Where to Study Chinese, Beijing or Shanghai?

Scott, an American in Tokyo is planning to move to Shanghai to study Chinese. He sent me the following questions:

Around this time next year, I’m planning to move to China to take intensive Mandarin courses for at least a year. I’m definitely a city person, and from my current perspective, Shanghai appeals to me most. However, I’m having second thoughts. I’m having a difficult time deciding which city to focus on–Shanghai, Beijing, or somewhere else. I was hoping you could help me with two questions:

1. In your opinion, do you think Shanghai is still a viable option for studying (and learning) Mandarin considering the dialect spoken in Shanghai, plus the higher cost of living compared to other cities in China?

2. About how much money (in RBM or USD) would a student need to get through one year of studying at a university in Shanghai (including tuition, rent in an average part of town, food, drinking money, and some spending cash)?

Credit: Scott. Quoted with permission

Which City?

Regarding your question about which city to study, it is highly dependant on where do you plan to work and live after you learnt the language. If you choose to work in Shanghai (I recommend it), you’d better study there since it gives you plenty of time to get familiar with the city, settle down and for the job hunting.

The living cost is higher in Shanghai compared to that in Beijing. Shanghai is a modern city with good living facilities, so you will feel less culture shock. Check the 10 Things You Love/Hate About Shanghai.

Beijing is more like a typical Chinese city – long history, traditional architectures, slower pace of live, beautiful landscape. You can understand the Chinese culture better there. Although, the side effect is, the culture shock will be great for you. As you said you are a city person, Shanghai is a safer choice for you and Beijing is an exciting adventure.

Purely Learning Chinese

If you don’t consider other aspects of moving, I would highly recommend you to go to Beijing to study Chinese. Beijing is the capital. It is the culture, art, architecture (traditional) central. There are very good universities there, like Beijing University and Tsinghua University. They offer very course – I heard some expat friends recommend them.

Regarding the dialect, Beijing also have a strong dialect, that is different than Putonghua (Mandarin). Personal, foreigners who can add some Beijing dialect appear to know the language better to me. Sometimes it is a hint to really know about the culture in China.

If you choose Beijing, Beijing University has better reputation on literature and language. So does the foreigner language education there.

In Shanghai, Fudan and Jiatong University are the options. Fudan has better Chinese language program while Jiaotong’s Xuhui Campus is in the downtown.

Cost

I don’t know the cost of Beijing. For Shanghai, here is the tuition and accommodation cost for Shanghai Jiaotong University (SJTU):

Tuition Fee:

    USD990/term or RMB8200/term

Accommodation:

    Single Room: 3300 RMB/month or 1200 USD/3 months

    double Room: 3600 RMB/month or 1300 USD/3 months

Course

    4 hours/day, Monday to Friday for 12 weeks

Schedule:

    April 7, 2003 – June 27, 2003

    July 7, 2003 – September 26, 2003

    September 8, 2003 – December 5, 2003

    October 8, 2003 – December 19, 2003

    January 5, 2004 – April 2, 2004

Source: Shanghai Jiaotong University Adult Education School Language Training Center For reference propose only.

The room on campus of 3300 RMB/month is very high. You can find apartment in nearby neighborhood with lower price – around 2000 RMB. For other cost, it is definitely cheaper than that in Tokyo or U.S. Food is cheap here but drinking (especially at bars) are expensive. The cost depends what you think is necessary for life.

Chinese Program Review

John:

Fudan University’s Chinese language program is TERRIBLE. All foreigners who have studied there agree on this. I know it’s a famous university, but evidently they don’t put much effort into developing a good Chinese language program.

Have you studied in any Chinese Lanaguage Program in China? Please let the others know your experience by posting a comment on this page. You will find the comment form at the end of this page. In your comment, answer the following questions:

1) Which university did you go for the program?

2) Which program did you attended?

3) What is the length of your program?

4) What is your Chinese language level before attending the program?

5) Overall comments on the program?

6) Top three reasons why you are satisifed or dissatisified with the program?

7) What you’d like to say to those who are considering enrolling the program?

298 thoughts on “Where to Study Chinese, Beijing or Shanghai?

  1. I work at Shanghai institute of Foreign trade and they also have a Mandarin program, but I’m not aware of the costs related. I do, however, find that if I didn’t have to be in Shanghai (I’m here because my Martial Arts teacher lives here) I’d definately rather be in Beijing. The white people here can be unbearable and people speak shanghainese everywhere and their putonghua accents are terrible so learning it is really difficult. I’d definately recommend to anyone before coming here to get the Pimsleur language tapes and go through them. They have helped me immensly (but not enough!) and it’ll save you alot of time on the schoolbench.

  2. Small correction:

    Fudan University’s Chinese language program is TERRIBLE. All foreigners who have studied there agree on this. I know it’s a famous university, but evidently they don’t put much effort into developing a good Chinese language program.

  3. John, really? I though Fudan’s program is better based on my readings in the Shanghaiexpat forum. Lot of people said it is better than the Jiaotong’s

  4. hello,Scott,( an American in Tokyo is planning to move to Shanghai to study Chinese.):why not study in Dalian,China.you can find some useful information on the tonygood.533.net .

  5. I’m needing to know a few things about Shanghai.

    1. What was the main dialect spoken in Shanghai in the 1930’s

    2. What was the history of servants within a Chinese home in the 1930’s in Shanghai

    thank you for any information you can send my way.

  6. heyyy everyone!

    believe me, i am so confused, i’ve studied in hongkong for a while, and then went to the UK to do my a-levels and obviously went to uni there. also, i went to summer school in harvard, so basically i’ve always been in places where there’s an extremely good nightlife and many expats!!

    i need to know which place has more foreigners and a better night life!!

    pleaseeeee share ALL your oppinions!!

    thanking u guys in advance

    alessandra

  7. ohh forgot to mention..when i was talking about which place is better, i mean .. shanghai or beijing?

    waiting for all ure replies.

    alessandra

  8. I would recommend Shanghai, as you may expect. Disclaimer: I lived in Shanghai for 9 years and never really lived in Beijing. So my oppinion, as well as in this website, may not be netural. :-D

    Shanghai has great night life.

  9. I would recommend Shanghai, as you may expect. Disclaimer: I lived in Shanghai for 9 years and never really lived in Beijing. So my oppinion, as well as in this website, may not be netural. :-D

    Shanghai has great night life.

  10. hi, i’m considering moving to shanghai for 6 months to a year for the same reason (study chinese). i know a lot of questions and opinions have been expresed about beijing and shanghai but i would like to know if anyone could provide me a varied type of info.

    i am from malaysia and of chinese origin. i speak cantonese, mandarin and hokkien/fujian. as a child i spent a few years in taiwan and picked up spoken mandarin from there. however, i cannot read chinese but have no problem understanding the different dialects and speaking mandarin in a standard putonghua accent. taking an intensive chinese course in china is just so i can begin to read and write the language i have been speaking for this long.

    therefore, i’d like to know if studying in shanghai (where shangainese is prevalent) will pose a problem in terms of just reading and writing? (i don’t suppose so?) also, in what way is the programme in Fudan Uni lousy? please advise. thank you.

  11. hi!

    I’m a bulgarian girl, who has won a fulltime chinese government schoolarship (a bachelor programme in chinese language and literature) few months ago. I was almost sure that I would be sent to Beijing. But what a surprise yesterday when I received an admission notice from Tongji university, Shanghai. I searched it in the web and it’s an economic university! I’m very confused and need to talk to someone who knows something more about that university and its programme for foreigners.

    thank you!

  12. Tongji is a university with deep German relationship and is strong in architect. It is generally regarded as the thrid best university in Shanghai, after Fudan and Jiao Tong University.

  13. Hi, I just have a similar problem as alessandra who posted her problem here on 13 June. Where should I choose for an intensive Putonghua course? Shanghai? Bejing? or other places? I am a working adult at late 30s in HK. Just want to spend some time in learning Putonghua and Chinese culture. Have read so much about different programs of different universities. But can’t find much about programs for people like my case. I speak Cantonese and English only. I got my first degree in USA. Feel very bad for not able to speak Putonghua as a Chinese. I can take time off for a maximum of 6-8 weeks between October and December 2004. Is Tonghji U. a good try in my case?Any specific program or university you would recommend for me? Thanks in advance for your advice.

  14. i’m confused because of the university, because i’v never heard anyone talking about it. now i have found info but it’s not like to talk to someone who knows personally what the university is like. if you have any personal experience related with it, please share it with me :)

  15. I study Chinese and was under the impression that Mandarin was created mostly after the Beijing dialect… am I wrong?

  16. I AM A NATIVE CHINESE ,LIVING IN BEIJING NOW.

    TO STUDY MANDARINE(PUTONGHUA IN PINYIN) YOU SHOULD GO TO BEIJING ,IT IS THE RULED BY MANDARINE ETHNICS FOR 300YEARS.

  17. Glad to be here! I’m a shanghainese. Here are many foreigners… Night life here is really colorful.(Many bars and warmhearted people here)I’m a student of SISU (Shanghai International Studies University),major in English education and I’d like to make a foreign friend here to communicate. I can show you around my beautiful city and give you some help to live a easy life here:)

    Teveas@sina.com(Email me if you are interested in moving to shanghai. I’d like to be your friend and introduce my lovely city to you!)

  18. Hi,biliana!

    I’ve receive you mail but I don’t know why I cannot reply:(…I can not send mine to your adress…why?

    Tongji is famous for architecture and also automobile major. One of the best univesities in Shanghai.

    To be frank, I guess going to Tongji univesity to study Chinese will not be very wise for it may not his advantage …My school will just be better(Shanghai international Studies university).Fudan will be even better.I’d like to be your friend and wish you could make a wise decision for youself:)

    Since we may have difficulties talking in email…what about msn? justwannatofly@msn.com

    Welcome to be my dear friend and I wish I could help you:)

  19. I am a 31 years old engineer, a bit bohred of working in europe and really willing to learn mandarine, so I am thinking of Shanghai, go there learn the language and slowly start to work.

    How long it will pass before I can get a decent job? And before speaking a basic chinese?

    Ciao giuliot@gmail.com

  20. Im a peruvian 23 year old graduated from bussiness administration like 2 years ago in Universidad de Lima. I am going to Jiao Tong university in shanghai to study mandarin (im a begginer) so i can later establish a more solid bussiness relation with my suppliers there. I am going to stay there like 3 months. Then i want to travell around china for other 3 months. My question is: 3 months is enought to survive around china 3 more months?

    Oh, other question, where can i find a good apartment in shanghai?

    thanks

    alex

    Please answer me to amont@millicom.com.pe

  21. hi everybody

    we are currently travelling arround china and just fall in love with this country. for the time beeing we stay in tibet and will be already by next week be in shanghai. the reason for that will be to settle us down for approx. 2 month to study chiniese on a beginner level.

    we know, that 2 month are very short, but nevertheless it will give us a first impression of this language.

    What university, schools do you recommend – or do you know contact adresses of freelance chinese teachers, which could give us private lessons??

    thanks for your reply in advance,

    sina & marc

    -> is shanghai really the right place to settle for two month?? or do you rather recommend kunming or e.g. chengdu (as we are coming from tibet).

    mail to: sinamarc@gmx.net

  22. I need a room in Beijing from 10 December until 10 January. Any ideas? Something intown and secure preferred.

  23. I’m looking for a good Chinese-English interpretation and translation program – i know there’s one in Beiwai in Beijing and one in Shanghai International studies university.

    Does anyone know of other programs or courses in this field?

    I’d love to hear also any bit of information you may know or heard of the 2 places i mentioned above!

    thanks!

    Netaly sr_yali@yahoo.com

  24. Hello Everybody.

    I am a Chinese. If you like to study Chinese, I suggest you go to Beijing to study it, becuse in Beijing you can study Standard Spoken Chinese (We call it “Putonghua”).

    If anybody need help, you can contract me. thomsonwu@tom.com

  25. Hi all,

    I plan to go to Beijing next year, but I’m very confused with which university I should take. Can someone help me pliz? I know that Beijing Language and Culture University is very famous for its good Chinese teaching, but I think the problem is that there are too many foreigners there and I heard that the opportunity to know chinese friends is a bit hard. Then, I also have done quite a lot research to other universities, but still I cant decide which uni to go to.

    I’m considering Tsinghua University and Beijing Normal University. Any comments for these two universities? Or maybe someone would like to recommend me a better university to learn chinese?

    Thanx a lot.

  26. Can someone please give me some information on the international language program at Fudan(wich is not on the webpage). I have heard it is supposed to be really good, and I’m thinking of going next year. Thanks

    Anders

  27. Hi Netaly,

    I am also looking for a good interpretation and translation program. I called the SH International studies college, not very helpful. Their program is a 2-yr course, you can find some on their website http://www.shisu.edu.cn

    THe other short term course offered is a 2-mth business interpretation course starting 20th Nov. Its Sat full day.. and the lady who answered my question was discouraging me from attending! She said it would be inconvenient for me to spend my saturdays studying.

    I am so disappointed, many of the colleges here dont seem to offer a variety of short to mid-term translation courses.

    cheers

    elsie

  28. Hello, i am a 32 years old lawyer from Lima Peru.

    I want to study mandarine in Beijing Language and Culture University in a full time programe for executives for at least 4 months.

    I would like to be in contact with people who had these experience before in Beijing, to make some cuestions.

    Please contact with me!!!!!

    Alice Arribasplata

  29. I’m an American from New York City looking to study Mandarin for a semester in Shanghai in the Spring next year. I have applied to both Fudan University and Shanghai International Studies University (SISU)– At this point, I’m trying to decide which would have the best language program. Fudan is the more well-known of the two but I’ve seen some mixed reviews on its language program; SISU is a smaller school and more specialized, I’m assuming. I’d appreciate any thoughts and feedback to help me make my decision. THANKS!!!

  30. hi guys

    I will soon be done studying my business administration degree in UK. When I am done I want to move to Bejing to learn mandarin. I currently do not know any chinese.

    1)Please recommend some universities in Bejing with good language courses

    2)Where in Bejing should I live?

    3)Has Bejing got a good night life?

    Regards,

    Arne

  31. I’m interested in translation/interpretation schools in China. As an American, I’m typically interested in Chinese-English and vice versa. I’ve studied CHinese for 8 years and have a B.A. in East Asian Studies/Chinese. Any advice?

    ~M

  32. Hello all,

    I am also planning to learn Mandarin in 2005. I have the same questions as Arne

    1)Please recommend some universities in Bejing with good language courses

    2)Where in Bejing should I live?

    3)Has Bejing got a good night life?

    …and it is also important to me to have mostly contact to chinese people than to other expats.

    It would be vey nice if you can e-mail me your answers. Thx in advance.

  33. hi ,Arne,

    I just e-mail Ertug who has the same questions with you .

    about your questions ,my suggestions is Beijing Language and Culture University is very famous for its good Chinese teaching,but the tuition is more expensive than the other schools ,and I think the problem is that there are too many foreigners so you can’t get more opportunity to practise your chinese and make chinese friends .so ,if you only want to learn mandarin ,I recommend some private language school which also has good teaching and cheaper tuition .I know some schools are almost in the center of Beijing,very convenience .

    speak of where to live ,it depend on what kind of place do you like ,modern or traditional ?if you like modern ,there are a lot of place to choose .but if you like to know chinese culture ,I highly recommend you go into Hutong(Hutong is a kind of old street where people of Beijing love to live) ,which can give you culture shock,and there are a lot of Hutong not only has good apartments ,warmhearted chinese people .but also can give you quiet life during daytime and colorful night life.I recommended a British to live in Juer Hutong three months ago ,and now he tells me ,he likes there very much .so ,if you are willing to observe what Cinese do ,think and say ,go to live in Hutong is the best choice .I promise !

    don’t worry about night life ,there are lots of bars and performances,you will find what you want .

    forgot to introduce myself ,my name is Rachel (my english teacher gave me the name )I am a Beijing girl .I graduated from normal university .if you still have some questions ,just E-mail me !

    very glad if I can help you .

  34. I’m on exchange at Tsinghua University in Beijing now, and know lots of people who are enrolled in the Language Programme for Foreigners. Also, Beijing University, BLCU and several other universities also offer language courses to foreigners. The courses are not bad, and Beijing mandarin is definitely closer to putonghua than Shanghainese. Shanghai is more cosmopolitan and expensive, but Beijing is certainly highly developed too with plenty of foreigners and the sort of comforts we’re used to are available for a price. The nightlife is decent here, with a range of clubs, bars and lounges around. Paul van Dyk played in Tango recently. For convenience’s sake, it’s definitely better to stay close to campus- traffic jams can be absolutely horrid.

