How safe is it?
Generally speaking, China is a very safe country, and even the large cities like Beijing and Shanghai are very safe. However, there is something you may need to know.
Pickpockets are common in and around tourist sites.
Traffic safety is perhaps a serious threat to you while in China, since many pedestrians and bicycles do not have the right of way. You should use caution when crossing the street and riding a bicycle.
The hotel and dormitories are very safe. Security guards patrol the premises 24 hours a day. Housekeeping staff is respectful of your belongings.
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What are your admission requirements?
Real World Chinese Programs are open to all persons worldwide provided they are:
18 years old or above
Have completed high school
In good health.
For exceptions, please contact RWC.
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Can I arrive in Beijing before my course begins?
Arriving early is no problem. Just let us know your arrival plan as soon as possible so we can have accommodation ready. Those students who choose to arrive early will of course be responsible for any additional housing costs.
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My course is booked in a city for which I cannot get a direct flight. What should I do?
This is not a problem, once you book a course RWC will work closely with you to make sure you arrive at the proper destination and in good time. Most students, if they are unable to find a direct flight to their chosen city, arrive in Beijing and book onward connections from there. RWC will be happy to help you with travel arrangements should the need arise: prices vary depending on mode of transport and destination.
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Can I receive university / college credit for course work conducted in your program?
All the universities & schools in RWC's programs are preeminent in their fields, and have cooperative arrangements with numerous universities and research institutions around the world. Many of our students in the past have received credit for their coursework completed here. RWC assists our students in obtaining any information and documentation required supporting their request for course credit. The final decision to offer academic credit is up to your university.
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What food expenses am I likely to incur?
The on-campus canteen provides simple meals for about RMB 4 (US $0.50) per meal. On-campus and local Chinese restaurants offer meals for RMB 10-20 (US $1-3) per person. Western restaurants typically cost RMB 50-100 (US $5-10) per person.
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Are your apartments equipped with cooking facilities?
Yes, all the apartments in RWC residences have a kitchen and a fridge.
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Where can I access the Internet?
Internet access is provided free of charge to Real World Program students at the student apartments. We also help to arrange in-room access for students staying in hotels. In addition, there are plenty of Internet cafes in the university district.
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I would like to travel to other parts of China while I'm studying, can RWC help?
Absolutely! We have a travel section on this website and we would be happy to help you to make arrangements for travel within China. At RWC with pride ourselves on offering our students wide range of services and help, which we hope will make there time in China an unforgettable one. As always please feel free to contact us with any questions.
All RWC residences come with washing machines included. Local Laundromats provide washing, pressing and dry cleaning services. Students living on campus can take advantage of the university's laundry services.
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What other living expenses am I likely to incur?
Transport is relatively inexpensive in Beijing. Public buses cost about RMB 1 per journey, the subway costs RMB 3 per journey, and taxis cost RMB 10 for short distances and about RMB 30 for a journey across town. Many students buy a bicycle during their time in Beijing, as the terrain is relatively flat and the weather mostly dry. Entertainment is also relatively inexpensive in Beijing.
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What are my options for managing my finances in Beijing?
Initially you should bring cash, travelers' checks or a bank/credit card. ATM machines are widely available throughout the city, and cash can be withdrawn over the counter at most large banks. Major hotels and restaurants now accept credit cards. Students participating in long term courses may open a bank account with the Industrial & Commercial Bank on campus and transfer funds from accounts in their home country.
Please note that credit cards can not always be used, even in major cities.
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What do I need to bring with me?
Feel free to bring whatever you see fit for the duration of your course. Keep in mind that nearly everything you need can be bought in Beijing for reasonable prices. This includes clothing, toiletries, etc. However, we do suggest that any prescription or over-the-counter medicines are brought from your home country.
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What is the nightlife like in Beijing? In China?
The nightlife in Beijing is thriving. With a variety of clubs, bars, discos, and live music venues, it is impossible to become bored by the selection. There are a number of local upcoming events-oriented publications in which events and live music events are listed. In the larger Chinese cities, bars, karaoke clubs, and discos are prolific. Smaller cities, however, do not have as much of the variety as cities like Beijing and Shanghai, although going out to dinner or to see Chinese opera with friends can be equally entertaining.
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What vaccinations should I get?
Students coming to China are advised to get the following vaccinations, if they have not already had them: Hepatitis A; Hepatitis B; Japanese B Encephalitis; Tetanus; Polio and Typhoid. Those aged 55 years or older should also have a Pneumococcal Vaccine.
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What is the electricity voltage in China?
The voltage here is 220. Converters and power bars may be purchased locally.
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What is the electricity voltage in China?
Winter (December - March) in Beijing is dry and windy, with about two snowfalls. Temperatures average around 0 degrees Celsius for most of the season. Heavy jackets are recommended. Spring (April - May) is brief, but temperatures are pleasant (14 - 18 degrees Celsius). Occasional sandstorms occur.
Summer (June - August) is hot and humid with frequent afternoon thundershowers. The average temperature is 26 degrees Celsius. Fall (September - November) temperatures range from 5 degrees Celsius to the mid-teens. Evenings may quickly turn cold. Light jackets or sweaters are recommended.
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