Study Abroad | Semester in Shanghai

A family walks down a tree lined path in Shanghai

A classic Chinese gated entrance in Shanghai

TEAN has joined together with one of the most prestigious universities in China, Fudan University to offer students a comprehensive semester abroad in one of China’s leading cities. The Semester in Shanghai offers a challenging, yet supportive environment with more than 120 courses available in English that cover a variety of subjects, from business to liberal arts, in addition to studying Mandarin – the most spoken language in the world. Participants are housed in fully-furnished apartments near campus, allowing them to explore the exciting city of Shanghai during their free time.

Snapshot

Semester Program

August - January
February - June

Application Deadlines:
Fall - May 1

2.75 GPA to Apply

Explore Courses

Traditional campus
Urban location

Off-Campus Apartments
On-campus International Student Dormitory

Overview

Benefit from networking with China’s future leaders as you enroll in Fudan University, ranked third in China and number one in Shanghai

Take advantage of a unique academic structure where you can study at one of the country’s top universities, and be integrated into classes with local Chinese and other international students

Stay on track for graduation - choose from more than 120 courses taught in English for a full-time class load that will transfer to your degree

Experience the vibrant lifestyle of China’s most dynamic city, Shanghai

Take advantage of TEAN’s comprehensive five-day Orientation Program in Shanghai, including a Chinese cooking class, cultural activities and orientation sessions will leave you feeling confident to jump into your semester in China

Appreciate access to TEAN’s Shanghai Resident Director and other in-country staff for continued support throughout the semester

Program Details

Orientation

A little nervous about a semester abroad in another language and culture? That’s only natural but our exclusive orientation based in Shanghai will ease that transition. Our five-day Orientation Program includes a mix of intensive academic sessions and cultural events, including a Chinese cooking class, along with modern hotel accommodation only minutes away from some of Shanghai’s top attractions.

TEAN’s China staff will introduce you to the old and new of Shanghai – the hidden secrets and the international hotspots – while stopping by local markets to experience the famous street food culture. Ever wonder about the benefits of Tai Chi? Find out by practicing the traditional morning exercises and perhaps start a new ritual to start your days in China. Cruise the Huangpu River learning about the history of the Bund on the west bank and the modern Pudong area on the east bank then spend a day at the ancient water town of Zhouzhuang. Before getting settled into your new home for the semester, we also provide an introduction to the academic system in China, integration issues, health and safety practices, and other helpful information for navigating your semester.

Housing

TEAN students will be placed into single rooms in fully furnished apartment hotels. Housing is conveniently located so that students can easily get to campus and downtown Shanghai via public transit. Housing may vary term to term based on availability. More information on housing will be shared with students during the pre-departure process.

TEAN Staff

Our team works with you start to finish through the study abroad process. Our programs staff will help guide you through the application process to go abroad, then upon arrival in China, you will meet our team who will provide assistance during your time in-country. Throughout your semester you will meet with the Shanghai Resident Director for informal discussions and cultural activities. Our staff is readily available and able to assist you with any academic, social, or cultural questions or issues that you may face during your time abroad.

Meet the Team

Academics

About Fudan University

Founded in 1905, Fudan is consistently ranked in the top three universities in China, in the top 45 universities globally and number one in Shanghai based on the QS World University Rankings 2019.
Fudan University also has 13 subject areas ranked in the world’s top 100 universities – with Politics and International Studies ranked 40th in the world and second in China – based on the QS World University Rankings by Subject.
Of Fudan’s approximately 29,000 students, 3,000 are international students from more than 120 different countries.
The campus combines modern China with the traditions and customs of the university’s rich 100-year history. Modern towers complement beautiful Chinese gardens and provide a stimulating and contemplative environment for learning.
Located in the Yangpu District, north of Shanghai’s city center, the university is serviced by the city’s extensive subway system with a train station is just a short walk from campus.

Location

Fudan University is a traditional campus located in the Yangpu District, north of Shanghai’s city center. Visit the google map link below to see the location.

View Map

Courses

Fudan University is continuing to offer more courses in English which enables TEAN students to benefit from an integrated academic experience in China studying alongside China’s future leaders. Courses offered in English include the following disciplines: Business; Humanities and Social Sciences; Science; Computer Science and Information Technology; International Studies; Media and Communication; Pharmacy. Students are also able to take a Chinese language course, with three levels of language to choose from.

Students fluent in Mandarin are able to select from the full comprehensive range of courses offered by Fudan University.

Students typically enroll in 4-5 subjects per semester, which usually transfer as 12-16 U.S. semester credits. The number of U.S. credits will be determined by your university. Please note that students may take up to 16 Fudan credits.

Students will enroll in courses once onsite, so please note that courses are not confirmed or guaranteed until the program has started. Courses are available in the below disciplines. For instructions on how to find courses and to see a list of popular courses, please see our course selection instructions.

