What to expect on the programme
We have compiled a list of the most frequently asked questions, if there is any information you require that is not featured here, please do contact us at Study.china@manchester.ac.uk
Will I get to meet other students before I travel?
We run non-mandatory pre-departure briefings, these provide an opportunity for you to meet other students and ask any further questions you may have. On the secure pages of our website we provide a communications hub where you can get in touch with other students attending your Chinese host university. This is available to students who have been offered a confirmed place on the programme.
When I arrive in China how do I get to the university?
We will provide you with a schedule of airport shuttle buses which will be provided by your Chinese host university to transfer you from the airport to the university on the official arrival Sunday only.
The same service will be provided by your Chinese host university to transfer you from university to airport on the official departure Saturday only. This service will be operational only from designated airports and at specific times.
Where will I be staying?
The accommodation will be located either on the university campus or within a short distance outside of the campus; generally the accommodation is for international students or visiting lecturers.
At the university accommodation you will share a twin bedded room with another Study China participant who will be of the same gender. There is no option for a private room unless you wish to fund it yourself.
What support will I have while in China?
Your programme will be managed by a University of Manchester Programme Supervisor. Your Programme Supervisor will be located at your host university.
Your Chinese host university will provide English-speaking Chinese student volunteers to support the programme and English-speaking Chinese staff to contact in the event of an emergency.
I have specific health and mobility requirements, can these be accommodated?
Health and mobility facilities may not be standardised across Chinese universities. We will ask you to specify on your application form whether you have any health and mobility requirements which you may require support with. If you are offered a conditional place on the programme we will discuss your requirements and conduct a risk assessment to determine that they can be accommodated.
I am a vegetarian; will I be able to find vegetarian food in China?
Vegetarian food will be difficult to locate.You will need to do your research prior to departure as the availability of suitable restaurants and eateries will be limited.
I require Kosher or Halal food, is this available in China?
Halal and kosher food will be difficult to locate. You will need to do your research prior to departure as the availability of suitable restaurants and eateries will be limited.
Can I buy western style food in China?
Yes you will be able to, many western fast-food chains such as McDonalds, Subway and Burger King are also available in the major Chinese cities.
How much free time will I have to explore China while on the programme?
Limited free time, the Study China Programme schedule is intensive. You will usually be in lessons and classes from Monday through to Friday, generally starting at 9.00am and finishing at around 1.00pm.
You may have free time in the afternoons and additionally evenings, this is dependent upon your schedule. You will receive a copy of the full programme itinerary on arrival at the host university.
You will only have two weekends during the programme; generally these will include a full-day visit to a local family and organised excursions and trips to areas of local interest. Attendance on all trips and visits is mandatory.
We recommend that if you do want to travel independently that you arrange to do so before the programme starts or once the programme has finished.
Many students who have decided to travel after the programme has finished have extended their visa and amended their return flight date while in China without incurring too much difficulty or expense.
Will I receive a handbook prior to departure
We will provide you with a handbook prior to departure containing essential information regarding what to pack, etiquette in China and general health and safety advice.
Is there any information I can give to my next of kin before departure?
We will send out information to your nominated next of kin prior to departure. This will include contact information and a copy of the handbook. Additionally, next of kin are welcome to attend the pre-departure briefing.
What is internet access like in China
Internet access in China is sporadic, during certain times of the day you may have no connection at all or a weak signal.
Internet access is restricted; you may be able to access Google Hong Kong which will restrict access to websites such as Facebook, iPlayer etc.
Depending on your university accommodation, you will either have wireless internet access in your room/communal area of the accommodation, or you will have wired internet access and will need to take an Ethernet cable to plug in. We will specify which type of internet access you will have prior to departure.
There will be cafes with Wi-Fi around the university campus.
