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Gap Year Programs in Beijing,China

Beijing, where ancient history collides with cutting-edge innovation, is an ideal destination for a gap year filled with adventure, learning, and personal growth. As one of the oldest and most bustling cities worldwide, Beijing offers a dynamic mix of cultural exploration, language immersion, internships, and professional opportunities that will challenge and inspire you.
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15 Gap Year Programs in Beijing,China

Top Rated Program Gap Year in China 2025

Go Abroad China Ltd.

9.8

80

GAC Gap Year Learn Chinese & Internship in China Program

Are you looking for meaningful activities to fill the all-too-important gap year? Join our program at Go Abroad China, we have solid experience in helping students make informed decisions and research about the next step in their career, as well as providing exciting opportunities for them to explore! We support international candidates seeking valuable and practical ways to spend a gap year by providing a selection of the following programs: 1) Internships in China 2) Mandarin language study 3) Volunteering in Beijing 4) Study & Tour program Our programs have a fee starting at $1,980 USD. This investment covers our all-inclusive support package to ensure a seamless experience: -Guaranteed Program Placement -Visa Application Support -Accommodation Arrangements -Airport Pickup & Orientation -24/7 Local Support & Assistance All packages are customizable to fit your specific needs and budget. Contact us for a personalized quote.

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Weihai Chuanyue Cultural Exchange Co., Ltd.

9.58

19

Chuanyue Cultural Homestay English Teaching Program

The Au Pair Program in China gives young foreigners the chance to live with a local host family, assist with childcare or light housework, and experience Chinese culture firsthand. Benefits include: • Learn Mandarin through daily immersion in a native-speaking environment • Cultural exchange by joining in festivals, trying local foods, and experiencing daily traditions • Free accommodation and meals, plus a monthly stipend of 1,000–3,000 RMB • Travel opportunities during free time to explore different parts of China • Skill development in childcare, communication, and cross-cultural understanding This program is ideal for: • Students • Gap-year travelers • Anyone curious about life in China It’s a rewarding, immersive way to experience China while building real-life skills and global awareness.

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LoPair Culture Exchange

8.19

16

Learning through Living Together – LoPair Au Pair China

Dream of living in China? Make it a reality with LoPair Au Pair China, an award-winning agency that connects you with a welcoming host family. Spend a transformative 3-12 months on a cultural adventure! You'll become a part of a Chinese family, assisting with educational childcare for up to 30 hours a week. In return, you’ll receive: - Your own private room & meals - A monthly stipend - Flight reimbursement - Full agency support and more... This is your chance to explore China's majestic beauty, gain independence, and create lifelong memories—all while sharing your language and culture.

LTL Language School

9.54

385

LTL Language School || Learn Chinese (11 Cities)

LTL Language School is a perfect fit for students looking to improve their Mandarin quickly. Our comprehensive Chinese programs allow students maximum flexibility. You can study at LTL for a week up to a full year. We offer Mandarin language lessons in 11 cities across Asia including Beijing, Shanghai, Taipei, Singapore, and the jewel in the LTL crown—Chengde, home of our incredible immersion program. We have 1-on-1 and group classes available and accommodation with carefully selected Chinese host families is encouraged to maximize each participant's exposure to the language and culture. Here at LTL, we have welcomed thousands of students since 2007 and are one of Asia's most trusted and premier language schools.

That's Mandarin

10

3

Gap Year in China Programs

Taking a long break from school? Use this period to travel the world and boost your résumé with international experience. At That’s Mandarin, we have a range of programs you can incorporate into your gap year in China! No matter the Chinese language course you choose, we make sure it caters to your individual needs. Studying Chinese with us is generally easy! Pick from any of our schools in Shanghai or Beijing, or study online. Enroll in a program that suits your learning needs and interests: Part-Time, Intensive, Small Group, 1-to-1, etc. Choose a course and we’ll tailor it to your specifications. While on a Chinese Gap Year, you will stay in a comfortable home environment in homestays or Western-style apartments. Plus, you will take part in activities and events that immerse you in China’s cultural and social aspects. Throughout the program, you will get to know other gappers and That’s Mandarin students as well as staff. You will also gain new insights into the Eastern world.

