FAQs
1. Courses & Admissions
2. Daily Life
3. Health & Safety
4. Eating & Drinking
5. Travel & Arrival
6. Money
7. Teach English in China
8. Passport & Visa
All applicants must have at least a high school diploma. If still in college or already graduated, a minimum 2.8 GPA is advised.
2. Will credits count toward my major/degree (if still in college)?
Yes. College credit is awarded to all College Study Abroad students upon completion of CLI coursework. At the end of each session/semester, CLI's university affiliate, Guangxi Normal University (GXNU), awards official transcripts that are transferrable to the vast majority of colleges and universities.
3. Is CLI's Immersion Program accredited?
CLI's program is accredited through Guangxi Normal University (GXNU), from which all credits and transcripts are directly issued. The Chinese Language Institute is an official branch of GXNU, and all of our teachers are provided by the university and receive additional training from CLI.
4. Does the Chinese Language Institute require prior Chinese language study?
No. Students of all levels are welcome to apply.
5. What do I do once I’m accepted to the Chinese Language Institute?
After acceptance to CLI, you will receive a detailed information packet and enrollment checklist by e-mail in PDF format. The packet will include complete information about the enrollment process and important considerations when studying in Guilin.
6. Should I begin studying Chinese before I arrive in Guilin?
There are many online Chinese language learning resources available, including both free and paid services. If you would like to begin taking one-on-one courses with CLI before coming to China, please visit our Learn Chinese Online program page.
7. Can I arrive before my courses start?
Yes, but housing will not be provided until two days before orientation begins. The Chinese Language Institute will provide airport pick-up and drop-off no matter what, even if you wish to arrive early.
8. Can I begin CLI's intensive Chinese Immersion Program on any date of my choosing?
As your Immersion Program coursework is entirely one-on-one, your session can begin on any Monday of your choosing (with the exception of February, due to the Spring Festival holiday). Unlike CLI's Immersion Program, College Study Abroad, China Study Tour and Teach in China programs each have specific start dates.
9. How many exchange students are usually accepted each year to attend GXNU?
Each year, between 500 and 800 students enroll in GXNU's international program. The majority of these students are from the Asia Pacific region, but there are also many students from the Americas, Europe, Africa, Australia and Central Asia.
10. For the College Study Abroad option, is there a separate application for GXNU, or is acceptance to CLI also acceptance to GXNU?
The Chinese Language Institute is officially affiliated with Guangxi Normal University and maintains its offices within GXNU's international building, so by enrolling with CLI you are also accepted to GXNU.
2. Daily Life Return to Top
1. What is the weather like in Guilin?
1. What is the weather like in Guilin?
Aside from snow, Guilin’s weather covers most of the spectrum. Fall is the most moderate season, winter weather can be very chilly (but never below freezing), spring receives a good amount of rain, and summer temperatures often become quite warm. Guilin offers all four seasons.
2. What sort of clothing should I bring?
Because Guilin’s temperature and weather patterns cover a wide range, it is advised that you bring clothing to fit most weather possibilities. No clothing for snow will be needed. Many students enjoy having clothing custom made by one of the many excellent tailors in Guilin. There are fabric markets throughout the city. Choose a fabric and have your clothing made-to-fit for only a couple US dollars!
3. What type of personal toiletries are available in China?
Students are advised to carry a pack of tissues at all times, as many bathrooms do not provide toilet paper. A wide variety of common Western sanitation products can be bought at Guilin’s supermarkets.
4. How will I do my laundry?
Every apartment will have a washing machine, but no dryer. Throughout all of China, hanging clothes in the sun and soft breeze remains the method of drying clothes.
5. Can I get dry cleaning done?
Yes. There are several dry cleaners throughout the city.
6. What voltage is used in China?
The voltage here is 220. Converters and power strips may be purchased in Guilin.
7. Can I buy Western products in Guilin?
The majority of Western products can be found in Guilin.
8. Does Guilin have an international community?
Yes. Guilin's international community includes people from the United States, England, Ireland, France, Germany, Spain, Holland, Poland, Switzerland, Russia, Australia, New Zealand, Mexico, Puerto Rico, Estonia, Nigeria, Algeria, Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, Vietnam, Indonesia, Thailand, Malaysia, Korea, Japan, and many more. That being said, Guilin is a great place to avoid all foreign contact if so desired. If you choose to do so, you could easily spend the entire semester in Guilin and never encounter a situation where you need to speak English.
