid clothing with metal buttons or underwire.
Ask about turnaround time. Blood test results often take 2-5 business days. If you need results urgently, ask if rush processing is available (usually at extra cost).
Get multiple copies. Request 2-3 certified copies of the completed form. You may need one for the embassy, one for the university, and one for your own records.
What if a test comes back abnormal?
Minor abnormalities are usually not a problem. Slightly elevated blood pressure or marginally high cholesterol will not disqualify you.
However, certain conditions can affect your application:
HIV positive: This can result in denial of a Chinese student visa. China has relaxed some restrictions in recent years, but the policy is not uniform.
Active tuberculosis: A positive chest X-ray indicating active TB will require treatment before you can be issued a visa. Treated and cured TB is generally acceptable.
Hepatitis B: Testing positive for HBsAg does not automatically disqualify you. Many people are carriers without active disease. Additional tests (liver function, viral load) may be needed to confirm you are not actively infectious.
Color blindness: Not a disqualifier for most programs, but may affect certain lab-based science or medical programs.
If you have a pre-existing condition, consult with your doctor about how it appears on the examination form. Honest reporting is required, but your doctor can provide context and additional documentation.
Do I need the exam again after arrival?
Yes. Most Chinese universities require a second medical examination after you arrive in China. This is done at a designated Entry-Exit Health Quarantine center in your university’s city. The Chinese exam verifies your health status upon entry.
If the local exam reveals conditions not reported on your original form, it could create problems. Be honest on the initial form.
The in-China exam costs approximately 400-800 CNY and is usually required within the first 2-4 weeks of arrival.
Complete your document checklist
The medical examination is just one piece of the application. Make sure you have everything ready. Our complete CSC documents checklist covers every form and certificate you need.
After you arrive, you will need to handle the in-China medical verification plus health insurance enrollment. Our health insurance and medical care guide explains exactly what CSC insurance covers and how to use it. For a complete day-by-day arrival walkthrough, see the first week in China survival guide.
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