Qualifications

[mango]

For those who have studied mandarin in China, what qualification will you be getting at the end of the day?? is it a degree? diploma?? Studying abroad isnt cheap and I just want to make sure it will be worth the time and money x

[terran261]

That depends significantly on what program/duration of study you are taking part in. Generally the short term ones will issue a 'certificate,' but it is possible to enroll in actual Chinese universities, and receive an actual degree as well, at least if you are already proficient in Chinese.

In other words, most paths of study won't get you something particularly impressive to hang on your wall, but hopefully the experience itself, and the ability to communicate with over a billion people, should outweigh any diploma they could offer.

[Dani_man]

The HSK exam is popular among the foreigners in china (especially the Koreans).

the HSK grades your Chinese level on a scale between 3 to 11, and generally needed for people who wish to study in a Chinese university (level 6 is the minimum). I guess some Chinese companies will see it as a good proof for your Chinese level, if required for the job.

I didn't hear, however, about western universities that ask from their student to pass the exam while studying in China.

The problem with this test is 1) It changes, now they gonna add a speaking part, will probably make it a bit more difficult 2) It contains question that will test your guessing skills rather than showing high Chinese level. In other words, you need to study for this exam specifically, learn how to answer fast and how to guess right, and it will take time and money if you wanna reach a high level (there is no shortage of special classes for the HSK in Beijing, don't worry).

If you wanna learn more about it, There is much more information in the forums.

[heifeng]

Some programs may require you to do ACTFL testing, such as some flagship programs or NSEP scholarships...etc.

In all honesty though (and as someone who likes to accumulate a pretty certficates) I have never really been asked what proof of language ability or to see any of my certificates or degrees. During interviews or their own company exams, employers can figure out things pretty quickly....

PS. studying abroad in China is CHEAPER if you apply to universities out here directly instead of through your home institution, or if you go to a smaller city or university. If you are worried about units transfering, then that is another story, but you probably need to talk to your school.