This is a list of our most frequently asked questions. If these do not answer your queries please do not hesitate to contact us and we will be happy to help.
Can I use my bank/credit cards?
You can pay or withdraw cash with the following credit cards: MasterCard, Visa, American Express, Maestro, JCB You can only withdraw cash at ATM with your credit card. You usually find them near big hotels and business centres. You also can withdraw cash at the airport.
What should I do if I am not happy?
If you are not happy with your stay in China, contact our Beijing office or the registered students’ hotline and we will try our utmost to make your stay a pleasurable one.
Are there any other extra curricular activities?
Yes, we offer interesting cultural activities after class.
- Tours to historical sites, like the Great Wall and temples.
- Shopping expeditions
- Chinese cooking.
The cost of the activities we organize varies depending on the type of activity. Many activities are free of charge.
What currency is used in China?
The Chinese currency is the RenMinBi (‘currency of the people ') – pronounce R M B- but Chinese people also use ‘Yuan' or “kuai” in spoken. The rates change quite frequently, but things are reasonably cheap in China compared to the west. Typical rate is $1 US = 10RMB, £1 = 20RMB
How can I sign up for the courses?
How can China International help me?
We offer foreigners a bridge into the mysterious and enchanting land of China. For those that come to China for the first time, whether for business or pleasure, life can be overwhelming without knowing locals or understanding the language. Simple, daily things such as ordering food, taking a taxi, and asking directions can become frustrating. Our immersion programme gives students the vocabulary and confidence to get by and enjoy life in China.
What is the best way to learn enough basic Mandarin to get by in China?
Total Immersion is the shortest path to achieve your goals if you want to learn a new language. Our intensive immersion programmes combine language learning with activities where students can practice and use Mandarin immediately which lets you speak, hear and think in the new language all day long.
What if I am an absolute beginner?
Most of our applicants are beginners in Chinese. Our Chinese
learning programmes are open for students at all levels – from beginners to advanced and no minimum language ability is required.
Where do your students come from and how old are they?
Our students come from all corners of the globe. 60 percent come from all over Europe and North America, 40 percent comes from Asia, South America, Middle East, Africa and the Caribbean. Students of all ages are welcome to study with us, from 15 years old to 70 years old. Most students are 17 to 45 years old.
What can I expect from the Homestay option?
Each family is interviewed by our staff and a security check is completed before a family is accepted. Many families are located in a nice community with 24 hours security. You will have your own room, which is fully furnished with a bed, desk and wardrobe and air-conditioning. Meals are also provided. For more information go to our
Homestay page
How can I get a visa?
The Admission Letter and JW202 form are required to obtain a visa. These documents are provided by us when enrolment has been completed and fees paid. Participants attending our short-term programmes, up to 20 weeks, or the semester programmes require an F (Visitor) visa. Academic year students are required to have an X (Student) visa. Just
contact us with your requirements.
When do I have to book?
At least 2 weeks before departure from your country. For those students that may require more time to get their visas please allow at least 3 weeks.
What if I miss the deadline?
Please
contact our office (email/ telephone) and we will let you know if there are spaces still available.
What about Personal Tutors?
We provide personal tutors for those who want that one on one experience to learn at their own pace. Courses can be taught at campus or at student preferred locations (home, office, or other).
Do I need a insurance?
You need special insurance to cover personal liability, emergency, medical and repatriation expenses, loss and theft of luggage and valuables. We also advise you to be covered for cancellation of trip and inability to continue your course. We would advise you arrange travel insurance before coming to China. But it can be arranged while in Beijing for those who are having difficulty doing so. Again, contact us and we will be happy to help.
What kind of visa should I apply for?
Normally, our students need to apply “L” (travel) or “F” (visit) visa. Please contact your local Chinese Embassy or
contact our office as we are happy to help as much as we can.
Can my visa be extended?
We will help you to find a qualified visa agent in China to extend your visa if necessary.
What do I need to bring with me?
Upon your arrival, our on-site staff will provide you with our welcome pack:
- Chinese-English, English-Chinese dictionary
- Map of Beijing
- Phone card with a value of 100RMB so that you can call home right away
- Mobile SIM card - you can also rent a mobile phone for the duration of your stay in China at a low cost.
The host family/ university accommodation will prepare all the bedding in your room. You can bring your toiletries and any other additional items not mentioned. Please keep in mind that today in Beijing you can easily get almost any product or brand that you would find at home and for a much lower cost.
