Not everyone can spend four years earning a Chinese university degree. But for those who want a fast, first-hand experience of Chinese education, culture and society, Mingyang International Education (MIE)'s short-term study tours are the perfect entry point.
Over 2 to 8 weeks immersed on a Chinese university campus — Chinese classes in the morning, city exploration in the afternoon, company visits on weekends — MIE's study tours have hosted hundreds of participants from Russia, South Korea and Central Asia.
Who Are Study Tours For?
MIE's study tours are not sightseeing trips — they are educational experiences with real academic substance. They are especially well suited to:
- High school students — who want to experience Chinese education before committing to a degree
- University students — using winter or summer breaks to gain international experience and strengthen their résumé
- Early-career professionals — improving their Chinese through short immersive experiences to advance their careers
- Anyone interested in Chinese culture — who wants to study it intensively over a focused period
Three Modules: Language + Culture + Practice
MIE's study tours are built around three core modules to maximize what participants gain in a short time.
Module 1: Intensive Chinese Courses
Two to four hours of Chinese classes each morning, taught by professional Chinese instructors from partner universities. Classes are grouped by level, from complete beginners to HSK 5. A short, immersive environment often delivers better results than months of study at home.
Module 2: Immersive Cultural Experiences
Afternoons and weekends feature a rich program of cultural activities: visiting World Heritage sites such as the Forbidden City, the Great Wall and the Terracotta Army; learning calligraphy, traditional Chinese painting, tai chi and paper-cutting; tasting regional cuisine and joining folk customs. These experiences give language learning a real cultural context.
Module 3: Company Visits and Practice
Visits to well-known Chinese companies and industrial parks offer a look at China's economic development and technological innovation. Sites span internet companies, manufacturing plants and cultural-creative parks, showing participants a China beyond the classroom.
Partner Universities and Cities
MIE's study tours span China's major cities, each offering a distinct experience.
- Beijing— Home to Ocean University of China, Beijing Language and Culture University and others; China's political and cultural center with deep historical roots
- Xi'an— Home to Xi'an Jiaotong University; ancient capital culture and the starting point of the Silk Road
- Harbin— Home to Harbin Institute of Technology; Russian cultural influence makes it instantly familiar to Russian-speaking students
- Qingdao— Main campus of Ocean University of China; a coastal city with a comfortable lifestyle
- Guiyang— Home to Guizhou University; China's big data hub with rich ethnic culture
Typical Program Timeline
Here is an example 4-week summer program:
| Week | Theme | Content |
|---|---|---|
| Week 1 | Orientation & Fundamentals | Check-in and registration, placement test, introductory Chinese classes, city tour |
| Week 2 | Language Boost | Intensive language classes, calligraphy / Chinese painting workshop, campus visits |
| Week 3 | Deeper Into the Culture | World Heritage site visits, company visits, Chinese family day |
| Week 4 | Wrap-Up & Next Steps | Final presentations, graduation ceremony, study planning consultation |
Study Tour vs. Degree Study: How to Choose?
Both paths have their advantages — it comes down to your goals and circumstances.
| Dimension | Short-Term Study Tours | Degree Study |
|---|---|---|
| Duration | 2–8 weeks | 1–4 years |
| Education Requirement | No fixed requirement | Degree certificate required |
| Language Requirement | Low / none | HSK or IELTS/TOEFL required |
| Certificate | Certificate of completion | Degree certificate |
| Best For | Those who want a quick experience or are exploring the idea | Those with clear academic and career goals |
| Visa Type | X2 visa (short-term) | X1 visa (long-term) |
A common strategy: start with a short-term tour, confirm you genuinely like and adapt to studying and living in China, then decide whether to apply for a degree. Many of MIE's long-term students first came through a study tour.
What Sets MIE's Study Tours Apart
- A Fully Chinese Environment— Real Chinese usage everywhere, from the classroom to daily life
- Safety Assured— Chinese counselors accompany the group throughout, giving parents peace of mind
- Flexible— Itineraries and course content can be tailored to group needs
- Seamless Next Steps— If you go on to apply for a degree, MIE picks up right where the tour ended
FAQ
Q1: Can a study tour convert directly into degree study?
It can, but you need to re-apply through the formal degree application process. MIE's advisors can help tour participants plan their next application.
Q2: Can groups join?
Yes. MIE welcomes group programs organized by schools or institutions, with customized itineraries and course content, and groups usually receive discounted rates.
Q3: What is the accommodation like?
Participants usually stay in on-campus international student dormitories, with twin or single rooms available. Rooms come with basic furniture, air conditioning, internet and a shared kitchen. Some programs also offer off-campus apartments.
Explore Study Tour Programs
Visit the MIE website for the latest itineraries and fees