Chinese Language & Culture
Immerse yourself in Chinese culture, learning Mandarin in China’s most Westernized city.
Spend a semester abroad honing your Mandarin fluency. Study with native-speaking instructors, taking 20 hours of classes per week to improve your language skills. Put your knowledge into practice in your dorm, while shopping, relaxing, and learning local customs.
Outside the classroom, you’ll get to know your new city and classmates, visiting historic sites like Zhujiajiao, a preserved water town, and the peaceful Chongming Island. Foster new friendships and improve your Mandarin in an authentic setting, creating a life-changing experience you’ll remember forever!
All CIEE Gap Year Abroad programs offer the option to take college-level coursework online at a discounted rate through Arizona State University (ASU). Visit our College Credit page to learn more.
Why Choose This Program?
Strike a Balance
Benefit from CIEE's global support and cultural expertise, while exploring the world at your own pace.
Develop Skills
Develop foundational skills in intercultural learning for a better understanding of the world and skills for the global workforce.
Live the Language
Take 15-20 hours per week of Mandarin language classes designed to improve real-world skills.
96%
of alumni said their language skills improved
94%
said they learned to interact with different cultural backgrounds
89%
said their level of independence increased
The Destination
Enjoy the perfect balance of structure and independence with your gap year in Shanghai, giving you the freedom to explore China and yourself before college.
East meets West in Shanghai, where a bustling world-class metropolis meets old-world charm. Home to more than 30 million people, Shanghai boasts a booming global economy and some of the world’s tallest skyscrapers. Along with historic temples and old-town markets, you’ll find a quirky mix of British and French architecture dating back to the international settlements of the 1920s and 1930s.
Though it’s one of the most populous cities in the world, it’s surprisingly easy to navigate. With one of the fastest-growing rapid transit systems in the world, Shanghai connects its urban centers through elevated light rails, the world’s first commercial high-speed Maglev train, and 13 subway lines.
Window-shop in chic fashion districts rivaling those in Paris, or find pop-up boutiques, vintage clothing shops, and designer outlets for bargains. Enjoy a range of Western-style and traditional Chinese food, including stir-fried noodles, fried rice, and baozi, which are steamed dumplings filled with meat and/or vegetables.
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Sample Itinerary
Top Rated Activities
Zhujiajiao Preserved Water Town Day Trip
Hop on a bus for a day trip to the ancient “water town” of Zhujiajiao. Established 1,700 years ago, this former trading hub has buildings dating back to the Ming and Qing dynasties. Traditionally, people and supplies were ferried on the small canals from house to house, passing under the 36 ancient stone bridges that are all still in use today. Gain insight into a bygone way of life and enjoy traditional Chinese food along scenic waterways while you’re there.
Wuxi Overnight Excursion
Experience the cultural charm of Wuxi through visits to Huishan Ancient Town and the scenic Nianhuawan area. Explore historic temples, traditional crafts, and tranquil landscapes that blend ancient culture with modern sustainability.
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Eligibility
- Program open to recent high school graduates (no more than 2 years post-graduation) who:
- Are at least 17 years old at the time of their departure
- Are in good academic standing
- Demonstrate—through the application and interview process—flexibility and maturity.
- No previous language experience required. · For more information, refer to our detailed Gap Essential Eligibility Criteria.
Dates & Fees
Application Fee
$50
Priority deadline discount
Apply to a fall semester or academic year program by June 1 and automatically get a $400 discount. Apply to a spring semester by October 1 and get a $400 discount. Discounts are deducted from the final balance.
Insurance
The program fee includes iNext travel insurance. Additional information about insurance can be found on the FAQ page.
*Dates for this program are provided as tentative dates. Please consult with your study abroad advisor to confirm dates before purchasing your flights.
Program Fees
CIEE offers the most student support of any provider in its program fee, including an airport greeting, full-time leadership and support, orientation, cultural activities, local excursions, pre-departure advising, and CIEE iNext travel protection with benefits.
| Program Balance | $14,500 |
| Total Fees | $14,500 |
Financial Aid
CIEE offers the most grants and scholarships of any study abroad organization, including $8 million/year in travel grants, merit-based scholarships, institutional grants, and Gilman Go Global Grants.
Estimated Costs
Students are responsible and manage costs related to travel, meals, books, and personal expenses. Below are estimates for consideration.
Program Fees
CIEE offers the most student support of any provider in its program fee, including an airport greeting, full-time leadership and support, orientation, cultural activities, local excursions, pre-departure advising, and CIEE iNext travel protection with benefits.
| Program Balance | $14,500 |
| Total Fees | $14,500 |
Financial Aid
CIEE offers the most grants and scholarships of any study abroad organization, including $8 million/year in travel grants, merit-based scholarships, institutional grants, and Gilman Go Global Grants.
Estimated Costs
Students are responsible and manage costs related to travel, meals, books, and personal expenses. Below are estimates for consideration.
Ready to change your life?
Our Staff
Jia Ma
Center Director
With over a decade of service at CIEE Shanghai, Jia Ma oversees the operations of the Shanghai center, providing a strong foundation for your experiences.
Program Leaders guide and support our High School Summer Abroad participants through every step of their program.
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