Interactive Document Checklist
Click each item to mark it complete. Expand items for details about requirements.
of documents ready
The 6-Month Validity Trap
This catches applicants every year: all documents must be valid (dated within 6 months) at the time of submission. If you get your medical exam in October and submit in April, that's 6 months — it may be rejected as expired.
The worst documents to get too early: medical exam, criminal background check, and recommendation letters. Get these no more than 3–4 months before your submission deadline.
Translation & Notarization
All documents not in English or Chinese must be translated and notarized.
Translation Requirements
- Must be professionally translated into English or Chinese
- Translator's certification stamp required
- Self-translations are NOT accepted
- Some embassies accept only Chinese translations
Notarization Requirements
- Degree certificates: notarized copy required
- Transcripts: notarized by your university or notary public
- Criminal record: notarized and apostilled (some countries)
- Medical form: hospital stamp and doctor signature sufficient
Documents Ready?
Next step: prepare for the medical exam or write your study plan.