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Semester Chinese Program

Live in China for long term in Chengde (1 hour from Beijing)
Live in China for long term in Chengde (1 hour from Beijing)
  • Duration

    6 months to 1 year

  • Lessons Per Day

    2 Hours

  • Accommodation

    NOT Included

  • Daily Meals

    NOT Included

  • Student Number

    No More Than 15

  • Program Start

    First Monday each month

  • Tuition Starting From

    US $4980

  • language levels

    Any Level

Course Features

  • 1 Semester = 16 weeks = 6-month student visa
  • 2 Semesters = 32 weeks = 1-year student visa
  • Learn Chinese in Chengde (1 hour from Beijing by high-speed train)
  • Live in China for long term by studying Chinese
  • Dialect Free – Learn Chinese at the place of origin of Mandarin – Chengde
  • Designed for people who want to live in China for long term
  • Lots of job opportunities in Beijing and in Chengde
Program Intro

Is this programfor me?

Chengde - Origin of Mandarin Chinese Language
Chengde - Origin of Mandarin Chinese Language

Chengde - Origin of Mandarin Chinese Language

    Chengde is the birthplace of Mandarin, the world’s most spoken language. You don’t have to worry about dialect in Chengde because everyone here speaks standard Mandarin. You can easily understand others and be understood.

    As a cultural and political hub during the Qing Dynasty, Chengde played a key role in standardizing the language. The city’s strategic location and its use as the Qing emperors’ summer retreat facilitated interactions between various ethnic groups, contributing to the evolution of a common tongue. Mandarin, influenced by northern dialects, emerged as the lingua franca of the empire, with Chengde at its heart. This rich linguistic history cements Chengde’s place as a cornerstone in the origins of Mandarin Chinese.

    Take Chinese Classes in Chengde
    Take Chinese Classes in Chengde

    Take Chinese Classes in Chengde

      Chengde is a smaller city renowned for its natural beauty and historical importance as a summer retreat for Qing Dynasty emperors. The Chengde Mountain Resort, a UNESCO World Heritage site, showcases stunning gardens and traditional architecture. Chengde offers a more tranquil atmosphere, ideal for those seeking relaxation and scenic landscapes, including the nearby Bashang Grassland and the less-crowded Jinshanling section of the Great Wall. Chengde is only 1 hour away from the capital, Beijing, by high-speed train. There are 2 to 4 high-speed trains from Chengde to Beijing every hour. Despite being so close to Beijing, the cost of living is amazingly lower than that in Beijing.

      Chengde - Extremely low living cost
      Chengde - Extremely low living cost

      Chengde - Extremely low living cost

        Chengde presents an appealing alternative for those looking to enjoy a lower cost of living without sacrificing the quality of life. Its combination of affordable living expenses, rich cultural heritage, and beautiful natural surroundings make it an attractive destination for individuals and families alike. Whether you’re considering relocating for work, study, or simply seeking a change of scenery, Chengde offers a balanced and economically sensible lifestyle choice compared to the hustle and bustle of Beijing.

        Chengde - Profound history and amazing landscape
        Chengde - Profound history and amazing landscape

        Chengde - Profound history and amazing landscape

          At the heart of Chengde’s allure is the Mountain Resort (Bishu Shanzhuang), an expansive imperial garden and palace complex. Built during the 18th century, this magnificent retreat covers a staggering 5.6 square kilometers, making it one of the largest ancient gardens in China. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the resort is a masterpiece of Chinese landscape garden design, blending the natural beauty of its surroundings with the refined aesthetics of traditional Chinese architecture.

          Beyond this historic sanctuary, Chengde’s landscape unfolds in a tapestry of natural wonders, from gentle hikes in the surrounding hills to leisurely boat rides on its clear waters. Each season brings its own charm, with vibrant autumn leaves, blossoming spring flowers, cool summer escapes, and snowy winter vistas. Chengde is an ideal getaway for those seeking a blend of cultural richness and the calming beauty of nature.

          Tuition fee as low as US $4980/semester
          Tuition fee as low as US $4980/semester

          Tuition fee as low as US $4980/semester

            One semester is 16 weeks. If you have a tight budget, but also want to enjoy the best quality of teaching, the semester Chinese program would be the best choice.

            Best Way to Live in China for Long Term
            Best Way to Live in China for Long Term

            Best Way to Live in China for Long Term

              The Semester Chinese Program offers long-term student visas, which is ideal for people who want to live in China for the long term. China is a country that many people dream of because of the vast business/working opportunities and low living costs. If you are in between jobs or unsure about the future, studying Chinese in Chengde and taking the Semester Chinese program could be the best decision to help you gain a skill that will benefit you for a lifelong time.

