Part-time study in Beijing

[sailorphyn]

I have been looking into full-time university programs, but they are all highly-structured. I am looking for a program that offers some flexibility in terms of how many hours/days a week I attend class as well as taking long-term vacations.

I have a few questions

1) Do part-time language programs exist and if so, do you have any recommendations?

2) Do flexible programs exist, i.e., so I can study intensively for a few months, but then take off for one month to live in Tokyo where my significant other is based, then return to continue my studies, etc.

3) Do either of these kinds of programs write letters for student visas, and if not, how I can I stay in China long-term (i.e., more than a 30 day stay) if I am not a student? I have heard of private language schools in Beijing, but I assumed these are for people who have a work visa and that they cannot offer assistance in obtaining student visas.

Thanks for your help!

[shoe83]

We are in exactly the same boat!

Since December I have been researching short term and flexible programs, with the restriction that I needed somewhere near the center of Beijing. I've already done the structured language pledge type programs, and I wanted something that let me learn in an intense setting but still travel and have some freedom.

The best program I have come up with (so far?) is the Taipei Language Institute. They have locations around the world, and 2 in Beijing. One in Dongcheng and one out by Beida. Their website is:

http://www.tli.com.tw/tli/eng/en/2-1.asp?class=2

I also was recommended Fluency Beijing, but was never able to find out much about them, and after I applied a month ago I still haven't heard anything back. I've applied to TLI, and I'm still waiting to hear.

Good luck!