  35. Interesting comments. I, too want to brush up my Chinese. I have not studied it since spending an intensive year in Taiwan in 1969! I am interested in taking a summer class, living with a Chinese family and doing research on folklore. I am a professional storyteller and would love to meet someone in China who tells traditional stories. Any suggestions?

  36. the first step ,go to Beijing and live in Hutong ,the second step ,study chinese ,and then ,talk to old people .like my mom ……

  37. Hi all. I’ll go to study chinese at shanghai next month. At ECNU , so sorry that no one talk about this. I want to know that ECNU is the good place to study or not. I decide this U coz it was called “Garden School”. I think it will the beautiful place in modern city. I think the Living cost in campus very expensive. I want to find other place. Please suggest if you know the convenient place in cheap price, Please recommend.

  38. Hi everyone, I am currently living in Shanghai and have just finished one term of full-time Putongua program at Shanghai Jiaotong. I don’t know if my comments will help anyone in particular but here they are :

    Where to study?: Putonghua is putonghua after all. It is spoken by everyone in China. Only the accent in which it is spoken will be different (although quite a few “putonghua-nized” regional words do crop up where it is spoken). Certainly, the Beijing Putonghua is considered the standard, but they tend to add a strong “R” suffix/ending to many words which, for example, many Shanghainese consider distasteful and often associate it with being a country bumpkin. You have to realize that Shanghainese consider themselves to be the most cosmopolitan in China and, from my experience, rightfully so. They are the trendsetters of China.

    So, basically, it really should depend on what you are going to do or want to do after you have studied the language. For example, as a person with extensive financial background, my rationale for choosing Shanghai was that I believe Shanghai will be the commercial and financial capital of China and, perhaps, will surpass Tokyo as the financial center of Asia within 5 years. I think Shanghai will be like what New York City is to the US. (Beijing will be what Washington D.C. is to the US – i.e. a major political center.)

    If you are going back to your home country and deal mostly with companies or government agencies in Beijing, then you should go to Beijing to study. You should also go to Beijing to study if you plan to live and work there after language training. If your interest lies in the fields of finance (banking, insurance, etc.) or commerce (trading, manufacturing, marketing, etc.) and eventually wish to work in those fields in China or with China, then Shanghai will be a better bet.

    In either case, you will learn not only the language but also the “environment” of each respective city. When you meet in your home country a business prospect from, say, Shanghai, it would be a plus to be able to say that you studied at Jiatong (or Tongji or Fudan or whatever) and that you lived on Huai Hai Lu or in Pudong near the Carrefour supermarket. It personalizes the situation and should help to build rapport with that prospect. I hope I am getting my point across here.

    Which school to study at?: Since I live in Shanghai, I can only comment about my experience in Shanghai. As I mentioned, I just finished one term (elementary level) at Jiatong. I was not happy with it. I thought the program was not coordinated. Let me explain. There are three elements to the program: Jingdu (reading comprehension/ grammar), Tingli (listening) and Kouyu (speaking). Ideally, the three elements should be coordinated so that the new words, expressions and grammar learned in the Jingdu class (the backbone class) are listened to in “actual action” in the Tingli class and, then, their use practiced in the Kouyu class. The best approach in any language acquisition is to learn the pattern of usage and then reinforce it by constant repetition. You heard of “practice makes perfect,” right?

    At Jiaotong, each part had a separate textbook taught by a separate teacher that/who did not coordinate with each other. Therefore, it was difficult to get reinforcement of what we learned in the Jingdu class in terms of listening and speaking. Oftentimes, we would come across grammar or usage in the Kouyu class that we had not learned in the Jingdu class. The problem is that since the Kouyu class focuses on speaking, the instructor did not explain the grammar or the usage in detail. For me, this was not acceptable. I made my feelings known to two instructors, who promised they will talk to the program supervisor. To date, I have not heard anything from the program supervisor.

    To me, language instruction, or for that matter education, is a business. I am therefore the consumer of the university’s product. If a customer files a legitimate complaint and the product offeror does not respond to that, then, to me, it is a sign of very poor customer service. I have to conclude that customer satisfaction is very low on their priority list. My guess is that Jiatong may be more interested in making money than providing a quality language training program. It is really too bad because they are considered to be the second best university (not in language training but overall) in Shanghai after Fudan U.

    Because of all this, I am now considering the Putonghua program at Tongji U’s International School JBC. They seem to have smaller classes (6-10) compared to Jiaotong’s. In my class there were 15 although towards the end only about 8 showed up for classes. Does it say anything about the class itself, I wonder?

    One other point about the class itself. I don’t know whether it is important for folks out there considering Chinese classes, but please bear in mind that up to 65% of the students in your class will be Koreans and up to 30% will be Japanese. The remainder are the students from other countries, including Europe, the USA, and the other Asian countries (Malaysia, Indonesia, India, etc.) For example, I was the only non-Asian in my class of 15. Granted, Jiaotong did have a class comprising Europeans and Americans only, but the unfortunate thing about this class was that everything was taught using pinyin only and not Chinese characters. So, many of you from Europe or the US should be prepared for a heavy dose of Korean and Japanese being spoken at the school. Hopefully, you will be able to find a few from your respective countries so that you will not feel too homesick.

    The factor of commuting: One other factor that was important to me was commuting. I originally thought of going to Fudan U., but decided not to because of its location. It was very inconvenient to go to from where I lived (I would have had to take a bus which I didn’t want to) and I did not particularly like the dreary environment around the school. I chose Jiatong because I could hop on the great subway system here and get there very smoothly. Also, the Xujiahui area in which Jiatong is located is quite nice. It has 4 department stores, lots of restaurants of all types, and even the ubiquitous Starbucks, near the campus.

    Althoug the main campus of Tongji U is located nearer to Fudan and also somewhat inconvenient to get to, Tongji’s JBC is located nearer to Jiaotong and more convenient to commute to via the subway system. Also, the nice drinking holes on Hengshan Lu are very near Jiaotong and Tongji’s JBC for those who like to go pubbing.

    I don’t know whether my comments were helpful, but I would like all of you who are considering to learn Putonghua, whether in Beijing or Shanghai or somewhere else here, to look at all angles, present and future, to make your final decision.

    Shanghai Richard

  39. Hi “Shanghai Richard”,

    I found your comments most helpful – thank you.

    Could you tell me anything else about Tongji U’s International school mandarin program? i.e. reputation, structure of the course, number of foreigners in the course, hours, any rumours/opinions, etc you have heard about the teachers and the curriculum there…

    Thanks in advance.

    Aussie Mandarin Enthusiast

  40. i’m a beijinger . if you want to study chinese language

    I suggested you’d better to go to beijing. becouse the beijinger speak the standard chinese language. but the shanghaiese, their dialect which the chinese of other place can hardly understand. so beijing provide a good eviormental to study standard chinese language.

  41. Hi everybody !

    I m from france and i m going to Beijing the 3/03 to study chinese at the Central university of finance and economy (CUFE) in Haidian district. I go there with an association in fact…

    is anybody know this university ?

    I m looking for an appartment too and I don t know wich place can I choose

    I saw that hutong is a nice place but is it far from haidian ?

    Thanks in advance

  42. hi everybody,

    my name is jacy. I want to study in international university in Shanghai but I want to study in English.please help me to find a good university of BBA,let me know about tuition and apartment cost….thank you so much!

  43. Hey folks

    I plan on going to shanghai to study chinese in the summer of 2005. however i am not sure what university i should attend. I have been thinking about Shanghai University for Finance and Economics and Shanghai Second Medical School as possible choices. Can anyone comment on these and their Programs? Also anyone have any info in what part of town these Institutions are located? ( nice area? Downtown district? suburbs?)

    Any info would be appreciated!!

    Rob

  44. hi, Marco1763,

    In my opinion, CUFE is a level two university in Beijing, I think you can try other universities else, and the fee is not expensive. for example: Peking university, tinghua university etc.

    about the apartment closed with CUFE, maybe about 2000RMB per month, include bathroom, kitchen, bedroom and living room.

    HuTong just means a building style, and also Beijing didn’t bequeath so many HuTong, I think if you have chance you just can visit it, it’s a tourist attraction now, almost nobody lives in it.

    any questions you can ask me directly.

    my email:ddvbb@163.com

    MSN:ddvbb@hotmail.com

  45. Hello,Everybody,this is Christine from Harbin, mainland of China,I am living in Tokyo now,I am a Chinese(mandarin) teacher now to Japanese and foreigngers in Tokyo area. I tought Chinese to foreigners for five years before I came Japan,If somebody wants learn Mardarin. please do not hesitate contact with me ,I promise you will get a good result in a short time. the great textbook from Beijing culture and language university that the most famous Chinese learning school in China. I also offer consulting for your studying in China and help our arrangement for studying in China.

    for more information please go to my website

    http://www.geocities.com/liugao992003

    >

    > Email: kcp_china@hotmail.com

    >

    > Also I would like make friends here!

    >

    > Thank you everybody

    >

    >

    >

  46. Hello,Everybody,this is Christine from Harbin, mainland of China,I am living in Tokyo now,I am a Chinese(mandarin) teacher now to Japanese and foreigngers in Tokyo area. I tought Chinese to foreigners for five years before I came Japan,If somebody wants learn Mardarin. please do not hesitate contact with me ,I promise you will get a good result in a short time. the great textbook from Beijing culture and language university that the most famous Chinese learning school in China. I also offer consulting for your studying in China and help our arrangement for studying in China.

    for more information please go to my website

    http://www.geocities.com/liugao992003

    >

    > Email: kcp_china@hotmail.com

    >

    > Also I would like make friends here!

    >

    > Thank you everybody

    >

    >

    >

  47. Hey guys,

    Its great everyone is showing so much interest in moving to China for chinese language learning and the possibility to work there. I was in China during the summer of 2004 for 3 months in Guangzhou. I enjoyed it very much, I actually loved it and miss it. I never felt afraid, people were very friend and nightlife was very good and not very pricey perfect actually. This year after I graduate from my undergraduate studies in the UK I plan on moving to China for Chinese language learning and to eventually work and do business in China.

    I have never been to Shanghai. I would like to get advise as to which city it would be better for me to move to. Would Shanghai only be better if I want to go into the Finance sector? Cause Guangzhou seems to have everything for trading and manufacturer sector.

    I would like advise on this from someone with experience.

    Could someone tell me why it would be more advantageous for me to move to Shanghai instead of Guangzhou?

  48. Also does anyone know about the chinese language program at Zhongshan Univeristy in Guangzhou? Has anyone had experience with it? Any advise.

  49. hey,everyone!

    I am a student in Tongji University in Shanghai,native Chinese,Tongji is a excellent place to study in and I think Shanghai is better for living and working.

    If u got questions of study in Tongji University,email me…

    ifwonderland@yahoo.com.cn

    or icq:320313806

  50. I’m Indonesian-Chinese who just finished my undergrad education in US. I can speak and understand mandarin but I need to learn how to write and read. I’ve been thinking of going to China to learn Mandarin but can’t decide if I should go to Shanghai or Guangzhou. Which place would be better for learning? I know Guangzhou is definitely cheaper in many aspects as compared to Shanghai but what I heard from my Chinese friends, hygiene is a lot worse in Guangzhou than Shanghai. Is that true? I’m really picky about cleanliness and would very much like a nice, clean place to spend a year in. Also, what I understand is that because Guangzhou is very close to Hongkong, the main language that people use is mostly Cantonese, so would it be very hard for someone who doesn’t have any knowledge in Cantonese to survive there? Or Mandarin is equally important there too?

  51. Oh, and one more thing. I have a bachelor degree in graphic design and what I heard from many of my Chinese friends, Shanghai and Hongkong are going to be the “design capital” of the east. Would it be possible for me to find design jobs in these places while studying chinese, considering I don’t have a strong grasp for Mandarin? Or would English be enough?

  52. To give you guys more choice of experiencing a broader China, I inject a note of diversity to this blog.

    My suggestion is Guangzhou, where I was born and bred.

    Guangzhou is less famous than Shanghai and Beijing internationally, but really a good alternative. Originally viewed as the most international city when Hong Kong is tucked in remote tucked in remote islands, the city is now regaining its international status with increasingly sofisticated culture activities scattered around.

    Known as a shopping paradise and a melting port of various cultures, Guangzhou is famous for its openess to newcomers, though i have to admit that rising crime rate, littering, harrassive panhandling, and overloading of basic infrastructure (mainly public transportation, schools) associated with the rise of these migrant populations have been generating some extent of ill will and xenophobia from the local Cantonese.

    Zhongshan University, the best university in town, where I took my college schooling, is the one of the best maderin education provider in China.

    By the way, it is really value added to take a course in Guangzhou, where u may learn the most original Cantonese as well, which is most widely used Chinese dialect worldwide.

    So why not put Guangzhou into your choice list?

  53. Hi,

    I am going to Shanghai to do an anthropological fieldwork. However, I would like to learn some language before starting. What would be the best choice in Shanghai – university or other language schools? And anybody knows approximately how much a term at a Shanghai University or language school would cost?

    Furthermore, as I will need an interpreter for interviews, I am wondering if anybody knows a (cheap) interpreter?

    Also, if anybody has some good suggestions for a cheap room or appartment, or how to arrange accomodation, please contact me.

    – Henrik.

    hkm@mailme.dk

  54. I dont not understand why all the media is so hyped about SHANGHAI ONLY? What about GUANGZHOU! Has it been forget? I dont not understand????? Someone please explain.

  55. Guys I cant form an opinion which is a better place to be, Guangzhou or Shanghai! Sucks really.

  56. I looked up some American design/advertising companies that have branches in Shanghai and Guangzhou and they look promising. I’m actually thinking of going to China to work and learn how to read and write chinese (I can speak and understand enough for basic survival). So, my question for you guys in China, is it possible for me to get a professional job, preferrably in Shanghai, without much knowledge about the Chinese language. I get my bachelors’ degree in graphic design in the US so English is no problem. Please help, I really want to experience new environment..and Shanghai/Guangzhou seems appealing..

    my email is: stellamarisa@hotmail.com

    Thanks.

  57. Hi,

    I am planning to go to Beijing to study Mandarin for a year starting in Fall. I was wondering if it is cheaper to stay in the dorms or an apartment or even a hotel. Could someone help me?

    Also which University do you recommend in Beijing? I do not know if Peking Univ. offers a language program since I have not been able to reach their website. Do you believe Tsinghua has a better program?

    During my stay in Beijing I would also like to intern in a company/law firm/ etc. (I am currently a college student). Does anyone know where I can possibly intern? I barely have beginner’s level of mandarin so I’m guessing it would be very difficult for me to obtain a position. Does anyone have any advice? Thanks!

  58. Studying in Beijing, i am looking for another university for this summer (2 months of studies), and how much it would ost?

    moreover i am loking for an appartement; do you know any website for renting a room in an appartement (to share with other people already living in it .?), in beijng as well as in shanghai ???

    thanks !

  59. hey, dear all

    I am a chinese mandarin tutor in beijing, if anyone who want a personally designed independent mandarin tutoring. please feel free to contact me at xiaopanli@hotmail.com.

    time and charge are negotiable.

    best regard.

  60. I am planning on working in Shanghai, but I’d also like to take chinese classes. I have looked into Jiaotong, Fudan and SISU, but they only seem to have classes during the day. Does anyone know where I can take night or weekend classes at any school in Shanghai? If not, it seems like Jiaotong and SISU offer the best program for chinese language. Is this true? Also, I’d like to focus on business chinese, so any comment on what the best place to study would be very helpful.

    Thanks

  61. jc,

    FESCO shanghai (Shanghai Foreign Service Co., Ltd) provide language training service. It is the biggest foreign service company in china and their language courses are pretty good, very practical and suitable for foreigners who works in china. Besides the in-school class, they also provide personally designed course. Students make reservation with teacher in advance, and teacher go to student’s company to give class.

    http://www.efesco.com/eng/wf/services/Education&Training.htm#1

    xiaopan

  62. Thanks xiaopan. I’ll look into FESCO. Is this a service that you have used? If so what did you think of it in terms of the teaching quality? How much does it cost?