9. Do I need to bring evening wear to Guilin?
Guilin is very laid-back and virtually nowhere in town has a dress code (including restaurants and dance clubs). Most people go to weddings in jeans and a collared shirt. That being said, Chinese people do like to dress up when out on the town, and construction workers even wear suits and wingtip shoes on the job. During CLI’s orientation, we will visit a fabric market and a local tailor. A suit or dress can be custom made for around US$50. Bring fashion magazines, pictures, or the actual item with you if you want something replicated.
10. Should I bring a converter?
Electricity in China is 220V while in the US it is only 110V. Most computers, iPods, and chargers have built-in converters on their power adapters. Yet electric shavers and hair dryers often do not. Check the voltage range before coming – some electronics range from 110-240V. A converter can also be bought in Guilin. Lastly, not all plugs are compatible with Chinese outlets, so this should be taken into consideration as well. If you choose not to bring a converter, you can easily purchase one in Guilin.
11. Does CLI housing have free Internet access?
Yes, all CLI apartments have a cable modem Internet connection, and many coffee houses have wireless connections. Internet speed in Guilin is not at the same standard as fully developed countries, but high speed 4G Internet is available in many places (including at CLI's learning center). If you do not want to bring a computer, there are numerous 24-hour Internet bars all throughout Guilin and a computer-lab at GXNU.
12. Are some Web sites blocked in China? What is the "Great Firewall"?
According to the Chinese Communist Party (CCP), in an effort to prevent pornography and anti-government activity, the Chinese government blocks access to numerous Web sites. Facebook, YouTube, Blogspot, Twitter, and other social networking/blogging sites are among those that you cannot access without a VPN; additionally, major social and political advocacy sites, such as Human Rights Watch and Amnesty International, are blocked.
That being said, the vast majority of Web sites are accessible to the public, including all popular e-mail and news sites. Some topics that you will have trouble searching for are Taiwan, Tibet, Xinjiang, and the Falun Gong, as these are the most sensitive topics in Chinese politics. Many foreigners (and some locals) use a VPN to get around the firewall. Some, such as Tor, can be downloaded for free, but these are not as reliable as paid networks. Witopia offers an excellent VPN for US$60, securing your privacy and providing you with uninterrupted internet access.
That being said, the vast majority of Web sites are accessible to the public, including all popular e-mail and news sites. Some topics that you will have trouble searching for are Taiwan, Tibet, Xinjiang, and the Falun Gong, as these are the most sensitive topics in Chinese politics. Many foreigners (and some locals) use a VPN to get around the firewall. Some, such as Tor, can be downloaded for free, but these are not as reliable as paid networks. Witopia offers an excellent VPN for US$60, securing your privacy and providing you with uninterrupted internet access.
3. Health & Saftey Return to Top
Please reference the US State Department's guidelines on medical care in China.
Please reference the US State Department's guidelines on medical care in China.
1. Are English speaking doctors available in China?
Yes. If specific medical needs are required, our bilingual international staff can assist the student. During orientation, students will be introduced to locations that provide English speaking doctors.
2. I have pre-existing health conditions. Can I get medicine in Guilin?
CLI must be advised of all pre-existing health conditions that a student may have. The vast majority of Western medicines are conveniently provided in pharmacies throughout Guilin, as well as many Eastern remedies.
3. Do I need vaccinations before coming to China?
No vaccinations are needed, but CLI advices all students to consult with their doctor concerning personal needs or concerns.
4. Can I brush my teeth using tap water?
While some students choose to always use bottled water, it is safe to brush your teeth using China’s tap water. Tap water is purified, but we still strongly recommend not to drink it.
5. Is Guilin a safe city?
Guilin is a remarkably pleasant and safe city. Elementary school children walk home from school in groups of two or more without parental supervision. Foreigners are treated extremely well, as they are viewed as guests to the city. Guilin’s local residents are known to go out of their way to assist foreigners with any needs or concerns that may arise.
6. Does CLI recommend international health insurance coverage for its students?
All CLI students are strongly recommended to secure international health insurance coverage. If your pre-existing carrier does not already provide such coverage, you have the option of signing up with CLI’s international health insurance plan (via iNext) for $30/year. Please contact us if you would like more information.
