Study Abroad in Shanghai
College Study Abroad
Explore Shanghai, China
When you study abroad in Shanghai, China, you'll find yourself in the heart of one of the world's fastest-growing cities. Experience the fascinating blend of Eastern and Western influences that have transformed this once-small fishing village into a global financial powerhouse. Studying abroad in Shanghai on a CIEE program means you'll be surrounded by rich history, stunning architecture, and a vibrant arts scene. With programs available across business, Chinese language, science, and more, you'll boost your cultural knowledge of Asia. It's undeniable that Shanghai's dynamic atmosphere makes it an ideal destination for a life-changing experience!
Students may complete a full- or part-time internship in Shanghai, gaining real-world international work experience and developing valuable professional skills. Internships are available across diverse industries, including business, marketing, arts, sustainability, and more, providing a well-rounded perspective of today's global job market and enriching the overall study abroad experience. Whether you want to enroll in Chinese language courses, intern abroad, or boost your cultural knowledge of Asia, Shanghai is the place for you!
Top Activities in Shanghai
Every CIEE semester program has frequent cultural excursions uniquely designed to complement the program’s academics and enhance students’ cultural immersion. In Shanghai, past study tours and excursions have included:
- Step into history through visits to historical sites, such as Old City God Temple area, where ancient traditions meet vibrant markets, and the legendary Bund, where colonial-era architecture stands in striking contrast to the modern skyline
- Select a multi-day excursion to destinations like Shaanxi, Jiangxi, or Fujian where you can admire stunning mountains, coastal wonders, and the awe-inspiring Terracotta Warriors
- Turn your weekends into epic adventures with trips to alluring destinations like Beijing, Hangzhou, or Nanjing
About CIEE Shanghai
Situated on the campus of East China Normal University (ECNU), CIEE's esteemed partner institution, CIEE Shanghai features a library, student life office, academic advising office, and complimentary access to Wi-Fi, 10 public computers, and printers. Classrooms are shared with ECNU, and students are encouraged to use ECNU's library and outdoor facilities as needed.
Outside the CIEE Center, students enjoy easy access to cafés, barber shops, hair salons, convenience stores, and more. If students are interested in renting bikes or require computer or mobile phone repairs, said services can be accessed on the ECNU campus.
Where You'll Study in Shanghai
CIEE Shanghai
Our Center in Shanghai is part of the CIEE Open Campus Block Network and is located on the campus of East China Normal University (ECNU).
Internships & Volunteering in Shanghai
Depending on their program of study and availability, students may be able to participate in an international internship or volunteer work while in Shanghai. For students looking to intern in Shanghai, they can participate in an internship at local Chinese companies, multinational corporations, as well as international small- and medium-sized enterprises and nonprofit organizations.
Students interested in volunteering abroad in Shanghai can gain hands-on experience and connect with people in the community by teaching at a migrant elementary school or helping with a community project in a local area.
Study Abroad Programs in Shanghai
- Shanghai, China
- Full-Time Internship
Spend 12 weeks interning abroad FT (30-40 hours/week) and earning academic credit while you're living in a major research and development hub, Shanghai.
- Shanghai, China
- Study Program
Fast-forward your Mandarin language skills
- Shanghai, China
- Study Program
- Part-Time Internship
Spend 6 weeks of your summer interning abroad PT (15-20 hours/week) and earning academic credit while immersing yourself in the dynamic business scene of Shanghai, China.
- Shanghai, China
- Study Program
- Full-Time Internship
Learn about business ethics, corporate structure, and fiscal policies while completing a full-time internship in the largest city in China.
- Shanghai, China
- Study Program
- Part-Time Internship
Spend a semester in Shanghai and explore how the city is shaping the future with cutting-edge innovation and smart city planning.
- Shanghai, China
- Study Program
There’s no better place to study global business than the financial and cultural hub of Shanghai.
- Shanghai, China
- Study Program
- Part-Time Internship
Spend 12 weeks interning abroad PT (20 hours/week) and earning academic credit while discovering one of the financial hubs of the world, Shanghai.
- Shanghai, China
- Study Program
- Part-Time Internship
...for 1, 2, or 3 term blocks!
Explore strategic management in Shanghai this January.
- Shanghai, China
- Study Program
- Part-Time Internship
China’s 5,000-year history is marked with contributions
- Shanghai, China
- Study Program
- Part-Time Internship
Whether you’re a rank beginner or have strong Chinese language skills, you’ll progress by leaps and bounds, moving ahead at least two levels with CIEE in Shanghai.