  63. actually, I am a chinese teacher of FESCO beijing. the chinese course from university is more emphasized on theoretics. so it fit for those who want to study and research it as a second language. but the chinese course from FESCO emphasized on communication and real talking. That’s why Fesco has a very good reputation among the foreigners who work in china.

    the drop in one to one course is around 100RMB/hr.( 12US$/hr). most companies will pay the tuition fee for their foreign employees. the group study or in-school class will be cheap a lot, you’d better ask in person the details.

  64. I studied at Beijing Language and Culture University (BLCU) for a 5 week program in 2003. It was an AWESOME experience, I just fell in love with the city! Being an Aussie girl (Melbourne), I’ve always preferred cities that are more laidback, rather than the hustle and bustle that characterizes places like Shanghai and Hong Kong. That being said, Shanghai and HK are still unbelievable fun for short term stays =)

    What i want to know, though, is whether anyone has been through the Chinese program at Tsinghua? What is it like? I am going to study Chinese in Beijing for a full year in 2006 and my choice lies between BLCU and Tsinghua. Would anybody recommend one university over the other? The only negative aspect I found with BLCU was that the foreign population was far too dominating for a truly immersive ‘China’ experience. Quite difficult to make local friends.

    The actual Chinese program at BLCU is great though, the teachers are really dedicated and everyone is there to learn and have a good time. I hope to find the same quality of teaching at Tsinghua.

    Oh, by the way if anyone is interested, BLCU is in a fairly good location, close to a supermarket, train station, Chinese cinema, the all important Maccas (good old hash browns for breakfast!!!) and yummmmy Chinese restaurants — all of which are incredibly cheap! The on-campus facilities are also in great shape i.e. sports centre which includes swimming pool, courts, gym etc.

    Anyways, hope you guys can post up some comments to help me with my decision =) Thanks all, dudes!

  65. I’m asian girl and would like to study chinese language in shanghai for a year while doing some part-time job there. Is it possible ? After fluent in chinese, then I’d try to get some job since I have IT application experienced for 5 years. I can speak simple chinese, but not enough confident to get a job in shanghai now. Is it a good plan ?

  66. I’m chinese in shanghai! i’d like to teach chinese !!I know a little engilsh, we can teach with each other .it’s totally free.pelease contact me.email:tomeok2005@yahoo.com.cn

  67. HI I AM EXPERIENCED IN CANTON FAIR ,HK FAIR ,DUBAI FAIR AS AN INTERPRETER ,(ENGLISH OR ITALIAN) THIS IS MY CELL PHONE 13527808198

    BEIBEI IN GUANGZHOU

  68. Hi! This is a very helpful messageboard… I’ve enjoyed reading everyone’s comments.

    I want to study intensive basic chinese from October to December. I have not decided on a city, but I think I would prefer Shanghai or Nanjing.

    I will be in Shanghai (and the general area) for the month of September on a tourist visa. Before July 15, I plan to apply to East China Normal University, Fudan University, Nanjing University… and maybe Tongji since it was recommended here. then I will go look at the schools in September when I am there. Does anyone know if I will be able to decide in September, register for classes, and apply for my student visa while in Shanghai? Or do I have to decide before I go, so that I can apply for my visa from the US?

    Also, I have not yet decided on Shanghai either. I have heard wonderful things about Nanjing. Does anyone have experience with Nanjing University chinese language programs? I would like the program to be intensive, so that I can make the most of my time, but I have no Chinese background and am a bit scared!

    I live in New York, currently, and I am familiar with living in a fast-paced city, but I am hoping to stay in a city where I can find parks and a bit of nature, and where it is easy to get out of the city for travel on weekends. I would also like to be able to afford a nice apartment while I am there.

    Does anyone have any suggestions for me? I would also love to have a contact in Shanghai to show me around, help me find a place to stay, etc… and I would be happy to help you practice English! I will be arriving with another English-speaking friend on September 4, by train, from Beijing.

    Thanks,

    Daria

  69. Hi , Im planning to study Chinese at Tongji University in Shanghai. My classes starts on 8º of August and will be an intensive course of Mandarin. I want to know if anyone went to this university , and if there is any good or bad comment

  70. I’m in a similar situation to Daria in that I am considering going over to Shanghai on a tourist visa then signing up for a language course in person. Would anyone be able to advise as to whether it is possible to change visa types in China without going home and returning?

  71. Dear Wang Jian Shuo, Just got onto to your blog, hope you can help, my cousin wants to study Chinese in Beijing/Shanghai. We are from Malaysia. She has alot of queries that the university/language centres in Beijing have not been forth coming. You mentioned that you will not be answering emails but posting it on your web/blog, do let us know whether you are receiving this query.

    Thanks alot in advance! Best Wishes, Ei-Leen

  72. i believe that nanjing is better than shang .shanghainese have the strong dialect but nanjingese may speake Chinese more clearly.

  73. Hi, if you want to have a good comment for choosing shanghai or beijing as the place to study Chinese,You can call me please,I will give you a help.By the way, I am a Chinese teacher for foreigner.

    13245890849 Lily in nanjing

  74. Hi, if you want to have a good comment for choosing shanghai or beijing as the place to study Chinese,You can call me please,I will give you a help.By the way, I am a Chinese teacher for foreigner.

    13245890849 Lily in nanjing

    email:first_love123001@yahoo.com.cn

  75. Hi All,

    I am currently working in Guangzhou and does anyone knows a good university in Guangzhou for weekend chinese classes? If so please let me know.

    Thank you

    sudehi

  76. Hi,this is Zhou, a native chinese speaker.I am living in Beijing. Have you found your mandarin tutor yet? I am a very experienced and qualified teacher. I used to teach a Japanese student successfully. Students from different countries usually have diversified problems when learing chinese ,and I know how to help students with their specific problems .

    The tuition fee is 50 yuan per hour.

    Relax, and please feel free to contact me.

    Zhou(yinghan24@sohu.com)

  77. It so happened that I came over this website when doing my research on Fudan university. I guess to compare Fudan and Jiaotong, it is as good as comparing Havard and Yale. Guess more importantly, it is the culture that matters if you guys were to decide the cities. I have been some famous cities in China; Shanghai folks tend to speak in Shanghaiese when they are in a restaurant or at a gathering so as a foreigner will have less chance to pick up Pu Tong Hua (Mandarin) by listening to the conversation. As for Beijing, the accent is rather heavy when the Pekingese speak in Mandarin.

    One of the place, I will recommand will be Suzhou or Hangzhou. Although they are smaller and quieter cities, the local speaks in very clear accent. Also, Suzhou is known for her scholars in literature historically. The modern Suzhou is an industrial park which holds some MNCs.

    If you were to look at the map, Suzhou and Hangzhou are located in the middle of China where you won’t get too heavy accent from the Northern Chinese and too much dialects from the Southern Chinese.

    Guess, it is always good to call up the uni and ask what they got to offer.

  78. I’ve just arrived in Shanghai and am in the process of researching the chinese language programs of the many universities here. It’s getting a bit confusing as it’s very difficult to judge the quality of each. Many people mention Fudan as the best overall uni, but is it the best for Mandarin study? If you’ve studied Mandarin at any of these schools please respond with your experiences, good or bad. Any input would be much appreciated!

    Fudan University

    Shanghai International Study University

    Shanghai Jiao Tong University

    East China Normal University

    Shanghai University

    Or any other recommendations?

  79. I am a citizen of Nepal. By profession I am a civil engineer. I have also MA degree in Anthropology. I want to learn Chinese language with a native chinese teacher for at least 4-6 months in Beijing or Shanghai. If someone wants to provide services in a friendly environmnet at an affordable cost, please kindly send email at: My purpose of studying Chinese is to find a well paid job in Chinese Companies.

  80. I like the description of Tongji JBC (closer in than Fudan and some of those in the north) Any more description of quality or other info on that school or China East Normal? I’m living here for six months and hoping to change university for more flexible program.

    Thanks,

    Frances

  81. As someone mentioned above, does anyone have any experience with ECNU? Where is it located relative to the night life in Shanghai and how convenient is the campus as far as commuting is concerned? Like many of you, I am looking to move to Shanghai for some time (a few years) to learn how to read and write Mandarin Chinese (my speaking ability is intermediate at best). Thank you in advance.

  82. I am chinesse indoensian and currently living in singapore. I also plan to go to Shanghai to study intensive mandarin for 3 month from Oct – Dec. i speak chinesse dialect so it makes it so much easier for me to pick up chinesee..but i just want to learn mmore structure writing and reading. I did tried to study in shanghai for 1 week when I went to shanghai last year..at iMandarin..it’s only 2 people in the class..but i have to say the teacher are pretty good and the syllabus is very well prepared. But for the long term..I prefer to choose a place / university like Tongji uni or Tongji JBC. I visit Fudan and Jiatong as well at that time. But I found Fudan and Tongji main campus just too much hassle to access…so I narrow my choice to Jiaotong and Tongji JBC. After listen to Richard’s comment..i think i’d rather choose Tongji JBC then. And also the customer service there is much much better. They are very helpful and responsive to my email. They charge USD 1,115 for 3 months (Oct 10 – Dec 30 ‘ 05).

    I have checked all the uni, so far the best service I got is from Tongji JBC..they really take care of my needs, and the price is not much different from any other uni.

    I do agree with Richard comment that location is so important in shanghai. i went to shanghai last year..and was soo stress up if I have to take the bus there..Location is so important in shanghai.

    I also choose Shanghai cos I have so many Singaporean, malaysian and Chinesse friends in Shanghai. Which provide me a lot of pool to practice my chinesse…I feel more comfortable to have this gang of familiar friends to hang around..but they speak chinesse..so I can practice my chinesse as well.

    Do contact me at anna_kpmg@hotmail.com if you also plan to go to Shanghai at that time..we can do gathering and spent our time to practice our chinesse together.

  83. I have been reading more and more and discovering things about China. There are definitely too many different dialects there to make living adjustment relatively easy. The people in Beijing speak differently than the people in Shanghai who use the Shanghainese dialect. it is not like this traveling around the United States where almost everyone speaks, reads, writes and understands English (except for some illegal aliens etc)

    look at what Kathia wrote about the different dialects:

    “hi, i’m considering moving to shanghai for 6 months to a year for the same reason (study chinese). i know a lot of questions and opinions have been expresed about beijing and shanghai but i would like to know if anyone could provide me a varied type of info.

    i am from malaysia and of chinese origin. i speak cantonese, mandarin and hokkien/fujian. as a child i spent a few years in taiwan and picked up spoken mandarin from there. however, i cannot read chinese but have no problem understanding the different dialects and speaking mandarin in a standard putonghua accent. taking an intensive chinese course in china is just so i can begin to read and write the language i have been speaking for this long.

    therefore, i’d like to know if studying in shanghai (where shangainese is prevalent) will pose a problem in terms of just reading and writing? (i don’t suppose so?) also, in what way is the programme in Fudan Uni lousy? please advise. thank you.

    Posted by: kathia on July 18, 2004 09:48 PM ”

    I think China needs to do something to make a uniform national language a reality throughout all of China. I know that Mandarin technically is the national language but the Shangahinese still prefer to use and speak in their own local ‘Shanghainese dialect. why should I spend time and money taking a Chinese speaking course in Mandarin over here just to travel to Shanghai and get hit with a strange dialect I can’t speak and understand????? Learning French is not like this–French is French all over France. Learning German is the same way in Germany.

  84. I have been reading more and more and discovering things about China. There are definitely too many different dialects there to make living adjustment relatively easy. The people in Beijing speak differently than the people in Shanghai who use the Shanghainese dialect. it is not like this traveling around the United States where almost everyone speaks, reads, writes and understands English (except for some illegal aliens etc)

    look at what Kathia wrote about the different dialects:

    “hi, i’m considering moving to shanghai for 6 months to a year for the same reason (study chinese). i know a lot of questions and opinions have been expresed about beijing and shanghai but i would like to know if anyone could provide me a varied type of info.

    i am from malaysia and of chinese origin. i speak cantonese, mandarin and hokkien/fujian. as a child i spent a few years in taiwan and picked up spoken mandarin from there. however, i cannot read chinese but have no problem understanding the different dialects and speaking mandarin in a standard putonghua accent. taking an intensive chinese course in china is just so i can begin to read and write the language i have been speaking for this long.

    therefore, i’d like to know if studying in shanghai (where shangainese is prevalent) will pose a problem in terms of just reading and writing? (i don’t suppose so?) also, in what way is the programme in Fudan Uni lousy? please advise. thank you.

    Posted by: kathia on July 18, 2004 09:48 PM ”

    I think China needs to do something to make a uniform national language a reality throughout all of China. I know that Mandarin technically is the national language but the Shangahinese still prefer to use and speak in their own local ‘Shanghainese dialect. why should I spend time and money taking a Chinese speaking course in Mandarin over here just to travel to Shanghai and get hit with a strange dialect I can’t speak and understand????? Learning French is not like this–French is French all over France. Learning German is the same way in Germany.

  85. Yes, we do speak Shanghai dialect here.

    But young generation here almost forgets what Shanghai dialect is like. They prefer to say in Pu Tong Hua(mandarine) with their mates, and even family members.

    As for me, I try every means possible to speak Shanghai dialect. I find it intolerable to speak mandarin with my family members.

    But don’t not worry so much. Most of us young people can speak perfect mandarin. Moreover, you will also find people in Hong Kong and Guang Dong also speak Cantonese, seldom using Pu Tong Hua.

  86. Invitation

    Dear all,

    We are a forwarding company based in Yang Pu District Shanghai. We welcome university students with good spoken English and fairly qualified Chinese to teach in our company after 6 on Fridays, helping my colleagues improve their oral English.

    You may find it so interesting to interact with them who are eager to make progress in English. You will probably better yourself in your Chinese level through communication with my colleagues not older than 25 years old.

    Pls do not hesitate to contact me through fangminjie1983211@126.com, if you do show any interest. We are looking for your reply.

  87. Hi, all, I’m a Chinese boy, live in Shanghai and have been in the UK for some time, so I would like to make friends from EU and US, I can help you guys for everything. You guys can reach me at : pengdong113@yahoo.com (it’s an MSN account).

  88. Dear all,

    If you want to have a good comment for studying shanghai ,You can call me please,I will give you a help(including the method,visa problems and so on.

    021-28842070(24hrs)

    021-64482888

    email:elva_126@126.com

  89. Hi Wang Jianshou,

    I would say Beijing, Beijing, Beijing!!

    Even if Beijing has it’s own Kouyin it is much much easier to practice with locals than in Shanghai. I studied WorldLink Education Chinese Language Program at BCLA and it was really great. I recommend it and if you would like to have direct feedback you are welcome to email me. adamgratton_85@hotmail.com

    For WorldLink’s Real Life China programs See http://www.worldlinkedu.com

    Zaijian!

    Adam

  90. hey there,

    yes…as most of people mentioned..beijing and shanghai are both super cities of china..but you definitely make sure what you are going to do or want to do after you have studied the mandarine… well…i would like recommend beijing for studying mandarine…as chinese started to learn english…apparently the right teacher and environment is quite important…..hmmmm…as a native beijingner. but i’m working in shanghai currently…do not choose shanghai for learning mandarine …it would made u misunderstand mandarine with shanghai dialect …well..i’m not offend shanghai here..anyway…if ur purpose of learning is not seriously..maybe just for fun..even for business work…maybe shanghai is right palce..well….most of my foreigner friends who had a huge difference not only on speaking mandarine accent but also the expression of chinese if they are studying in different places..

  91. Hello, all. I think I can give some clear advice about where to learn Mandarin. If money is no option, then the ICLP program in Taipei is THE BEST, totally without peer. Even if you care more about learning simplified characters, it’s still worth it to go there. I know over a dozen different people who came to Taiwan with no Chinese background and after studying there for one year all of them could read newspapers hardly using a dictionary, and could understand 95% of what’s on TV here. It is expensive, though.

    http://ccms.ntu.edu.tw/~iclp/

    The second best option is the IUP, or the “Stanford Program” in Beijing. It is much like ICLP in teaching methods and price. Unfortunately, instructors usually only stay there for a couple of years, where as ICLP instructors often stay for a whole decade. As a result the quality of the instructors is slightly worse. This program is still far, far above anything else on the mainland, or even in elite western colleges.

    http://ieas.berkeley.edu/iup/

    Now, if you DON’T have tons of money to spend here’s my advice: Don’t waste your money on vastly over-priced low quality programs that basically rip off foreigners who can afford it. BCLU, Beida, Fudan,Shida (either Beijing or Taipei), Jiaotong and similar schools, almost NEVER get westerners up to a level where they can read the paper and understand TV within a year. And they charge you WAY more than Chinese students have to pay for real degree programs at the same schools. To top it off it’s pretty hard to find Chinese people in Beijing, Shanghai, or god help you,Taipei, that will be willing to be your friends if you don’t speak English with them.

