What kind of program are you interested in

Updated:27/07/11 11:20:12 AM CST

China’s universities and colleges offer thousands of programs for international students. Non-degree programs teaching Chinese language and culture, calligraphy and opera are particularly popular, but it is also possible to obtain your degree in China. Most degree programs have certain requirements on academic background and language proficiency.However, an increasing number of both of the two kinds of programs are offered.

Degree Programs

Tertiary studies in China

Degree programs are generally fixed: undergraduate degree programs last for four to five-years, master’s degrees for two to three years, and doctorate degrees for three to five years.

Most Chinese higher education institutions have an academic year that runs from September to July of the following year, with two semesters: first semester (running from September to January or February) and second semester (running from March to July).

Vacations

Chinese universities have a one to two-month long winter breaks (January-February) and a two month long summer break (July-August). Apart from short-term winter and summer language programs, universities usually do not arrange classes during the vacation.

Fees and funding

Tuition fees in China tend to be relatively cheap when compared to those charged by European, North American, or Japanese institutions.

There are opportunities for tuition fee exemptions / reductions and for scholarships aimed at international students.

Studying in Chinese

Chinese universities, compared to universities in other non-English speaking countries, offer relatively few English language courses however this practice is continuing to increase.

Non- Degree Programs

Language programs: the one-semester (4-6 months) language course usually opens in both semesters (starting in both September and February/March); the One-year language program usually opens during fall (September); the short-term courses may have fixed times or may arrange a time at the request of a group of students. Short-term summer programs have start dates throughout June, July and August, and last between 1-8 weeks.

Outside the classroom is where your language skills will truly be tested.

Excursions will challenge your ability to find your way in a foreign city and give you an opportunity to interact with local people all over China. During the short-term of the program, you will be required to organize a weekend trip. A list of options includes most major cities all over China: Beijing, Shanghai, Hong Kong, Harbin, Qingdao, Datong, Xi’an, Jinan, Kaifeng, Luoyang, Nanjing, Suzhou, Hangzhou, Guilin, Yunnan, and Tibet. Specific criteria will be required during your vacation excursion, such as train rides, site visits, scavenger hunts and interaction with locals. An oral presentation and/or a written report, depending on your Chinese level, may be required for a final project.

Deadline for submission of applications

Each program has a corresponding application deadline, applicants who submit their applications after this date will not be accepted. The schools usually require 4-8 weeks to process your application and to prepare your visa application form (JW202 form). Please do not forget to pay the application fee in order to ensure that you receive the School Admission Notice in time to apply for a Chinese visa so that you may enroll on time.