Chinese language school

Question

I’d like to improve my Chinese. My ideal set-up would be 4 hours a day of class (small groups are fine) so I can practice and work the rest of the day.

Location would be Guangzhou, Shenzhen or Foshan.

Does anyone have any experience or suggestions?

Thanks in advance.

Answer

If you are looking to improve your Chinese with a manageable daily schedule, 4 hours a day of classes is a good balance between learning and having free time to practice in real life or work. In the Guangdong area, including Guangzhou, Shenzhen, and Foshan, there are several reputable language schools that cater to expats and international students.

Here are some options and suggestions:

Guangzhou: The city has a long history of hosting international students. Consider:

Sun Yat-sen University – offers short-term Chinese language programs for foreigners, including intensive and semi-intensive options.
Jinan University – known for its smaller class sizes and flexible scheduling for international students.
Guangzhou Mandarin House – specialized in tailored courses for foreigners with options for 2–4 hours per day in small groups or one-on-one.

Shenzhen: Being a modern city with many expats, Shenzhen offers schools with more flexible programs:

Shenzhen Mandarin School – small group classes focusing on practical spoken Chinese and business communication.
Shenzhen University International Chinese Program – offers intensive or semi-intensive courses with flexible hours.
Shenzhen Mandarin House – similar to Guangzhou branch, emphasizing conversational skills and cultural immersion.

Foshan: While smaller than Guangzhou and Shenzhen, Foshan has a few options:

Foshan University – some international Chinese programs available, though fewer choices than the bigger cities.
Private tutors or small language centers – these can offer very flexible schedules and sometimes lower prices.

Additional tips:

Consider your main goal: if you want conversational fluency, prioritize schools that emphasize speaking and listening, not just reading and writing.
Small group classes (3–6 students) are ideal for more interaction and personalized attention.
Check if the school offers cultural activities or language exchange opportunities, as practicing with locals will greatly improve your skills.
Verify if they allow flexible start dates or the option to reduce or increase hours depending on your schedule.

Overall, Guangzhou and Shenzhen are the most convenient for a mix of high-quality instruction, exposure to native speakers, and lifestyle conveniences. Foshan can be a quieter alternative if you prefer a more relaxed environment, though program options may be more limited.

Chinese language school

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