    I strongly recommend Harbin. First of all, people there speak about as standard of Chinese as you can find. Second, if you’re white, people will think you’re Russian and not necessarily always badger you with English. Third, room and board is only 500RMB (~62USD) per month. Also, after your Chinese studies have progressed far enough, you can enter the university and take the same classes for the same money that the Chinese students pay. To top it off Harbin is beautiful, very multicultural, and has great food!

  92. Shanghai is a beautiful mordern city. i believe you must be inerested in it. maybe you’re already in Shanghai and enjoy the life here, maybe you’re planning to Shanghai to begin a whole new oriental life…anyway, if you want to know the city furtherly, i mean you’d like to study mandarin, you are interested in Chinese culture or you need a native traveling-mate, maybe i can offer help. i am a young teacher with 3 years’ experiece of teaching foreigners chinese. through communicating with my foreign friends or students, i find sometimes it’s a little difficult to adapt themselves to the life in shanghai because of the language, the culture shock, especially for those guys who first to China and without any relatives or friends in the local place. therefore, i want to say i really want to give a hand to those foreign friends.

  93. Shanghai is a beautiful mordern city. i believe you must be inerested in it. maybe you’re already in Shanghai and enjoy the life here, maybe you’re planning to Shanghai to begin a whole new oriental life…anyway, if you my foreign friends want to know the city furtherly, i mean you’d like to study mandarin, you are interested in Chinese culture or you need a native traveling-mate, maybe i can offer help. i am a young teacher with 3 years’ experiece of teaching foreigners chinese. through communicating with my foreign friends or students, i find sometimes it’s a little difficult to adapt themselves to the life in shanghai because the language, the culture shock, especially for those guys who first to China and without any relatives or friends in the local place. therefore, i want to say i really want to give a hand to those foreign friends . plz email me by binyan0030@hotmail.com

  94. Mark –

    Thanks for the post on the ICLP program in Taipei and the IUP program in Beijing, really helpfull stuff. You seem to know a good amount about this and I actually have a couple questions I would really like to ask you if you wouldnt mind. My email is williamtbaldwin@yahoo.com, if you could shoot me an email so I could contact you I would greatly appreciate it.

  95. Hi anyone there!

    I will be located in Kunshan and I like to study chinese. Is there any language schools or universities in this place? In case there’s no school there, what would be the best option, the nearest school in shanghai to my location? How long do I need to commute to shanghai?

    Thanks in advance.

  96. Hello Shanghai folks,

    I work for an international language training company in Dallas, Texas, USA. One of our clients who just moved to Shanghai (a U.S. American) needs a Mandarin teacher beginning the week of Nov. 13. The teacher needs to speak very good English and will need to go to the client’s office near People’s Square. We pay $25-$30 an hour based on experience and I will need to conduct a phone interview.

    If you or someone you know of is interested, please let me know. This client works for a big company and is very professional. So this means you or someone you know will also need to be professional and flexible with the client.

    Due to the time difference between Shanghai and Dallas, it will be easiest to communicate over email first. Then I can set up a time to talk over the phone.

    Many thanks in advance for your help.

    Sincerely,

    Mindy

  97. Not so many people mentioned about the chinese program at SISU ( Shanghai International Studies University ), is it not good ?

  98. Hey there – this blog has been a great find. Loads of really helpful information.

    I’m in a bit of a dilema. I’ve got gap year in which I want to live in a foreign country and learn a new language – the problem is I don’t know which one.

    Part of me wants to learn Mandarin in Beijing/Shanghai because I’m interested in the culture, career-wise it will be good for me and I’m from that part of the world ethnically. I’m hesitant, however, because I fear that I’ll spend 6 months out there and come home with only a basic grasp of the language. How true is this? Is Mandarin really as difficult as it seems?

    The other part of me wants to learn Spanish in Beunos Airies because it’s an easier language and South America interests me as well. My only hesitation with this option is that Spanish will not be as useful to me in the long-run as Mandarin; although I can expect to gain a better command of it.

    If anyone has any advice for me, it would be greatly appreciated.

    Thanks

    Jack

  99. Im planning to study in shanghai for 6 months this coming spring semester. I have zero knowledge of the mandarin language. With all the comments above , im getting very confused opf which school to choose. I want to learn mandarin and have a convinient location in the city. Im planning to work afterwards in the architectural industry. So which ciy Beijing ? shanghai? which school? tongji? Jiao tong? blcu?

  100. I got admission in North

    China Institute of science and Technology,Yanjiao,

    Beijing East and my first semester will be over in Feb

    06.Though, i found this institute the most economical

    one,and goof in teaching as well, but am facing

    following problem:-

    1. All my class mates (25 in numbers) are

    teenagers..from Vietnam and am not adjusted with

    them,,being the only person from other country i.e

    Pakistan. They have thier own interest, language and

    cullture,,so cant be friendly with me,,it gives

    me,,feeling of loneliness,,,

    2. Teachers here normally handle these teenagers and

    have same policies,,so i have to follow thier

    policies,,strict timings of classes.. long

    schedule,,from 0800 to 1800 hrs,,,. That much burden

    may be fine with the student yet to start thier

    professional studies,,but not for me,, who is in job

    since 8 years and completd PhD,,,. They sometimes dont

    realise that I am also a professor from One of

    University in Pakistan..and a Muture lady…and treat

    me also as teenagers…

    3. State of accomodation is not good,,, like heating

    is not fine,,one has to have its own heater and it

    costs u additional electricity bill. Lot of noises in

    floor,,one cant go to sleep,, as u can hear a foot

    step of a person,,, walking out side,,far off,,,. And

    no electricity after 2300 hrs till morning 0600

    hrs…so students must go to sleep,,,a policy for

    teenagers,,but am the suferers,,,

    4. In begining, Managment had many promises,, and now

    ,,when i ask them and hint about some problem,,they

    refer me,,to some other,,department saying its not

    thie Job,,,

    Thuogh,i have paid them,,for a whole years,,,but even

    then,,have dicided to change intitute,, and

    asking u to guide me where to study,,,in economical way in Beijing.

    please send ur comments on my email

    monakhalid2002@yahoo.co.in

    dr.mona.aeysha.khalid@gmail.com

    Thanks

  101. Hi there,

    I’m gonna do the language course at SISU for the upcomming spring semester. I’m really looking forward to it, I just got the message they have accepted my subscription. I choose this university because I heard from someone I know, who also did the language course, that it was good there. So in February I can find that out for myself! If somebody wants to know anything about it or also will be there next semester you can contact me! My e-mail address is tsjubbie83@hotmail.com

    Grtz.

    Noor

  102. Mandarin(Chinese) is one of unique languages that have tones. But in terms of the logic of the language, Mandarin is the most striking one as a result of its evolution of thousand years. Mandarin (Chinese ) is also a language tied richly with Chinese Culture.

    Foreigners could expect a quick and efficient learning of this language if they use a correct solution.

    http://www.redcarpetmandarin.com is a site for effective learning of Chinese

  103. I was wondering if anybody is familiar with the Mandarin Times program in Shanghai… I would like to know if this program is reputable and good for a beginner without any knowledge of mandarin…. I would like to learn to not only speak but read and write as well… I am a working professional in New York City and I am planning to spend about 4 months to learn mandarin.

    Also any recommendations on where to live in shanghai. I would like to live in a studio apartment with TV/internet/maid service/gym in a nice neighborhood. any recommendations on neighborhood? how is near Nanjing xilu?

    Thank you in advance.

  104. Hello John !

    The real good place to study chinese is Beijing.

    People speak mandarin chinese in the street.

    Daily life budget about 5 US$, accommodaton single room university about 12-15 US$.

    Monthly budget for fun : 75-100 US$ if you stay at least an academic semester

    If you are looking for professionnal vocational training in mandarin chinese look at http://www.sinolingua.org

    Enjoy discover China !

    Friendly Toto

  105. Hi, I’m a girl from Hangzhou. How about coming to Hangzhou to study chinese? The city is beautiful, green, safe and has culture and history. I know two places you can study chinese. One is a language school called Manda http://www.mandacenter.com

    Another is Zhejiang University.

    welcame to hangzhou!

    Jenny Chen

  106. Hi Everybody,

    Have you noticed that most of people from Beijing say that Beijing is the best place to study and live, and people from Shanghai say the same about their city!!!

    I think that there is not perfect place at all. All of them have advantages and disadvantages. Its up to you, if you want to be closer to western style (but also living the taste of China) then go to Shanghai. If you want to be closer to Chinese culture then you should go to Beijing. It depends more on the personality.

    Cities like Hangzhou are nice. Hangzhou is close to Shanghai, some parts are beautiful (some others are also busy and crowded) but in general is much more quiet and calm. Some people love it, for me Shanghai is much better.

    I have lived in Beijing, Hanzgzhou and Shanghai, and I have studied Chinese in Hanzhou and Shanghai.

    II’s true that in Beijing people speak almost the Standard Chinese, but if you move to another city in China you still will have problems to understand their accents. On the other hand if you get used to the accent in Shanghai (for example) you will find very easy to understand people in Beijing.

    I think that most of universities still have to improve a lot their teaching methos, if not all of them.

    I think the key point is that everything depends on the student. Some people have the ability to learn faster. Some people learn very fast the speaking part and some others the writing.

    You can find everywhere people who have studied in the same university, one can speak fluently after one year while the other one can’t. Because the teaching is not good enough (in most of universities) and also Chinese is a hard language to learn then you have to dedicate a lot of time to it. The more you dedicate to learn and practice then more you will speak, no matter in what university you are.

  107. Charlie, well said. No one has the perfect answer for all. It all depends on what you want. You may want to learn the Chinese culture, but this may not always mean “comfort” for you as the culture shock may be big that you are not always comfort with… It is all about choice, and balance.

  108. One more thing i would like to say would be, I can be a Chinese tutor if you want to know more about China or Chinese culture, I can speak Standard Mandarin, in case you are interested, i can teach you both in Shanghai or Suzhou, both places are fine for me, you may email me at: katherinelee4444@yahoo.com

  109. since havent heard anyone talk about Guangzhou, what do u guys think about study chinese there? Since i m thinking of getting job there.

  110. 25years old ,boy.in shanghai, chinaese ,not very good in english ,but want look for a people who learn each other ,you can help me english or other language,i can teach you chinaese or shanghaiese.

    my hotmail is breakgun@msn.com

  111. Hi,

    I’d appreciate any more information anyone has about the quality of teaching at Manda school in Hangzhou.

    Thanks,

    Jane

    USA

  112. Hi,

    I’d appreciate any information about the quality of teaching at Beijing Radio and Television University (BTVU) in Beijing.

    I intend to go to Beijing for vacation and will like to have a short term course (4 weeks) prior to my vacation in July 2006.

    Thanks

    Bernard

  113. To Bernard:

    I am a lecture who teach foreigners chinese, one of my students who come from Korea has been learned chinese there.But because of big class, the speaking skills improved so slowly.

  114. To Mona:

    I know many chinese language schools around east of Beijing. I am a lecture who teach chinese in COCI chinese language training center, which is located just opposite the World Trade Center in Beijing. We can arrange one-to-one class based on your demands,welcome you for consulting, Tel: (010) 58692858

  115. Hi there….

    I’m a Chinese Indonesian and planning to study mandarin in Shanghai on Autumn Semester. Right now I need information about Shanghai International Studies University (SISU) because I really interested in this university. I wanna know about their language program, the campus life,dormitory,their facilities,etc.I have seen their website and brochures, but if any SISU student (or Shanghainese) can give me further information, I really appreciate that.

    Looking forward to hear from you,guys!!!!

    Thanx

  116. Hi guys,

    I like to study mandarin chinese in shanghai in one year duration. I like to come to china with in 2 or 3 months. I found few institution at shangahi through net but didn’t get any of one year course length.

    Please do help me precisely by giving information with (average or below average)tution (name the university or institution), transport,food, accomodation.

    Thanx in advace for helping me with informations.

    My email is chess_bd@yahoo.com

    age: 33

    regards,

    sharif

  117. This is Delia zhang, an experienced native Mandarin Chinese teacher to foreigners. Can speak English reasonably well. Well to know and use official pinyin and dialect, good ability to create a basic curriculum for beginners, intermediate, and advanced students. based in Shanghai, but not have any Shanghainese accent, like to be your Mandarin teacher. Tel: 021-29707606 Mobile: 13661649396 Email: vastchina@126.com MSN: zhynet7777@sina.com.cn web: http://www.vastitude-china.com

  118. Hi!

    I’m so glad that some foreign friends ask me some questions about shanghai by email:) Thank you for your trust although it’s quite a long time that I haven’t been here.

    I lost the code of my old msn, so I’m sorry for the old friends.If you can read this please contact me :

    Msn:teveas@yahoo.com.cn

    teveas@sina.com for email is still O.K.

    I’m glad to know you and I will try my best to help you if you decide to study or vist Shanghai, my lovely home town:)

  119. i am interested to study in shanghai. i would like to ask some information about tongji university, shangwai universuity,shanghai university,and shanghai normal university.

    thanks

    e-mail:jarabee_1984@hotmail.com

  120. I am planning (maybe) on coming to Shanghai to go to Fudan Uni, to do an 8 week summer short Mandarin course. I read earlier in these posts, their language course is not good? Any further comments re: Fudan Mandarin summer/winter short course.

    For all the other folks who want to know about Shanghai or /vs. Beijing: Beijing is more militant and will be more intensive as far as culture/language; Shanghai will be easier to adapt to and more pleasurable in the long term. The end results will be the same, perhaps more opportunities for work in Shanghai.

    My 3 cents..

    Brent_m_98@yahoo.com

  121. hello everybody i am looking to study chinese in shanghai for 8 months so far i have narrowed down my choices to

    1. shanghai international studies university

    2. Jiaotong univ

    3. east china normal univsersity

    I am looking for a really intensive mandarin course as i have studed chinese for 1 yr at taipei already. What would be everybody reccomendation. Small class size is the biggest factor for me

    Thnxs,

    Elliott

  122. Elliott, I cannot give personal advice to you, since I don’t know more on these mandarin education than you. However, I would suggest Shanghai Jiaotong University, since it has better location of campus, and the university is better in terms of reputation than others. You may consider these to factors..

  123. experienced native Mandarin Chinese teacher to foreigners. Can speak English reasonably well. Well to know and use official pinyin and dialect, good ability to create a basic curriculum for beginners, intermediate, and advanced students. based in Shanghai, but not have any Shanghainese accent, like to be your Mandarin teacher and your friend in Shanghai.

    Class 1: > Pinyin and basic conversation for begainers

    14:00pm-16:00pm (Monday) 15:00pm-17:00pm (Thursday)

    0ne teacher to two or three students 48yuan/hour/person

    Class 2: > the learner should know Pingyin

    14:00pm-16:00pm (Tuesday) 15:00pm-17:00pm (Friday)

    0ne teacher to two or three students 58yuan/hour/person

    Class 4: >

    the learner should have a command of about 500 basic words, 100 sentence patterns. 14:00pm-16:00pm (Wednesday) 15:00pm-17:00pm (Sunday)

    0ne teacher to two or three students 58yuan/hour/person

    Class 5: >

    the learner should have a command of about100 basic words, 200 sentence patterns. 18:30pm-20:30pm (Tuesday) 18:30pm-20:30pm (Thursday)

    0ne teacher to two or three students 68yuan/hour/person

    Class 6: > The course includes over 3,000 commonly uesd sentences, which will enable him to survive in his daily business communications

    18:30pm-20:30pm (Wednesday) 18:30pm-20:30pm (Sunday)

    0ne teacher to two or three students 68yuan/hour/person

    Class 7: One to one class 88yuan/hour

    Delia zhang

    Mobile: 0086-13661649396 (shanghai)

    Email: vastchina@126.com

    MSN: zhynet7777@sina.com.cn

    web: http://www.vastitude-china.com

    Address: Room 2105, 22floor, No.973 Yan’an Road West, Shanghai Zip: 200050

  124. Professional Mandarin Teacher

    Hi,friends,I am a 25 years female from Shanghai.

