About the Program

Experience Shanghai, a vibrant global metropolis where tradition meets innovation, through an immersive summer program at Shanghai International Studies University (SISU). Study at one of China’s top language schools, renowned for its international partnerships and excellence in language and cultural education, while exploring the city’s historic landmarks, modern skyline, bustling markets and rich cultural life. This program offers a unique opportunity to live, learn and connect in one of the world’s most dynamic cities.

Start and End Dates

July 13 – August 14, 2026*

*Subject to change

Prerequistes

This program is open to all — no prior knowledge of Chinese is required.

Students can use the following as a guide to determine the appropriate level:

• Beginner: no prior experience required

• Intermediate: one year of Chinese study at CMU or another U.S. institution

• Advanced: two to three years of Chinese study at CMU or another U.S. institution

Course Information

Students may receive 9–12 units of transfer credit for one Chinese language course.

After successful completion of the program, students will have the opportunity to obtain a formal HSK language certification.

Extracurricular Activities

All students are required to participate in cross-cultural language partner activities. As part of the program fee, students will engage in a Cultural Experience Tour in Shanghai as well as weekend trips to nearby cities.

Travel & Transportation

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

The program fee includes transportation and entry fees for all required extracurricular activities.

Before or after the program, you are welcome to travel to other cities of your choice, at your own expense. 

Accommodation

Students will stay at the SISU Guest House for Foreign Students — a double-room in a hotel-like facility with air conditioning, bathroom and cafeteria.

Program Costs

$5,500*

The program fee includes tuition and fees, room and board, learning materials and required extracurricular actitives.

Airfare to/from Shanghai, meals, visa fees and incidental expenses of a personal nature are not included in the program fee.

*Subject to fund availability, applicants who pay the initial deposit by March 1, 2026, 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.

Scholarships & Funding

Our department, the Dietrich College of Humanities and Social Sciences and Office of International Education offer study abroad scholarships for semester, full-year or summer programs. All LCAL declared majors and Arabic Studies minors in good academic standing with CMU are guaranteed a scholarship from LCAL. Scholarships can be applied to tuition, room and board, airfare and/or book expenses for any accredited study abroad program. Learn more about funding your study abroad experience.

In addition, the Office of Undergraduate Research and Scholar Development offers two national and international funding opportunities that Doha participants may qualify for, including the CMU Jennings Family Brave Companions Fund and the Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship Program. Learn more about these opportunities.