7 Frequently Asked Questions About Studying Mandarin In China

It's a big decision to make, that's for sure, but once you've decided to go and learn Chinese in China you'll, naturally, want to find out as much as you can beforehand: well here's some great advice to the most frequently asked questions:
1. Should I just learn Mandarin using simplified Chinese characters or traditional Chinese characters?
Unfortunately, there is no definitive answer as to which character set to learn even though there is a frequent long-lasting debate on the subject.
Mainland China and Singapore use Simplified Chinese characters whilst Taiwan, Hong Kong, Macau and most overseas Chinese use Traditional characters.
So, if you’re going to be spending a lot of time in Mainland China, it’s going to make more sense to start learning Simplified Chinese; obviously if you’re going to spend more time in Hong Kong or Taiwan, start with Traditional.
The good news is that after establishing a foundation in either Simplified or Traditional Chinese, picking up the other set of characters will not see so hard!

 2. What's the typical cost of living like in China?
Generally quite cheap, although major cities such as Beijing or Shanghai can be expensive.
Second tier cities will be much cheaper: for example, the costs of studying and living in a nice city such as Guilin will be much lower. You can live very comfortably on US$300–500 per month. Many labor based services are quite inexpensive in China; for example, massages ($5/hour), maid service ($2/hour), a meal at a nice restaurant ($5), taking a taxi (from $3 USD); also clothes, food and travelling are very affordable in China.

3. Tell me more about Visa requirements

There are two types of student visa for studying in China (X Visa): X1 is for students who plan to study in China for study for more than 6 months; X2 for less than 6 months. Applications can be made at Embassies, Consulates or other approved places.

4. A big question: how long will it be before I will be fluent in Mandarin Chinese?

The answer really depends on the time and effort you commit.
If you work hard, you should be able to have a limited conversation in about six months. In a year, you can expect a much more in depth conversation. After two years of serious study, you should be able to comfortable get by and enjoy your life speaking Chinese, although there may still be some mis-communications.

5. Drinking and eating

Am I going to lose weight and maybe even starve?
No, Chinese cuisine can be quite amazing and you can try some of the delicious, local food and drinks; by and large dining out and having a drink is relatively cheap. If you get tired of Chinese food, even most second tier cities now have the presence of some famous national or international food chain store, so you'll certainly not starve or dehydrate!

6. What is the HSK exam and should I take it?

Do I really need to take an exam as I'm here to get fluency? This is best answered by reading about the main reasons to take the HSK exam or checking out this explanation why you should attempt to obtain a pass; indeed, before entering certain universities or even when applying for a job you may need HSK.

7. I cannot speak any Chinese at all, can I really survive in China?

Sure! It's easy to make friends to help you out; many younger Chinese can speak some English and love to take the chance to practice it with foreigners. If not, sign language will usually get you by… plus, of course you'll soon be picking up a number of Chinese words!
Hopefully these answers will cover most of your initial questions—and we’re sure you will have many more…. but the main thing is that studying Mandarin Chinese in China will surely be beneficial to getting ahead in the language and, equally as much, an experience you really can’t afford to miss!

Key Words: Studying Mandarin, Questions about China

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