February 2023 | China Scholar

Best Ways Foreign Students Can Celebrate Chinese New Year

Make your Chinese New Year Fun

The best ways foreign students can celebrate Chinese New Year during their stay in China are highly dependent on the student’s willingness to explore. Chinese New Year celebration is one of the most important festivals in China. It is the time when Chinese people gather as families in their respective locations to celebrate their culture and heritage.

Here, I take you through some of the best ways international students can celebrate Chinese New Year to make the most out of it.

Foreign Students: Best Ways to Celebrate Chinese New Year

As an international student living in China, it is important to know how to make the most out of the Chinese New Year.

In this blog, we discuss some important tips that will make your experience a spectacular one.

Chinese New Year is one of the most important festivals in China. It is the time of the year Chinese people from all over the world come together to celebrate their culture and heritage.

The Chinese celebrate the New Year with feasting, fireworks, and lanterns. It is a great time to experience Chinese culture in its most vibrant form.

What is the Chinese New Year Gala?

Chinese New Year Gala is an important Chinese event which includes Chinese singing, music, and dance performances.

It is a mega show that Chinese people enjoy watching every year. It’s telecast live on every local television station in China and online.

The Gala is an important event on the Chinese New Year calendar. It is that time Chinese families gather at the dining table to eat dumplings whilst enjoying the New Year Gala.

Watching the Gala is one key way foreign students can celebrate Chinese New Year in style.

Lantern Festival

The Lantern Festival marks the end of Chinese new year festivities. It is celebrated with spectacular fireworks and lanterns.

Chinese people make colourful Chinese lanterns to decorate their homes and streets in celebration.

Best ways foreign students can enjoy Chinese New Year: what to do ahead of the festive season!

Chinese New Year Celebration usually starts around late January or early February.

So make sure you plan your activities very well. Otherwise, it will be one of the most boring experiences in China for you.

Plan with friends or family in China

It is important to talk with your Chinese friends or family since they know the Chinese New Year rituals and customs inside out. They are also familiar with Chinese culture more than you.

Outline your activities for the holidays

Most Chinese cities celebrate Chinese New Year with parades, fireworks, lantern festivals and other activities.

It is important to check out all the events in your city and plan ahead for what you want to do during your Chinese New Year holidays.

How can international students enjoy the Chinese New Year?

Chinese New Year celebration is full of festivities and activities. Enjoy the Chinese Dragon dance, go to temple fairs, attend Chinese operas and more.

You must eat the traditional Chinese New Year food as it is a part of Chinese culture.

Try out authentic Chinese dishes such as dumplings, tangyuan (also known as sweet soup balls), Chinese cabbage and other Chinese delicacies, etc.

Don’t forget traditional Chinese Cuisine

Often, Chinese people use Chinese New Year as an opportunity to eat traditional Chinese dishes. You should try to experience Chinese cuisine when you visit Chinese restaurants during the New Year.

Be open-minded

Chinese culture is full of surprises. Hence, don’t be afraid to experience different things during Chinese New Year, such as Chinese opera, Chinese calligraphy or Chinese martial arts.

You can also try traditional Chinese games like mahjong and Chinese chess. With an open mind, you’ll be able to enjoy yourself to the max.

What are the best gifts for friends and families during the Chinese New Year?

Chinese New Year is the perfect time to show your love and appreciation for your family and friends.

Chinese New Year gifts usually carry symbolic meanings and it is important to pay attention to these meanings when preparing your gifts.

As a result, Chinese people give each other meaningful items as a way to show love and wish good luck, health, happiness and fortune for the coming year.

Some popular Chinese New Year gifts include lucky Chinese coins, gold jewellery, Chinese tea sets, Chinese calligraphy art and Chinese medicines.

These symbolic gifts will send your warm wishes to the receiver and help to bring them good luck in the upcoming year.

Learn more about gift-giving in China here

What is the essence of Red Envelop or Hongbao during Chinese New Year?

The Chinese red envelope, or hongbao, is a traditional Chinese gift that has been around for centuries and is an important part of Chinese New Year celebrations.

Red envelopes are usually given by the older generation to their younger family members or friends as a symbol of love and appreciation. The money inside is meant to bring luck, good fortune, health and wealth to the receiver.

