- CSCA questions test application, not just memorization—expect word problems and scenario-based questions.
- Chinese section includes reading comprehension, vocabulary, and short essay writing.
- Math and Science/Humanities questions require showing work and reasoning, not just final answers.
What Types of Questions Appear on the CSCA?
The CSCA uses various question types to assess different skills. Understanding these formats helps you prepare more effectively:
| Section | Question Types | Key Skills Tested |
|---|---|---|
| Chinese | Multiple choice, fill-in-blank, short essay | Reading, vocabulary, writing |
| Mathematics | Multiple choice, problem-solving | Calculation, reasoning, application |
| Science | Multiple choice, data interpretation | Conceptual understanding, analysis |
| Humanities | Multiple choice, passage analysis | Comprehension, critical thinking |
Chinese Language Sample Questions
What do CSCA Chinese questions look like?
Reading Comprehension Example:
阅读下面的短文，回答问题...
(Read the following passage and answer the questions...)
Question: 根据文章，作者认为学习中文的最好方法是什么？
Options: A) 每天背单词 B) 看中文电影 C) 在中国生活 D) 综合多种方法
Vocabulary Example:
选择最合适的词语填空：
他对这个问题______了很久，最后终于找到了答案。
Options: A) 考虑 B) 看见 C) 听说 D) 学习
Chinese questions at HSK 4-5 level require understanding context, not just individual words. Practice reading full passages rather than isolated vocabulary.
Mathematics Sample Questions
Algebra Example:
If 3x + 7 = 22, what is the value of 2x - 3?
Options: A) 5 B) 7 C) 9 D) 11
Geometry Example:
A circle has a radius of 6 cm. What is the area of a sector with a central angle of 60°?
Options: A) 6π B) 12π C) 18π D) 36π
Word Problem Example:
A train travels 240 km in 3 hours. At the same speed, how long will it take to travel 400 km?
Options: A) 4 hours B) 5 hours C) 6 hours D) 7 hours
Science Track Sample Questions
Physics Example:
An object falls from rest. After 3 seconds, what is its velocity? (g = 10 m/s²)
Options: A) 10 m/s B) 20 m/s C) 30 m/s D) 45 m/s
Chemistry Example:
What is the pH of a solution with [H⁺] = 1 × 10⁻⁵ M?
Options: A) 3 B) 5 C) 9 D) 11
Biology Example:
Which organelle is responsible for protein synthesis in cells?
Options: A) Mitochondria B) Ribosomes C) Nucleus D) Golgi apparatus
Humanities Track Sample Questions
History Example:
The Silk Road primarily connected which regions?
Options: A) Europe and Africa B) Asia and Europe C) Americas and Asia D) Africa and Americas
Geography Example:
Which climate zone is characterized by hot, rainy summers and mild, dry winters?
Options: A) Mediterranean B) Tropical C) Continental D) Monsoon
Political Science Example:
In a parliamentary system, who typically selects the head of government?
Options: A) Direct popular vote B) The monarch C) The legislature D) The military
Where to Find More Practice Questions
For more practice, use these resources:
- Official CSCA Practice Materials: Available on the CSCA portal
- CSCA.ai Mock Tests: Full-length simulations with detailed explanations
- HSK Practice Tests: For Chinese section preparation (levels 4-5)
- High School Textbooks: For math and science fundamentals
Frequently Asked Questions
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