Absolute Internship

9.5

4

Intern in Beijing with Absolute Internship

Spend this summer combining travel to Beijing with a unique international internship experience. Explore the heart of China whilst gaining valuable professional skills undertaking a full-time placement in your industry of choice. Work in one of 30+ industry options, including Human Resources, Finance, Business, Entrepreneurship and Marketing/PR. Our company visits, career workshops and career speaker events are designed to improve your professional profile. Discover Beijing and China through a selection of cultural activities, day trips and weekend excursions. The Absolute Internship program includes high-quality housing in central Beijing, a wide range of cultural activities and group dinners, and we’ll help with your visa application too. We also provide 24/7 on-site support. Absolute Internship provides award-winning experiences and has been featured in the New York Times, BBC News, Bloomberg, and Forbes Magazine. We have placed 4000+ interns at over 800 companies worldwide.

Volunteer World

8.69

16

Volunteer World: Best Volunteer Abroad Programs Worldwide

Looking to apply your talent and expertise to a good cause? Find a program that matches your interests and skills through Volunteer World! We are the largest volunteer abroad comparison platform around the globe, enabling you to seek and compare offers from major travel agencies as well as smaller grassroots NGOs and local specialists in more than 80 countries. All these with just one click! Find projects in wildlife, teaching, community development, and several other areas. Simply choose your desired destination and desired travel date, and our search engine will compare the best volunteer abroad programs on your behalf. Whether you wish to gain experience at a wildlife sanctuary in South Africa or teach English at a monastery in Nepal, we've got you covered. Volunteer World guarantees a quick and easy application. We will guide you through this process, as well as help plan your next meaningful trip. We provide free access to quality-checked projects and flexible options. And if anything goes wrong, we've got your back with our qualified support team and our refund guarantee.

Wanderlust Exchange

9.09

66

Wanderlust Culture Home-stay English Teaching Program

Wanderlust Au Pair China Program integrates educational travel, Mandarin learning, childcare, and English tutoring for native or proficient English speakers 18 years and older. Embark on a transformative cultural journey with local host families while enjoying the benefits of our comprehensive package, including free Chinese language course, international insurance, cultural activities, flight stipend, etc. By offering 30 hours of live-in childcare and English teaching per week, you have an opportunity to foster meaningful relationships and start an extraordinary cultural odyssey - where language, tradition, modernity and adventure converge in the heart of China! Apply if you: - Are 18-28 years old - Have completed secondary school - Are proficient in English - Have no criminal record - Have a genuine interest and respect for Chinese culture - Have teaching/tutoring experience would be a plus

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Cultural Homestay International

10

2

Teach English to a Host Family in China!

CHI works with trusted overseas partners in Beijing and in Shanghai to carefully screen and interview host families. Once your application is received, our partners work hard to find a family that is the right fit for your personality. You will have a local coordinator that you can contact for support when you are a World Explorer in China. You don’t need to speak the local language – but if you are interested in signing up for Mandarin classes, we can help you do so at an affordable price. Beijing and Shanghai are two of the biggest and most exciting cities in the world. While Beijing offers more historical sights, Shanghai offers a coastal environment. Both cities have excellent public transportation. Our host families are extremely hospitable and are great guides. Chinese people are very proud of their culture and enjoy sharing it with foreigners. If you are thinking about getting certified to be an ESL teacher, World Explorers is for you. You will gain hands on experience teaching English in China, while making long-lasting friendships with your hosts.

Oyster Worldwide

9

4

Gap Year Travel with Oyster Worldwide

Interested in taking a gap year? Do it with an organization well regarded for its responsible travel and gap year travel opportunities - Oyster Worldwide. Whether you are taking a break before pursuing higher education or taking time off from university, we have the perfect opportunity for you! Our programs and projects across 6 continents are open all year. Sign up for a program within a field that matches your skills and interests - animal welfare, child care, veterinary, medicine, conservation, etc. Go on a trekking holiday or volunteer on a project you are passionate about. No matter what you do, where you go and how long you stay, we guarantee amazing experiences you will treasure for a lifetime. UK-based Oyster Worldwide has been sending young people to take part in gap year experiences for more than 17 years. We offer over 60 volunteer and paid programs in over 20 countries around the world. We have been working with many host countries for years and have great relationships with them. Our aim is to provide happy, safe and fulfilling experiences, as well as to help participants to return home with a long-term affection for the country they have visited.