The red envelopes are a great way to show your love and appreciation for the family during the Chinese New Year.

Forbidden Chinese New Year gifts

Though Chinese New Year is a time to exchange gifts, there is a list of Chinese New Year No-nos when it comes to Chinese gift-giving.

Chinese people believe certain gifts are unlucky and should be avoided during the Chinese New Year.

Forbidden Chinese New Year gifts include clocks, pears, umbrellas, white flowers, shoes and storks, green caps/hats etc. Chinese people also avoid giving handkerchiefs as Chinese New Year gifts since this is a sign of mourning.

By avoiding these Chinese New Year No-nos you will be sending the best wishes possible for Chinese New Year.

How to celebrate Chinese New Year in a grand style!

You do not need to break your account to enjoy the Chinese New Year as an international student. Yes! You’ve heard me right, there are simple activities most universities organise ie. games, Chinese dish bazaar, opera, movies etc. to entertain international students on campus. Don’t miss such activities whenever you’re on campus.

However, if your budget isn’t tight, you can travel within China to see new places and make new friends. Try new foods and new adventures to enrich your experiences during your stay in China.

Well, in as much as I encourage you to enjoy yourself, I will also entreat you not to do things to fall short of the laws in China.

Be mindful of your safety as well in everything you do.

Hangout with friends

Hanging out with friends and family is one major element that characterizes the celebration of the Chinese New Year. After a busy academic calendar, it is time to rejuvenate your body and mind for the new semester.

Go shopping

The festive season is also an excellent opportunity to shop for traditional Chinese items. International students who want to make the best out of the Chinese New Year can buy Chinese lanterns, Chinese costumes, Chinese dolls, Chinese calligraphy and Chinese New Year decorations.

Observe Chinese customs as a foreign student to enjoy the Chinese New Year

You should also observe Chinese customs, such as giving red envelopes with money in them or lighting fireworks on Chinese New Year’s Eve. This will help you understand Chinese culture better and show respect for Chinese beliefs.

Be mindful of the amount you put in the red envelope. Ask a Chinese friend for guidance.

How to enjoy the Chinese New Year as an international student

No Chinese New Year is complete without Chinese music, Chinese dance and Chinese acrobatics. Attend performances and shows in theatres to make your Chinese New Year celebration even more memorable.

Visit tourist sites

Most Chinese cities have a wealth of Chinese tourist sites that are worth checking out during Chinese New Year.

For instance, you can visit the Great Wall, Forbidden City and other Chinese landmarks to get the full Chinese New Year experience.

You can also visit Beijing’s Temple of Heaven or Shanghai’s Bund and many other interesting sites.

Enjoy Chinese food

Chinese food is an essential part of Chinese New Year celebrations. During this season, Chinese restaurants will usually offer special Chinese dishes to celebrate the Chinese New Year. Try out Chinese delicacies like dim sum, Peking duck and Chinese noodles.

Don’t forget to try out typical snacks like Chinese New Year goodies, like Chinese fortune cookies and Chinese tea.

How to plan a stress-free travel during Chinese New Year!

Human movement in China during Chinese New Year is one of the largest on earth in terms of human movement during festive seasons. As a result, the cost of flight tickets becomes more expensive.

Train and bus tickets on the other hand are mostly non-available at the peak of the mass travel period because the demand is extremely high.

So, to be on the safer side, plan ahead of time and book your ticket accordingly.

Make reservations

Start reserving flights or train or bus tickets early. Chinese New Year is celebrated over a two-week period, so, you can plan ahead to get the best deals on your Chinese New Year travel.

Plan alternative routes

Because of the mass travelling and rush for tickets, travellers sleepover in the train stations. Hence, it is advisable to have alternative routes such as taking a bus (if possible) or charter a car if you’re in a team.

Get the place(s) you want to visit ahead of time

Having your itinerary for the Chinese Year celebration ahead of time is helpful. It saves the foreign student the last-minute pressure. As such, international students can enjoy every bit of the Chinese New Year celebration.

Book your bus, train or flight

Make sure you have all transportation arrangements sorted out before the Chinese New Year rush hour periods. As this can be a busy period for transportation networks.

Be sure to book tickets in advance, if possible, and check train schedules, bus routes and flight availability.

The saying “the early bird catches the worms” is evident during this period.

