Confucius Institute
Applications now open for the 2019 UQ Research, Study and Experience Tour to China

Applications now open for the 2019 UQ Research, Study and Experience Tour to China

23 June 2019 9:00am–21 July 2019 8:30am
 

What is the UQ Research, Study and Experience Tour?

The UQ Research, Study and Experience Tour is an annual program organised by The Confucius Institute at The University of Queensland in collaboration with varying faculties across UQ. The four-week program is based at Tianjin University (TJU), one of the top 10 universities in China. Tour activities provide opportunities for participants to benefit from practical research experiences, develop a global view in their area of interest, and grow a deeper understanding in the Chinese language and culture. Tour dates this year are 23 June to 21 July 2019.

Successful candidates for the 2019 tour will participate in a number of organised activities, including:

  • Informative Chinese language lessons catering for a range of proficiency levels (beginner to advanced)
  • Practical Chinese cultural classes 
  • Research and practical experiences within students' disciplines and areas of interest
  • A range of organised cultural activities and tours around Tianjin, Beijing and surrounding areas
Why consider the tour?

The tour provides a unique opportunity for UQ students to combine a practical research experience with overseas travel and exposure to a new culture and language. The design of the program allows students to develop their Chinese language skills for day-to-day use, develop an understanding and appreciation of the Chinese culture, and apply their knowledge of their area of interest to current research projects and practical tasks undertaken by research teams within TJU. 

Having an international experience as part of one's university degree can assist in opening doors to new opportunities and career pathways. Working closely with Tianjin University students and academics during the tour, students will have the opportunity to forge important and life-changing relationships and experiences. 

Note: In 2019 EAIT students are eligible to apply for 75 hours Professional Practice (Part A) for the research component of the tour.

How to apply?

Applications are opened to currently enrolled students from all UQ faculties at both undergraduate and post graduate levels. Applications close COB April 18, 2019. 

To apply, email the following documents to ​business.manager@confucius.uq.edu.au :

  1. Self-Introductory letter (consider addressing reasons for application, potential benefits of undertaking the tour - include practical experience, why the applicant would be suitable for the tour and should be selected, history of learning Mandarin and current proficiency level if applicable)
  2. CV
  3. Photocopy or electronic version of applicant's most recent UQ transcript
  4. Referee contact, email and phone number
What costs are involved? 

The Confucius Institute at UQ will cover the following costs for successful applicants:

  • Tuition and administration fees at TJU
  • Local ground transportation for organised travel and activities
  • Airport pick-up and drop-off
  • Participation in arranged cultural events and extra-curricular activities
  • Any costs associated with excursion activities (including tour guide fees, admission to sites, some meals etc.)

Participating students will need to be able to cover the cost of (note: costs listed are for reference only):

  • Flights (est. $1360) **2019 Update – Students (exc. HDR students) selected for the tour will receive a minimum $1000 bursary to offset flight costs thanks to a UQ grant and/or faculty support** 
  • Accommodation (est. $800 - $1050 - $1600)  **2019 Update – The appointed hotel Tianjin University Guest House has been recently renovated offering single/double/triple room options. Prices based on current exchange are per person (including light breakfast/internet) $38 double/night, $62 single/night, and $29 triple/night. The tour will require 27 nights of accommodation. Room options subject to availability
  • Visa (est. $120)
  • Living expenses (e.g. meals, shopping, taxi fares for personal travel) 

Other UQ grants may also be available on an individual application basis.  

Students should take into consideration the following before applying:

  1. The Confucius Institute at UQ will organise group bookings for flights to and from China on behalf of the selected applicants. Students will be expected to travel with the group and will not be able to change their flight itinerary.
  2. While Information will be provided on how to apply for a visa, students will be responsible for organising their own visa applications. As part of the visa requirements, students must have a passport that is valid for at least 6 months from the time of travel. 
  3. TJU will provide subsidised accommodation within close proximity to the university campus. Students are expected to reside at the nominated accommodation throughout their time in Tianjin. 
I've still got questions, where can I go to get them answered?

Find further information about the tour under 2019 UQ Research, Study and Experience Tour to China Student Information.