    I graduated from Shanghai International Studies University.

    Teaching mandarin is my full time job.

    I speak Mandarin perfectly and I aslo can speak English and Japanese.

    Now I have more than 10 students.(from U.S., France, Belgium, Netherlands, India,czech, New Zealand etc.)

    I use self-prepared materials,not a book.

    Class is usualy one by one,but also can more students.

    aslo I can come to your place for lessons.

    If you are interested,please send email to:

    xiaoguai39@hotmail.com

  125. Hi, I am a Chinese-American and just graduated with a business administration degree from the University of Washington. I can’t speak or read Chinese b/c my parents speak different dialects, so I grew up speaking English at home.

    I want to study Chinese Mandarin for a school year. Haven’t decided on Beijing or Shanghai yet, but am leaning towards Shanghai. I have already applied to Tsinghua University (Beijing) and Fudan (Shanghai).

    I want to apply to another school in Shanghai and from reading the previous comments, I’m trying to decide between Tongji, East China Normal University, and Shanghai International Studies University. Does anyone know which one is better, or just know things about one of them?

    Thanks.

  126. Hello Everybody :

    I am glad to so many guys want to learn mandarin. I am boy , 27 years old . My pudonghua( the mandarin ) is standard without shanghainese accent . I will glad to advise you some informations freely, eg. School selection , tuition ,transport, expending . And i aslo be pleased to chat with you . but in exachange , ha ha , i hope you can talk with me in english to improve my spoken english. I will be kind guy. Wish to be your good friend.

    msn : qianliang@sina.com

  127. study with Korean/ Spanish/ Germany

    This is Delia zhang, an experienced native Mandarin Chinese teacher to foreigners. like to be your Mandarin teacher and your friend in Shanghai.

    Class 1: > Pinyin and basic conversation for begainers

    19:30pm-21:30pm (Monday/Wednesday)

    0ne teacher to two or three students 68yuan/hour/person

    Class 5: > The course includes over 3,000 commonly uesd sentences, which will enable him to survive in his daily business communications

    18:30am-20:30am (Thursday) 18:30pm-20:30pm (Sunday)

    0ne teacher to two or three students 68yuan/hour/person

    Class 6: One to one class 88yuan/hour

    Delia zhang

    Mobile: 0086-13661649396 (shanghai)

    Email: vastchina@126.com

    MSN: zhynet7777@sina.com.cn

    web: http://www.vastitude-china.com

    Address: Room 2105, 22floor, No.973 Yan’an Road West, Shanghai Zip: 200050

  128. Hi, I am going to Zhejiang University by september…. to learn Chinese and depending on that to go for a Master’s.. can anyone tell me about the living facilities and all that there? Anybody from Hangzhou?

  129. would you like to study with Korea. Germany and Spanish classmates in Shanghai. The new opening course will start in July!

    This is Delia zhang, an experienced native Mandarin Chinese teacher to foreigners. like to be your Mandarin teacher and your friend in Shanghai.

    Class 1: <> Pinyin and basic conversation for begainers

    19:30pm-21:30pm (Monday/ Wednesday)

    0ne teacher to two or three students 68yuan/hour/person

    Class 5: <> The course includes over 3,000 commonly uesd sentences, which will enable him to survive in his daily business communications

    18:30am-20:30am (Thursday) 18:30pm-20:30pm (Sunday)

    0ne teacher to two or three students 68yuan/hour/person

    Class 6: One to one class 88yuan/hour

    Delia zhang

    Mobile: 0086-13661649396 (shanghai)

    Email: vastchina@126.com

    MSN: zhynet7777@sina.com.cn

    web: http://www.vastitude-china.com

    Address: Room 2105, 22floor, No.973 Yan’an Road West, Shanghai Zip: 200050

  130. hello,Gabe

    I think Fudan (Shanghai) is good school.

    I am glad to so many people want to learn mandarin. My pudonghua( the mandarin ) is standard .

    if you feel free time, you can e-mail to me.

    shirley@it-cgroup.com

    shirley

  131. Hi all,

    I will be studying Chinese in Shanghai Jiaotong this September. Anyone there can help me? I need to know how much single apartment will cost, and anything about Jiaotong will be appreciated. You can reach me by e-mail, thanks all.

    Kilin

    kilinw@yahoo.com

  132. Anyone have info about studying Mandarin in Shenzhen?

    I’m 23 years old girl from Indonesia, i have bachelor degree in International Relations Studies, and been studying Mandarin for 2 years or so, but it’s really rusty now.

    I plan to go to SZ via HK soon (maybe this weekend, i’m going to spend a few months there) and plan to look 4 a mandarin course there.

    If anyone have info pls e mail me at

    bikka.mitya@gmail.com

    or via this blog, thx.

    Btw, Jian Shuo Wang… Thx 4 having a helpful blog :)

    -Bikka-

  133. I’m also interested in studying at the Manda School in Hangzhou in December (winter!) so if anyone has any info on the quality of teaching that would be great!

  134. Hello:

    i tink study Chinese in Beijing where is the better place. Because most of people in beijing all say Mandarin. You can heard the formal tone

  135. KAYELLE: “What is it like? I am going to study Chinese in Beijing for a full year in 2006 and my choice lies between BLCU and Tsinghua.”

    I don’t have any answers to that question I’m afraid – I’m actually considering that same option myself. Did you manage to find any info? (this is a long shot given that the post is from last year but I hope you read it..)

    From reading a lot of messages from different forums, seems that BLCU has more “progressive” teaching while Tsinghua apparently focusses more on rote learning. Whether this counts in favour of BLCU depends on whether you can rote learn in the classroom and will practise outside; the problem with BLCU seems to be that with so many foreigners, it can be difficult to get the opportunity for serious practice? The texts that BLCU uses is apparently superior to Tsinghua’s.

    Then again, Tsinghua has name recognition, which might look good on a resume…

    post back anyone if any views or experiences!

  136. Hello everybody:

    Would you like to learn Chinese in Beijing, this is the good place. There have many Chinese Coures:Spoken Language;Today China;Chinese Law;Business Chinese;Tutorial;HSK Exam;Chinese Culture

    Form of teaching: One-to-One(90yuan/hour), Group class(1000yuan/month); One-to-One at the students’ home;Group training for the corporation staff of foreign companies.

    Tel: 010-58692858/59

    E-mail: cocibj@163.com

    Address: No.5-701, Jianwai soho, Chaoyang District, Beijing

    .

  137. Hi everybody,

    iMandarin has received recommendations from “Lonely Planet” one of the world’s foremost travel guides. We pride ourselves on our excellent reputation and have helped thousands of expatriates in Shanghai learn Mandarin. In addition to language courses, we also offer activities and classes that introduce students to traditional Chinese culture.

    Still hesitating? Feel free to give us a call, or visit any of our six campuses to have a look.

    study@imandarin.net

    http://www.imandarin.net

    Tel:+8621-32221028

  138. I want to learn about economy.Is shanghai university a good one which is good at teaching about economy?Could you tell me which falcuty is the best one in Shanghai University?

  139. Hi,

    I am interested in studying at Beijing Language and Culture University starting next autumn. I am an American college graduate and just want to go to learn Chinese, and see how I like it. I am considering going for one year. How much money do I need to have saved to live in China for one year? Also, what can anyone tell me about living conditions at BLCU student housing — is it nice? What are other living options? Also, I read postings saying that BLCU doesn’t offer that many opportunities to meet Chinese people — what are ways to get around this?

    Thanks!

  140. This is Aurora Delia , an experienced Mandarin Chinese teacher to foreigners. Can speak English reasonably well. Well to know and use official pinyin and dialect, good ability to create a basic curriculum for beginners, intermediate, and advanced students. based in Shanghai, but not have any Shanghainese accent, like to be your Mandarin teacher.

    Aurora Delia zhang

    Mobile: 0086-13661649396 (shanghai)

    Email: vastchina@126.com

    MSN: zhynet7777@sina.com.cn

    YahooID: zhang_delia2000@yahoo.com.cn

    skype:deliazhang1

    QQ:348096928

    ddress: Room 2105, 22floor, No.973 Yan’an Road West, Shanghai Zip: 200050

  141. Hello Bret:

    I saw your massage. In my apinion, it is not good place to study Chinese living in the BLCU. Because there are many foreiner in BLCU, which is helpness for you to practic Chinese. I suggest you live in the place where the Chinese people living.

  142. As a Chinese born in Beijing, I suggest you guys to study Chinese in Beijing. Shanghai is a wonderful place for a foreigner to live, but terrible to learn typical Chinese. Even when I go to Shanghai I think I’ll be mad by the shanghaiese, actually, only shanghaiese know how to speak shanghaiese.(Of crouse we all admit that girls in Shanghai are prettier than those in Beijing).

    And, there’re ample universities and colleges in Beijing, almost all the best students in China come here to peruse higher education. Students are very willing to communicate with forigen students, either for practicing english or just for interests. They might not be a devoted teacher like a real Chinese teacher, they are kind, friendly and always very nice.

    Tips: Beijing is dry and hot in summer, very dry, very hot.

    Waiting for you all in Beijing, the big big city.

  143. This is Aurora Delia , an experienced Mandarin Chinese teacher to foreigners. Can speak English reasonably well. Well to know and use official pinyin and dialect, good ability to create a basic curriculum for beginners, intermediate, and advanced students. based in Shanghai, but not have any Shanghainese accent, like to be your Mandarin teacher.

    Aurora Delia zhang

    Mobile: 0086-13661649396 (shanghai)

    Email: vastchina@126.com

    MSN: zhynet7777@sina.com.cn

    YahooID: zhang_delia2000@yahoo.com.cn

    skype:deliazhang1

    QQ:348096928

    address: Room 2105, 22floor, No.973 Yan’an Road West, Shanghai Zip: 200050

  144. Hi,

    Has anyone studied at the PRC Study Academby before? I am thinking of doing a one semester intensive course there (30 hours a week) and would like to know how good the institution is.

    Secondly, could somebody please tell me if $3500 will be adequate for my accomodation, meals and other expenses for 4 and a half months in Beijing?

    Thanks!

  145. Hello,

    I’m looking for a course Mandarin. This forum was really useful. I’m thinking of the Southern Normal University in Guangzhou. One of the main reasons is because it’s much cheaper than Beijing of Shanghai. Does anybody got experience with this school?

    Willem

  146. This is Parco , an experienced Mandarin Chinese teacher to foreigners. Can speak English fluently. Well to know and use official pinyin and dialect, good ability to create a basic curriculum for beginners, intermediate, and advanced students. based in Shanghai, like to be your Mandarin teacher. Actually, I can speak Cantonese fluently and recognize Chinese complex characters exactly.

    Parco Lau

    Mobile: 0086-13585831071 (shanghai)

    Email: parco1101@gmail.com

    MSN: parco1101@gmail.com

    QQ:76329927

  147. I will be moving to Shanghai next Fall to study at the Shanghai International Studies University in their Non-Degree Chinese Language Program. I will have taken 1 1/2 yrs of Chinese before I go, but I am still worried about the transition. Is this a good area for someone with little experience to learn Mandarin? I know some of the grammar is different from Beijing Mandarin, but I have a friend there who says he will help me adapt, so hopefully I won’t get too confused. I was also wondering how fluent a student normally becomes after a year of 20 hr a week Mandarin studies.

  148. Hi, i am from Pakistani origin and would like to have information about shanghai second medical university. so far my search shows that one needs to have HSK elememtary level C for admission. since i know nothing of HSK could any one tell me any thing about the difficulty and time involved for that test. Also what do you think, after few months language course can one fully understand the content of lecutures. Any further information in this regard would be highly welcomed as well.

    thanking you in advance,

    malik

    msmalik78@gmail.com

  149. Questions to Students of SJTU

    General

    1) How long are you in school? All year round?

    Landscape

    1) Does the river by D-18 ever flood? Is the bike shed by D-18 close enough to the river where it would be affected by a river flood?

    2) In a report by Team Version that is attached in this email, they provide us with a layout of the landscape around the bike shed at D-18. What occupies the area to the left of the existing sheds, above the lawn and below the river?

    3) Have you seen the affects of acid rain on bikes? If so, what are they?

    4) Can you measure the dimensions of the bike shed at D-18 for help with our report?

    Bicycles

    1) In America, we have found that the average width of the handle bars of a bicycle is 23.25 inches and the average length of a bike is 65.875 inches. Would you say that these dimensions are similar to those of the majority of bikes in China?

    2) What is the most popular type of bike lock at SJTU? Is it similar to a chain lock or a tire lock?

    3) Is bike security a big issue? Have you had problems with stolen bikes?

    4) What is the job of the bike monitor?

    5) Are there any penalties for poor organization? If so, what are they?

    ccurran@umich.edu

  150. Hi, I’m going to Shanghai next year (Feb-July 2007) to study mandarin and I got accepted to both Fudan and Jiao Tong. I did read through all these comments and it seems that there is conflicting views of whether Fudan or Jiao Tong is the better university. The one thing I did gather from the comments is that Jiao Tong has the better location. But I heard also that people tend to have a better student life at Fudan. Is this true?

    Is there anyone out there who is considering attending one of these schools during that time and can you tell me why you are choosing one over the other?

    nancy_00222@yahoo.com

    Thanks!

  151. Hi! I’m a Russian university student. At the moment I’m seeking a place in China where I can achieve profound knowledge of Chinese language. I’m choosing between Beijing and Guangzhou. I don’t have enough information in fact. I’m studiying at two faculties here in Russia: faculty of Asian studies and faculty of economics. Apart from Beijing Language and Culture University what other universities can you suggest? Looking forward to hearing from you, thanks.

    aha.marina@yahoo.com.cn

  152. Hi, Marina ! I’m currently studying in Beijing- Beihang university. I choose here c0z they have the best d0rmitory with the cheapest price.

    I’d definately recommend you to study in Beijing. At Guangzhou, they speak Cantonese and have their accent on their mandarin. Somemore, Guangzhou is too boring, and not really safe.

    There are lots of language school in Beijing, apart from BLCU (Beijing Language and Culture University). BLCU is good, but too many foreigners.

    Here are some uni :

    1. Maybe you can study at Beihang: (8am-12pm””Mon to Friday), then go (for outside tuition class. Since Beihang tuition is cheaper than other uni. Beihang + Tuition class = BLCU. And you get the best living place among all, though the academic is a liitle boring.

    2. Beijing Normal University

    (http://www.bnu.edu.cn/eng/) — They have a very strict rules like have to do all the homework, must not late for class even for 1 minute only. The teacher will check your book everyday whether you have studied, etc. But they are

    3. Beijing Foreign Study University

    (http://www.bfsu.edu.cn/old/english/index.htm) — I’ve went to the uni. All the teachers are very kind and helpful , The subject offered and the book they used are quite good as well.

  153. Addition : I have some friends study in famous uni, like :Qinghua university and Beida-Beijing Uni.

    Maybe they have good reputation, but not in the Chinese language program. (not worthed).

    So, better choose uni like Beijing Normal Uni, Beijing Foreign study Uni or BLCU.

  154. Why Shanghai~

    In Shanghai, you will findÂ….

    *Good Language Environment

    The best way of learning foreign language is to get into the native country and local life so that you can fully enjoy the pure language environment.

    *Great team of professional teacher

    There are only 3000 external Chinese teachers with the certificate authorized by the official government in the world. One forth of them are working in Shanghai While few of them are working overseas.

    Lacking of professional instructor, overseas learners is hard to improve themselves well.

    *Comfortable living environment

    Known as the most economically developed city, you will enjoy the most convenient living facilities and good public security. Besides, as an international city with so many foreigners, you will never feel lonely and uncomfortable in Shanghai.

    *Great chance for your business and career

    Today’s shanghai is the New York City of China. Nowhere else in the country can you feel the same pulse, dynamism. Shanghai’s open policy has also made the city the new hot attraction for foreign investors. As millions of dollars pour in, Shanghai has again become home to tens of thousands of expatriates.

    In shanghai, you will not only master Chinese language, but also develop your business or your career.