Arrange for your accommodation on time

Getting good and convenient accommodation could be a daunting task during the Chinese New Year Celebration. So, hey! Get things done on time.

Participating in activities during the Chinese New Year

Chinese New Year lasts for 15 days and offers plenty of opportunities to learn more about Chinese culture. You can also explore different Chinese cuisines.

Here are some activities that international students can do to maximize their Chinese New Year experience in China:

1. Visit Chinese temples

Chinese temples are a great way to learn about Chinese culture and get a glimpse into Chinese traditions.

2. Explore Chinese cuisine options

Chinese New Year is the perfect time to explore different Chinese cuisine options in local restaurants and street stalls.

3. Participate in lion or dragon dances

Lion or dragon dances are a great way to learn more about Chinese customs and music.

How to get around?

One of the easiest ways foreign students can enjoy the Chinese New Year celebration is to travel within or outside the city where they reside. Unfortunately, it can be difficult to get around during the season. Here are some tips on how to make your travel easier:

1. Use ride-sharing services

Ride-sharing services such as DiDi can be a great way to get around the city if you don’t want to rely on public transportation during the Chinese New Year.

2. Try out bike sharing

Bike sharing is becoming increasingly popular in most Chinese cities. And it can be a convenient way of getting around during Chinese New Year festivities. However, only those who ride bicycle can enjoy.

You can find many bike rental spots scattered across Chinese cities and rent them for your rounds.

3. Take advantage of metro systems

Metro systems may become overcrowded during Chinese New Year. Interestingly, they can still be a great way to get around Chinese cities if you don’t want to rely on other means of transportation.

Chinese New Year Food Traditions

Chinese New Year is a great opportunity to learn more about Chinese food traditions. Here are some Chinese New Year food traditions that you can explore:

1. Eating Chinese Dumplings

Chinese Dumplings are traditionally eaten during Chinese New Year. It is a symbol of wealth and prosperity for the coming year. So, as a foreign student eager to maximize your experience during the Chinese New Year, I entreat you to enjoy dumplings as much as you can.

2. Enjoying Chinese sweets

Chinese New Year sweets such as Tangyuan (glutinous rice balls) or Nian Gao (sweetened sticky rice cake) are traditional desserts that bring luck for the coming year.

3. Eating fish dishes

Fish is an important part of Chinese culture and it is traditionally eaten during Chinese New Year as a way of wishing for abundance in the coming year.

4. Chinese Hot Pot

Chinese hot pot is a popular Chinese dish and it is usually enjoyed during the New Year celebrations. Hot pot symbolises family coming together and sharing food.

Stay Connected During Chinese New Year

As an international student wishing to make the best out of the season, it is important to link up with friends and families within and outside China. Thankfully, the internet or social media comes in handy at this time.

Chinese New Year can be a great time to stay connected with friends and family back home, so be sure to have a reliable internet connection during this period.

Here are some tips on how to stay connected during Chinese New Year:

1. Get a reliable internet connection.

China has one of the most reliable and cheapest internet in the world. During the holidays, try and connect with your loved ones and chitchat.

2. Use VPN services

Google, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, WhatsApp and many foreign websites or Apps are blocked in China. Therefore, you can access the blocked Apps and sites through the use of a VPN.

So make sure you have a reliable VPN service during your holidays.

3. Join Chinese social networks

Joining Chinese social networks such as WeChat or QQ can be a great way to stay connected with Chinese people during Chinese New Year celebrations.

A lot of Wechat groups made up of foreigners and Chinese share interesting jokes and information or electronic re-envelope during this time.

Event organisers also use the Wechat platform to share relevant information about their activities.

4. Set up international calling plans

Setting up an international calling plan is another great option if you want to stay in touch with friends and family back home during Chinese New Year.

Chinese Calligraphy and Painting Exhibits to optimize foreign students’ experiences during Chinese New Year

Chinese calligraphy and Chinese painting are two Chinese art forms that have a long history in Chinese culture.

Chinese New Year is a great time to explore Chinese art and experience Chinese cultural heritage first-hand.

Here are some tips on how to experience Chinese calligraphy and Chinese painting during Chinese New Year:

1. Visit museums and galleries

Major cities such as Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Xiamen etc., all have many museums and galleries showcasing various works of calligraphy and painting.