7. What if I need to buy medicine in Guilin?
There are countless pharmacies throughout Guilin that sell most Western medicines over the counter, including many prescription drugs. If a student is ever in need of a specific medicine they can contact CLI's Program Director or Local Manager 24-hours a day and CLI will help purchase it ASAP.
4. Eating & Drinking Return to Top
1. Can I drink tap water?
1. Can I drink tap water?
It is strongly advised that students never drink tap water during their stay in China. Bottled water is always completely safe and easily accessible.
2. I’m a vegetarian. Will I be ok in Guilin?
One of our international staff members has been a vegan in Guilin for over six years. There are many vegan and vegetarian options, but when at restaurants and dining halls, students must sometimes insist that they do not eat meat. All beginner students who are vegetarians will be immediately taught the basic vocabulary needed for the vegetarian lifestyle, and will furthermore be given a helping hand from our vegan team member.
3. Is it safe to eat the street food?
Many students frequently eat street food, but CLI encourages its students to avoid such products. Food in restaurants and dining halls is prepared to a higher sanitary standard, and for this reason eating street food is not advised.
4. I have allergies to certain foods. Will it be a problem avoiding such food products?
Any students with allergies to certain items will be quickly instructed on how to communicate this in Chinese. Although extra attention must be paid to any special needs, students with food allergies can easily avoid problems by paying careful attention to what they eat, as they would in their home country.
5. Travel & Arrival Return to Top
1. There are no international flights directly to Guilin. How will I make travel arrangements?
The three main international airports in China are in Beijing (PEK), Shanghai (PVG) and Hong Kong (HKG). From each of these airports there are daily flights to Guilin’s airport (KWL). If you book your ticket through an international service, you can purchase your entire travel arrangements from your home location to your destination in Guilin. CLI recommends using www.FlyChina.com to purcahse international airfare. A CLI representative will meet you at the airport and provide free transportation to the city.
2. Does CLI provide airport pick-up and drop-off?
Yes. These services are provided free of charge. As soon as you have purchased your flights, please complete this Flight Info Form so that CLI can arrange a representative to greet you at the airport.
3. How do I get around in Guilin? Are there taxis and public transportation?
Guilin’s public bus system is extremely convenient. There are several stops a close distance from home. In addition, Guilin’s taxis are very inexpensive relative to the US dollar. You can travel to most places within the city for less than $5, while a ride downtown is only $2.
4. I would like to travel to other parts of China and/or Asia while I’m studying, can CLI help?
Included in your tuition are three travel excursions to locations within the Guangxi region (Yangshuo, Longsheng and Nanning). CLI provides guidance, assistance and advice for additional travel, but it is up to the student to make final travel and lodging arrangements. Train scheduling can be very helpful, as well as airline ticketing services.
6. Money Return to Top
Please review CLI's Cost of Living sheet for helpful information!
1. How much spending money should I bring?
Although the cost of living is much lower than that of Europe and the United States, it is still strongly recommended that all students bring a safe amount of spending money ($500 US to start). Ultimately, this depends on the individuals spending habits. It is easy to get around Guilin on $60 or less per week. The Chinese Language Institute advices that all students have ATM or bank account access to at least $1,500 at any given time throughout the semester.
2. Can I use ATM’s in Guilin?
ATM’s are conveniently placed throughout the city. There are also several on Guangxi Normal University’s campus. As with the US and Europe, many ATM’s charge a fee for extracting money. TD Bank offers all new account holders a year of free ATM use, so there is no ATM fees on either end. For long-term students, it is very simple to set up a China based bank account in Guilin.
3. How does money exchange work in China?
As of late 2011, the exchange rate was around 6.35 RMB to 1 US dollar. The majority of Chinese banks provide free money exchange; students must provide his/her passport to the bank teller.
4. What is the cost of living in Guilin?
One of the luxuries of Guilin is that you can live very comfortably on US$200-US$600 a month (depending on your lifestyle). Many services that are very expensive in America are quite inexpensive in China; for example, massages (US$5/hour), maid service (US$2/hour), a personal cook (US$5/meal), and taxi rides (US$3 almost anywhere in town). In addition, clothes, food, and traveling are much less expensive.
7. Teach English in China Return to Top
1. What requirements are there for CLI's Teach in China program?
1. What requirements are there for CLI's Teach in China program?
English teachers are required to have completed a four-year college degree where English was the primary language of instruction. TEFL certification is not required, but it is encouraged.
