Unable to get promoted after three years of employment? Want to obtain a bachelor's degree in 2026? How to choose between adult education, self-study, and open education?

Many people only realize one thing after working for two or three years: the academic qualifications they didn't take seriously at the time are now quietly holding them back—they're not on the promotion list, they're not qualified to take professional title exams, and when they want to change jobs, the job description says "Bachelor's degree or above".

If you want to obtain a nationally recognized bachelor's degree, there are three main paths: adult college entrance examination, self-study examination for higher education, and the National Open University. All of these are legitimate degrees verifiable on the China Higher Education Student Information System (CHESICC), but they are suitable for completely different individuals.

I. Adult Higher Education Entrance Examination: A Stable Choice

Adult higher education entrance examinations require taking the national unified entrance examination held every October. Only those who pass the exam are admitted. The exam difficulty is not high, and the passing score is generally around 120 points (450 points or higher, plus an additional 20 points for those over 25 years old). After enrollment, classes are mainly held on weekends or online. The program lasts 2.5 years, and students can graduate by completing assignments and final exams on time.

Who is this suitable for: People with average basic knowledge, who are busy with work, who don't want to spend too much energy, and who just want to "get the certificate easily".

II. Self-study exams: The speed option

There is no entrance exam for self-study exams. After choosing a major, you can apply for graduation by passing each subject one by one. A junior college diploma typically requires 12-15 subjects, while a bachelor's degree requires a few more. Exams are held twice a year, in April and October, with a maximum of four subjects per exam session. Theoretically, it can be completed in as little as 1.5 years for a junior college diploma and 2 years for a bachelor's degree.

But the price is that no one "teaches you how to graduate," it all depends on self-discipline. Among working professionals taking the exam, only about 30% actually persevere.

Who is it suitable for: People with strong learning abilities, relatively fixed time, and who want to get certified as soon as possible.

III. The Open University of China: A Worry-Free Choice

Formerly known as the Open University, it offers admission without entrance exams, with all learning conducted online. Students complete assignments and online exams at the end of the semester. The program lasts 2.5 years, boasts a high graduation rate, and requires virtually no in-person attendance.

Who is this suitable for: People who really can't find the time, prefer a simple process, and don't care about the reputation of the school.

How to choose? Ask yourself three questions.

1. How often do you need it? If you need it urgently, take the self-study exam; if not, take the adult education exam or the Open University exam.
2. How much time and energy can you dedicate to it? Less than 5 hours per week, I recommend the Open University or adult education programs.
3. Do you need a degree? You can apply for a degree through all three methods, but there are requirements for GPA and English proficiency, so ask in advance.

The sooner you graduate, the sooner you'll be able to use your degree. Don't wait until your resume gets rejected by the system or you can't submit your promotion application to think about it.

Yongbo Continuing Education is always available; feel free to contact us!