Be sure to check out these exhibitions during the Chinese New Year period.

2. Attend local festivals

Many smaller cities in China will also host local festivals where you can appreciate folk arts such as Chinese calligraphy and Chinese painting.

3. Try Chinese calligraphy yourself

During Chinese New Year, many Chinese universities will also set a day for Chinese calligraphy for international students.

Whether you’re an art lover or just looking to learn something new, Chinese calligraphy and painting are great activities during the festive season.

Chinese Traditional Games

Chinese traditional games are a great way to experience Chinese culture during Chinese New Year.

Here are some Chinese traditional games that you can try:

1. Chinese Chess (Xiangqi)

Chinese chess is a two-player strategy board game played on an intersecting grid. It’s similar to Western chess, but with different pieces and rules.

2. Chinese Checkers (Gomoku)

Gomoku is a two-player board game where each player tries to connect five stones in a row before the other player does.

3. Go (Weiqi)

Go is an ancient Chinese board game that has been popular for over 2000 years. The aim of the game is to capture as much of the board as possible.

4. Chinese Mahjong (Ma Diao)

Chinese mahjong is a four-player game where players try to build sets of matching tiles and score points.

5. Pai Gow

A Chinese gambling game that is played with tiles. The goal of the game is to create two hands, one with five tiles and the other with two tiles, that will beat the dealer’s hands.

6. Jianzi

Traditional Chinese game that is similar to hacky sack. The game involves kicking a shuttlecock with your feet and trying to keep it in the air as long as possible.

7. Dou Di Zhu

A popular Chinese card game that is often played during Chinese New Year. Basiically, the game involves playing cards to get rid of your hand while preventing others from doing the same.

8. Liar’s Dice

A dice game that is popular in many parts of the world, including China. The game involves players rolling dice and making guesses about the total number of dice with a certain number facing up.

These Chinese traditional games are great ways to bring together family and friends during Chinese New Year.

Try them out and have fun with your loved ones this Chinese New Year.

Chinese New Year Shopping Tips for international students to maximize their experience

Chinese New Year shopping can be quite an experience–with bustling markets, vibrant street stalls and long queues everywhere.

Here are some tips on how to make your Chinese New Year shopping trip more enjoyable:

1. Shop in smaller groups

Shopping in smaller groups can help you avoid the long queues at popular stores or markets.

2. Do your research

It’s always good to do some research about the stores and markets you plan to visit before Chinese New Year, so that you know where to get the best prices or discounts.

3. Use cash instead of cards or WeChat or Alipay

Many Chinese stores/markets still don’t accept credit/debit cards, so make sure you bring enough cash with you when doing Chinese New Year shopping.

Wechat pay and Alipay are the two major payment Apps that make life very simple in China. If you have any of them, your payment woes are curtailed.

Checkout how to use WeChat Pay and Alipay here.

4. Bring a bag with you to the market

Carrying a shopping bag along to the market is kind of a culture in China. –so make sure you are well-prepared with a comfortable bag for carrying all those Chinese trinkets home.

Why is the Chinese New Year named after animals?

The Chinese New Year is the most important Chinese holiday. It is named after the Chinese zodiac that follows a 12-year cycle.

Each year corresponds to an animal sign. This animal naming system dates back to ancient times and was used by Chinese people as a way to track time and mark important moments in their lives.

What animals are used to name Chinese New Year?

The Chinese zodiac animals are Rat, Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Sheep, Monkey, Rooster, Dog and Pig.

In Chinese tradition, each animal is associated with certain character traits or qualities that Chinese people believe will be bestowed upon those born the same year as the respective animal.

What are the symbolic meanings of each Zodiac animal in the Chinese New Year?

The Chinese zodiac animals have different symbolic meanings associated with them.

Check out the meaning of the 12 Chinese zodiac animals:

The Rat

Symbolizes wealth and fertility

Ox

Stands for hard work and honesty

Tiger

Represents courage and strength

Rabbit

It is associated with luck and longevity

Dragon

Symbolizes power and good fortune

Snake

Signifies wisdom and intelligence

Horse

It is a sign of freedom and independence

Sheep

Symbolizes peace and kindness

Monkey

Shows a sign of intelligence and creativity

Rooster

Signifies punctuality, determination and communication

Dog

Represents loyalty, responsibility and companionship

Pig

Stands for wealth, honesty and good luck.

