China has become a powerhouse for international education, drawing Bangladeshi students with its world-class universities, affordable tuition, and booming job prospects. Whether you’re eyeing a degree in engineering, medicine, or business, China offers a unique blend of cutting-edge academics and cultural immersion. However, securing a student visa can feel like navigating a maze of paperwork and requirements. That’s where VisaPoint International, your trusted China study visa consultancy in Dhaka, steps in. With our expert guidance, we’ve helped countless students turn their China study dreams into reality. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about applying for a China student visa, from start to finish, so you can focus on preparing for your adventure in Beijing, Shanghai, or beyond.
Why Study in China?
China’s rise as an education hub makes it a top pick for Bangladeshi students. Here’s why:
- Globally Ranked Universities: Institutions like Tsinghua University, Peking University, and Fudan University rank among the world’s best, offering programs in English and Chinese.
- Affordable Education: Tuition ranges from $2,000–$10,000/year (BDT 2.4–12 lakh), far less than Western countries. Scholarships like the Chinese Government Scholarship (CSC) often cover tuition, housing, and stipends.
- English-Taught Programs: Over 300 universities offer degrees in English, especially in STEM, business, and medicine, making it accessible without fluent Mandarin.
- Career Opportunities: China’s growing economy and Belt and Road Initiative create job prospects, especially for graduates with Chinese language skills.
- Cultural Experience: Live in a dynamic country with a rich history, from the Great Wall to modern metropolises, while learning Mandarin—a global asset.
- Post-Study Work: Graduates can apply for work visas (Z visa) or internships, with some provinces offering 1–2 year stay-back options.
With living costs around $400–$800/month (BDT 48,000–96,000), China is budget-friendly compared to the US or UK, making it a smart choice for ambitious students.
Types of Student Visas for China (X1 & X2)
China issues two types of student visas based on your study duration:
- X1 Visa (Long-Term): For programs longer than 180 days, such as bachelor’s, master’s, or PhD degrees. Valid for 30 days upon entry, after which you must convert it to a residence permit at the local Entry-Exit Administration.
- X2 Visa (Short-Term): For courses under 180 days, like language programs or short-term exchanges. Valid for the study duration, non-extendable.
Most Bangladeshi students need the X1 visa for full-degree programs. VisaPoint ensures you apply for the correct type based on your admission letter.
Step-by-Step Guide to China Student Visa Application
Applying for a China student visa requires careful planning. Start 3–4 months before your program to avoid delays.
Steps:
- Secure Admission: Apply to a Chinese university via cucas.edu.cn or directly. Get your admission letter and JW201/JW202 form (for scholarship/non-scholarship students).
- Complete the Application Form: Fill out the visa application form (Form V2013) online at visaforchina.org or download it from the embassy website.
- Gather Documents: Collect all required documents (see below), including notarized translations.
- Book an Appointment: Schedule a visit to the Chinese Embassy in Dhaka or the China Visa Application Service Center (CVASC) via their website.
- Pay the Fee: Settle the visa fee at the embassy/CVASC during submission.
- Submit Application: Visit the embassy/CVASC, provide biometrics (if required), and submit originals.
- Attend Interview (if needed): Answer questions about your study plans and finances.
- Track & Collect: Monitor your application online and collect your passport once processed.
VisaPoint handles form-filling, bookings, and document checks to make this process seamless.
Required Documents for China Student Visa
A complete document package is critical—missing items lead to 35% of rejections. Start gathering 2–3 months early.
Checklist:
- Valid passport (valid 6+ months beyond entry, with 2 blank pages).
- Completed visa application form (Form V2013, signed).
- Admission letter from a recognized Chinese university.
- JW201 or JW202 form (original and copy, issued by the university).
- Academic certificates (HSC/bachelor’s) with notarized English/Chinese translations.
- Language proof: IELTS (6.0+) or TOEFL for English programs; HSK Level 3–4 for Chinese-taught courses.
- Two passport-sized photos (33×48 mm, white background, taken <6 months).
- Physical Examination Record for Foreigners (from designated hospitals in Bangladesh, valid 6 months).
- Proof of accommodation in China (dorm contract or lease).
- Flight itinerary (not a confirmed ticket).
- For under-18s: Parental consent and birth certificate.
VisaPoint offers document verification to ensure embassy compliance.