2. Does CLI provide work (Z) visas?
Your host school provides your work (Z) visa. Teachers should travel to China on a short-term tourist (L) visa, which will be exchanged for a six month to one year work visa upon arrival.
3. Does CLI offer teaching positions in other cities besides Guilin?
As of November 2011, CLI only offers Teach in China positions in Guilin.
4. What are the exact steps to signing up for Teach in China?
After you apply for Teach in China, you will receive this Pre-Departure Checklist.
5. What will the process be like during my first week in Guilin?
1) Immediately upon arrival one of CLI’s local team members will greet you at the Guilin airport and escort you to your private apartment, which will be completely ready for your arrival.
2) On the Thursday prior to the first Monday of school all teachers will attend CLI's comprehensive program orientation and large welcome dinner. Orientation's main purpose is to thoroughly introduce you to Guilin and the CLI community.
3) Participate in a weekend of CLI-organized tours and activities throughout Guilin.
4) Meet with your host school's staff to review and sign your teaching contract.
5) In conjunction with an English-speaking university staff member, you will be required to undergo a routine health examination. The health check-up is a simple examination that has to be undergone in order to secure your work (Z) visa. A CLI team member will accompany during this process.
2) On the Thursday prior to the first Monday of school all teachers will attend CLI's comprehensive program orientation and large welcome dinner. Orientation's main purpose is to thoroughly introduce you to Guilin and the CLI community.
3) Participate in a weekend of CLI-organized tours and activities throughout Guilin.
4) Meet with your host school's staff to review and sign your teaching contract.
5) In conjunction with an English-speaking university staff member, you will be required to undergo a routine health examination. The health check-up is a simple examination that has to be undergone in order to secure your work (Z) visa. A CLI team member will accompany during this process.
8. Passport & Visa Return to Top
1. Does CLI provide its students with a student (F) visa?
The Chinese Language Institute provides all students attending for three or more months with full assistance in obtaining a student (F) visa. For academic year students, assistance is provided in obtaining a student (X) visa. Payment for the visa is the responsibility of the program participant.
All short-term students are recommended by Guangxi Normal University and CLI to reside in China on a tourist (L) visa. Regardless of program length, all students should travel to Guilin on a tourist (L) visa, and upon arrival, Guangxi Normal University will officially handle long-term students' visa application process and, upon visa payment by student, return a student (F) visa within 4 weeks of arrival.
Chinese Visa Application Form
All short-term students are recommended by Guangxi Normal University and CLI to reside in China on a tourist (L) visa. Regardless of program length, all students should travel to Guilin on a tourist (L) visa, and upon arrival, Guangxi Normal University will officially handle long-term students' visa application process and, upon visa payment by student, return a student (F) visa within 4 weeks of arrival.
Chinese Visa Application Form
2. Do I need a passport and visa to study in China?
Yes. A visa represents permission by the government of your host country (in this case China) for you to enter that country and to reside there for a given period of time. All students should travel to Guilin on a tourist visa obtained from their local consulate. The process is not difficult, but it can be bureaucratic and certain documents must be obtained before you can apply for your visa. For information on which consulate to process your visa at, please reference this site (for US-based applicants).
Once long-term students arrive in Guilin (four months or more), CLI university affiliate issues a “JW202” form for each student. Administration will process your visa application and return to you a student visa within 5 weeks of your arrival in Guilin.
While the following list is not definitive, here are some common documents and visa requirements that long-term students may be asked to provide in order to get their student visa once settled into Guilin:
Once long-term students arrive in Guilin (four months or more), CLI university affiliate issues a “JW202” form for each student. Administration will process your visa application and return to you a student visa within 5 weeks of your arrival in Guilin.
While the following list is not definitive, here are some common documents and visa requirements that long-term students may be asked to provide in order to get their student visa once settled into Guilin:
• Passport valid until at least one month after the end of your time abroad
• JW202 form from Guangxi Normal University (GXNU)
• Proof of international health insurance coverage
• Round trip itinerary or air tickets
• Visa application and fees (these fees are not included in CLI tuition)
• Medical clearance & immunizations (this can be taken care of in Guilin with a routine health check)
• JW202 form from Guangxi Normal University (GXNU)
• Proof of international health insurance coverage
• Round trip itinerary or air tickets
• Visa application and fees (these fees are not included in CLI tuition)
• Medical clearance & immunizations (this can be taken care of in Guilin with a routine health check)
As always, please feel free to contact CLI anytime day or night; we're here to help!