- Shanghai, China
- Study Program
- Part-Time Internship
Explore traditions in the world’s most populated city
- Shanghai, China
- Study Program
- Part-Time Internship
On this semester-long program, immerse yourself in the city’s eclectic cultural experiences and improve your Chinese language skills while studying international business in Shanghai.
- Shanghai, China
- Study Program
- Part-Time Internship
Embark on an unforgettable STEM journey in the heart of Shanghai! The Engineering, Technology, and Sciences program offers students a unique chance to immerse themselves in an enriching academic experience while enjoying the charm and culture of one of China’s most populous cities.
Currency
Renminbi (also known as Yuan)
Spoken Languages in Shanghai
Mandarin, Shanghainese, English
Available Transportation
Train, subway, taxi, bus
Famous Local
Yao Ming – former Chinese basketball player who stands at 7′ 6″
Climate
Humid subtropical climate with an average annual temperature of 62°F
Places to Explore
The Bund – Shanghai's waterfront area and protected historical district with a wide variety of shops, restaurants, clubs, and more
Airport
Pudong International Airport (PVG) and Hongqiao International Airport (SHA)
Social Norms
Locals may ask to take photos with you! Say cheese!
What to Pack
Comfortable shoes and a raincoat
Frequently Asked Questions
China is a great destination for students looking to study abroad, whether you’re looking to learn Chinese language in Shanghai, study China’s culture, or explore historic sites across the country. If you’re looking for adventure in one of China’s economic and cultural centers, Shanghai may be the place for you! Not to mention, authentic Chinese food is delicious!
Shanghai is known for its popular tourist destinations, including The Bund, Lujiazui skyline, Yu Garden, Oriental Pearl TV Tower, and so much more. With diverse nightlife, a variety of museums, and a vibrant food scene, Shanghai is famous for its speedy development over the past few decades, drawing tourists from all over the world.
Shanghai is one of the safest cities in China for students to study abroad given the use of modern technology and surveillance. As with any big city, pickpocketing and scams may occur, so we advise students to be proactive and keep their belongings safe.
Safety And Security Travel Advisory
Effective March 2023, the U.S. Department of State has issued a Level 3 Travel Advisory to all U.S. citizens traveling within Greater China. All students choosing to study abroad in the region are advised to carefully review the Travel Advisory and be fully committed to adjusting their personal practices to limit any potential negative interactions. When on program, participants must ensure that all actions, attitudes, social media, communications, and photographs shared represent Chinese culture positively. Should you require support from CIEE's Health, Safety, and Security team, please contact us.
While both Beijing and Shanghai offer students an authentic study abroad experience in China, the cities have different characteristics. Beijing is the more historical city with prestigious universities and drier, more polluted air, while Shanghai is the more international, developed city with a unique Shanghainese dialect.
The cost of studying abroad in Shanghai varies depending on the specific program that you choose and how long you plan to study abroad for. For detailed cost information, we recommend researching each individual Shanghai study abroad program page.
For costs not included in your program’s outlined fees, it’s important to consider factors surrounding your individual journey while abroad.
Read more: How Much Does it Cost to Study Abroad?
In order to ensure our students feel welcomed, supported, and empowered while studying abroad, CIEE staff completes comprehensive diversity equity and inclusion (DEI) training. Staff provide students with advice, resources, and ongoing support both before and during their study abroad program in Shanghai.
For more detailed information on diversity in Shanghai, visit our Diversity in Shanghai page.
Yes, you can absolutely complete an internship abroad in Shanghai with CIEE. Our international internship programs allow college students to choose from a variety of full- and part-time internships abroad in a variety of fields, including manufacturing, finance, hospitality, healthcare, public policy, and more!
Search our internship opportunities to get started!
Study Abroad Scholarships & Grants
Apply in 1,2,3!
You may be wondering if there are any scholarships to study in Shanghai. CIEE offers scholarships and grants for study abroad programs in Shanghai to students with demonstrated financial need, proven academic merit, and for specific CIEE programs. Students can apply for scholarships through 3 simple steps:
- Search for and apply to your dream program
- Review all available funding opportunities
- Complete the Scholarship & Grants portion of your application
Study Abroad Scholarships
NEED-BASED SCHOLARSHIPS
Based on students' Estimated Family Contribution (EFC) from their Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and enrolled institution. Complete the Scholarships & Grants portion of your program application to be considered for all awards to which you are eligible.
MERIT SCHOLARSHIPS
Based on academic achievement. Complete the Scholarships & Grants portion of your program application, along with an essay, to be considered for all awards to which you are eligible.
OTHER SCHOLARSHIPS
Other scholarship awards are based on program or alumni status.
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