China Xinhua Aupair

9

1

Cultural Homestay: English Tutoring with Chinese Host Family

Explore China through travel, Mandarin learning, childcare, and English tutoring in a cultural homestay experience designed for young international participants. Live with a Chinese host family and immerse yourself in local life while providing up to 35 hours per week of live-in childcare and English instruction. In return, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of Chinese culture through weekly Mandarin classes, Xinhua-led cultural activities, and everyday moments shared with your host family. This program isn’t just about language and childcare—it’s about building connections. We’re passionate about cultural exchange, language learning, and the joy that comes from helping children grow while watching you grow alongside them. Discover the beauty of everyday life in China, create unforgettable memories, and maybe even find your second home.

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CET Academic Programs

0

0

CET Academic Programs - College Study Abroad & Gap Year

Immerse yourself in a new language, intern abroad, or explore a different part of the world. CET’s gap programs offer the opportunity to join college-level courses overseas or online. Whether you're mastering Chinese in Beijing, volunteering while living with a host family in Siena, or creating art in a studio in Osaka, CET blends academics with real-world experience. Designed around experiential learning, deep cultural engagement, and academic rigor, CET programs turn education into something more than just earning college credit.

How to Take a Gap Year in Beijing

Prepare for a Gap Year Abroad

Set goals

Before arriving in Beijing, set clear goals to help you make the most of your time in this vibrant city.

  • Set specific learning goals. Whether you’re aiming to master Mandarin, develop professional skills, or dive into Chinese history, Beijing won't run out of opportunities..
  • Make connections. Take time to network and build relationships. Whether with locals, other travelers, or professionals, the connections you make in Beijing can last a lifetime.
  • Leave time for exploration. Don’t just focus on work or study. Be sure to explore the city’s hidden alleyways, parks, and markets to experience its energy truly.
  • Balance productivity and fun. Work hard but also take time to enjoy Beijing’s vibrant art scene, incredible food, and exciting nightlife.

Understand the benefits

Taking a gap year in Beijing is a wonderful opportunity to grow both personally and professionally in one of the world's most dynamic cities.

  • Boost your career prospects. Internships in Beijing with leading companies offer invaluable global work experience that enhances any resume.
  • Master Mandarin. With the opportunity to immerse yourself in the language, Beijing is ideal for establishing a solid foundation in Mandarin.
  • Expand your worldview. Living in Beijing gives you firsthand insight into one of the world’s most rapidly changing countries, which will enhance your perspective.
  • Explore a city of contrasts. From futuristic skyscrapers to ancient temples, Beijing presents a fascinating blend of the old and the new.

Things to know

Beijing’s fast pace and dynamic culture can be overwhelming, but a little preparation will go a long way.

  • Prepare for extreme weather. Summers in Beijing can be sweltering, while winters are cold and dry.
  • Public transportation is your best friend. The subway system is affordable, efficient, and easy to navigate, making it perfect for getting around the city.
  • Learn basic phrases in Mandarin. While many people in Beijing speak English, knowing a few basic phrases will help you feel more connected.
  • Be mindful of local customs. Chinese culture places a high value on respect, politeness, and humility. A simple smile and a handshake can go a long way in making a positive impression.

Popular Providers

Latest Program Reviews

A Life-Changing Experience in China

November 12, 2025by: Hannah savage - United StatesProgram: Chuanyue Cultural Homestay English Teaching Program
10

I am profoundly grateful for my life-changing au pair experience in China. The professional agency provided comprehensive support—from visa processing to airport pickup—and equipped me with essential local resources. During the pandemic, their high-quality online Mandarin courses allowed me to progress steadily. My host family treated me as their own, offering unwavering respect and affection. Through their guidance, even initial challenges with the children evolved into deep bonds. What makes this journey even more special is that after pandemic restrictions eased, I returned with my parents to reunite with my host family. This program not only enriched my cultural understanding but also enhanced my career prospects. Special thanks to my coordinator Olivia, who was not just a dedicated professional but also a true friend and sister.

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