About China...

The People's Republic of China or Zhonghua Renmin Gongheguo, is a country with over one billion people and a history that begins over 4,000 years ago making it one of the four great ancient civilizations.

China is the third largest country in the world by area and stretches from the East China Sea in the east to the border of  Kazakhstan in the west and Russia and Mongolia in the north to Vietnam and Laos in the south.  The country is made up of 23 provinces and is as diverse as its climate.  In the south are tropical-like conditions while the north boasts subarctic temperatures.  From the cities of Beijing, Shanghai, and Hong Kong to the Yunnan-Guizhbou Plateau with its waterfalls, gorges, and limestone pinnacles, China has something to offer even the most seasoned traveler.

Accessibility

Despite the Law of the People's Republic of China on the Protection of Disabled Persons which was implemented in 1991, and the over 60 million people with disabilities living in China, disability access, especially for those using wheelchairs is extremely limited. 
However, a willingness to be flexible, adaptable, and the use of in-country disability organizations can provide a positive international experience.

• Search for disability organizations using our database - Select "China" from the list of countries.
• Utilize NCDE tipsheets on inclusion, disability accommodation, insurance, and more
• Read about accessibity issues at various colleges and universities via site visits through NCDE and Access Abroad webpages
• Use AbleData for assistive technology information

Disability Organizations in China

There are a large number of local, regional, national and international disability organizations actively working in China. Search NCDE's on-line database of disability organizations world-wide to find out about organizations  in China and how to contact them.

Exchange Opportunities

Learn Mandarin in Beijing, volunteer with a community project in Zhongwei, study business in Hong Kong or teach English in Guangzhou. A host of opportunities await you in China. 
Mobility International USA has listed over 100 exchange organizations with programs to and from China in the on-line searchable database. Check them out and start your adventure to the 'Middle Kingdom' today!

You too can be on exchange in the People's Republic of China
like Fulbright scholar, Christie Gilson. 
Read her blog as you begin your own search for a program.

Language Schools/Programs

Much about Chinese culture and history is rooted in the many dialects spoken throughout this vast country of over one billion people. Immerse yourself in the culture and language of the 'Middle Kingdom'  - there is no better way to learn a language than to live where it is spoken EVERY DAY!

The following is a list of a few of the hundreds of programs offering courses in Mandarin and Cantonese (the two main dialects of Chinese) in China:

Amerispan
Amerispan offers short-term language immersion programs, including Chinese language programs in Beijing and Shanghai.

Beijing Intensive Chinese Language Program
The Beijing Intensive Chinese Language Program provides Chinese language study at all levels on the campus of the Beijing Institute of Education. This nine-week program provides a comprehensive introduction to China through study of its spoken and written language.

Cantonese Programs Around the World
A list of Cantonese programs offered in China and elsewhere in the world 

Council on International Educational Exchange (CIEE)
CIEE offers summer, semester and academic year programs in Mandarin Chinese in Beijing, Nanjing and Shanghai.

First Step World
First Step World offers certified language courses across the globe, including short-term programs in Mandarin Chinese in Beijing and Shanghai.

George Mason University
The Center for Global Education at George Mason University offers intensive summer language programs around the world, including a four-week intensive Chinese language program at the Beijing Language and Culture University.

Global Exchange Center The Global Exchange Center offers short-term, semester and academic year programs in Mandarin Chinese.  Programs are designed to immerse participants in Mandarin through class instruction, language exchange with native Mandarin speakers and optional electives.

Languages Abroad
Languages Abroad is an international language-travel organization offering individuals, families, students and groups to language programs that best suit their needs, interests and preferences.  Languages Abroad offers programs in Cantonese and Mandarin Chinese.

School for International Training/World Learning The School for International Training (SIT) offers students an opportunity to study Chinese language and culture in southwest China’s Yunnan province.  The China: Yunnan Province program is offered in the fall and spring semesters.  Previous language training is not required.

World Link Education
World Link Education offers unique and affordable programs, including Mandarin Chinese immersion programs in Beijing.

For more language programs in China, visit the following websites or “google” “Chinese language schools.”

Chinese Language School Guide features a comprehensive list of Chinese language schools by city and region.

IIE Passport offers a searchable database of study abroad programs, including language programs, in China by language.

StudyAbroad.com features a comprehensive list of study abroad opportunities in China.

Study Abroad Links offers information on study abroad programs in China including summer, semester, academic year and Chinese language study programs.

Language Guide - Get a head start on Mandarin Chinese and many other languages!

Scholarships, Fellowships, Internships and Funding

 Links 

TeachAbroad.com

VolunteerAbroad.com

GoAbroad.com

International Disability News Ticker

Articles, Stories and Blogs from and about China

• Read the personal stories of a Fulbright Scholar with a visual disability as she continues her research in Hong Kong at her Blog
• Talk to a peer or colleague who has been to China through MIUSA's Peer Network
• Check out OUCH magazine's Stephen Hallett's viewpoint on disability and life for people with disabilities in China
• Read John Williams' column "China Struggles to Educate People with Disabilities" on the National Organization on Disability's website
• Travel with a wheelchair user and her sister through Hong Kong and learn about places that are accessible
• Learn from Elise Read's study abroad experience and how she managed her diabetes while a NSEP fellow in China.
• Read articles published by the Center for International Rehabilitation Research Information and Exchange (CIRRIE) by selecting China.

Although efforts have been made to ensure accuracy, MIUSA/NCDE cannot be held liable for inaccuracy, misinterpretation or complaints arising from these listings. Mention of an organization, company, service or resource should not be construed as an endorsement by MIUSA/NCDE. Please advise NCDE of any inaccuracies you may find.