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12 Best Chinese Language Schools in China

Last updated on April 18, 2024

Take a Chinese language course in China—a really, really good one. ☆ It’s always a good idea to have a second language under your belt. Not only can you brag to all your friends, but speaking a second language opens doors for travel, cultural immersion, and international work opportunities. You’ll stand out from the crowd. While the Chinese language is intimidating to most, it’s the language that will take you the farthest.

China is an emerging powerhouse with the second largest economy in the world. It’s also home to the most widely spoken language, so if you can get in on the action, it means endless opportunities for your future career, no matter what business you’re in. If you have the time and money to learn Chinese in China, you can perfect those language skills on a whole new level.

So where do you start? GoAbroad has all the latest info on the best Chinese language schools in China.

Why learn Chinese in China?

There’s no better way to learn a foreign language than by immersing yourself in the native country’s culture and surrounding yourself with the language on a daily basis. If you’re looking for the best Chinese language schools, of course, China is where it’s at. Learn Chinese in China and you’ll have the opportunity to master the tricky Chinese characters and Mandarin accent, experience true Chinese culture, and eat all the peking duck you want!

[Where to Learn Chinese in China Quickly & Cheaply]

There’s no arguing that it’s the best place to study the Chinese language, so the main question is: what’s the best place to study Chinese in China? Here you’ll the best Chinese language programs throughout the country.

12 best Chinese language schools in China

Get ready to take some notes because GoAbroad’s compiled the best Chinese language schools to learn Chinese in China to suit every type of traveler and student. Keep reading to find the best intensive Chinese language program for you. Editor’s note: This information was accurate at the time of publishing. Please refer to each individual program for current data.

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1. GoAbroad China Ltd.

If you’re looking for flexible Chinese language programs, consider studying with GoAbroad China Ltd. Featuring Chinese language programs where you can mix and match classes, tutoring, exchange, and excursions, GAC is one of the best Chinese language programs for customized learning. No matter your level, desired intensity, and time commitment, you’ll find opportunities with partner universities all over China, from Guangdong to Beijing and everywhere in between.

Read GoAbroad China reviews

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2. That's Mandarin

That's Mandarin is a premier Chinese language school delivering excellence in Chinese teaching since 2005. To date, they have served over 100,000 students on their journey to mastering Chinese. You can choose to attend their Chinese classes in Shanghai, Beijing, Suzhou, Hangzhou, or Chengdu—or study online anywhere in the world with their in-house platform NihaoCafe. The platform features modern study materials (such as HSK-graded TV series, articles, comic stories, and more) and unique exercises for self-practice. All the class notes are taken for you by the teacher and available for review.

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3. Chinese Language Institute (CLI)

Listen, speak, and think in Chinese with the Chinese Language Institute! Unlike other language programs that place you in large classroom settings, CLI is one of the few Chinese language programs that offer one-on-one classes. Located in the southern city of Guilin, you’ll be able to study at Guanxi Normal University and reach fluency with a special program that mixes guidance with immersion, experience, and interaction with native speakers. 

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4. LTL Mandarin School

LTL Mandarin School is an excellent place to learn Chinese in China, featuring a mix of language and culture classes. Learn Mandarin in small group classes in Beijing, Shanghai, Taipei, Beihai, Chengdu, Xi’an, Chengde, or Singapore while engaging in activities outside of class time that allow you to experience Chinese traditions and customs while practicing your language skills. LTL is a foreign-run school, meaning its owners understand the challenges faced by non-native language learner and implement creative teaching methods to help you improve your speaking, listening, reading, and writing. 

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5. CET Academic Programs

CET Academic Programs offer both academic programs and intensive Chinese language classes in Beijing, meaning you’ll have plenty of options to learn Chinese in China! Classes run for four hours per day, Monday through Friday, so you’ll have time outside of class to put those language skills into practice. Whether you’re chatting with your homestay family, buying groceries, studying for exams, or joining in on the program’s cultural activities, you’ll find that the immersive experience helps achieve fluency.

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6. Lingoinn Teacher Homestay

If you’re looking for the best intensive Chinese language program with variety, check out Lingoinn Teacher Homestay. Here you’ll find more than just Chinese classes. You'll get to live in your teacher's cozy home, experiencing language immersion 24/7. Lingoinn programs last from one to four weeks, and you can learn General Chinese, Business Chinese, and prepare for the HSK exam. You'll also love the chance to learn calligraphy, music, paper cutting, and more from your live-in teacher!

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7. Language Vacation

Language Vacation offers some of the best programs to study Chinese in China in you want to learn the language in Hong Kong, Xi'an, Beijing, or Shanghai. Programs cater to both adults and teenagers. This Chinese language program also offers flexible schedules and accommodations, in either group or solo settings. 

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8. Boston University Study Abroad

There’s no doubt that Shanghai has some of the best Chinese language schools in China. Boston University, in partnership with Fudan University, is another on the list of best Chinese language programs, where students can study Chinese in China’s largest cities and economic epicenters. As a formal study abroad program, this is a great option for students who want something a bit more structured and long-term.

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9. The National Registration Center for Study Abroad 

Looking for the best place to study Chinese in China on a budget? Through NRCSA, you can learn Chinese in China at Beijing Meiliyuan Garden in partnership with Beijing Capital Normal University. With over 50 years of experience and thousands of international students, this is one of the best options for Chinese language schools in China for overseas students. This program in Beijing offers both group and private lessons.

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10. LoPair Culture Exchange

Want to learn Chinese in China while enjoying city life? LoPair Culture Exchange offers customized placements in major cities in China. They offer some of the best intensive Chinese language programs that last three months to one year. You'll also be placed with a carefully selected host family who will help you excel in your language acquisition while you assist with childcare as an au pair.

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11. Wanderlust Exchange

On our list of the best Chinese language schools in China is a Chinese language immersion program offered by Wanderlust exchange. But this one has a twist! Wanderlust Exchange offers one of the few online-only Chinese language programs with one-on-one Mandarin training. You'll be able to build your own schedule and your teacher will customize your lessons based on your skill level. This is one of the best intensive Chinese language programs for those who need flexibility.

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12. XMandarin Chinese Language Centre

XMandarin is a pioneer of the mandarin Chinese education market in China, the school has been providing thousands of international students with a variety of tailored courses since 2006, from private and group courses to HSK preparation and summer programs, XMandarin provides a personalized, flexible, and time efficient alternative to universities. The monthly cultural events allow students to dive deep into Chinese culture and connect with local traditions while making friends along the way! Experience the XMandarin difference today in Qingdao or Chengdu by joining thousands of satisfied students who have made the school their top choice for learning Chinese in China.

You're ready to learn Chinese in China!

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Let’s do this! Sign up for one of the best intensive Chinese language programs—it’s all that’s missing!

Whether you want short-term or long-term courses, group settings or one-on-one classes, big city living or a quiet study environment in the mountains, there are endless options for Chinese language programs in China. The good news is you can customize your program to fit your needs and desires to help you learn Chinese in China. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, you’re not alone. Just create a MyGoAbroad account to help you get organized with the best Chinese language programs.

In no time, you’ll be on your way to opening doors in every direction – travel the world, broaden your cultural perspective, and challenge yourself while learning Chinese in China at one of the best Chinese language schools abroad! 

Use MyGoAbroad to Find & Compare Chinese Language Schools with Confidence

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Originally published on February 28, 2019

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