The Confucius Institute offers many opportunities each year for students to enrich their study of the Chinese language in China.
3. 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 faculties across UQ. The four-week program is based at Tianjin University, one of the top 10 universities in China. Participants can engage in practical research experiences, develop a global view in their area of interest, and grow a deeper understanding in the Chinese language and culture.
Successful candidates for the tour will participate in:
- Informative Chinese language lessons catering for a range of proficiency levels (beginner to advanced)
- Practical and fun 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 should I 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.
What costs will I need to consider?
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 - example below of 2019 costs):
- 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.
Before applying, applicants should note:
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
How can I apply?
Applications are open to currently enrolled students from all UQ faculties with a study discipline related to the nominated study areas at TJU.
Call for applications occurs each Feb/March via the Events page. Interested applicants are also welcome to register their interest by contacting business.manager@confucius.uq.edu.au.
I've still got questions, where can I go to get them answered?
Tour information is published on the Events page at the start of each year. Visit UQ Research, Study and Experience Tour to China Student Information for additional tour information.