FAQ and Information

Q When can I start a course?
A Please read through our course introduction. In general, courses can start every Monday of the year except on Chinese public holiday

Q When do I have to book?
A If you book a course less than 12week, you can book the course latest 3 weeks in advance before departure.

Q What do we expect from our students?
A Apart from the formal classes, students are expected to do at least 12 hours of self-study and revision per week.

Q Do I need a special insurance?
A You definitely need a special insurance to cover personal liability, emergency, medical and repatriation expenses, loss and theft of luggage and valuables. We also advise you to be covered for cancellation of trip and inability to continue your course.

Q What kind of visa should I apply for?
A Normally, our students need to apply “L” (travel) or “F” (visit) visa.
Please contact your local Chinese Embassy or consulate and check general information at: http://www.travelchinaguide.com/embassy/visa.htm

Q Which course corresponds to my level?
A It is hard to charge your spoken ability via internet at the moment. But with the estimated Chinese character you know, we know more or less the course you need to enroll. On your first course day, your level will be more precisely evaluated.

Q What if I cannot keep up with the program?
A At BCL there is no question of not keeping up with the program. Throughout your course the teachers and director of Studies are closely monitoring your progression, so that step by step you will move from one level to another at your own pace. Furthermore, if you feel that you are having difficulties understanding the lessons or find them too easy, then you should talk with our director of studies who will help you find a solution to your problem.

Q Is it possible to bring my own textbooks?
A We find out that the way we teach in China is total different from the way our students learn in homeland. If you want to study a specific subject and have selected private tuition then yes, you can bring your own textbooks for teachers reference.

Q How quickly will I progress?
A Your progression will all depend on:
• Your current level in Chinese
• The length of time (and how long ago) you have studied Chinese
• The duration of your course
• Your learning ability
• Whether or not you speak or have studied other languages
• Your personal motivation and interests of the Culture

Q Does BCL arrange any extra curricular activities?
A Yes, we offer interesting cultural activities after class. The cost of the activities we organize can vary from 6 € (usually for on premises activities) to 20 to 40 € (excursion including lunch) . Some activities are also free of charge.

QWhat currency is used in China?
A The Chinese currency is the RenMinBi (‘currency of the people ') – pronounce R M B- but Chinese people also use ‘Yuan' or “kuai” in spoken. You can say 10 Yuan or 10 Kuai. 10 RMB are 1 €uro which facilitates the conversion.

Q Can I use my credit cards?
A You can pay or withdraw cash with the following credit cards:
Master, Visa, American Express, Maestro, JCB
You can only withdraw cash at ATM with your credit card. You usually find them near big hotels and business centres. Click here to find the nearest ATM in Beijing. You also can withdraw cash at the airport.

Q What is the weather like in China?
A Winter is pretty cold (the temperature can reach –15° C) and of course warm clothes are highly recommended mostly the days of hard wind coming from the north. However, Beijing is very charming in the cold and snow.
Spring is dry and rather dusty. Dust storms coming from the Gobi desert are quite frequent and can last 14 days between April and May.
Summer is hot (38° C) and a little humid. In July, stormy weather can be accompanied by heavy showers.
Autumn is a very pleasant season in Beijing (18° - 26°) neither too dry nor humid and with constant temperature.