Language School in Beijing (Ages 18+)
While attending this language school you will learn Mandarin Chinese in China’s political and cultural capital, the city of Beijing. Beijing is the ideal place to explore the history of this great civilization as well as glimpse into the future of technology and architecture. Stroll through the magnificent gardens of the ancient Summer Palace, explore the opulent Forbidden City, whose 9,000 rooms housed Chinese emperors over a span of 500 years, and tour the Temple of Heaven, the place of worship for emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties. China’s Great Wall, easily accessible from Beijing, dates from the third century B.C. and stretches more than 4,000 miles east to west across China.
The School and Class Schedule
Students in this school will attend an intensive language classes with an average size of five students.
Weekly Schedule Example |
9:00- 9:50 | Review, vocabulary, Reading/Listening Comprehension class. |
9:50-10:40 | Vocabulary and Grammar |
10:40-10:50 | Break |
10:50-11:40 | Grammar and Conversation |
11:30-12:30 | Conversation and Review |
Afternoon | Activities. Social Programs. Special Lessons. Self-study. |
Teaching Methods
After taking a placement test you will join a class level that suits your language skills. There are 17 levels of classes in the school to ensure you are surrounded by students with similar knowledge of the Chinese language. Students will be fully immersed in Chinese culture and language, and are encouraged to use their newfound language skills outside the school when classes are finished for the day.
Accommodations and Meals
You will have a single room within an apartment shared with fellow students from around the world. The apartments are furnished and bed linens, towels and blankets are provided. No meals are provided but the apartments have a fully equipped kitchen. TV and free internet access are provided, and there is a telephone available though you will have to pay for international calls. You are even visited by a cleaning service once a week! Private studio apartments are also available for an additional fee.
Dates and Application Deadlines
Non-beginning students may choose any Monday throughout the year to start classes. Beginning programs start on the following dates in 2010: March 8, April 6, May 3, May 31, June 14, June 28, July 12, July 26, August 9, August 23, September 20, October 18, November 15, December 13.
Applications are due at least 6-8 weeks in advance of your intended departure date. Late applications may be accepted on a case by case basis depending on availability.
Local Support
You will be provided with pre-departure orientation materials that will walk you through every step of your program. The Language School office is more than happy to address questions or difficulties that you have at any time during your program.
Travel Arrangements and Transportation
Apartments are located within a half an hour from school, and students are responsible for their own transportation. Transportation to and from the airport in Beijing is provided.
All travel arrangements must be booked according to our instructions. Booking travel is your responsibility, but we are more than happy to help you as needed.
Typical Activities and Excursions
Students are encouraged to take advantage of the social and cultural activities arranged by the school in order to meet other students and practice their language skills. Additional fees may apply depending on the activity. The Language school plans several activities within the school, and also organizes “field trips” around the area to help you practice your Chinese. Some examples of activities are:
• Learning the ancient art of Calligraphy.
• A visit to the Great Wall of China.
• Visiting the Forbidden City within Beijing.
• Classes on Chinese martial arts.
• A trip to the Summer Palace in the suburbs of Beijing.
Program Costs
Included | Not Included |
Single room in shared apartment | Meals |
Internet /computer Access | Airfare |
Transportation to/from Airport | In country transportation |
Medical/Accident Insurance | Phone cards |
Local Coordinator | |
24 Emergency Staff | |
Cultural Activities | |
Pre-departure and arrival Orientation/city tour | |
Fees may be paid by personal check, money order or credit card.