Chongqing Travel Program

ACSF 2016

The previously run Australia-China Student Forum (ACSF) returns in 2025 with an exciting new format as the China Cultural & Language Immersion Program (CCLIP). Funded by the New Colombo Plan, this year's expanded 4-week program offers La Trobe students a unique opportunity to explore and study in Chongqing and Chengdu, China.

Participants will immerse themselves deeply in local culture, visit iconic historical landmarks, and experience firsthand the distinctive blend of ancient heritage and contemporary urban life in these vibrant cities. The program is jointly organised by La Trobe University and Chongqing University, China.


Program Objectives

The objectives of the program are as follows:

Educational & Language Learning

  • Immersive daily opportunities to practice the Chinese language in real-life settings, fostering fluency and confidence in conversational skills.
  • Improve overall Chinese grammar, vocabulary, listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills.
  • Gain insights into Chinese history by visiting famous landmarks.
  • Learn about Chongqing's role in its rapid urban development.
  • Participate in workshops or seminars on topics like Chinese art, architecture, or cuisine.
  • Explore China's economic policies and trade strategies, analysing their impact on global markets.
  • Understand China's role in digital transformation, AI-driven commerce, and smart supply chains.

Cultural Exchange

  • Immerse in Chinese culture by experiencing local customs, festivals, and traditions.
  • Participate in language exchange to improve Mandarin skills and learn from local native speakers.
  • Explore the unique way of life in Chongqing and Chengdu.
  • Engage with Chinese business professionals and entrepreneurs to gain industry insights.
  • Visit innovation hubs and companies to understand China's leadership in global business.

Global Perspective

  • Compare and contrast Chinese and Australian education, lifestyles, and values.
  • Visit Chongqing University and interact with Chinese students and exchange ideas.
  • Understand how China plays a significant role in global issues like trade, climate change, and technology.
  • Analyse China's environmental policies and their impact on business sustainability.
  • Evaluate China's influence on international trade, finance, and digital economies.
  • Develop critical thinking skills through case studies on China's economic strategies.

Personal Development

  • Develop independence and adaptability by navigating a different cultural environment.
  • Enhance teamwork and leadership skills through group activities and collaborative projects.
  • Build cross-cultural friendships that can broaden worldviews and foster global networks.
  • Strengthen business acumen by applying economic principles to real-world scenarios.
  • Gain hands-on experience in data-driven decision-making and supply chain optimisation.

Culinary Adventure

  • Experience Chongqing’s renowned cuisine, such as hotpot and street food.
  • Learn about the cultural significance of food in everyday Chinese life.
  • Explore the role of food industries in China's economy and global trade.

2025 China Cultural & Language Immersion Program Information

Program Activities

  • Chinese language courses
  • Lectures and seminars
  • Cultural activities and excursions
  • University site visits
  • Sightseeing tours in Chongqing and Chengdu

Participation in this program is presented as an exceptional opportunity to engage in a comprehensive language and cultural immersion experience. The program features over 80 contact hours over a 4-week period, exemplifying its robust and immersive approach to language acquisition, ensuring significant progress in student language studies and personal development.

Below is an example of the activities students will be participating in*.

Week 1: Chinese Language Study at Chongqing UniversityDay  1




Days 2-6




Day 7
Arrive at Chongqing Jiangbei International Airport
Transfer to accommodation near Chongqing University
Welcome dinner and orientation session

Morning: Intensive Chinese language classes (3-4 hours per day)
Afternoon: Cultural workshops (calligraphy, tea ceremony, etc.)
Evening: Group study sessions and social activities


Visit the Three Gorges Museum and Chongqing People's Hall
Explore the local market and taste traditional Chongqing hotpot
Optional activities: Explore nearby parks or local shopping areas
Week 2: Continued Language Study and Cultural Experiences in ChongqingDays 8-11



Day 12 


Day 13

Day 14
Continue intensive Chinese language classes
Afternoon: Cultural workshops (cooking class, martial arts, etc.)
Evening: Language exchange with local students

Day trip to Dazu Rock Carvings, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
Return to Chongqing for dinner

Final language assessment and feedback session

Prepare for the cultural immersion phase
Free time
Week 3: Continued Language Study and Cultural Immersion in ChongqingDay 15

Day 16

Day 17

Day 18

Day 19

Day 20

Day 21
City stroll and light rail experience; visit Hongya Cave and enjoy riverside views.

