College/University Options

for graduates of senior middle school (grades 10-12) in Kham.

 

1. The most common way is for graduates of grade 12 to take the national college entrance exam. The universities and colleges recruit students according to their exam scores, with the most prestigious universities having the highest standards.  By law, ethnic minorities such as Tibetans receive a preference in enrollment which means that their scores do not need to be as high as Han nationality students. Occasionally, a really exceptional student will be offered a scholarship, however most students must pay their own way.

 

2. If students fail to pass the exam, they can still enroll in college programs held by colleges and universities; however, these are shorter programs - 2 or 3 years. The degree earned is less than a full bachelor's and could be termed a "junior college diploma."  The nearest American equivalent is the Associates degree.  

 

3. Graduates of junior middle school (grades 6-9) can also enroll in college programs that are held by colleges or co-offered by colleges in partnership with vocational schools.  This type of program lasts for five years and the education provided is strongly vocational in nature. Graduates of these programs also receive a junior college diploma.

 

4. The last option is a self-learning college program organized by the Ministry or Provincial Bureau of Education. Anyone can get a diploma after they complete the required curricula.