              CLASS OPTIONS

              You can join this program on the first Monday of each month.

              The beginner class is designed for students who have never studied Chinese.

              Topics covered in beginner class are the introduction of yourself, daily life, food, transportation, interests, and hobbies.

              The levels of the students in one class might be slightly different. Please bear in mind that you might not have exactly the same level.

              You can join this program on the first Monday of each month.

              The Elementary class is designed for students who have learned 500 Chinese words and 48 grammar points, and are able to recognize 300 Chinese characters.

              Topics covered in Elementary are “socializing”, family life, study arrangements, shopping, dining, personal feelings, traveling experience, course situation, cultural and sports activities, festivals and customs, and career, etc.

              The levels of the students in one class might be slightly different. Please bear in mind that you might not have exactly the same level.

              You can join this program on the first Monday of each month.

              The Intermediate class is designed for students who have learned 2245 Chinese words and 210 grammar points and can recognize 900 Chinese characters.

              Topics covered in Intermediate are community life, healthy conditions, campus life, office communication, animals, and plants, interpersonal relationships, lifestyles, studying methods, natural environment, social phenomenon, social contacts, etc.

              The levels of the students in one class might be slightly different. Please bear in mind that you might not have exactly the same level.

              You can join this program on the first Monday of each month.

              The Advanced class is designed for students who have learned 5456 Chinese words and 424 grammar points and are able to recognize 1800 Chinese characters.

              Topics covered in the Advanced class are socializing protocols, science and technology, culture and art, emotions, academic fields, political economy, philosophy, history, academic research, laws and regulations, business trade, and international affairs.

              The levels of the students in one class might be slightly different. Please bear in mind that you might not have exactly the same level.

              You can join this program on the first Monday of each month.

              Locations Available for the Semester Chinese Program

              INCLUDED IN TUITION

              10 hrs/week of Group Chinese Classes

              INCLUDED IN TUITION

              • Each small group class has no more than 15 students.
              • You will have Mandarin Chinese classes for 2 hours Monday to Friday, 10 hours/week.
              • Improve your Chinese skills through active interaction with your teacher and classmates.

              Program Certificate

              As an outstanding Chinese language institute that has been well-established for 20 years, we offer students program certificates at the end of the program. You can use it for:

              • Job application
              • Degree program application
              • Proof of a memorable experience
              • Proof of your Chinese level

              Free Services

              FREE - Saturday Excursions

              Free Services

              In order to make the most out of your time at Keats, we take you to explore various interesting places during the weekend to help you have a deeper understanding of Chinese culture. We offer FREE excursions every Saturday. There are so many interesting places to visit in Chengde. We will take you to experience the real Chengde every Saturday.

              FREE - PLACEMENT TEST

              Each student has his/her Chinese language background. Don’t worry! We will offer a free placement test before you start the Semester Chinese Program. The teacher at Keats will suggest one class that is most suitable for your level.

              Life Advisor

              Your “Life Advisor” will be helping you with

              • School orientation;
              • A tour of the surrounding area (supermarket, hospital, SIM card, metro station, restaurants, post office, etc.)
              • Accommodation registration;
              • Visa extension or visa paperwork

              Study Advisor

              Your “Study Advisor” will be helping you with

              • Collecting your learning feedback;
              • Tracking your satisfaction with the program;
              • Answering questions in learning Chinese;
              • Arranging lessons if you want to extend your stay or add extra lessons.

              Chinese Language Partner

              In order to create more opportunities for Keats students who take the Semester Chinese Program to practice Mandarin Chinese outside of classrooms, the Friends Program at Keats provides the immersion experience by making friends with Chinese people and practicing Chinese. You will be paired with a local Chinese who can speak standard Mandarin. Keats has strict criteria for selecting Chinese people with standard accents to join the Friends Program. You and your language partners are encouraged to take part in all activities at Keats.

              FREE - 24/7 Support

              Whenever you need help, we are here to help. We understand that living abroad can be stressful, especially for the first time. We are here to ease your concerns and make your transition smooth. Keats is your home in China and is with you all the time. Learn Chinese in China and explore China by taking the small group Chinese class.

              Benefits for Keats Students

              Keats Student ID

              Benefits for Keats Students

              As a Keats student, you can request a student ID. With the student ID, you can receive student’s prices or discounted prices at 80% parks in China. This saves you a lot of money which you can invest in your Mandarin Chinese language courses. The student ID provides the best opportunity to travel in China on a budget.

