International students usually choose one of three paths:
- Language first — intensive Chinese (for example at BLCU), then apply to a degree program.
- English-taught degree — jump into a major taught in English if you meet academic and English requirements.
- Chinese-taught degree — requires stronger HSK scores and academic readiness.
Language-first can reduce risk if your Mandarin is limited, but it adds time and cost. English-taught seats can be competitive and major options are narrower.
Compare profiles such as BLCU and research universities like Zhejiang University.