Chinese Language & Taiwanese Culture
Enrollment Closed
A Summer for Fun, Friends, and Your Future
Live the Language
Have fun experiencing authentic immersion in the Mandarin Chinese language and Taiwanese culture.
Network
Meet new friends and gain a new family. Make lasting memories and connections.
Get Inspired
Launch your future today! Jump up a level in Mandarin Chinese. Shine on college applications.
The Destination
Welcome to Taipei, to ancient landscapes and modern skylines.
This bustling, modern capital city is located on the northern tip of the island of Taiwan. Existing for centuries without a central authority, Taipei was founded in the early 18th century by Chinese immigrants. Today, despite its futuristic feel, nature parks are spread out all over the city. Green spaces, like the Taipei Botanical Garden, create an ideal and healthy living environment for its residents.
Situated on the Tan-shui river, in the low mountains about 15 miles from the Pacific Ocean, it hosts a broad range of plants, animals, and beautiful beaches. With street-food stalls at every turn, delicious traditional dishes like the Taiwanese hamburger gua bao, the dessert aiyu jelly, and, of course, boba tea are always steps away. Out exploring its streets, you’ll look up and marvel at all the unique buildings. Inspired by ancient China in its design, the Taipei 101, the tallest building in the world until 2009, is an incredible place for views of the city—there, you may even catch a concert!
Cultural Awareness
CIEE wants all our students to feel welcomed, supported, and empowered to succeed while studying abroad. No matter where you choose to study abroad with CIEE, our staff will be on hand throughout your program to provide advice, resources, and support.
Social feed above may feature posts from all CIEE Study Abroad programs, including college programs.
Sample Itinerary
*Based on prior year itinerary and subject to change.
Sample Activities
Just Imagine All the Fun You’ll Have!
- Join hands-on cooking workshops and learn to make iconic dishes like xiao long bao (soup dumplings), pineapple cakes, and hand-pulled noodles.
- Discover Taiwan’s ancient history at the National Palace Museum and experience its thousands of years of cultural evolution.
- Practice Taiwan’s national sport, baseball, with locals, then refine your martial arts skills with a Kung Fu master’s customized training.
- Take a magical day trip to Jiufen and Xifen, where you can pan for gold at the Gold Museum and release your own sky lantern in Shifen.
- Groove to the catchy beats of Taiwanese pop music and learn some fun dance moves! Experience the energetic rhythms and vibrant moves that define Taiwan’s modern music scene—it’s a lively, unforgettable cultural experience!
- Enjoy an overnight trip to Taichung and Nantou, with breathtaking views, gondola rides, and the rich culture of Taiwan’s indigenous people.
Please note activities are based on past programs and subject to change at CIEE's discretion to adapt to local circumstances and participant feedback. Our goal when arranging activities is always to enhance your experience.
A Cultural Journey Through Taipei: Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall and Taipei 101
Today, we took a group of American students on a cultural exploration journey in Taiwan. While the primary goal is for them to learn Chinese, we also want them to... keep reading
7 Things to Know About High School Summer Abroad Housing
High school summer abroad is not just about teens exploring a topic in an exciting location. It’s also about finding a temporary home away from home. Read the 7 things you should know about our housing options.
How to Apply for Your First Passport
Prepare early for your study abroad adventure and apply for your first passport. Here’s how!
Eligibility
- Participants must be 14 years old and above.
- All proficiency levels
- Program open to all current high school students: Freshmen, Sophomores, Juniors, and Seniors.
- For scholarship eligibility requirements, please check our Scholarship page.
For more information, refer to the detailed Program Essential Eligibility Criteria.
Dates & Fees
Application Fee
$25
Optional College Credit Fee
$150
Learn more about how to get college credit for your future college degree
Program scholarships and tuition include iNext Travel Insurance, but do not cover the cost of flights. Find additional details about what’s included with your tuition.
More questions? Find answers, get application support, sign up for virtual presentations or contact us.
Program |
Application Due |
Start Date |
End Date |
Costs |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Program Summer Session I 2025 4 weeks | Application Due Deadline Passed | Start Date | End Date | Costs $7,750 |
| Program Summer Session II 2025 4 weeks | Application Due Deadline Passed | Start Date | End Date | Costs $7,750 |
Ready to change your life?
What's Included
Interactive Classes
Housing
3 Meals/Day
(Dietary Needs Accommodated)
All Ground Transportation
(Once In-country)
Optional Flight Chaperone
(Flight Cost Not Included)
Pre-departure Advice and Orientation
Access to WIFI
(No international data plan or SIM card included)
All Cultural Activities and Excursions
Comprehensive Medical and Travel Protection
24/7 Emergency On-site Support
Our Staff
Program Leaders guide and support our High School Summer Abroad participants through every step of their program.
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