Learning Chinese in Guangzhou

I did a semester at the Guangzhou University via Asia Exchange last autumn . It was my first time in Asia altogether and therefore something quite exotic. The program consisted of Chinese language and culture studies, with courses in law, economics and martial thrown in as well. Overall the program was well-rounded and well conceived in principle, but to be honest the quality of the teachers varied a lot. Nonetheless, if you were willing to put in some work you were able to grasp the basics of Chinese within the time-frame.

We were 11 students in total in the program, mostly from Europe, but there were students from elsewhere as well completing their degree in Guangzhou. There are great opportunities for making friends with local students, as there quite a few student clubs and many Chinese students are also eager to practice their English skills.

The international office is really helpful and supportive and will go an extra mile to help you out with your problems. They however also expect you to be a good student and participate actively in the classes. Traveling should generally be reserved only for weekends, and if you for some reason want to skip classes, you should fill out a form for a leave of absence which you submit at the office.

As a bonus, there is a 3000 RMB scholarship for everyone who successfully completes the program. If you wish, you can also take an HSK (official Chinese proficiency test) towards the end of the program and the costs will be covered by the university.

I can recommend this program for everyone who wants to learn Chinese and live in a really nice city in Southern China with warm and friendly people.