    *Reasonable cost

    Living cost in China is relatively low than the cost in west countries. It is possible for you to just spend less than RMB3000 per month for your living including the accommodation.

    But of course, you will also lead a luxurious life in Shanghai if there is enough money in your pocket.

  155. Why not think about E-DO Mandarin in Shanghai?

    They are with

    *Eight Year’s Experience

    *Over 3000 Students and 100 Corporate Client

    *Not only how to speak,, but also how to communicate

    *Authoritative Institution

    -Chinese Teaching Research Center

    -Quality Control Center

    *Private Course Consultant Cares Your advancement

    *High Reputation

    Let’s see students’comment!

    上课的时候,非常有意思。如果没有来上课的话,我没有说汉语的机会。我的老师汉语教得很好,是很有经验的老师。她的话题,每一次都很有意思。我非常满意。

    —-桥本规子

    I particularly appreciated the flexibility of the teaching adapting to my personal needs and to my availability

    —-Pierre Lassalle

    易都的老师很善于照顾别人,很亲切。我虽然性格很内向,认生,但是我可以尽量和老师搭话。

    —高桥美智子

    Thanks to the patients of the E-DO, learning became a lot easier.”

    —-Ericsson RDC Shanghai Jonas Zeberg

    E-DO mandarin has helped me in communicating with both my colleagues and people that I meet in my daily life in China.

    —-Ericsson RDC Johan Bengtsson

    スタッフの方々も先生方も生徒の要望に応えようとしてくれ、常に対応がしっかりしているとこるがこの学校のいいとこるだと思います。

    —–川島奈美絵(HSK9级)

    4月当時は、会社のノルマがあったため、焦る気持ちや、怠ける気持ちと戦いながら頑張っていました。時間が有限であると認識できれば、頑張ろうという気持ちが湧いてきます。また、自信がないときに、よく先生から励ましてもらいました。易都で本当にいい先生に巡り合えたと感謝しています。

    —–熊岡宏之(HSK7级,以前3级)

    I could not have asked for a better experience learning Chinese than the one I had with EDO Mandarin Centre. EDO’s highly flexible approach to teaching ensured that my Chinese language skills developed at a quick yet comfortable rate.

    Like many American-born Chinese, I arrived in Shanghai with significant spoken proficiency but little reading and writing skills. I also sought to acquire languages skills for direct application to business situations. EDO managed to quickly evaluate my proficiency level and develop a customized learning program which included a business component.

    In addition to developing a great program, EDO fostered an effective classroom environment. Every class was engaging and dynamic. My instructors regularly encouraged student participation. Furthermore, they incorporated all sorts of topics into our learning exercises, always seeking to apply new lessons to real-life situations. Their patience and relaxed yet caring attitude toward our development students also eliminated all anxiety from the process, and encouraged us to become comfortable practicing Chinese on our own and applying it to our daily lives outside the classroom.

    I would recommend EDO to anyone seeking to learn Chinese in a relaxed yet caring environment.

    —-Calvin Kung

    Tel:86-21-32120405

    E-mail:info@edomandarin.com

    http://www.edomandarin.com

  156. Many companies present themselves to be schools but really are just agents so watch out ! I found WLS International to be refreshingly honest as they were totally open about who they represent and even allowed me to check with the school’s website to proof that they charge the same prices… very nice !

    This is their website :

    http://www.worldwidelanguagestudy.com/

    Peter Jones

  157. Hi all,

    I am interested to relearn Mandarin and brush it up so would like to enquire about the right schools and level I should enroll in. Anyone out there who can advise? Basically, I can speak and write but would like to bring my proficiency level on par with the locals.

    Thanks

  158. I am a stu at East China Normal University In shanghai.I noticed lots of comments on Jiaotong or Fudan.But My school also got good Chinese teaching programs.Because I have always been dealing with foreigners at school,I can say that we are doing a pretty good job!

  159. hi rachel,

    you seem to know about options of learning chinese in china. since i intend to do so soon in 2007, i would love to get some more infos. would you mind getting in touch with me via tom-master@gmx.net? i would appreciate a lot.

    thanks,

    tom

  160. I have been living in Beijing for over 20 years and then in the states for over 12 years and now back to Beijing again.

    Based on my personal experience, I would say if your first priority is to learn mandarin and chinese culture, beijing should be your first choice period. If you are looking for nightlife, shanghai might be a better place for you.

    The city of Beijing is over 3 times the size of shanghai. There are numerous state and national parks, museums and temples/shrines where you can visit. However, Shanghai has more skyscrapers than any other cities in mainland.

    Beijing has the best universities/colleges in mainland and some of the best language programs available. Shanghai has better city facilities and business/service oriented environment.

    Considering Chinese culture, the best place to learning Chinese culture is probably Taipei, followed by Beijing. (The Chinese culture has been ruined in mainland China in large due to the “culture revolution” by Mao.) Greed for money, lawlessness, dishonest has become very popular in the new generation of Chinese people.

  161. Hi,

    I will be going to Tsinghua University in late February for their March-July Chinese program. Is there anyone out there currently attending Tsinghua or going there during that time?

    Thanks,

    Winnie

  162. Hey Amelia,

    Good to hear from you! Just emailed you. Hope to hear from you too!

    Cheers,

    Winnie

  163. I’ve been studying in Shanghai for the past 4 months and can actually have basic conversations now! It’s great talking to the street crossing guards, waitresses, and bartenders (I’m sure they are all laughing at my <5-yr old level of Mandarin, but I don’t care). I chose Shanghai because of all the hype and it definitely exceeded my expectations. There are endless restaurants, bars, culture, sporting facilities, and basically anything else you may want. I’ve visited Beijing and while I think it is a great place to visit for a weekend, it is too slow-paced for me (maybe it is because I’m a New Yorker). For those worried about the Shanghai dialect, don’t worry – Shanghai has about 30 million people and only a small percentage are originally from Shanghai (others come from different provinces) – they all speak Mandarin. I hear and recognize it everywhere. Occasionally I hear the Shanghai dialect as well which is really interesting. After researching several options, I chose to go to a private Mandarin language school. I thought that the University classes would have too many students and not enough personal attention. I was looking for personal attention at a decent price and I couldn’t be happier. I’m at easyMandarin. You can find information about them at http://www.easymandarin.cn They are very professional and friendly. I haven’t had any problems at all. Also, they are located in a great location in the center of Shanghai. There prices seem reasonable too. I also did the language exchange partner thing which worked out for the first month until the girl wanted to get married. I had to end that. Anyways, good luck and come to Shanghai!

  164. Also consider other options. I have been living in Shanghai for 3 years but have just enrolled in Xiamen. Good university, with a good reputation and a lovely location on the sea.

  165. Johnny Hotrockets ,

    I can help you to study chinese.(free)

    do the language exchange partner (at shanghai city)

    mail:shirley@it-cgroup.com

    shirley

  166. Hello all, from this week, I’ve just started a two-semester course at Shanghai International Studies University (SISU, http://www.shisu.edu.au). I’m also looking out for an exchange student for Mandarin too, with English as the exchange language.

    If anybody is interested or would like to pass on this message, I can be contacted through e-mail at abcpaul32@yahoo.com – or my mobile number is at 131-2286-2275 (China Unicom GSM).

    I’m staying at the SISU Guesthouse.

    Looking forward to hearing from all of you soon!

  167. hi all,

    i’m from singapore and will be graduating from senior high school soon.

    i was in beijing for a short 2-week exchange prog last year and that sparked off my interest in a chinese university education.

    i would like to find out more about the chinese govt’s scholarships and what are they looking out for specifically?

    i’m bilingual and am interested in pursuing chinese literature related courses/business in china/social work…

    any advice on which chinese unis i should be consider?

    and also, how can i better enhance my chances of getting the chinese govt scholarship?

    thanks!

  168. Hi all,

    This is Murat from Turkey. I have just finished my studies in university and for now working in a bank as an interim. I will be in Beijing (or in Shanghai not decided yet) to study Mandarin in late August 2007. Is there any one who can give some advice about living as a foreigner in China? Or is there anyone studiying in Bejing Language and Culture University (which seems like i will prefer) please contact me and share your thoughts. Any thing from guest rooms to campus life and study programs.

    You can send me e-mails to: murat_trn@hotmail.com

    Cheers

    murat

  169. hi

    I need some advise…..I want to study Chinese in Shanghai this July. I hear that Fudan uni is the best uni in terms of reputation but ECNU is better for studying Chinese and is more central. There is not a lot of information on the ECNU website and no one seems to reply to my emails. Fudan seems a lot more professional. As you guys know of these universities, can you give me your opinion? The only problem with Fudan are the rumours…a boy who murdered cats on campus and 2 girls committing suicide?? whats that about??

    Also, what are the accommodation and sports facilities like? I am a runner (sprinter) back in the UK and run for my local county club.

  170. Just get a 20-year visa to come to China, mandarin is spoken all over china, even in those cities that have a dialect.

  171. hi everybody.

    i want to study chinese. i have read almost al the messages in this page, they just confuse me more.

    what about privat chinese school, like easy mandarin, or others that just focus on the lenguaje(as mandarin) teaching. are these schools good? what about bclu. is good? a year will be good to learn chinese. and what about a work? is easy to get one in china? and finally to study a master in china it is hard thaht universities give classes in eanglish, i mean masters. which university do you recomend shanghai or beijing, or both. i

    please, some help. thanx in advance.

    Aaron

  172. BE Mandarin specializes in providing the most professional and effective Mandarin Chinese training services in Shanghai.

    Our clients include many satisfied customers ranging from Fortune 500 industrial executives to diplomats. You would learn Chinese with a private tutor who will go to your office, home or the most convenient place for you, for saving your time and offering better services. Whether your objective is to learn Chinese (Mandarin Chinese) for educational purposes, business relations or simply out of interest; absolute beginner or not, we have the right Chinese instruction solutions to offer you.

    web:www.bemandarin.com

    email:info@bemandarin.com

    tel:021-62550996

  173. I agree with the others that beijing wd be the better of the 2 language study options, IF your primary goal is to study and master putonghua, and not to go pubbing. While the average Shanghainese can definitely speak putonghua because that’s the language of Chinese education, he/she will naturally revert to ‘native’ shanghainese when speaking to another shanghainese. That may enrich your language experience but it will not help you in your putonghua development esp when the Shanghainese words are so distinctively different eg ‘ala-ala’ is ‘wo men’ (we) in shanghainese. At least in minan hua or cantonese, it’s a closer ‘wa’ or ‘ngo’ respectively. In Beijing, you will experience dialectic versions of putonghua but it’s definitely more comprehensible if you can ignore the tongue-rolling ‘r’s at the end of each word. As for learning putonghua in southern china, again, there are variations in pronunciation. In southern chinese street putonghua, there is a tendency to swallow the ‘r’s, ‘l’s and ‘n’s eg. one tutor kept saying ‘lan fang ren’; she meant ‘southern person’ which shd have been ‘nan fang ren.’ my 2 cents worth.

  174. Hi. my name is Arvin li. I am a Ph.D at Shanghai jiaotong University and will graduate at fall,2010.I live in xujiahui shanghai and do experiment about my thesis on oncology.

    I wanta become a biologist in future . HOWEVER, my oral english is so bad that I want to improve it with a native U.S. man/woman(I am male) or others who can use english fluently. As a reward I (sometime including my wife, also a Dr. in pharmacy) can teach the man/woman chinese. I don’t care how long will you stay at shanghai. If you want to come to shanghai travel or work or study or others for a long/or short time, you can email “Arvinlzq@yahoo.com” to contact with me .

    Sincerely want to find a mutual learn parter !!!

    > mail : Arvinlzq@yahoo.com

  175. another details:

    I speak putonghua and I can’t offer system culture programe,

    and I can teach you the basic chinese history and freely talk everythhings within the law. Also my detail address is xietu road 2200, xuhui,shanghai china.

    You are welcome to contact me and the most point is that mutal learning is free of charge.

    For more details to mail me.

    :>

  176. I can help you to study chinese.(free)

    do the language exchange partner (at shanghai city)

    mail:shirley@searching.net.cn

    shirley

  177. Hey,

    honestly, I’m in Beijing right now studying Chinese (in CHINA – I know, amazing – sorry I’m haven’t traveled much), and I’m glad I didn’t go to Shanhai. Although they DO have this cool new bar where everything is made of ice. No serious, ice. ALL ICE.

    Anyways, as for the questions, I used to study at BLCU. BLCU is an amazing school, but waaayyy too many Koreans and the class sizes were a bit too big. They do a lot of grammar and speaking got a bit difficult. I was gonna go to some other school, and so I asked the people at PRC Study, which by the way is a pretty good program as an alternative to worldlink, who were very rude to my mom and a bit haughty and overpriced for nothing, imo. When I first came to china, PRC Study took care of basically everything for me. My homestay is awesome – they clean my room! I feel like I’m some kind of slave owner actually – and they always offer to help me with my chinese. I know some kids who’ve gone through different programs usually had some problems with their homestay family not really getting the cultural differences, but mine were really friendly. But, they do offer to help all the time. Anyways, they said if I wanted to, I could try their school as a trial for about a week. It’s in Wudaokou, and the classes were much smaller, so there was a lot of speaking. The teacher’s forced me to speak, and I used to be really shy about it, but I kind of grew out of that. I’m going to be here for about three more months. It goes by really slowly then really quickly. It’s kind of weird. My Chinese level was about Low Intermediate, and now I’m upper Intermediate. The main thing is my speaking level went up about several levels, and now I have no trouble working my way around the city. It was a great place to study mandarin chinese, speaking wise.

    Top three pros.

    1. did a lot of speaking

    2. small class sizes

    3. good teachers/staff

    Cons

    1. classes were too early. It started at 8:30 instead of the 9 I was used to. I know it’s only thirty minutes, but that’s a big difference for me, especially since I work out in the morning.

    2. small class sizes does mean, less partying. I’m a major fan of drinking, and after my friend’s left, I have to say my drinking crew shrank a little.

    3. Wish we focused a little bit more on grammar. But my class was pretty advanced and so I think that was just me being a little anal. I dunno. I can get around Beijing fine, which seems to be the most important thing.

    Anyways, hope I helped. I’m in China now, if anyone wants to meet up for a drink!

  178. Hi,

    I was just browsing the web cause I’m looking for info for a school research project. I’m writing a paper on Chinese education and I stumbled on this site and I’m very glad that I did!

    I was a PRC Study student and I must say I had a fabulous experience with them. I’m from Miami, USA and I stumbled upon PRC Study through the internet. At first I wasn’t sure whether I should join a program with them. Well, cause I had never met or talked to them before. Then my dad suggested that I give them a call to see if they were a real company and what not. I must say I was really impressed with their level of service. Not only do the staff speaking English well, they also have staff who speak other languages — which is cool cause I ended learning a few words in spanish, korean, and french … among other but which I sadly couldn’t grasp!

    After talking with them, we then corresponded through regular emails. They always responded in detail and in lightening speed! I gotta say they made me feel really safe and secure and they were very well informed about anything and everything I wanted to know about China.

    I went through PRC Study to go to Tsinghua University to study for 1 semester. It was truly one of the best experiences I have ever had. As soon as I arrived in China, Victor, the student coordinator and all the program consultants looked after me well. I felt instantanously at home.

    The classes at Tsinghua were also really good, but the classes were a bit large … we had like 15 students. Talking to students who studied at the PRC Academy, I think I would have preferred the smaller classes more.

    And the great thing which helped me improve my Chinese was all the social activities organized by PRC Study where they were always Chinese students there where I could speak Chinese with. You all really also have to join the prc language exchange program. It’s such a hoot. They really teach you alot of Chinese there that you just don’t learn in class. And the after class tutoring lessons were fantastic. The teachers are really professional and super knowledgable and really helped me correct my mistakes. Last but not least were all the partying that we did. I honestly had a blast!

    Anyway, I didn’t choose homestay, but I have heard from other students that they too had a wonderful experience like the person above. I choose to stay at the student flats. It was ok, the place was really quite nice, but I felt it was just a little far from Tsinghua University. Actually it was only about 2.5 blocks away, but the blocks are super long in China! It felt like a mile or two away.

    To close, I’d suggest PRC Study … their website is http://www.prcstudy.com.

    Now … if anyone has any info you can share with me about the education system in China, please drop me an email. I’m writing about differences between US and China’s university education system.

