After the completion of the Zhongkao (High School Entrance Examination in China), many students and parents consider studying abroad as part of their further education plans.

 Opting for overseas study at this stage allows students to adapt to foreign education systems earlier, thereby gaining an edge in future university applications. 

Below, we provide a detailed overview of the main pathways for studying abroad after the Zhongkao.

 Direct Application to Foreign High Schools

English-speaking Countries

For countries like the UK, the US, Australia, and Canada, when applying to high schools, students typically need to submit language test scores, 

junior high school transcripts, and recommendation letters. In terms of language proficiency, an IELTS score of 5.0 - 6.0 or a TOEFL score ranging from 50 to 80 is usually required. 

Academically, having an average grade of 80 or above in junior high school makes applicants more competitive.

The application process requires planning 1 - 2 years in advance. Take the UK as an example. If applying for the GCSE program (Year 10), 

students should start preparing as early as the second year of junior high school, including registering with schools and preparing application materials. 

From September to October of the following year, they will participate in school entrance exams and interviews. 

Successful candidates can expect to receive admission offers from February to March of the year after that. Upon enrollment, 

students need to quickly adjust to the English-language teaching environment and the local curriculum system,

 such as the GCSE and A-Level programs in the UK or the high school curriculum in the US.

European Countries

In some European countries, including Germany, France, and Italy, in addition to academic requirements, 

students are also required to have a basic understanding of the local language. For instance, when applying to high schools in Germany, 

a German proficiency level of A1 - A2 is necessary, and some schools may require students to take German language tests. 

Similar to English-speaking countries, the application timeline also demands early planning, 

generally starting to prepare application materials and language learning about one year in advance.

Transition through International High Schools

International high schools in China offer various international curriculum systems, such as AP, IB, and A-level. 

Students who enroll in these schools can apply to overseas universities based on their curriculum grades after three years of study.

Admission to international high schools usually involves passing the school's written examinations and interviews.

 The written exams mainly cover English and mathematics, while the interviews assess students' language expression, logical thinking, and other abilities. 

During the course of study, students are not only expected to master academic knowledge but also actively participate in various extracurricular activities, 

accumulate practical experiences, and enhance their overall competitiveness, which can significantly boost their chances of being admitted to foreign universities. 

Examples of such activities include participating in international competitions, volunteer work, and research projects.

Application for Undergraduate Foundation Programs

Undergraduate foundation programs are ideal for students who aim to pursue a bachelor's degree as soon as possible. 

After completing a one-year foundation program and meeting the corresponding academic and language requirements, 

students can progress to undergraduate programs at partner universities. Generally, 

an IELTS score of 5.0 - 5.5 and satisfactory junior high school grades are required for application.

Foundation programs focus on strengthening students' academic and language skills while also teaching university study methods and basic professional knowledge. 

The content and application requirements of foundation programs vary among different countries and schools. 

For example, UK foundation programs place greater emphasis on academic writing and research skills, 

while Australian foundation programs integrate local educational characteristics to help students adapt to the pace of university study.