According to the requirements of Chinese Embassy and Consulate General, If you apply single entry or double entries for M/L/Q/G/C type visa or you are under 14 years old or elder than 70 years old ,someone else can submit your application on behalf of you. Otherwise ,you need to submit your application in person. If you want to apply through a travel agency, the agency will be responsible to confirm with you about the submission and fingerprint collection.