CSCA Mathematics: What to Expect
Understand the CSCA Mathematics format, 48-question structure, tested topics, timing, and the skills universities expect.
CSCA Mathematics is compulsory for international undergraduate applicants taking the China Scholastic Competency Assessment. It checks whether you can apply core secondary-school mathematics accurately and efficiently before degree-level study in China.
The paper is available in Chinese or English and contains 48 single-choice questions to complete in 60 minutes. Scores are reported on a 0–100 scale. Follow the language and result requirements published by your chosen university.
The short version
Expect a broad, fast paper: 48 questions in 60 minutes gives an average of 75 seconds per question. Success depends on secure concepts, efficient working, careful reading, and knowing when to move on.
Exam format
Every question has one correct answer. The multiple-choice format rewards accurate reasoning rather than long written solutions, but you still need a reliable method and careful checks for signs, units, and restrictions.
Use timed practice to learn your pace. Complete confident questions first, flag slower problems, and reserve a final check for unanswered items and avoidable calculation errors.
Syllabus areas
The syllabus includes sets and inequalities; functions, sequences, and basic derivatives; plane and solid geometry, analytic geometry, vectors, and complex numbers; plus probability and statistics.
Practise recognizing the concept behind each question, translating words or diagrams into mathematical relationships, and connecting topics in mixed sets.
How to prepare
Begin with a diagnostic across all syllabus areas. Separate mistakes into concept gaps, method errors, calculation errors, and time-pressure errors, then prioritize repeated weaknesses.
Build from untimed topic practice to short timed sets and full 60-minute papers. Keep an error log, re-solve missed questions without notes, and review formulas through use.