Why do the Chinese use red colour as the Chinese New Year Dress Code?

Red is the Color of Luck. Red is the most popular colour during Chinese New Year since it symbolizes good luck and happiness.

Chinese people also like to wear brightly colored clothes for Chinese New Year festivities, as these colors represent energy, joy and prosperity.

The Chinese New Year celebration offers international students living in China an opportunity to gain more insights into Chinese culture.

I hope these tips will help you make the most out of your Chinese New Year experience.

Happy Chinese New Year!

Scholarships in China for International Students: Ultimate Guide

Scholarships for foreign students in China have increasingly been in high demand by international students seeking higher education opportunities. In recent years, the Chinese government has recognized the value of attracting talented students from around the world and has established a variety of scholarships to attract foreign students and promote cultural exchange.

In this all-inclusive Guide to Scholarships for International Students in China, I take you through some major scholarships in China for international students.

They include Chinese Government Scholarships, Local Government Scholarships, Confucius Institute Scholarships etc. Access the official website for scholarships in China for international students.

The comprehensive guide provides an overview of scholarships in China, including eligibility requirements, application procedures, and tips for a successful application. The guide aims to assist you in pursuing your academic aspirations in China with the support of a scholarship.

Chinese Government Scholarship (CGS) for international students

The Chinese Government Scholarship program is one of the international student scholarships in China. It is funded by the government of the People’s Republic of China (PRC). International students looking to pursue higher education in China are the main targets. It covers tuition fees, living expenses, and other costs related to studying in China. To be eligible for Chinese Government Scholarships, applicants must have excellent academic records and meet certain criteria set by the Chinese Scholarship Council (CSC). The CSG official application portal is here

Eligibility for Chinese Government Scholarship

To be eligible for Chinese Government Scholarship, applicants must:
Be a foreign citizen and not a Chinese citizen or Chinese national
Meet the age requirement of 18 to 35 years old
Have excellent academic performance
Be in good health (both mentally and physically)
Have no criminal records
Provide all other supporting documents required by CSC
Have passed HSK 3 level or above for Chinese-Taught programs.
Satisfy the admission requirements of the university of preference

Application Procedure and Required Documents for Chinese Government Scholarships

Comparatively, the application process for Chinese Government Scholarship is quite simple and straightforward. Applicants need to provide basic information about themselves, such as passport number, contact details, educational background, Chinese language proficiency, etc.

Application documents

Agent number of Chinese universities
A copy of passport
Personal statement
Two letters of recommendation from professors or associate professors
Notarized highest diploma and transcripts
Foreign Physical Examination Form for Chinese Government Scholarship

Scholarship Coverage for foreign students

The scholarship benefits include:

Tuition, accommodation
Monthly stipend: CNY 2,500 per month for undergraduates, CNY 3,000 per month for master’s students and CNY 3,500 per month for doctoral students.
Comprehensive medical insurance: CNY 800 per person per year; CNY 400 per person (for programs lasting less than six months)

Application Process for Chinese Government Scholarship

The Chinese Government Scholarship application is mainly done through the official website of the CSC
You must fill out and submit the CGS form online
Select TYPE B for the CGS
Insert the Agency number of your preferred university.
Applicants must have applied to their preferred university for admission.
An applicant shall reach an application receiving agency for a recommendation
The university will shortlist the applicants and submit the list to the CSC for scholarship approval
A team of experts at the CSC will also scrutinize the shortlisted candidates’ list before submitting the accepted candidates for the scholarship to the individual universities.
The universities will then notify the applicants

Ministry Of Commerce(MOFCOM) Scholarship

This scholarship is for students from developing countries and is funded by the Ministry of Commerce of the People’s Republic of China.

The scholarship has the same eligibility criteria as Chinese Government Scholarship, but with more emphasis on economic development in developing countries.

It focuses on strengthening the relationship between China and the recipient countries.

The main aim of this scholarship is to offer support to government officials, research fellows, and senior managers for their master’s and doctoral studies in China. As a result, academic excellence and work experience are crucial in the selection process.

