Chinese Language & Taiwanese Culture
Summer '25 Applications Open
The Take-Aways
Language Growth and Cultural Competence
Come home with a higher level of Mandarin and a greater understanding of Taiwanese culture. Use your STAMP 4S language proficiency pre- and post-test scores to demonstrate your language growth and help you earn a Seal of Biliteracy.
College Credit
Earn 4 college credits toward your future college degree. Take advantage of the credits to stand out on your college applications or to satisfy college language requirements.
Life Skills and New Friendships
Return with greater self-confidence, independence, and adaptability. Enjoy a broader worldview and friends of different backgrounds from across the U.S. 
60
Hours of Instruction with a Native Mandarin Teacher
4
College Credits
1
Life-Changing Experience
The Destination
Welcome to Taipei, to ancient landscapes and modern skylines.
This bustling, modern capital city is located on the northern tip of the island of Taiwan. Existing for centuries without a central authority, Taipei was founded in the early 18th century by Chinese immigrants. Today, despite its futuristic feel, nature parks are spread out all over the city. Green spaces, like the Taipei Botanical Garden, create an ideal and healthy living environment for its residents.
Situated on the Tan-shui river, in the low mountains about 15 miles from the Pacific Ocean, it hosts a broad range of plants, animals, and beautiful beaches. With street-food stalls at every turn, delicious traditional dishes like the Taiwanese hamburger gua bao, the dessert aiyu jelly, and, of course, boba tea are always steps away. Out exploring its streets, you’ll look up and marvel at all the unique buildings. Inspired by ancient China in its design, the Taipei 101, the tallest building in the world until 2009, is an incredible place for views of the city—there, you may even catch a concert!
Sample Activities
Just Imagine All the Fun You’ll Have!
- Grab a brush, some ink, and paper or silk and practice traditional Chinese painting techniques and calligraphy, too.  
- Hike up the mountain to see the cliffs overlooking the sea in the small and historic village of Jiufen. Stroll its winding alleys, full of street-food stalls, teahouses, and breathtaking views. 
- Practice your kicks, punches, and defensive stances in martial arts class with a Kung Fu master’s customized training. 
- Immerse yourself in Tainan city, Taiwan’s first and oldest city and an ideal place to explore Chinese culture, tradition, and language. Snack on local flavors and enjoy the vibrant energy of its renowned Anping Old Street.
- Pan for gold at the Gold Museum, the first ecology museum in the country. Take a trip through the country’s history of mining.
- Explore Taiwan’s culinary traditions and participate in a cooking workshop. Learn the tricks to make the perfect dumplings. 
Please note activities are based on past programs and subject to change at CIEE's discretion to adapt to local circumstances and participant feedback. Our goal when arranging activities is always to enhance your experience. 
How I Studied Abroad as a Freshman in High School
Thinking about what to do the summer after your freshman year? Check out how one of our alumni studied abroad in Taipei, Taiwan at such a young age and how you can too!
Exploring the Rich Culture of Tainan: An American Students' Journey
In a rapidly globalizing world, experiencing diverse cultures has become an essential part of education. For a group of American students, a two-day and one-night trip to Tainan, Taiwan, offered... keep reading
Learning Made Sweet and Fun: Baking the Famous Pineapple Cake
This afternoon's cultural activity was one of my favorites! We enjoyed a refreshing break from the heat, learning how to bake pineapple cake. The students had a blast baking and... keep reading
Eligibility
- Participants must be 14 years old and above.
- All proficiency levels
- Program open to all current high school students: Freshmen, Sophomores, Juniors, and Seniors.
- For scholarship eligibility requirements, please check our Scholarship page.
For more information, refer to the detailed Program Essential Eligibility Criteria.
Dates & Fees
Application Fee
$25
Optional College Credit Fee
$150 &²Ô²ú²õ±è;
Learn more about how to get college credit for your future college degree
Program scholarships and tuition include iNext Travel Insurance, but do not cover the cost of flights. Find additional details about what’s included with your tuition.
More questions? Find answers, get application support, sign up for virtual presentations or contact us.
Program |
Application Due |
Start Date |
End Date |
Costs |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Program Summer Session I 2025 4 weeks | Start Date | End Date | Costs $7,750 | |
| Program Summer Session II 2025 4 weeks | Start Date | End Date | Costs $7,750 |
Ready to change your life?
What's Included
Interactive Classes
Housing
3 Meals/Day
(Dietary Needs Accommodated)
All Ground Transportation
(Once In-country)
Optional Flight Chaperone
(Flight Cost Not Included)
Pre-departure Advice and Orientation
Access to WIFI
(No international data plan or SIM card included)
All Cultural Activities and Excursions
Comprehensive Medical and Travel Protection
24/7 Emergency On-site Support
Our Staff
Erik Perez
Executive Director of Regional Management – Africa, Middle East, Latin America, and Pacific Rim
Erik Pérez earned his B.S. in Economics from the Instituto Tecnológico de Santo Domingo (INTEC) and his M.A. in Economics as a Fulbright Scholar in the U.S.
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