Programme details
| Programme length | Start | End | Price | Age on departure |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AFS year programme (academic year) | August 2010 | June 2011 | $10,900+ visa | 15 - 17 |
China is so vast in area (the third largest country after Russia and Canada) and in population (one-fifth of humanity) that almost anything said about the nation could be true. It is crowded (in cities) and sparsely settled (in remote rural areas). Even though the Chinese are one people, the government recognises 55 ethnic minorities. China reveres centuries-old traditions, but also embraces Western fashions, music and fast food and ancient architecture survives alongside modern buildings. Chinese people are friendly and welcoming, and country dwellers are especially down-to-earth and warm-hearted. China is diverse, huge and internationally important.
In many ways, the future belongs to China. This emerging nation has continuously amazed the world in the past 25 years, growing into its newfound status as a superpower. Imagine having the opportunity to study the ancient language of Mandarin while experiencing the historic transformation of the Chinese people firsthand.
Of course, China is home to mysterious, influential cultures, exotic religions with a recorded history over 5,000 years, and a population of 1.3 billion people. A country of striking natural formations, China is an awe-inspiring, friendly, and delightful land. With its beauty and diversity, China is a popular destination for international visitors who wish to make a difference in one corner of the world. Since launching reforms in the late 1970s, China has gone through incredible changes, both politically and economically.
Family life
The Chinese have a strong sense of family, and they respect hierarchy and interpersonal obligations. Often, both parents in a family work outside the home. Families generally include one child, and it is not uncommon for a grandparent to live with the family. Parents expect to know when their children are going out and where they are going. Because parents tend to take a keen interest in their children’s education and expect them to study hard, they will typically set limits on going out or on recreational activities that might interfere with schoolwork.
School life
Academic achievement is extremely important to most Chinese students and their families. Therefore, a great deal of time is devoted to study. School days are long and emphasis is placed on maths and science. Chinese students often devote several hours to study outside the classroom each day.
The school year typically runs from early September to the end of July. School is usually in session from 7:30 or 8am to 4 or 4:30pm, with some optional sports, music, club or study sessions taking place after 4pm. The school day is typically divided into seven lessons, with a lunch break between noon and 1:30 p.m. Chinese schools and classrooms are typically large, with 35 to 50 students in a classroom.
AFS China does not accept graduates (i.e. students who have finished year 13) or smokers.
