How to immerse yourself in the local culture while studying abroad

It’s worth looking at learning opportunities beyond your chosen degree too. 

The NTU Plus Academy organises short-term programmes designed for students with limited availability but a strong desire to learn. These Chinese Language & Culture programmes integrate intensive Mandarin language training with vibrant cultural activities.  

Participants explore Taiwan’s rich cultural landscape through traditional arts workshops, historical sites and cultural excursions. This hands-on approach allows students to develop language proficiency while experiencing the daily rhythms of Taiwanese life.    

Once you’ve mastered the basics of a second language, it’s time to consider a programme which can help you develop advanced proficiency. 

Renowned for its rigorous curriculum, the International Chinese Language Program (ICLP) at NTU is a premier choice for students aiming for advanced Mandarin proficiency. With small class sizes and an emphasis on both traditional and simplified Chinese, ICLP delivers a personalised learning experience.  

Beyond the classroom, students can participate in cultural activities such as calligraphy, debate, and Chinese painting, further enriching their cultural understanding while refining their linguistic abilities.   

In addition to its Mandarin language offerings, NTU places significant emphasis on fostering cultural awareness and exchange. By participating in these programmes, students gain invaluable insights into Taiwan’s history, society, and global connections.   

For example, NTU’s partnership with University of California Education Abroad Program (UCEAP)  combines academic rigor with cultural immersion, allowing students to explore Taiwan’s cultural fabric while engaging with peers from around the world.  

The programme fosters cross-cultural understanding and innovation, equipping participants with the skills needed to navigate an increasingly interconnected world.   

Through its collaboration, students study alongside peers from diverse backgrounds, delving deep into Taiwan’s society through field trips and community engagement. By combining academic excellence with firsthand cultural experiences, this programme offers a transformative opportunity for students pursuing high-level Mandarin proficiency and cultural literacy.   

With its diverse range of programmes, NTU caters to students at every stage of their language-learning journey, from beginners seeking conversational fluency to advanced learners pursuing literary and professional expertise.   

The Taiwan Huayu BEST Program (Bilingual Exchanges of Selected Talent) brings together NTU and its nine international partners, including Cornell University, The University of Texas at Austin and Indiana University in the US, University of St Andrews in the UK, and University of Oslo in Norway, to work together to expend the reach of NTU's Mandarin language education resources. Students from partner institutions enrol in Mandarin language programmes at NTU and receive scholarship from the BEST programme.  

During the programme, students interact with Taiwanese Elementary students through the ‘Hands Together’ initiative to share their culture and language backgrounds. These students not only received intensive language training but were immersed in the cultures of Taiwan. 

As NTU continues to promote its offerings internationally, it positions itself as a global hub for Mandarin education and Taiwanese cultural exchange. Prospective students seeking an immersive and rewarding experience will find that NTU provides the perfect balance of academic rigor, cultural exploration, and community engagement.   

Choosing NTU means embarking on a transformative journey that not only enhances language skills but also fosters a deep appreciation for Taiwan’s vibrant culture and history. For international students eager to expand their horizons, NTU represents an unparalleled opportunity to achieve both personal and professional growth.