Eligibility for MOFCOM scholarship for international students

In order to qualify for this scholarship, applicants must meet the following requirements:

Possess citizenship of a developing country other than the People’s Republic of China
Be under the age of 45.
Have at least three years of work experience
Hold a bachelor’s degree when applying for a master’s program or a master’s degree when applying for a doctoral program.
Have a relevant educational background or work experience related to the program applied for, which is preferred.
Be a public official at the division level or above (or corresponding level) in government sectors, a senior management staff member of organizations and enterprises, or an academic backbone of universities and research institutions.
Demonstrate proficiency in English that meets the academic requirements of the program, which should be equivalent to an IELTS score of 6.0 or a TOEFL score of 80 or higher.
Have the potential for professional development
Be committed to promoting friendly exchanges and cooperation between the host country and China.
Not be studying in China or be admitted to any other scholarship programs provided by the Chinese government.
Be in good physical and mental health, with a physical examination report from a local public hospital
To maintain the full scholarship for the following year, students are required to participate in an annual review, and successful completion of the review is necessary.
Do not have any prohibited diseases or conditions, including those listed below:

a) Conditions that violate Chinese Entry-Exit Inspection and Quarantine Laws and Regulations

b) Serious chronic illnesses such as high blood pressure, cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases etc. or other infectious diseases that could pose a risk to public health

c) In the recovery phase after major surgery or acute disease episodes

d) Severely physically challenged

e) Pregnant

Scholarship Benefits/Coverage

The MOFCOM scholarship offers the following benefits to students:

Tuition, teaching material fee, research and survey fee, allowance for English-taught programs, and dissertation guidance.
Accommodation
Monthly stipend of 3,000RMB per month for master’s students and 3,500RMB per month for PhD students.
A one-time resettlement allowance of 3000RMB per person.
Comprehensive medical insurance.
One round-trip international airfare is provided for students flying to China for the first time after enrollment and returning to their home country upon graduation.
One round-trip international airfare every summer break for home visits.

The Ministry of Commerce only provides financial assistance to students during their enrolled academic duration, and students who delay graduation will not receive continued sponsorship.

Application documents for MOFCOM Scholarship

Photocopy of a valid passport
A copy of the certificate of the highest diploma or degree
Photocopy of academic transcripts;
A Study Plan or Research Proposal
Résumé: should include the educational background and working experience after high school
Two recommendation letters, including one from your current employer and one from an academic
Photocopy of the Foreigner Physical Examination Certificate
Proof of English proficiency (if applicable)
A valid Non-Criminal Record Report

Application Process for MOFCOM Scholarship

This scholarship follows the same application process as CGS. However in:

some recipient countries, the applicant can individually apply directly
other countries, the applicant must apply through the Chinese Embassy in their country upon receiving a recommendation letter from the appropriate government institution in their country.

NB: Please contact the Chinese Embassy or Consulate in your country for the processes involved before starting the application.

List of Universities that admit MOFCOM Scholarship Students

The Chinese Ministry of Commerce has a list of 26 universities that accept the MOFCOM Scholarship. These include:

Fudan University
Xi’an Jiaotong University
Nankai University
Peking University
Renmin University
Beijing Normal University
Tsinghua University
Beijing Jiaotong University
Beihang University
University of International Business and Economics
Tianjin University
Jilin University
Shanghai Jiaotong University
Tongji University
East China Normal University
Shanghai University of Finance and Economics
Nanjing University
Zhejiang University
Xiamen University
Shandong University
Wuhan University
Huazhong University of Science and Technology
Wuhan University of Technology
Sun Yat-sen University
Southwest Jiaotong University
Harbin Institute of Technology

For each university, there is an agency number which you will use during the application process.

Chinese University Program

It is a partial scholarship that most universities in China offer to international students as support to lessen the financial burden of the beneficiaries.

Most universities have the details on the application processes and eligibility on their websites.

Chinese Local Government Scholarship

This is a special type of scholarship sponsored by the local or municipal government. It aims at supporting brilliant but needy students who will be or are studying in a qualified university within the municipality or the catchment of the local government. It is in a form of a full or partial scholarship. The scholarship varies from local government.

Details are provided on the official website of the individual universities.

Confucius Institute Scholarship

The Confucius Institute Scholarship is a Chinese government scholarship for international students studying, teaching or working in a Chinese Language institution. The aim is to promote the Chinese Language and Culture.

