Summer Chinese Language Study Abroad Programs in China

 Ancient, culturally rich, and picturesque, Chengdu is the perfect destination for anyone hoping to immerse in China’s heritage and natural beauty. While the capital of Sichuan province boasts of these aspects, it is also known as Southwest China’s center of scientific research and higher education. Take advantage of these and more through the Chengdu program of USAC. This program involves learning Mandarin Chinese, which is fast becoming a widely spoken language in the global marketplace. Choosing to focus on intensive language study means taking one or two elective courses as well. These include Chinese culture and history, and Tai Chi. This path follows an intensive approach, allowing you to complete up to a year and a half of language coursework in one semester. *Due to the global health status worldwide, USAC is making programmatic changes to summer, fall, and yearlong programs, and some options might not be available. These changes are posted on individual program pages on the USAC website.*

We've partnered with one of China's most prestigious universities, Fudan University, and a leading Mandarin instruction program from the University of Virginia to offer students a unique and comprehensive semester abroad in Shanghai. Founded in 1905, Fudan University is now one of the top universities in the country and a leader in cultivating talent as well. Students take classes of their choice from more than 120 courses taught in English and cover a variety of subjects, from business to liberal arts, as well as study Mandarin. Housed in fully furnished apartments, they stay in a room with an English-speaking local Fudan University student for an even more immersive experience. They enjoy two-weekend field trips to further explore modern China's customs and beliefs.

With 22 million Chinese-speaking people sharing the city, Beijing is the place to give your Mandarin language skills a major boost this summer. With premier instruction, tutoring, homestay, travel, and awe-inspiring icons like the Great Wall and Forbidden City, you’ll pack a year’s worth of learning into one unforgettable summer. A fascinating blend of the very old and the ultra-modern, it’s home to 15th-century treasures like the Hall of Supreme Harmony and stunners like Beijing National Stadium, also known as the Bird’s Nest. The jam-packed cosmopolitan city buzzes with a lively arts scene and boasts a record number of top research institutions and technology companies.

At NYU Shanghai, the newest of NYU’s three degree-granting campuses, you’ll take courses that focus on China taught by expert faculty. Professors bring China’s history and unique culture to life through trips to art galleries, local businesses, and film screenings. You can take a Chinese language course and further improve your language skills by being paired with a student who is fluent in Chinese. Visit NYU Shanghai’s website for up-to-date information. NYU Shanghai’s campus is located in a nine-story building in Pudong, the heart of a thriving economic zone and Shanghai’s commercial center. It features classrooms, an expansive library, an auditorium, a colloquium space, dance and music practice rooms, dining facilities, and a fitness center. Opportunities vary based on local restrictions.

Experience urban life in China's most advanced city! Choose your ideal Shanghai summer. With eight levels of Chinese language instruction, it’s easy to find the perfect fit for your skills. Designed for rapid improvement, our language classes include plenty of time to get out of the classroom and practice both with peers and around the city. Passionate about sustainability? Shanghai’s rapid development provides plenty of examples of successes and challenges in urban planning. Take advantage of your front-row seat to explore China’s rapid rise as a global economic power. This flexible program includes options for one or two four-week sessions. Take a class along with an eight-week internship with IFSA Summer Internships in Shanghai.

Go Abroad China’s Paid Internship Program connects international students, graduates, and young professionals with guaranteed placements in Fortune 500 companies, multinational corporations, and innovative startups across China. Since 2003, we’ve placed over 4,000 participants from 50+ countries into 2,000+ paid internships spanning 20+ industries—including business, finance, engineering, IT, marketing, law, hospitality, and more. Designed for ambitious and motivated individuals aged 18+, our year-round programs offer real-world, cross-cultural experience in booming cities like Beijing, Shanghai, Shenzhen, and Guangzhou. No Mandarin skills required—many placements are in English-speaking environments. All-inclusive packages from $1,980 cover accommodation, visa support, Mandarin classes, orientation, business/cultural activities, 24/7 local assistance, and a risk-free refund policy. With 90% of interns securing jobs within 3 months and 20% receiving full-time offers, this is your gateway to a global career. We understand that every intern's needs and budget are unique, which is why we offer fully customizable package options, and we will tailor a program specifically for you.

Have the opportunity to study at East China Normal University, one of the first universities in China to provide international Chinese education. Based in vibrant Shanghai, you will enroll in a non-profit, low-cost study abroad program. Benefit from direct enrollment opportunities, choosing from a wide selection of academic subjects. In your free time, enjoy the university’s offerings of associations and activities. Plus, make new friends with Chinese and international students. This program is open to all students from around the globe and awards credit transferable to your home university upon successful completion. At Non-Profit Study Abroad (NPSA), we help you enroll directly at an international university. We also provide a range of resources, from finding affordable housing to making the most of your study abroad experience. Please feel free to contact us for more information about how we can help you.

API offers students an opportunity to study abroad in Shanghai, China, and experience traditional cultural elements while still being mindful of the context and realities of contemporary Chinese society. China presents a fascinating juxtaposition – it is home to one of the world’s most ancient civilizations caught in the midst of some of the most rapid expansion of economy and infrastructure in history. This remains true with Shanghai, the largest city in the world, where you can explore ancient relics such as The Bund or City God Temple. Then, shop around the large city and explore its wondrous nightlife as you learn about the Chinese language and culture. But your travels will not just stop in Shanghai. With API, you will take excursions around China, including Beijing and the nearby water towns like Wuzhen. You will even stop by Hangzhou, known as “heaven on earth” due to its immense beauty. Get ready for an unforgettable sensation of culture and modernity in Shanghai, China, when you study with API Abroad!

In partnership with Guangxi Normal University (GXNU), CLI offers an immersive China Study Abroad Program designed for students aiming to earn college credits while deeply engaging with the Chinese language and culture. This comprehensive program integrates academic coursework with group and one-on-one Mandarin lessons, ensuring personalized and effective language learning. Additionally, students immerse themselves in Chinese culture through various activities and travel excursions, exploring the scenic beauty of Guilin and beyond. They can choose between standard and intensive tracks, allowing for a tailored focus on language acquisition. The program also offers the option to join the "Pengyou Program," fostering local friendships and connections to enhance the cultural experience. Students can opt into English-taught courses or dedicate all credits to Chinese language study. Flexible program options include semester-long experiences as well as intensive winter and summer sessions to fit different academic schedules and goals.

The Cultural Ambassador Summer Program 2026 is your gateway to an immersive cultural adventure in China. Designed exclusively for students from English-speaking countries studying at one of the QS top 200 universities, this program offers a unique two to three-month experience in some of China’s most dynamic cities: Shanghai, Beijing, Hangzhou, Ningbo, and Shenzhen. As a cultural ambassador, you don't just teach English and become a big sibling to your host family’s children but you also share your own culture, creating a deep and meaningful exchange. Receive an array of benefits to enhance your journey! From fully covered return flights to free Mandarin classes and engaging cultural activities, every aspect is designed to ensure a rewarding experience. Additionally, you receive a stipend to cover personal expenses, making it easier to immerse yourself in the vibrant life of your host city.

Immerse yourself in a new language, intern abroad, or explore a different part of the world. CET’s gap programs offer the opportunity to join college-level courses overseas or online. Whether you're mastering Chinese in Beijing, volunteering while living with a host family in Siena, or creating art in a studio in Osaka, CET blends academics with real-world experience. Designed around experiential learning, deep cultural engagement, and academic rigor, CET programs turn education into something more than just earning college credit.