              VISA APPLICATION ASSISTANCE

              Keats offers support for your long-term student visa application. After you complete your registration at Keats, we will send you instructions on how to get your long-term student visa with help from Keats. Keats can also provide dependent visas for your spouse and children. Get started and plan your trip to learn Mandarin Chinese in China.

              Business Set up in China Consulting

              Keats closely works with the Investment Promotion Service Department of Chengde High-tech Industrial Development Zone. They offer many good policies to facilitate foreign investors to start their own business in Chengde. Keats offers consulting services to any student who wishes to start their own business in Chengde.

              Job Opportunity

              Keats English School in Chengde needs lots of foreign English teachers. We offer visa assistance and good salaries. Come to join us and become a member of Keats!

              • If you would like to stay in China after your program at Keats ends
              • If you are looking for a job in China
              • If you love kids and have good patience
              • If you speak good English

              OTHER FREE SERVICES

              High speed internet and use of the computers

              Access to Online Learning Materials

              Medicine for minor illnesses

              THE PROGRAM'S IMPACT

              Robert testimonial for keats chinese school

              Robert | Netherlands

              Semester Chinese Program

              Since last semester, we started studying Chinese at Keats. It was the best choice we can ever make. It is a really good school. The classes are a lot of fun, you learn a lot, but very interactive, so you talk a lot which means it is not just books and writing. Kunming is a really pleasant city to live in, especially if you compare it to other cities in the east. If you like to travel, if you like to study Chinese in a fun way, Keats has the best Chinese language program for you.

              Emiliano | Mexico

              Semester Chinese Program

              I come to Kunming because I think the environment in Kunming is better and I heard that Keats School is better. I like the small group Chinese class because my classmates study hard and our teachers are very good. I like the teaching method of Keats because I like the activities at Keats. I think Yunnan is a particularly beautiful Chinese province.

               

              Amauri testimonial for keats chinese school

              Amauri | USA

              Semester Chinese Program

              The teachers at Keats know how to read the students and how to help students learn Chinese language easily. They know the level of the students. I am a slow learner, but they managed to adapt to my learning. They made the class very fun, very exciting. I am pleased that not only I got to learn the culture and the language, but I also got to make amazing friends, really unbelievable, Chinese friends and European friends, American friends, from all over the world.

              Jade | UK & Mauritius

              Semester Chinese Program

              I think the Chinese learning environment here is great. The teaching methods are also very interactive and fun. What I particularly enjoy here is the fact that my teacher does not stick to the textbook. We spend a lot of time discussing general topics, such as Chinese culture, world news, typical expressions used by local people. We also discuss social and economic topics.

              Matteo testimonial for keats chinese school

              Matteo | Italy

              Semester Chinese Program

              I really enjoy studying Chinese in Kunming at Keats. The teachers are great and my classmates are awesome. It is an unforgettable experience for me. I also got the chance to travel to other places in Yunnan. Those places are amazing and you definitely need to visit these places when you study Chinese in China at Keats.

              Stew testimonial for keats chinese school

              Stew | UK

              Semester Chinese Program

              The place is very cool. I am with a great group of people in my class, so coming to classes is very enjoyable. It is fun, we have a lot of discussions, games, activities. Our teachers are also very good, very supportive. Learning Chinese is intimidating at the start because you have so many questions. But I would advise coming to Keats because the atmosphere for learning is great. It is very relaxing. I would recommend the school.

              Kirsten testimonial for keats chinese school

              Kristen | Canada

              Semester Chinese Program

              I have really enjoyed the Chinese course in China at Keats and meeting the teachers here and the students. We have a lot of fun in class. It is a really great school to learn with good teaching methods and a really good textbook, examples and games, and everything.

              Sjoerd testimonial for keats chinese school

              SJOERD | Netherlands

              Semester Chinese Program

              We use a lot of games to learn grammar and new words. We have really good teachers, really patient. She helps us a lot. Our class is really nice and we have people from all over the world, different countries. We often discuss topics in Chinese in our class. I live in the dorm of Keats. It is very convenient. I don’t have to spend time traveling. You can just focus on learning Chinese.

              Locations Available for the Semester Chinese Program

              FEES

              What's Your Chinese Learning Goal?

              Laying the Foundation

              You can take the Beginner Semester Chinese Program. We offer a free placement test before you start the class.

