Embark on an exciting summer language program to China, where you can experience the rich history of Chengdu and Ningbo, as well as connect with a host family and AFS peers from around the world! This four-week intensive language study provides the unique opportunity to build your Chinese language skills, explore some of China’s most famous historical sites and cities, and immerse yourself in Chinese culture through the homestay experience.

Chengdu, the capital of Sichuan province in China, is not only renowned for its rich history and vibrant culture but also as the native habitat of the giant panda! With a history spanning over 2,300 years, Chengdu is celebrated for its leisurely lifestyle and spicy Sichuan cuisine. Historical landmarks such as the Wuhou Shrine, Du Fu Thatched Cottage, Dujiangyan Irrigation Project, along with lively markets and traditional teahouses, offer a captivating glimpse into Chengdu’s illustrious past and cultural legacy.

Ningbo, located in eastern China’s Zhejiang province, is a vibrant city with a profound historical and cultural heritage. As one of China’s oldest cities, Ningbo has a history that dates back over 7,000 years to the Hemudu culture. The city played a significant role in the maritime Silk Road, serving as a major port for international trade. Home to the oldest private library in Asia and one of the oldest wooden structures in southern China, this city boasts diverse opportunities for adventure around every corner. You’ll have the opportunity to explore Ningbo’s fascinating lifestyle, savor local cuisine, and delve into its extensive history!

Things to know about China

Confucianism is an important part of Chinese culture—it gives people a deep respect for hierarchy and a strong sense of family. It also means that the Chinese tend to avoid conflict in favor of maintaining harmony. Tradition plays a role in everyday life, and you’ll often see ancient temples overlooking modern city streets. Food in China is generally cooked with meat, so vegetarianism isn’t very common. But you’ll likely encounter some delicious homemade meals served with steaming cups of green or oolong tea.

Airfare

Eligibility

Graduates Eligible?	No, high school graduates are not eligible to participate.
Minimum GPA	2.5
Age Range	15yrs, 0 months to 18yrs, 0 months at start of program
Language Skills	Chinese A1

Based on differences in culture, strict government regulation of medications, and other local customs, it has been our experience that not all of our international AFS partners are able to support students with certain diagnoses, including but not limited to, severe allergies, strict dietary restrictions, ADD/ADHD, and those currently taking or who have taken psychotropic medications and/or received counseling for mental/psychological issues within the past year. If this applies to you, please get in touch with an AFS Study Abroad Specialist early so that we can determine the right experience for you.

Your journey to China

In the months before your departure, AFSers have the opportunity to participate in various preparatory activities, including an online Student Learning Journey, which is an interactive course that brings AFSers from around the world together to learn how to develop essential global skills, intercultural communication techniques, and practice social impact, maximizing the outcomes of the AFS learning experience.

AFS-USA will coordinate and share your international travel with you. You will need to coordinate your own travel to the point of international departure. From there, your journey in China will begin when you land, where you’ll be met by staff and volunteers …and meet your fellow AFSers from around the world! Shortly after arrival, you will attend an arrival orientation and get a crash course on Chinese culture, living with a host family, safety, and support structures.

Your Accommodations

During the program, participants will live in two cities: Chengdu, a vibrant city known as the hometown of Panda, its rich history, delicious cuisine, and warm hospitality, and Ningbo, a coastal city with its own unique charm and cultural heritage.

In Ningbo, participants will stay in campus residences, allowing them to immerse themselves in the university environment and gain a deeper understanding of Chinese higher education.

Meeting Your Host Family in China

During your first few days in Chengdu, you’ll attend orientation and get a crash course in Chinese customs and lifestyle, meet and spend some quality time with your host family, and participate in welcome activities where you’ll get to know your fellow students! Weekdays will consist of Chinese language classes in the morning with unique immersion and educational opportunities each afternoon – from calligraphy class to trying new sports to fun team-building activities, you’ll have plenty of time to infuse your educational experience outside of your traditional language classes. After school, you’ll head back home to your host family for the evening. On some weekdays, as well as on the weekends, you’ll participate in off-campus activities such as walks around the city and tea tastings – you may even get to meet some pandas!

