Why and Where in China to Study Abroad?

So, of all the places in the world, why study in China?

Regardless of where your child chooses to study abroad, the experience can be positive and life changing. While China is just one among many exciting possibilities, there are several things about China which stand out, making it a very attractive option for many students. Consider the following:

• China has one of the world’s oldest extant civilizations. Chinese civilization and culture dates back 6,000 years. China’s written history dates back to the Shang Dynasty, which was founded around AD 1700. While China is a fully modern country, it is also among the oldest countries, culturally, in the entire world.

• China has some of the world’s most fascinating sites. The Great Wall. The Forbidden Palace. Ancient temples. The Underground Army of terra cotta soldiers. The list goes on and on of interesting places to see while a student studies abroad in China.

• China has emerged as a major player in the global marketplace. With the world’s largest population and an increased emphasis on international trade, China is a force to be reckoned with in the global marketplace. Anyone considering a career in business (especially international business) or government would benefit from spending time studying in China.

• Mandarin Chinese is spoken as a primary language by more people than any other language in the world. In many parts of the world, Chinese is increasingly used in international business and diplomatic circles. Students who have spent time immersed in the Chinese culture and language give themselves an advantage in the global marketplace. China is home to 20% of the world’s population, and 70% of the people in China speak Mandarin Chinese.

• There are many career opportunities in China. Besides the obvious career enhancement for those desiring to move into international business or government, there are many career opportunities teaching English in China. Students who have spent time in China put themselves in a very strong position to move into these exciting educational careers.

Where Should My Son or Daughter Study in China?

There are many places where your child can study abroad in China. Regardless of where your child chooses to go, he or she will have a rewarding experience living amongst people of a rich culture. Among the more popular student destinations in China are:

• Shanghai. Widely recognized as the financial center of China, Shanghai particularly appeals to business students. Shanghai is a very modern city, with most of the modern conveniences to which Western students are accustomed.

• Qingdao. Quingdao is located on the Chinese coast, about midway between Shanghai and Beijing. While the city is known for its street food and relaxed atmosphere, one drawback for students studying abroad is that Quingdao, having been a German Colonial city, tends to be a bit more European in flavor than other Chinese cities.

• Xi’an. History students will find much to like about this central Chinese city, which is situated on several of the ancient trade routes, most notably the Silk Road.

• Beijing. Perhaps the best place to study abroad in China, Beijing is the capitol of the People’s Republic of China. It has also served as the capitol of China through two dynasties (Ming and Qing) before the 1911 founding of the Republic. Beijing is the center of government, but it is also rich in modern and traditional architecture. It combines the comforts of a truly modern city with the art, culture, and tradition of a truly ancient city. Additionally, Beijing is the best place to learn Mandarin Chinese, the official language of the People’s Republic of China, as Mandarin was originally formed from the Beijing dialect.

Next Step China has created the following guide to help parents feel comfortable about having their child study abroad in China. Please view the topics below for more guidance.