Eligibility for the Confucius Institute Scholarship

Be a Non-Chinese citizen
Have good academic records
Be physically and mentally sound
Be between the ages of 16-35 years (depending on the program)
Aspire to teach or promote Chinese language and culture

Application requirements

Have passed HSK 3 and or 4 levels or above
International Passports
Academic certificate of your highest diploma or degree
And other documents required on the university’s page

What does the Confucius Institute Scholarship Cover?

The Confucius scholarship cover:
Tuition
Accommodation
Monthly stipend
Cultural excursions
Medical Insurance etc.

Where do I apply for the Confucius Institute Scholarship?

The application for the Confucius institute scholarship is done via the official website of the Confucius Institute.

I have provided you with an overview of the major scholarships in China for international students, the benefits, the application requirements, the application requirements etc.

I hope this article has been helpful in making your Chinese scholarship application process easier. Remember that Chinese scholarships are highly competitive so make sure to apply early and give yourself enough time to prepare properly.

Best of luck with your Chinese Scholarship application process!

Career Opportunities and Global Connections for International Students in China

Why does Studying in China Offer Career Opportunities and Global Connections for International Students?

Career opportunities and global connections for international students in China have increased since China’s recovery from the devastating COVID-19 outbreak.

Undoubtedly, studying in China is a great opportunity for international students to gain professional growth and international networks to thrive in the global job market.

China, in particular, offers an incredible chance for students to explore different cultures and develop career opportunities. With its booming economy, it provides a unique platform for international students to acquire valuable knowledge and skills essential for success in their future endeavors.

In this article, we will explore the various ways China can provide career-related benefits as well as global connections that are beneficial for international students looking to make their mark on the world stage.

Why studying in China is important for international students?

China’s ever-growing economy provides an excellent platform for international students to acquire the necessary skills required to succeed in the now turbulent job market. Career Opportunities and Global Connections for International Students in China in this era can not be overestimated.

China offers a variety of courses ranging from finance and economics, business management, computer sciences, engineering and much more. This opens up new opportunities for international students that they may not have otherwise had access to.

In addition to providing knowledge and skills relevant to their career path, China also provides its own unique set of experiences for international students. From meeting people from different backgrounds with different cultures to taking part in traditional Chinese festivities, China gives international students the opportunity to explore and understand how different countries operate on the world stage.

China has also become one of the leading sources of foreign investment worldwide; thus giving international students insight into the world of business.

China’s growing economy and job market create prospects and worldwide connections for foreign students in China

The booming economy in China has created a world of new opportunities for international students. China’s booming industry means that students can find career opportunities here, whether they stay long-term or return to their home countries.

Meanwhile, in recent times, China’s high demand for skilled workers has increased. Therefore, making it a prime destination for talented graduates who want to work abroad and try something different.

Remember, China is home to many leading multinational companies such as Huawei, Alibaba, Lenovo, and Tencent, which are all actively recruiting international talents.

The unique experience China gives to international students means that they will be competitive in the job-hunting race globally.

China’s role in the global economy and politics and the impact on Career Opportunities and Global Connections for International Students in China

China’s impact and influence in the world is ever-increasing; international students with China experience have the potential to become very useful in policy and geopolitical engagements in their respective countries. With China’s continuing growth, the opportunities are limitless.

So, if you are here to further your education, try to equip yourself with the needed knowledge, skills and connections that will make you stand you.

Career Opportunities and Global Connections for Students in China

China is a rapidly developing nation with multiple opportunities for international students to pursue. From business and engineering to technology and finance, China offers you the chance to explore a wide range of career paths.

The Chinese economy is booming and there are plenty of job openings in China’s cities. While studying in China, many students have internships or gain professional experience that helps them stand out among their peers when they return home. This makes China an attractive option for those looking to explore different career options while still gaining valuable work experience.

Additionally, China has become a global powerhouse in many industries including technology, manufacturing, education, entertainment and more. As such, studying abroad in China can open doors for students hoping to build relationships with influential people and organizations across the globe.

These factors make career opportunities and global connections for students in China enormous.

What kind of global connections can China offer?

China is a major powerhouse in the global community, with its economy and population size playing a significant role in international relations.

China maintains close relationships with many countries worldwide; these connections provide international students with the opportunity to build their own global network of contacts.