Course Selection

Discipline	Subject Area
Business	Accounting Asian Business Studies Administration/Management Economics Entrepreneurship Finance International Business Leadership Logistics Management Management Management Information Systems Marketing Tourism
Communications & Media	Communication Studies Mass Media
Environmental	Environmental Science
Health	Pharmacy Public Health
Humanities & Social Sciences	History Law Literature Philosophy Political Science Psychology Religious Studies Sociology Urban Planning Writing
International Studies	Asian Studies Chinese Language International Relations
Science	Biology Chemistry Computer Science and Information Technology Genetics Mathematics Physics Statistics

ENJOY FLEXIBILITY WITH TEAN FLEX

We’ve partnered with Arizona State University (ASU) to help you overcome common study abroad challenges by adding an ASU Online course to your TEAN program. With more than 2,100 courses to choose from, TEAN Flex minimizes academic challenges, like major requirements and limited course options, so you can make the most of your experience abroad. Once you’ve applied, access the Flex form in your TEAN Student Portal for more information on how to add this to your program and enroll in the course you need.

Internship

Interested in interning part-time while studying abroad during your semester? TEAN offers the opportunity to add a part-time internship in addition to your courses through Fudan. This is a great opportunity to gain real world professional experience and add to your resume while abroad. Past placements have been in the fields of Business, Marketing, Software Development, Journalism, Event Management and Advertising, and are usually 2-3 days per week. If you decide you would like to give an internship a shot, please notify your program manager once you apply for the program.

Please note: There is an additional $500 cost for all internships sourced through our team. Internships will be sourced after arrival and finalization of your course schedule to assure your internship does not conflict with your classes.

Eligibility

2.75 GPA. Students with a slightly lower GPA should contact TEAN and may be admitted on a case-by-case basis.
Minimum sophomore standing at a two-year or four-year institution at the time of participation.
Students holding citizenship from China, Macau, Taiwan and Hong Kong are ineligible per Chinese University policy.
Students whose parents held Chinese citizenship at the time of their birth are ineligible for the program as China recognizes these students as dual citizens unless they renounce their Chinese citizenship.

*** reach out to your program manager for more information about eligibility ***

Events & Excursions

Activities/Immersion

Throughout the semester, TEAN immerses you in the local culture by arranging regular excursions. Join the locals at a nearby park for a tai chi class or learn the ancient art of calligraphy. Take in Shanghai’s history and development during a cruise of the Huangpu River. Activities may vary each semester, but you can be certain TEAN’s local staff are keen for you to experience the best of Shanghai and its culture.

Beijing and Great Wall Excursion

Spend an extended weekend exploring the cultural differences of Beijing. Beginning with the high speed train up to China’s capital city, you will experience a great mix of historical sights and contemporary culture. Visit the home of former emperors in the ancient Forbidden City and visit Tiananmen Square. Get your hiking shoes on for a TEAN exclusive overnight stay at the Great Wall of China. We make sure to provide the ultimate experience with a sunrise hike along an off-the-beaten path section of this amazing manmade wonder. Once you visit the Great Wall, you’ll truly understand the greatness of China’s past, present, and future. Back in Beijing explore the historic hutongs (alleyways), and experience a delicious Peking duck dinner. This packed weekend will show you the highlights of Beijing and is entirely included in your TEAN program fee!

APPLICATION DEADLINES

TEAN has a rolling admissions process. We recommend submitting your application anytime from June for Spring applications, and from January for Fall applications. Late applications may be considered. Contact TEAN if the application deadline has passed.

Spring Deadline	Oct 15
Fall Deadline	May 1

PAYMENT DEADLINES

Your signed program contract and full payment for the program are due by the program deadline. Please note we do have options for using financial aid and enrolling in a payment plan if you cannot make full payment by the payment deadline. You can find more information about funding your program here

Spring Payment Deadline	Nov 1
Fall Payment Deadline	May 15

Spring 2024

Date of Arrival	Feb 19
TEAN Orientation	Feb 19 – Feb 23
Classes Begin	Feb 26
Program Ends	Jun 30

fall 2024

Date of Arrival	Aug 26
TEAN Orientation	Aug 27-30
Classes Begin	Sep 2
Program Ends	Jan 5, 2025 (Some classes end on Dec 23, 2024)

Spring 2025

Date of Arrival	Feb 10
TEAN Orientation	TBD
Classes Begin	TBD
Program Ends	Jun 21

Fees & Inclusions

Spring 2024

Tuition and program fees: $19,450
Housing (off campus): Included

Fall 2024

Tuition and program fees: $19,750
Housing (off campus): Included

Spring 2025

Tuition and program fees: $18,750
Housing (off campus): Included

What’s Included

Full tuition (up to 16 Fudan credits)
Guaranteed, prearranged housing for the duration of the program
Comprehensive overseas health insurance
Services of local Resident Directors
Five-day Orientation Program with meals, accommodations and transportation
Wireless Internet access in housing
Local SIM card/cell phone for access to Mandarin services on local networks
Excursion to Beijing, including visiting the Great Wall of China
Optional weekend field trips to cultural sites of interest
Travel arrangements and advice
University and course selection advice
Official academic transcripts from host institution
Credit approval and transfer assistance
Academic advising
Help with student visa preparation
Airport pickup and reception

What’s Not Included

International airfare ($2,000)
Student visa ($435)
Books ($200)
Meals during the semester ($1,000)
Airport transfer at end of semester ($30)
International mailing of admissions documents ($45)
Visa Adjustment Fee – only required if applicant does not receive a visa covering the duration of their stay ($150)
Additional tuition for any classes outside of the 16 included credits
Travel insurance ($350)

*Numbers are estimated based on previous student experience and budget. Actual amounts will vary depending on student.