  179. I want to make a overseas friend,I can speak English,Who is want to study chinese I can teach you,I am a student.If you interesting,you can contact me!I teach you is free,because ,I have free time in internet,I want to exercise my English spoken language

    MSN:addis520@hotmail.com

    YAHOO:addisbai@yahoo.com

    QQ:21326554

  180. I would suggest you to chinese4u mandarin centre in shanghai , the teachers here are the best, and the location of this comopany is still conventient. The staff here is so kind to you.

  181. The CLE is a very great teaching school. The atmosphere is very pleasant: nice environment with helpful and smiling staff. This is a very professional school with competitive teachers. I enjoyed studying Chinese at CLE.

  182. Well, this is all very well but it really confuses all the readers. From what I have read, one thing is clear, if I want to learn Mandarin I will be goign to Beijing. I need to go there for personal reasons anyway. But from the perspective of classes and so on, it is quite hard from someone outside the country to understand which is the better school in Mandarin classes and wheter it would be better to go to a University or a private language school, such as ACLS.

    So I would be happy if someone could list rank the univeristies and language schools in Beijing or perhaps at least list TOP 3, so I know which to concentrate on.

    Thanks in advance!!!!!

  183. Pablo, I understand your confusion. However, the world is not that simple, and we always want to find a way (much more simpler than how the world really is) to explain the complicated world. In China, it is especially so. There are list out there, and you can use it, as long as you want to be misled.

  184. So, am I to understand that there are indeed ranked lists out there for language courses, but you believe they do not tell the truth? Frankly, that is something better than nothing. At least there needs to be some accuracy in the top schools. I would think maybe within the top 10 you can even interchange number 1 to 10 but at least I would know which are those top 10. Can you guide me to those lists you mention? Even if only for the curiosity of ‘being misled’.

    Thanks

  185. Pablo, I don’t have such list, since people in China don’t like to rank stuff – the philosophy is always like “blur stuff is much more better than clear. Avoid being extreme and just stay in the middle”.

    For me, I do have some ranks.

    1. If you go to Beijing, Beijing University and Tsinghua University is the best place to go. I don’t know how their Chinese course is, but the name itself is something like Harvard or Stanford in U.S.

    2. In Shanghai, try Fudan University, or Jiaotong University. These are the top two university. It is the same – just the rank of university.

    Hope this helps (a little bit), although I know it is just a little bit better than nothing.

    Good luck!

  186. Jian,

    Thanks a lot for your answers. That really helps. Its interesting that you mention that in China you don’t have ranks. Must be something to do with your social views as a country. Im really looking forward to experiencing this ‘other’ way of thinking.

    I myself will be going to Beijing. I am wondering whether, as a whole, a language school would be better than Beijing Univerisity or Tsinghua University. There seem to be a lot of them, and they do offer what seems to be smaller classes (less students) plus aditional individual classes. Guess from the other side, the Universities offer a wider choice and many more chinesse people to interact with. Which do you reckon would be the better choice?

  187. THIS ONE GOES OUT TO JENNIFER WHO I HOPE KEEPS READING THIS THREAD

    Jennifer,

    If you have continued reading the thread you will notice I will be moving to Beijing soon. And I am really looking for input from local chinese and foreigners there. It would really help if you could let me know you are still watching this space, so I can ask you a few questions.

    Cya,

    Pablo

  188. @Pablo, it is not an easy choice. If I were you, I would choose Beijing University. This is my personal preference to stay in a much older and established university, and interact with the great people on campus, instead of going to a small private class. Language learning is all about interaction, instead of teaching. However, this is just my personal take.

    Also, if you tell people that you studied in Beijing University, you get additional attention (think about I studied in Harvard).

    So good luck!

  189. So I am looking to study in Shanghai for a semester…I’ve been in Beijing for a year to build a foundation of the accent/language in general. Between Tongji, Fudan and ECNU, which do you all suggest?(I ruled out JiaoTong because of various negative posts about its language program above). Thanks so much!

  190. Does anybody still use this blog? I;m going to travel abroad for about a month and a half during summer 2008. (olympics!) I too am debating whether the majority of my stay and chinese learning should take place in Beijing (Beijing Normal Univ) or Shanghai (East China Normal University). I’m thinking of staying at shanghai since the olympics is going to attract many many many tourists and just visitng beijing before and after my class which would correspond to before and during the olympics. Is there anything else I should take into consideration besides the culture-ness of beijing and cityness/shanghainese of shanghai?

    I was also wondering… many people friends and teachers alike seem to not like the beijing retroflex (-rrr). What is business Chinese usually like? I have also read that those who speak the different shanghai dialect which is really different from mandarin, when switching over to mandarin have an accent. Is it likely that I will pick up on this accent? I read that beijing accent is most similar to “standard chinese”. Would that be just the way beijing residents speak without the retroflex?? Please help! :)

  191. @vivian, it is not an easy question to answer. There are accents in Shanghai for sure, and there are also slight accent in Beijing that can easily tell people that you are from Beijing. Anyway, from the pure language perspective, Beijing is a better choice, as I mentioned. Overall, I may suggest people to go to Beijing for language study. Beijing is more “Chinese” than Shanghai. Keep in mind though, being unique in culture may mean bigger Culture Shock, and not comfortable for other cultures.

  192. Hope this question has not been asked before: I would like to go to Beijing and learn Chinese at a private language school, but my problem is: How can I get a long-term visa (6 months) without any invitation?

    I also thought of applying for one of the universities´courses because it´s easier to manage, but for learning I prefer more individual classes.

    Would be happy about some ideas!

  193. hello people…

    i’ve been looking at this web site, and the information seems quite interesting..

    i do have one question though..

    i would like to move to shanghai next year(Sept 2008) in order to continue learning chinese.

    however,i’m having trouble choosing the university..

    where could i find the best chinese language program for foreigners?

    which one offers according to you guys the best program- Jiaotong? fudan? SISU? East China Normal University?

    thank you in advance for your answers..

    sarah

  194. I typed Study Chinese in Shanghai in google and got here, it’s a bit crazy, this topic has been discussed for 4 years!

    In my perspective, choosing a right university is extremely important. Fudan really sucks, I took 2 semesters and finally quit. The classes are too big, about 20 students in one class, some teachers are really bad, I think they are graduate students from Fudan doing part-time. Jiaotong University is even worse I heard, if you are unlucky, you will meet one new teacher shivering in front of students because he has never given any lessons yet. May be East China Normal University could be a better choice, but I haven’t been there…

    Eventually I quit university and continued learning with private school. I tried Mandarin House once, it sucks, changing teachers all the time. I don’t think they are professional for I asked them a lot of questions and they had some problems with explaining. I finished my 45 hour package and decided to push my luck for the last time. I went to Mandarinrocks, another school in Plaza 66 recommended by my classmate in Fudan, it’s pretty good actually, my teacher is very nice and helpful.

    Learing Chinese is always painful with the wrong school and wrong teacher, I just wish all the Chinese programs are better orgainized so that we won’t fall for those cheaters….good luck, everybody

  195. JS,

    I hope you could excuse me for what I am about to do, and please keep what I am about to say as long as it doesn’t belong to your spam category. [I have been reading your blog a lot and I feel it is great. :) ], I just want to see if I might be able to do something for these who want to learn or improve Chinese as above.

    I didn’t complete all comments here, God, there are so many……As an Senior Merchandiser in a private-own company in Shanghai, for those who wants learn/improve Chinese, I think I might be able to help you a little bit, I would like to extend my personal help in your Chinese Language Learning.

    Don’t go wrong, I do it by 100% volunteer, and I would be much happier if you could accept it, I am not going to charge for anything for the help since it would be so great by making friends around. I will be free between 18:30~22:00 and weekend as well as long as there is not much thing to do, we could have a not too much long time conversation or what any idea come up with you…..

    Please contact hg300418@hotmail or ch.jeremy1688@gmail.com if you like, and I would be happy for your in time contact.

    Thank you, JS, for your help. :-)

  196. This is Christina, an experienced Mandarin Chinese teacher to foreigners. Can speak English fluently. Well to know and use official pinyin and dialect, good ability to create a basic curriculum for beginners, intermediate, and advanced students.

    Christina

    MSN: christina0chic@hotmail.com (email)

  197. Hi (Shanghai) Richard,

    I hope you’re still checking this thread. We’re currently checking out places for my son, who will be taking a gap year after he finishes high school in July 2008. He’s interested to doing a Mandarin course in Shanghai for one semester.

    You comments about Jiatong U is very useful. How is your experience at Tonji U so far? If you don’t mind, kindly send me your email address – I would like to seek your advise on matters relating to immersion Chinese courses in Shanghai.

    My email: lavichang@yahoo.com

    Thank you,

    Lavi

  198. HI guys… im planning to study language (mandarin) in shanghai…do u have any suggestion..which one is better to study language…University or college? and Wat uni/college is good? is there any intake for april?

    Thanks

  199. presently situated in nanjing, i have heard from people studying chinese here that the program at 南京师范大学 aka 南师大 is excellent. this school is not Nanjing University, or is it a Fudan, Jiaotong or Qinghua, but you can learn alot if you’re really interested in learning the language.

    nanjing is not shanghai or beijing, it has its own unique qualities. some people will find this place exceptionally boring, mainly because there are limited places for foreigners who want to hang out in places they are comfortable in, eating food there are used to.

    just check out synotrip.com/nanjing or nanjingnow.com to see how few restaurants there are in relation to the gastronomia that shanghai is. things are certainly cheaper though… ; )

    but there’s loads to explore in this city – the local scene that is. plus, this city is really manageable. you’ll feel you know the core of the city within a year of living here. and the nanjing people are great. but remember, come here only if you’re ok with less of a foreigner-type life. a certain level of chinese is also recommended so you get to practice while here.

  200. Hi … it’s interesting to read all the comments over the years about which uni to go to .. I too am interested to study mandarin on a short-term – around six months.. and like everyone here have gone through all the websites for the uni. Does anyone know anything about Dong Hua University? There has been no comments, so just wondering..

    look forward to any comments!

  201. i want to make friend with foriegner who can speak english and can chat with me.

    i am a cheerful chinese girl and i am born and raised in beijing. my mandarin is very well.

    help each other english and chinese,it’s fun!0

  202. There is someone that can say something about ECNU? ..but if you don’t like this school, don’t criticize it too much.. because I’ll go there in one month! :)

    I went to BLCU 2 years ago, and I didn’t like.. I didn’t dislike too, but it wasn’t my best place to stay..

    last summer I went in university of Shaoxing (only for a month) and I was very happy, I adore this town :) ..but I don’t advice to stay in Shaoxing more than 2/3 months.. it’s because there aren’t not many things to do. I mean.. in comparison with Shanghai! It depends on you..

    ..I have chosen Shanghai, but now I fear this a little bit, because it’s so BIG.. I’m European, and I’m not so used to..

  203. Hi, everyone! It’s a pleasure to read these comments. I am a Chinese girl and living Shanghai. Welcome to contact me for any question, maybe I can help you and I ‘d like to help you.

  204. hi everyone,

    it might seem weird since i’m not done yet with my studies (chemistery)but i had been offered a scholarship by the chinese governement and i’ve been told to choose between 3universities since i had no idea of universities there i’ve chosen the most famous ones: fudan,jiatong and hk university is it a good choice ?i mean to learn mandarin ?

    heeeeeeeeeeeelp pliiiiiiiiiiz

    ;-)

  205. hi everyone,

    it might seem weird since i’m not done yet with my studies (chemistery)but i had been offered a scholarship by the chinese governement and i’ve been told to choose between 3universities since i had no idea of universities there i’ve chosen the most famous ones: fudan,jiatong and hk university is it a good choice ?i mean to learn mandarin ?

    heeeeeeeeeeeelp pliiiiiiiiiiz

    ;-)

  206. i haven’t learnt mandarin in FuDan university, cause i am shanghainese and i have lived here 28 years

    just according to what i heard, FuDan uni is really the best one in Shanghai

    so i just recommend it

  207. I have lived one year in beijing, and it sucks!!!, i’m planing to move to shanghai next semester, there are better teachers i heard!

  208. Hi all,

    Can anyone tell me please which city is better to study mandarin for 2 months? Beijing or Shanghai?

    I get my BS degree from U.S. and I will continue my MS in Jan’09. I only have 2 months (from Nov-Jan 2, 2009) before I start my graduate school.

    Which cities will give me the best opportunity to study Mandarin in a very short time (i.e.2 months)?

    I heard from my friend that there are a lot of foreigners studying mandarin in Beijing, so it’s quite rare to practice our mandarin with local students. Even there is a tendency that those students will speak English rather than Mandarin.

    To be honest, it’s quite hard for me to decide to which city I should go especially considering that Shanghai has local dialect that makes it hard for us to understand.

    What should I do? ugh i got headache…

    Even I decided to study in Academic Chinese Language School because I can’t find any university that has a 8-week intensive program that starts in November 3, 2008.

  209. Posted by: jezz on May 24, 2008 4:59 PM

    Hi jezz ,

    My name is alex . I’m chinese , live in shanghai . In the future I want to travel some foreign country as you do . Before that I have to practice my English, so I think we can do the Language exchange in Shanghai. It’s free! And I have many friends in Shanghai that they can speak English . I also have some foreign firends , they come from westem country. They teach English in a language school. So they know where is more suit westem people live in this city. Including: where to live , where to shopping , where is the best way to realize local cuture .

    If you interested in this information , please feel free to contact me. I can give you more details.

    Here is my MSN: qmh-vango@hotmail.com

  210. hi guys! it seems that you have different perspectives on choosing a school to study mandarin in china. in fact stuying in a university is a good experience to have if you can at the same time have some other extra lessons.

    no matter in which school one learns a language, it’s vitally important to learn culture back ground of it. it greatly helps if you can have a good partner, not only a teacher and a class room.

    lisa(at)mystudyinchina.com

  211. Hi,

    Im gonna study Mandarin in Shanghai starting next month.

    I need to prepare for the HSK test. Now I’ve narrowed down my options to imandarin and redcarpetmandarin. Does anyone have some kind of opinion about these companies?

    If you have some comments about companies in Shanghai that offer high-level teaching, please

    advise me.

    Kind regards,

    Atte

  212. Hi all,

    I am Tony Chu from the Netherlands, I had the same problem as you, only I was also looking for a job as well because I want to settle here in Shanghai…

    During my search to a language school here in Shanghai I have been to many schools to try out one of their classes to have a good idea about their offer and to compare the schools, because of course I want to get the best for the money I am paying to learn Chinese.

    As I have said already I was also looking for a job here, one of the schools which I liked very much : ” BBR languages” had really good Chinese courses and as a plus for me, they were also looking for a new employee.. I made a good deal with them and now I am working here and as a extra I get the Chinese courses as well included my salary..

    But anyway, for you all, I can really recommend this language institute, not just because I am working here, nice that I found a suitable job of course, but even if I haven’t got a job here I would still have chosen for this language institute…

    Anyway, please take a look on their website if you are interested or feel free to contact me!

    Greetings,

    Tony Chu

  213. I went to Donghua University to do a course for a year. Cheaper than some of the more obvious ones, and I really enjoyed studying there. Great, friendly and helpful teachers and a good progressive programme based on the Peking University texts. I came to China expecting to learn some some basic speaking and a few characters and I left quite speaking and writing pretty damn well. I wasn’t even what you would call a ‘good student’. So consider that a recommendation from me.

  214. hi,everyone, I passed by here. I am from Shanghai China.

    I have studied in Fudan University ,Jiao Tong University and Shanghai University of finance and Economics. so I know the best one for foreigners to learn Chinese in JiaoTong University,but of course you must meet the excellent teachers who speak good English and know how to inspire students and fully make preparations.

    Besides that, you also need to find Chinese to practice.

    I know a good teacher in Jiao Tong University, who teacher me English and also teacher foreigners Chinese. I can offer information to you. pls be free to contact me. chm_ymh@sohu.com

    Good Luck!

  215. Thanks Jane to offer the information. It seems you have experienced all of them. I am working on the SJTU campus, and I meet many students in the education program here, but I know none of them yet. Hopefully, one day I will talk with them to learn more about the program, so help my readers to find more accurate information in choosing schools.

