Chinese Language & Culture
Session 1 Enrollment Closed
A Summer for Fun, Friends, and Your Future
Live the Language
Have fun experiencing authentic immersion in the Chinese language and culture.
Network
Meet new friends and gain a new family. Make lasting memories and connections.
Get Inspired
Launch your future today! Jump up a level in Mandarin Chinese. Shine on college applications.
The Destination
Welcome to Shanghai, known as the “Paris of the East.”
The dynamic and modern city of Shanghai is located in east-central China. The Huangpu River divides Shanghai into two distinctive areas, the Puxi (West bank), marked by its varied western architecture, and Pudong (East bank), with its towering, cutting-edge buildings. Cruising down the river, you can enjoy breathtaking scenery on both sides, such as the Yangpu Bridge, the Nanpu Bridge, and the Oriental Pearl TV Tower, gracing the sky. Shanghai’s mix of old architecture and gleaming skyscrapers is truly a sight to see. As the country’s largest and most populous city—boasting over 26 million residents—it stands as a bustling symbol of China’s modern transformation and variety.
Around town, visit famous sites, like the Yu Garden, the colonial buildings in The Bund, the City God Temple, the shopping district of Nanjing Road, and dozens of specialty museums. Don’t leave Shanghai without tasting delicious dumplings, like xiaolongbao and dim sum, and dan bing (egg pancakes)!
Cultural Awareness
CIEE wants all our students to feel welcomed, supported, and empowered to succeed while studying abroad. Local CIEE staff have provided details about conditions and cultural attitudes that students with specific identities might encounter in Shanghai.
Social feed above may feature posts from all CIEE Study Abroad programs, including college programs.
Sample Itinerary
Sample Activities
Just imagine all the fun you’ll have!
- Catch a glimpse of how the city of Shanghai was planned and developed at the Shanghai Urban Planning Museum.
- Take a day trip to the tranquil water village of Qingpu, located just outside of Shanghai. Kayak along its scenic waterways, experience the unique water town lifestyle, and participate in environmental efforts that help preserve its natural beauty.
- Visit the intricate Buddha statues at the Jade Buddha Temple, Shanghai’s most famous Buddhist Temple, located in the city’s downtown area.
- Experience China’s ancient tea culture with a local expert. In the midst of summer’s heat, enjoy a refreshing tea ceremony that brings both a sense of peace and coolness, while learning about the deep connection tea has with Chinese life and philosophy.
- Pack your bags for a trip to Wuxi, a city rich in history and surrounded by lush landscapes. Explore the picturesque Taihu Lake, visit ancient temples, and enjoy the stunning combination of nature and cultural heritage.
Please note activities are based on past programs and subject to change at CIEE's discretion to adapt to local circumstances and participant feedback. Our goal when arranging activities is always to enhance your experience.
Country Life in the City: Day Trip to Qingpu!
This past Saturday (July 13), HSSA Shanghai ventured out to Qingpu for a day-trip in the countryside! Upon stepping off the bus, students were greeted with mud and rain —... keep reading
How to Apply for Your First Passport
Prepare early for your study abroad adventure and apply for your first passport. Here’s how!
7 Things to Know About High School Summer Abroad Housing
High school summer abroad is not just about teens exploring a topic in an exciting location. It’s also about finding a temporary home away from home. Read the 7 things you should know about our housing options.
Eligibility
- Participants must be 14 years old and above.
- All proficiency levels
- Program open to all current high school students: Freshmen, Sophomores, Juniors, and Seniors.
- For scholarship eligibility requirements, please check our scholarship page.
For more information, refer to the detailed Program Essential Eligibility Criteria.
Dates & Fees
Application Fee
$25
Optional College Credit Fee
$150
Learn more about how to get college credit for your future college degree
Program scholarships and tuition include iNext Travel Insurance, but do not cover the cost of flights. Find additional details about what’s included with your tuition.
Program scholarships and tuition include iNext Travel Insurance, but do not cover the cost of flights. Find additional details about what’s included with your tuition.
More questions? Find answers, get application support, sign up for virtual presentations, or contact us!
Program |
Application Due |
Start Date |
End Date |
Costs |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Program Summer Session I 2025 4 weeks | Application Due Deadline Passed | Start Date | End Date | Costs $7,050 |
| Program Summer Session II 2025 4 weeks | Start Date | End Date | Costs $7,050 |
Ready to change your life?
What's Included
Interactive Classes
Housing
3 Meals/Day
(Dietary Needs Accommodated)
All Ground Transportation
(Once In-country)
Optional Flight Chaperone
(Flight Cost Not Included)
Pre-departure Advice and Orientation
Access to WIFI
(No international data plan or SIM card included)
All Cultural Activities and Excursions
Comprehensive Medical and Travel Protection
24/7 Emergency On-site Support
Our Staff
Jia Ma
Center Director
With over a decade of service at CIEE Shanghai, Jia Ma oversees the operations of the Shanghai center, providing a strong foundation for your experiences.
Program Leaders guide and support our High School Summer Abroad participants through every step of their program.
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