IAP Chinese Abroad

Immerse yourself in a three-week program of Chinese language and culture in Shanghai, hosted by East China Normal University (ECNU). Shanghai, China’s largest city, is a global hub for finance, research, science, and technology. ECNU, one of the top institutions in China specializing in teaching Chinese as a foreign language, has extensive experience hosting short-term study abroad programs from U.S. institutions.

Students will strengthen their Chinese language proficiency through morning classes, and in the afternoons will explore cultural sites across the Shanghai metropolitan area while engaging in interactive learning with ECNU language partners. 

Upon successful completion of the program, students will receive 9 HASS-H credits. 

Dates:

• Arrival date (Shanghai): Saturday, January 2, 2027
• Class dates: January 4–22, 2027
• Departure date: Saturday, January 23, 2027

Additional Program Details: https://languages.mit.edu/iap%20Chinese%20abroad/

Requirements:

• Program prerequisites are Chinese III Regular or Chinese II Streamlined.
• Priority is given to students who have demonstrated a strong commitment to Chinese studies. 
• This program is open to MIT undergraduate students only.

Application opens: Monday, September 21, 2026

Application deadline: Monday, October 12, 2026 at 11:59 PM

Apply here

Program Fee: $900
Other estimated costs: $3,600

The program fee will cover accommodation, campus facilities and program activities. Other estimated expenses—including airfare, local transportation, visa fees, meals, and discretionary spending—are not be included in the program fee.

Applications will be reviewed without regard for financial aid need. Selected students will be notified of need-based aid available to them at the time of acceptance.

Students will stay at the ECNU on-campus dormitories for international students. Each room is shared by two students and includes two twin beds and a restroom with a shower.

Students who are U.S. citizens will need a visa to enter China. We encourage students to contact VisaHQ for assistance with the visa application process.