  216. There are so many posts by people who are interested in learning Chinese Maderin. I am a Chinese girl, I had lived in Beijing for 5 years before I became a postgraduate in Shanghai International Studies University(SISU). My Chinese is perfect and I’d like to help you to study Madarin at the same time I can practise my English as well.

    If you are interested in being an language partner, ple feel free to contact me. My email is

    christine_li420@yahoo.com.

    I will be happy to talk to you about Shanghai, Beijing or other Chinese culture.

  217. I study in BTVU (Beijing Language and Culture University), I think all my teachers are energetic and innovative. They not only taught me the textbook, but taught me Chinese popular culture and history, and introduced me to many interesting aspects of Chinese. I really enjoyed the classes. :)BTW, I think BTVU staff speak clearly with good English explanations where needed.

    You can find information about them at http://hjzx.btvu.org, or white email for further info: yanym@mail.btvu.org

  218. Hello,everyone

    Want to learn Mandarin in Shanghai? Let Hanfu be your gateway!

    We are Hanfu Chinese Language and Culture Training Center in Shanghai. We have maintained a friendly partnership with universities in Shanghai such as Shanghai Jiaotong University, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine and so on. We help our full-time students to handle with x visa. If you apply for the full-time courses, free activity course will be awarded. Please don’t hesitate to contact us!

    * Experienced teachers and advanced teaching methods

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    * Convenient location and studying environment

  219. Hi I’m a student from the UK and upon finishing my degree plan to study Mandarin, I’ve sat and read this entire Post and although its offered some fantastic advise I find myself even more confused than I was before >< Choosing to study one of the worlds most difficult languages, in its native country, 7000 miles from home is quite a decision and I would hate to make the wrong chooses.

    Both Shanghai and Beijing are very appealing and I’m sure it would offer the experiance I was looking for however I want to know if anyone could advice me or post a link to a thread which details others places to study e.g. Xi’an or Chengdu ?? Any help would be greatly appreciated.

    Damian

  220. Betty provides Professional Training on Mandarin at Shanghai for foreigners’.

    Individual training as well as corporate training are conducted.

    Experience: Established experience on training foreigners.

    Reference: I am happy to provide reference of my foreign students.

    Native Chinese speaker and Good in English.

    Time: work day: 8:00pm—-9:30 weekend: 9:00am——9:00pm

    Fee: 50RMB per hour for one student (2 hours minimum at a time), 80 RMB per hour 2~4 students. No extra hidden cost.

    Phone: 15026971029

    E-mail: betty.china@live.cn

    MSN: betty.china@live.cn

  221. Hi, I see some people ask their questions, I didn’t know where to ask, so I post it here, I like to educate in TCM(Traditional Chinese Medicine) in china, wich university and city is better for international Students?

    (Beijing, shanghai or Guangzhu, University of Traditional Chinese Medicine)

    wich city is more comfortable and less crowd to live ?

    Thanks.

  222. – –

    More than 30 million peoples live in both city.

    Beijing had more than 600 years history…Shanghai ony had 175 years, the traffic cost in Beijing is much cheap than Shanghai..

    Beijing is more traditional, shanghai is more open.

    The weather in Beijing is very dry, the weather in shanghai is ok…

    Most beijing people speak mandaring, in shanghai..they have their dialect

  223. If any one wanna come to shanghai and learn chinese..you can contact me, because I wanna practice English, we can learn for eachother, and it’s free. I also can give you some suggestion for live in this city.

    Here’s my msn: qmh-vango@hotmail.com

  224. Conclusion — Everyone speaks Mandarin in Shanghai. Yes, there is a small percentage of the city’s population that also speaks Shanghai dialect in their homes with their parents and grandparents. There are also many people in Beijing that come from other parts of China that speak other dialects. These 2 cities are both full of outsiders. I agree with a lot of people above and think that Shanghai is a better, more comfortable place to live and learn, while Beijing is a nice place to visit and see some history – perhaps for a weekend. Overall, Shanghai is much more exciting and fun. Beijing is, after a week seeing the touristy places, quite boring.

  225. Well, because i ain’t in the mood to read everything from 2004 till now I’d like to ask: Where should i study chinese? Beijing or Shanghai…because I’m planning to use my GAP year to learn to speak mandarin a bit. Also, are there any recommendations for particular schools?

  226. Hi, everyone, do you want to make Chinese friends? I do want to make friends with foreigners and I can teach Chinese for free of course! Now I am in beijing, work as a headhunter in monster.com, contact me if you have interest: msn: iijing@live.cn; QQ:124419159, E-mail: iijing@126.com, or iijing@live.cn haha`~ Tina Liu

  227. Hi, everyone, do you want to make Chinese friends? I do want to make friends with foreigners and I can teach Chinese for free of course! Now I am in beijing, work as a headhunter in monster.com, contact me if you have interest: msn: iijing@live.cn; QQ:124419159, E-mail: iijing@126.com, or iijing@live.cn haha`~ Tina Liu

  228. Dear Frineds,

    I am planning to study in China soon this year 2010. I had a counseling agency in Hong Kong who are helping me to study there. They recommend me to study Chinese Languauge in SHANGHAI University. What do u think about this? how is Shanghai University for chinese language and overall for foreigners? which r the best unis in Shanghai? Please advice me on this.

    I should mention that, i will study Masters course in Nottingham University, Ningbo after my chinese language course. Thank you

  229. Dialect is very common in china. Almost everybody talks dialect with people coming from the same hometown.

    Northern dialects, including NorthEast, NorthWest, HuaBei(China North), are similar in pronouncication, but different in accent. People from other area can easily know what is saying. Putonghua is based on Northen dialects (generalization).

    Southern dialects are difficult to understand, and very different from place to place. I come from the north, live in Shanghai for 4 years, but still can hardly know Shanghainese. It is a strong dialect. If you live in Guangdong, or in Fujian, or Suzhou, or any other place in the south, the situation may be similar.

    But if you can speek Putonghua, then no problem of communication.

  230. HI?

    I wanna study in china. but i can’t decide where i go exactly. I’d like to live in modern place where is good communication.i fact i want to be a singer, so where can i study? which university is better?

  231. hi, i am lars from uk, and i am studying chinese in shanghai now. shanghai is much better for night-life than anywhere else in asia right now for sure. no question about it – its sizzling. i am studying chinese at “miracle mandarin” which is right in downtown shanghai next to the hengshang road bar strip and the main club and restaurant area at xintiandi. it is based right on the campus of SBC where i have applied to do a diploma this autumn in events management which is taught in english and can count towards a UK degree (http://www.sbc-usst.edu.cn/en/index.asp). they also do all kinds of business and engineering – so amazing to find this place in the middle of shanghai after living here for 3 years. and you can transfer the credit or stay in shanghai to get your bachelors which is just brilliant!

  232. Hello Jian Shuo,

    We are going to Shanghai in June for the Expo.

    We would like to know if you could recommend us places in Shanghai for Mandarin Classes and Sports Activities for four children.

    Regarding the Mandarin classes we have send some requests to three different institutes we found on the internet but have not received answers from any of them.

    Information:

    4 children ages (14, 13, 12 and 8) all of them are taking Mandarin classes at the school but I believe they are still beginners. We are planning to stay at the Pudong District. Between the financial center and the Expo area.

    We really appreciate your help. Thanks a lot.

    PS: I liked the pictures you took of the pavilions.

  233. Miracle Mandarin Language School, from 2003, enjoys a very good word of mouth among expats in Shanghai. It has 4 conveniently located campuses in Shanghai. Their intensive programs of 12 weeks works the best for serious learners.

  234. Hi everyone,

    glad to know that you are interested in Chinese so much,and I ‘d like to help you to study Chinese,I’m a teacher in a language training school and have much free time ,so I want to find another part-time job as a chinese teacher,also I want to make more friends from all over the world.those who are not honest or decent please don’t disturb.

    please contact me through 772423275@qq.com or alyssa_smile@hotmail.com.

  235. oh,I think i should mention that I’m in shanghai,and have several years of teaching experience,without any accent.

  236. Hey,

    I’m going to be spending 2 months in Beijing from September and am intending on doing a 8 week chinese language program. I am torn between going private and doing a course at CLE or going to Beihang uni (which would be my preference in terms of location and to be near other students). Could anyone give me any advice/recommendations to help me with my decision? I will be an absolute beginner so will be particularly concerned at which will be best at teaching chinese from scratch!

    Thanks!

  237. MY NAME IS TIJANI ABDULLATEEF OLAMILEKAN. AM FROM NIGERIA, I AM INTERESTED IN STUDY OVER THERE. IN ANY PART OF CHINESE STATE. BECAUSE AM INTERESTED TO STUDY IN COMPUTER ENGINEERING. SO THAT I CAN COMPLETE MY UNDERGRADUATE PROGRAMME. I WANT TO HERE FROM YOU SOON.

    THANKS

    TIJANI ABDULLATEEF OLAMILEKAN.

    +2347029238195

  238. My current level is Elementary Chinese, planning to take intensive Chinese training for two months this summer (starting from mid July).

    I’m interested in university programs, would appreciate any pointers

    Thanks,

    Huong

    hns2004@gmail.com

  239. About Us

    Welcome to The Love Company!

    The organization �The Love Company� was set up to help match volunteers with our projects working with children in our orphanage in Pokhara, Nepal. The Love Company (TLC) facilitates services not only in Pokhara and the surrounding villages but also in the Kaski, Tanahu, Baglung,and Syangja districts of Nepal.

    In order to facilitate our work with some of the most needy children in Nepal, The Love Company desperately needs volunteers from all over the world to help with our projects, spend time with our children and themselves have a �once in a lifetime� experience.

    The Love Company offers an excellent, safe and friendly environment to stay and work in villages, getting to know the real Nepal. The satisfaction of our volunteers is always foremost in every project we run.

    Why Choose The Love Company?

    We think that our volunteer programs are unique compared to others. We believe that we provide a premier service that is transparent, cost effective, personal and flexible, making us different from other volunteer organizations. We are not affiliated with any volunteer organizations nor do we receive any government or charitable funding, meaning we are currently entirely dependent on the help of volunteers.

    The Love Company believes that progress is impossible without change; and exchanging the knowledge is the best way of developing our nation. We can learn from our volunteers just as they can learn a lot from us about our traditions and culture.

    The Love Company focus on all activities like social, cultural analysis, traditional resources, child care, Nepali music, teaching basic hygiene, teaching English language, teaching gardening etc. If any volunteers wish to help in any other way, we will be very happy to facilitate this.

    For more information on our projects please visit Projects.

    Founding The Love Company

    Whilst still at school, Krishna Pokhrel �Padam� was advised by his American volunteer teacher that he saw him helping the children and poor people of Nepal in the future.

    True to this prophecy, Krishna was himself became a volunteer teacher in a high school for two years, firm in his belief that all children are entitled to an education. During this time he gained increasing knowledge and skills to be able to help others.

    After his two years volunteering and teaching in high school he became a trekking guide. During his treks he visited very remote villages and poor families of Nepal who have no clean drinking water, where many children get sick because of very poor personal hygiene. Many of these children had no opportunity to go to school.

    So, keeping all these things in mind, Krishna set up The Love Company and the Innocent Children�s Home which currently looks after 9 children. Now he is trying to build on this success by providing even more children with food, shelter, medical care and schooling through his efforts with The Love Company.

    �TOUCH THE HEART OF NEPAL AND NEPALI PEOPLE BY SERVING AND VISITING.�

    About Us

    image About Us Welcome to The Love Company! The organization �The Love Company� was set up to help match volunteers with our projects working with children in our orphanage in Pokhara, Nepal. The Love Company (TLC) facilitates services not only in Pokhara and the surrounding villages but also in the Kaski, Tanahu, Baglung,and Syangja districts of Nepal. In order to facilitate our work with some of the most needy children in Nepal, The Love Company desperately needs volunteers from all over the world to help with our projects, spend time with our children and themselves have a �once in a lifetime� experience. The Love Company offers an excellent, safe and friendly environment to stay and work in villages, getting to know the real Nepal. The satisfaction of our volunteers is always foremost in every project we run. The Love Company

  240. hello, i will go to Beijing for this winter, but i just don’t know which uni i should go. i just make my choice at Tsinghua University or Beijing Language and Culture University, but i don’t know which one is good for me. please help me to choose it. feel free to let your comment, which is bad, really bad, or good and very reccomended!

    – thank you –

  241. i’ll spend half a year from September till Jan in Beijing studyinf Chinese. I can’t choose between BLCU and Tsinghua. Can anyone help? also I’ll be glad to get friends there both chinese and foreigners. I’m a Ukrainian girl, I’ll be in China with my fiance. waiting forward to hear anything from future friends. alisa.basarab@gmail.com

  242. Make friends,and learn Chinese together.

    With this card you can have a free Chinese class each month.

    We make learning Chinese easy,fun,and practical.

    Here is your home in China, no matter you need to improve your Chinese, or having inconvenience in working and life, we are always with you!

    Phone:010-58614185 Mobile: 13811588845 E-mail: yaoxingyi@sohu.com

    Website: http://www.invincible-edu.com

    Address: 1611 Building B, U-SPACE, Shuangjing, East 3rd Ring Road,Chaoyang District of Beijing.

  243. I am working in Pu Dong Zhangjiang High Tech Park now, Hope to find a partner to practice oral English, if your native language is English, and also want to study Chinese, then please contact me by MSN: mandypang314@hotmail.com, hope we can improve together in future.

  244. I am a Chinese person,work in foreign company in Shanghai.I look for a spare-time job that teaching foreigner mandarin,I speak standard mandarin,I hope the students are beginner of Chinese.I can teach daily living conversition.availability: 7:30pm-9:30pm Mon.-Fri. all day on Sat.& Sun., teaching fee: 100 RMB / hour. contact: email: xxq62@126.com ; cell phone:(0086)13816030716

  245. Hi Jian,

    Thanks for setting up this thread. It’s been really useful to read through.

    I was wondering if you might be able to help me out with a bit more information about the quality of teaching at Fudan and the quality of teach at Jiao Tong. Both have had negative comments and I was wondering if you might have any more information on them?

    Also I was wondering if you, or anyone else reading, might have any first hand experience with private colleges such as iMandarin and Miracle Mandarin? How is the quality of teaching there?

    Thanks once again for setting up the thread (it’s had a popular 4 year life span so far!)

  246. Babel Mandarin! Private tuition 62rmb per lesson! Bring a friend or two for just an extra 30rmb!

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  247. I am a full-time private professional Chinese tutor/interpreter. I have been teaching expatriates the Chinese language in Shanghai for 10 years. My students come from all over the world and range in age from five to seventy years old. I wrote and published my own book “You Can Speak Chinese” in 2009 that is available in major bookstores throughout China.

    More details: http://www.blogtext.org/chinesemandarin

    Email:chinesemandarinteacher1@yahoo.com

  248. I am a full-time private professional Chinese tutor/interpreter. I have been teaching expatriates the Chinese language in Shanghai for 10 years in Shanghai. My students come from all over the world and range in age from five to seventy years old. I wrote and published my own book “You Can Speak Chinese” in 2009 that is available in major bookstores throughout China.

    More details: http://www.blogtext.org/chinesemandarin

    Email:chinesemandarinteacher1@yahoo.com

  249. Hello.

    I am interested in studying in a Chinese University.

    I have a Bachelor Degree in Education and thinking on doing a Master in the Teaching field.

    Any recommendations? I am now studying Chinese and would love to be able to speak that language some day, that is why I am considering the idea of going to China, at the same time of experiencing the culture.

    Thanks.

  250. Highly Recommended Beijing Learn Chinese Websites:

    1. Learn Chinese in Beijng with Capital Mandarin School

    Capital Mandarin School is one of the top private Chinese language schools in Beijing China, providing expertise in language instruction and culture to students worldwide.

  251. Hi guys, I’m looking for a cheap school/university where to learn chinese in Shanghai. Starting in september 2013.

    Any suggestions please?

  252. Hi, Here is Ann from Mandarin Garden, we can provide you the tailor class according to your need and budget, Because we have many kind of class, flexible and effecitvie,
    here is the contact:
    Free Hot line:400-600-2922
    Tel: 0086-021-52589881
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    Email: winnie@mandaringarden.org
    Address:
    Changning:3/F No. 1358 West Yan’an Rd,Shanghai,China
    Pudong:1/F,Unit B,Phoenix-Mansion No.18 Huangyang Road,Shanghai,China

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