Financial Requirements and Bank Statements for China Visa
China requires proof you can cover tuition and living expenses (about $4,000–$7,000/year or BDT 4.8–8.4 lakh, depending on the city).
Guidelines:
- Provide a bank statement (in your name, dated <30 days) showing sufficient funds.
- Alternatively, submit a scholarship letter (e.g., CSC) or tuition payment receipt.
- Sponsor funds (e.g., from parents) need a notarized affidavit and their bank statement.
- Funds must be in a recognized bank (e.g., BRAC Bank, Standard Chartered) and convertible to USD/CNY.
- Blocked accounts aren’t required but can help if set up via Chinese banks like Bank of China.
VisaPoint assists in formatting financial documents to meet embassy standards.
China Student Visa Fees and Payment Process
Visa fees depend on processing speed:
- Regular Service: $30 (BDT 3,600) for 4–5 working days.
- Express Service: $45 (BDT 5,400) for 2–3 working days.
- Rush Service: $60 (BDT 7,200) for next-day processing.
Payment Process:
- Pay at the Chinese Embassy or CVASC in Dhaka (cash or card, depending on the center).
- CVASC service fee: BDT 2,000–3,000 extra.
- Optional courier delivery: BDT 1,500.
- Keep receipts for reference.
No fee exemptions apply, so budget early. VisaPoint ensures accurate fee submission.
How to Apply Through the Chinese Embassy or Visa Center
Applications are processed via the Chinese Embassy in Dhaka or the CVASC (Gulshan).
Process:
- Book an appointment online at visaforchina.org or walk in (students often don’t need bookings in 2025).
- Arrive at the embassy (Plot 2&4, Embassy Road, Baridhara) or CVASC with your documents, form, and fee receipt.
- Submit biometrics (fingerprints/photos, if required) and originals.
- Track your application online via the CVASC website or embassy portal.
Sessions take 15–30 minutes. VisaPoint can schedule your visit and prep you for a smooth submission.
Common Mistakes to Avoid During China Visa Application
Steer clear of these errors to boost your approval odds:
- Incomplete JW Forms: Missing or incorrect JW201/JW202 forms cause instant rejections.
- Invalid Health Certificate: Using non-designated hospitals or expired medical reports.
- Insufficient Funds: Unclear or inadequate financial proof raises doubts.
- Mismatched Information: Discrepancies between your application and interview answers.
- Late Submission: Applying too close to your program start risks delays.
- Ignoring Language Proof: No IELTS/HSK for required programs leads to refusal.
VisaPoint’s experts spot these issues during our free application reviews.
China Student Visa Interview Preparation Tips
Interviews are rare but may be requested to verify your intent. They’re held at the embassy or CVASC.
Top Tips:
- Be Specific: Explain why China (e.g., “Tsinghua’s AI program aligns with Bangladesh’s tech growth”).
- Know Your Program: Link it to your goals (e.g., “I’ll use my MBBS from China to serve rural clinics in Dhaka”).
- Financial Clarity: Detail your funding (e.g., “My CSC scholarship covers $5,000, plus $3,000 in savings”).
- Ties to Bangladesh: Highlight family, property, or job plans to show you’ll return.
- Practice Confidence: Rehearse answers to questions like “Why this university?” or “What’s your career plan?”
VisaPoint’s free mock interviews help 90% of our clients nail this step.
Processing Time for China Student Visa Approval
Processing takes 4–10 working days (regular service) from submission, averaging 5–7 days for Bangladeshi applicants. Express/rush options cut this to 1–3 days.
What to Expect:
- Track your status on visaforchina.org with your application number.
- The embassy may request additional documents—respond within 7 days.
- Rejections (5–10% of cases) can be appealed with new evidence.
- Apply by June–July for September intakes to stay on track.
Use the wait to learn basic Mandarin or explore housing options via cucas.edu.cn.
Conclusion: Your China Study Journey Starts Now!
Studying in China is your gateway to world-class education, cultural richness, and global career prospects—all at a fraction of Western costs. The visa process might seem complex, but with the right steps, it’s totally achievable. From securing your JW form to acing your application, this guide has you covered. At VisaPoint International, Dhaka’s leading China study visa consultancy, we’re here to simplify everything with personalized support, document checks, and interview prep. Ready to start your journey in Shanghai or Beijing? Visit visapointint.com or stop by our Gulshan office for a free consultation. Let’s make your China dream happen!