AYJrGfIa1k6QoXvfJlhSAA-1ef5217122d4b41497bdd48701adb93

After bidding farewell to your host family, you’ll spend the second half of your program in Ningbo, where you’ll stay in dorm-style accommodations with your peers and learn what it’s like to be part of the university campus community! Your schedule will remain relatively the same as you continue your language classes, group activities, and field trips around Ningbo. At the end of your program, you’ll head back to the U.S. with valuable language skills, lifelong intercultural connections, and a deeper understanding of Chinese culture!

Chinese Summer Language Program Language Lessons

Your Chinese Language Lessons

You’ll be taught by certified language teachers for a total of 45 hours over the course of four weeks. That means you’ll generally have 3 hours of lessons each day. The rest of your time can be spent with your host family and friends, putting that language learning to use in-context. By the end of the program, participants can expect to have made significant progress in their Chinese language skills, gaining a deeper understanding of Chinese culture in the process.

Exploring the Area

Chinese culture is vibrant and varied, with lots of different celebrations and festivals. Teenagers often enjoy Western fashion, music, and fast food. Parents are usually very involved in their children’s lives, so you should always check with your host family before you go out. Throughout your four weeks in China, you may have the chance to go on cultural excursions with AFS staff and volunteers. You can also participate in activities like painting, calligraphy, and martial arts in order to make friends and learn more about Chinese culture.

Food You’ll Encounter in China

China is a great place to work on perfecting your chopstick skills, and most people will be more than happy to teach you the best techniques! Food usually consists of rice or noodles, fresh vegetables, and meat. Some popular dishes include jiaozi (dumplings with pork, chives, and onions), Peking duck (roasted duck covered with sweet wheat sauce and wrapped in a thin pancake), and Mongolian hotpot, which is like a Chinese version of fondue. You can also learn about the art and tradition of making, serving, and drinking tea.

Scholarships and Aid

We believe that studying abroad should not be contingent on personal finances. When you apply, we work with you to understand your family’s needs and match you with available scholarships and aid. 100% of accepted applicants with demonstrated need receive funds.

Learn More

What’s included

75+ years of experience delivering high-quality programs through a worldwide network of 50,000 dedicated volunteers
Accommodations
Round-trip international airfare for the designated program dates
Program activity fees
Worldwide, 24-hour emergency assistance
Access to an in-country support team and network, as well as our Participant Support Department based here in the U.S.
International secondary medical travel coverage
Visa support and guidance
Inclusion in a worldwide returnee and alumni network of over 1,000,000 people

What’s not included

Domestic travel to your international departure city
Visa and passport fees
Spending money
Fees imposed by the airlines outside of your international ticket, such as luggage fees.
COVID-19 testing
Additional fees may apply depending on the specific host country. Please email [email protected] for additional details.

We invite you to learn more about where your dollars go, our payment and refund policy, and answers to our Frequently Asked Questions.

Returning Home

“Life-changing” is hard to describe, yet it’s nearly always the first thing that AFSers say when asked about their experience abroad. “Transformed” is another one.
When you return home, if you’re like most AFSers, you’ll bring with you a sense of accomplishment unlike any other. You’ll have gained maturity and independence, discovered new passions, and developed the confidence and resilience to accomplish anything you set out to do.
That transformation isn’t only visible to you, though – others see it as well. AFSers gain critical skills for college and careers. Second language fluency, intercultural competence, creativity, and critical reasoning will help you succeed, whatever path you take. “Life-changing” means it’s only the beginning.
It’s not just an adventure abroad; it’s a whole new reality. The perspectives and personal connections you gained will stay with you and likely draw you back to the second home you found in China.

In fact, our alumni reviews have made AFS one of the top-rated organizations in the study abroad industry.

A new you awaits.

Apply for a Summer Language and Culture Program in China!

GET STARTED

Summer Language and Culture Program in China

Quickly pick up Mandarin Chinese with an intro course and full immersion homestay. Deepen your understanding of China and its rich traditions through cultural classes and local life.