              1 semester = 16 weeks, 2 hrs/day, 10 hrs/week

              • Class Time: 8:30 - 10:30
              • Textbook: Developing Chinese Elementary Comprehensive 1

              Basic Communication

              You can take the Elementary Semester Chinese Program. We offer a free placement test before you start the class.

              1 semester = 16 weeks, 2 hrs/day, 10 hrs/week

              • Class Time: 10:30 - 12:30
              • Textbook: Developing Chinese Elementary Comprehensive 2

              Conversational

              You can take the Intermediate Semester Chinese Program. We offer a free placement test before you start the class.

              1 semester = 16 weeks, 2 hrs/day, 10 hrs/week

              • Class Time: 13:30 - 15:30
              • Textbook: Developing Chinese Intermediate Comprehensive 1 & 2

              Professional

              You can take the Advanced Semester Chinese Program. We offer a free placement test before you start the class.

              1 semester = 16 weeks, 2 hrs/day, 10 hrs/week

              • Class Time: 15:30 -17:30
              • Textbook: Developing Chinese Advanced Comprehensive 1 & 2

              Customize Your Courses

              Discounts are offered based on the number of weeks you pay for. The prices listed here are discounted prices. Learn more about our Discount policy ?

              My Investment in My Future

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              Viktor's Story at Keats My Chinese Family and My Chinese School

              FAQ

              Is there a starting date of the program?

              Yes, you can join this program on the first Monday of each month.

              Does this program include accommodation?

              No, this program does not include accommodation. The Semester Chinese Program is designed for people who want to live and study in China for the long term.

              Will this program help with the long-term student visa?

              Yes, we will help you with long-term student visas. If you are living abroad, we will send you the visa documents to apply for student visas after full payment for the program is made.

              How long is the visa if I sign up for 1 semester?

              Your student visa will be 6 months if you sign up for 1 semester.

              Your student visa will be 1 year if you sign up for 2 semesters.

              This program is great, but can I join this program for 4 weeks and just pay for 4 weeks?

              We are very sorry that the Semester Chinese Program is carried out based on 16 weeks. The minimum duration of the program you can take is 16 weeks. If you are unable to finish the entire 16 weeks, you will not receive a refund. This program is designed for students who want to live and study in China for long term.

              If you are looking for a short-term intensive program, you can check out the intensive one-on-one Chinese programs with 10 locations available for choosing or the small group Chinese classes in Kunming.

              How many hours of lessons per day for the Semester Chinese Program?

              The Semester Chinese Program offers 2 hours of Chinese group classes per day, Monday to Friday. You will be studying with a professional and licensed Keats teacher in your class.

              Is there an age limit to attend this program?

              Yes, people who can register for this program are from 18 years old to 65 years old. Since there will be other students in the small group classes, you will need to accommodate other students’ learning speeds. The teacher for the small group class will get everyone involved and make sure that each student has enough attention.

              If you prefer to take a completely customized course designed exclusively for you, you can take the Intensive One-on-one Chinese program. The teacher for the one-on-one Chinese program will prepare the lessons according to your level of Chinese and your learning goals to ensure that you learn the most Chinese in the shortest possible time. The Intensive One-on-one Chinese course will be designed to target your weakness and help you learn Chinese at your own pace.

              If I want to accelerate my progress, can I switch to the Intensive One-on-one Chinese program?

              Absolutely! You can just let us know at least one week before you plan to switch, and we will make arrangements for you.

              You can pay the difference of the programs for the rest of your stay.

              How many students in one class for the Semester Chinese Program?

              There are no more than 15 students in one class. Students are from all over the world with one goal of speaking Chinese fluently. You will soon make new friends after you start the school.

              Wow, this is exactly the program I want to take! How can I enroll?

              You can register here or click the “APPLY NOW” button on the top right and send the deposit of USD 200 to reserve your room and your spot in the small group class at Keats. After we receive your deposit, we will send you a booking confirmation and an invoice with payment details for the balance. Then you can arrange the payment through bank transfer. We will send you the official Admission Notice to apply for a student visa. After you receive the visa supporting materials from us, you will be ready to apply for a student visa at the Chinese embassy or visa center in your country. Once you get the visa, you are ready to start a wonderful journey at Keats! Click here for a detailed description of the enrollment process.

              Get ready

              What to Pack Practical Manual for New Students

              So, you’ve made up your mind to learn Chinese in China. You will travel to China to take an intensive Chinese immersion language course at Keats and start a wonderful journey. Here is a practical manual for new students, including what to pack, money, medical/health, transportation, and entertainment. Please kindly read it before you arrive. We are looking forward to welcoming you here in Kunming!

              Practical Manual for New Students

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