The Thorampa title is awarded by the High-level Tibetan Buddhism College of China. In order to obtain this academic title, monk students must first study within a monastery for more than 15 years and only those having a good command of religious discipline and earning good scores can sit for the entrance examination to the High-level Tibetan Buddhism of China. After they are admitted, they are required to undergo two years of comprehensive, systemic studies, learning not only traditional religious doctrines, but also science, culture, law, and management. Upon graduation, students must have earned enough academic credits, undergo exams for their culture and political classes, participate in scripture debates and write a thesis defense. Only all exams have been passed and the thesis is unanimously approved by the defense committee, can a student obtain the title of Thorampa.