PASSPORT

All students must submit a current passport valid 6 months after the program end date in order to be accepted. Your passport must have at least two blank pages for the visa stamp.

If you do not currently hold a valid passport, please apply for one immediately as processing times can be very lengthy.

Please note: Passport holders from China, Taiwan, Hong Kong, and Macau are not eligible for this program.

VISA

All students participating in this program are required to obtain an X1/X2 China Student Visa. Students can apply for their student visa once required documents are received from the university in China. Typically, documents are received 6-8 weeks prior to departure. Therefore, it is important you do NOT plan any international travel in the 8 weeks leading up to your program. You will need to submit your physical passport to the Chinese consulate as part of the visa application process.

You cannot apply for your visa until you receive the required documents from your Program Manager. Once documents are received from the university in China, your Program Manager will email you the documents along with step-by-step instructions.

The Program Manager will assist with the visa steps, but it is the student’s responsibility to apply and receive their student visa. Please note that the visa costs around $480 for US citizens.

Additional Requirements for Former Citizens of China, Hong Kong, & Taiwan

Special visa application requirements will apply if you have ever been a citizen of China, Hong Kong, Taiwan, or Macau. This includes those who were born in any of these locations. If this applies to you, please let your Program Manager know so that they can send you the additional information that you’ll need to gather for your visa application.

Scholarships

TEAN Scholarships

Apply for TEAN scholarships – starting at $1,000 – for the chance to receive money specifically for studying abroad. Each year we award thousands of dollars in need- and merit-based scholarships, diversity scholarships, a full ride scholarship and more. Visit our scholarships page for details!

We Love Shanghai

Medusa Fang

Resident Director - Shanghai

Shanghai Tip

Fresh Produce Market

Guoding Road leads from the TEAN apartments on Daxue Lu to the East Gate of Fudan. What a lot of students never find, though, is the awesome vegetable and meat market a short walk in the other direction! Turn right, go about ten minutes from Guoding and Daxue, enter an apartment complex, and you’ll find a wonderful semi-open market where you can eat like royalty for a week on 200 RMB or less.

Q&A

How did you come to work in International Education?
Right after my graduation from Fudan University, I started to work in international education at Fudan. I have been working on admission of international students for 13 years. My work at Fudan University was to provide general services to international students. Now I work with TEAN students and help them with everything in-country. I arrange cultural activities to help students get in touch with local people and engage them into local culture.

What about Chinese culture and life in Shanghai most surprises students when they arrive?
I think it is the food here. Near Fudan University, there are so many restaurants and street food that are so tasty and so cheap. I think Chinese people are really creative in making food. Just prepare your stomach, you will love it.

What is your favorite dish in Shanghai that you would encourage every student to try?
My favourite dish is sweet and sour boneless yellow fish. I have loved it ever since childhood. We will have it together during our orientation in the most famous Shanghai restaurant, Lv Bo Lang.

What are some of the not-to-be-missed bucket list items every study abroad student should check off their list during their semester abroad?
I would say trying to speak the local language and holding conversations with locals, eating all the types of food, making as many friends as possible, going to another city without the assistance of anyone and trying to make your way around.

What are some of your favorite Shanghai secret spots that you love but maybe are a bit off the beaten track?
Bus 49 goes through the most beautiful part of Shanghai. It connects the east Bund area with the west French concession area. The cost is only RMB 2 for a single trip. On the way, you can see most beautiful streets and architecture in Shanghai. Try to take the bus in different seasons to see great views.

Alana Ladd

Program Manager

While growing up in South Florida, Alana had the opportunity to study abroad in Buenos Aires, Argentina the summer between her Sophomore and Junior years of high school. This trip abroad led her down the path of wandering all over the world while pursuing a BA in Spanish at DePaul University in downtown Chicago. During college she traveled to Peru, Chile, Turkey, Spain, the Netherlands, Belgium, the UK, Greece, and Japan. She then lived in the Basque region of Spain upon graduation to work as a certified English teacher. She then moved to Napa Valley to follow a passion for wine making which she had discovered while working at a winery in Tuscany. She moved to Austin in 2021 to be closer to family while she taught English to Spanish speaking professionals. In her free time, she is always making travel plans whether it be domestically to a national park, or abroad to continue to wander about world. Alana loves the quote “Not all those who wander are lost.”