do i need passport photos or more professional?

hi, i posted earlier asking about china, ive heard you really need a headshot to apply, because schools want to see what you look like and i've checked a lot of prices that all range around 300$ +

I don't want to skimp on my app, so i would be willing to pay that much, but is that's what's needed? or can we just get some passport photos at wallgreens? my money situation is really tight...

i feel like its a waste if i pay for an expensive headshot then shrink the image down to fit on my resume at the corner...

also tried checking the china FAQ but there was no mention that i could see

EDIT: thanks for the tips everyone, this subreddit has been a wealth of information, and just saved me 300$