Carnegie Mellon University

Study Abroad in China

The Department of Languages, Cultures & Applied Linguistics is pleased to offer an exciting summer study abroad program at the Shanghai International Studies University in Shanghai, China.

Founded in December 1949 in Shanghai, Shanghai International Studies University (SISU) is the first higher institution and the birthplace for foreign language education established after the founding of the People's Republic of China. It is also one of the key universities in China under the "211 Project" and "Double First Class Initiative,“ the country’s educational construction plans of world-class universities and disciplines. The university regards globalization and multiculturalism as its core development principles and has established cooperation with more than 440 universities, educational and research institutions, and international organizations in 62 countries and regions.

Based on long-term teaching practices and research, the university has published numerous textbooks and teaching materials for foreign language education. Every year, about 4,000 international students from all over the world come to study Chinese and related degree programs at SISU, making it one of the largest universities for Chinese language and culture education in China.

To encourage more international students to learn Chinese language and culture and to enhance the friendly exchanges between American and Chinese people, SISU is offering two types of Chinese summer learning programs for U.S. based students for summer 2024:

  • Option 1: A four-week in-person program
  • Option 2: A seven-week in-person program

Option 1: Four-week in-person program*

Program dates: July 8 - August 2, 2024

CMU students can transfer one course (9-12 units) back upon satisfactory completion of the program.

This four-week in-person program includes:

  • Intensive Chinese language classes
  • Small class sizes and personalized learning
  • Extracurricular cross-cultural language partner activities
  • A week-long Cultural Experience Tour in Shanghai and its neighboring cities
  • Opportunity for students to obtain a formal HSK language certificate
*One possible additional week for remote assessment.

 

Option 2: Seven-week in-person program*

Program dates: July 8 - August 23, 2024

CMU students can transfer two courses (18-24 units) back upon satisfactory completion of the program.

This seven-week in-person program includes:

  • Intensive Chinese language classes
  • Small class sizes and personalized learning
  • Extracurricular cross-cultural language partner activities
  • A week-long Cultural Experience Tour in Shanghai and its neighboring cities
  • Opportunity for students to obtain a formal HSK language certificate
*One possible additional week for remote assessment.

The SISU program is open to all.

  • Beginner Level: No prerequisite
  • Intermediate Level: One year of Chinese study at CMU or another U.S. institution
  • Advanced Level: 2-3 years of Chinese study at CMU or another U.S. institution

Cost

Pricing updated on March 28, 2024

Option 1: $3,500*, which covers tuition and fees, books and other learning materials, room and board, week-long cultural tours in Shanghai and its neighboring cities. Airfare, meals and visa fees are not included. 

Option 2: $6,500*, which covers tuition and fees, books and other learning materials, room and board, week-long cultural tours in Shanghai and its neighboring cities. Airfare, meals and visa fees are not included. 

*Subject to fund availability, applicants who pay the initial deposit by March 1, 2024, may be eligible for an additional discount. This discount does not impact the applicants' chances of applying for and receiving additional scholarships. More information will be provided in due course.

Visit our Payment Page to learn about payment options for LCAL study abroad programs.

Study Abroad Scholarships

The Department of Languages, Cultures & Applied Linguistics, along with the Dietrich College of Humanities and Social Sciences, offers study abroad scholarships for students to study for a semester, full-year, or summer overseas. All LCAL declared majors, and Arabic Studies minors, are guaranteed a departmental scholarship if they are in good academic standing with CMU. Scholarships can be put towards tuition, room and board, airfare and/or book expenses when participating in any accredited study abroad program. Learn more about scholarships.

Accommodation

For the in-person programs, students typically stay at the SISU Guest House for Foreign Students (a double-room in a hotel-like facility with air conditioning, bathroom and cafeteria).

Travel

Applicants are required to apply for a Chinese visa, purchase international round-trip flight tickets, and organize their travel to and from Shanghai independently. SISU will supply the necessary documents (such as your Admission Letter) and relevant travel information.

In-city tours are included in the cost for in-person programs provided by SISU. Additionally, weekend excursions to nearby cities such as Suzhou, Hangzhou and Nanjing will be organized and covered by the program. Before or after the program, you are welcome to travel to other cities of your choice, at your own expense.

"Embarking on my journey to China, I was met with countless warnings of potential culture shock. But little did I know that this incredible experience would shatter all my apprehensions and transform into a magnificent exploration of a captivating culture. Participating in this program will unlock doors to an extraordinary journey of knowledge, personal development, and forming bonds with incredible individuals from diverse corners of the world." — Maria Mina