Having a connection to China provides you access to invaluable resources and information that you may not have otherwise had access to. It also provides you with the chance to explore potential job opportunities or internships in China, giving you an edge when it is time for you to enter the job market.

Events and programs that facilitate international networking and cultural exchange in China.

International networking and cultural exchange is big in China. And there are many events and programs that foster this interest. From trade to job fairs, exhibitions to film festivals, educational expos, and many others. These events provide a platform for individuals and organizations to come together and network, learn from each other, and share their culture.

Here I take you through some of the most prominent events and programs that facilitate international networking and cultural exchange in China.

China International Industry Fair (CIIF)

CIIF is one of the largest industry fairs in the world and attracts participants from around the globe. It provides a platform for international networking and cultural exchange in China.

China Import and Export Fair (Canton Fair)

Also known as the Canton Fair, this event takes place twice a year in Guangzhou, China. It is one of the largest trade fairs in the world and is a great opportunity for international networking and cultural exchange.

Beijing International Film Festival (BJIFF)

BJIFF is an annual international film festival that showcases films from all over the world. It is a great platform for cultural exchange and networking in China.

Shanghai International Literary Festival

This annual festival attracts authors and literary enthusiasts from around the world. It provides an opportunity to engage in cultural exchange and networking in China.

China Education Expo

The China Education Expo is an annual event that attracts international educators and students to China. It provides an opportunity for networking and cultural exchange in the education sector.

China International Travel Mart (CITM)

CITM is the largest travel trade show in China and provides a platform for networking and cultural exchange in the travel industry.

China International Fair for Investment and Trade (CIFIT)

CIFIT is an annual event held in Xiamen, China, that attracts investors and businesses from around the world. It provides an opportunity for networking and cultural exchange in the business sector.

International Conference on Asian Language Processing (IALP)

IALP is an annual conference that brings together researchers and professionals in the field of Asian language processing. It provides an opportunity for networking and cultural exchange in the field of linguistics.

International Conference on Advances in Social Science, Humanities, and Management (ASSHM)

ASSHM is an annual conference that brings together researchers and professionals in the fields of social science, humanities, and management. It provides an opportunity for networking and cultural exchange in these fields.

China International Robot Show (CIROS)

CIROS is an annual exhibition that showcases the latest developments in robotics and automation. It provides an opportunity for networking and cultural exchange in the field of robotics.

Job Fair

A lot of entities organise job fairs regularly where employers show specific interest in international students in China. Hence, many international students transitioned from the classroom to the workspace through these job fairs. Likewise, some universities in China are partners to these job fairs, so be on the lookout for the opportunity whilst on campus.

Cultural Immersion and Language Learning in China!

China is also a great place to experience culture and learn a new language. Mandarin is a language that is in high demand globally due to the growing global influence of China. As a result, many international students are showing more interest in learning Mandarin.

Cultural immersion in China also gives international students the opportunity to explore China’s rich history, customs, and traditions. From visiting the Great Wall of China to exploring China’s ancient cities and cultural hotspots. Whichever angle you look at it from, you’ll not regret the adventure.

These opportunities open up an entirely new world for international students.

Benefits of studying in China for cultural immersion and language learning!

Understanding Chinese culture facilitates your engagement with Chinese companies or people better.
When you appreciate Chinese culture, culture, you can easily make great connections with the Chinese, Chinese, which can be useful in growing your career or business.
It makes you very competitive in the business world or the job market.
Chinese Language-Mandarin is in high demand across the world, so learning Mandarin is an asset or a lifetime investment.
You get to build lifetime connections and networks
You can easily fit in, in China

Different programs and resources available for international students to learn Chinese language and culture!

China has various programs and resources available for international students looking to learn the language, culture and customs. There’s a variety of exchange programs such as Confucius Institutes, China Summer Camp, China Student Exchange Programmes, China Scholarships and China Internships.

Whereas some students are looking elsewhere to study abroad, those with futuristic eyes and adventurous mentality are coming to China.

So there you have it. Studying in China offers opportunities for international students to gain skills, create career paths, and build global connections. Furthermore, China’s competitive universities and lower living costs make it a great destination for exploring a new culture. With a booming job market and international networks, studying in China can offer personal growth and benefit you throughout your life.

We’ll be happy to welcome you to China.