Explore the ancient town of Ciqikou.

Visit the Ancient Battlefield Site of the Southern Song.

Yangtze River and Jialing River cruise; admire dazzling night views.

Stroll along Huangjiao Ya and enjoy tea in a traditional teahouse.

Farewell dinner and free day for personal exploration.

Travel to Chengdu; check into accommodation.
Week 4: Continued Language Study and Cultural Immersion in ChengduDay 22

Day 23

Day 24

Day 25

Day 26

Day 27

Day 28 

Day 29
Visit Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding.

Explore Jinli Ancient Street and taste local snacks.

Attend a traditional Sichuan opera performance.

Visit Wuhou Shrine and Jinsha Site Museum.

Explore an ancient irrigation system, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Day trip to Mount Emei or Leshan Giant Buddha.

Completion ceremony and certificate award.

Check out and transfer to the airport for departure.

*Schedule and activities may be subjected to change at the discretion of the host university


Dates

Typically runs during weeks 45-51 of the academic calendar

Note: Program delivery is subject to minimum student registration numbers, funding and university travel policy


Number of Participants

The number of participants for this program is up to 20 students from La Trobe University.


Eligibility

  • Currently enrolled students of La Trobe University are eligible to apply
  • Must be an Australian citizen and use a valid Australian passport for travel
  • The student is not, while participating in the program, a citizen or permanent resident of China
  • Must be enrolled and undertaking an undergraduate course (of any major) at La Trobe University
  • No prior language skills or knowledge required for participation
  • Must be between 18-28 years of age inclusive at the commencement of the program (age requirement not applicable for Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander students who wish to participate in the program)
  • Must not be an employee of the branch of Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) relating to the NCP program
  • Must not have received previous mobility grants during their course of the undergraduate study*

*Other exclusions or exemptions may apply, please contact Confucius Institute to check.

Other Application Conditions

  • Participation is not permitted if the student is participating in another offshore scholarship or mobility program at the same time of this program
  • Must agree to provide written consent to use grant funds for certain travel arrangements
  • Must agree to comply with DFAT's Child Protection Policy and Preventing Sexual Exploitation Abuse and Harassment Policy
  • Participants must complete DFAT's online NCP pre-departure training modules and other pre-departure sessions organised by LTCI
  • Agree to sign and acknowledge reading of the NCP Student Code of Conduct prior to departure
  • Be aware that the Australian Government may collect, use and disclose and publish personal information  as per NCP Mobility Program privacy policies
  • Must take into account the Guidelines to Counter Foreign Interference in the Australian University Sector
  • Complete La Trobe Overseas Short Program requirements

Please read the NCP Mobility Program 2025 Guidelines for details on all conditions.


How to Apply

To be confirmed


Costs

2025 New Colombo Plan (NCP) Mobility Program Funding

An incredible opportunity is being offered in 2025, where students' expenses such as accommodation, in-country transport, meals, and excursions will be covered by the NCP Mobility Program funding. This program is designed to provide an enriching travel experience, allowing students to immerse themselves in the Chinese language and culture without the burden of financial concerns. Participants will be able to explore, learn, and grow, all while enjoying the support and resources provided.

Using the funding from the NCP Mobility Program, participants will be required to arrange for the following:

Item

Indicative Cost (AUD)

International return airfare (economy)

~$1,000

Travel insurance (optional extra as this will be covered by the La Trobe Overseas Short Program)

~$100

Visa application fees (check for applicability)

~$110

Personal Expenditure

Variable

Note: Fees provided are indicative only and subject to the pricing of external service providers.

It is recommended for participants to bring along additional money for emergency and/or personal shopping expenses and have access to a credit card or debit card in case required.

Other costs

La Trobe University and Chongqing University will use the funding to cover program-related costs, including:

  • Cultural activities
  • Meals for activities conducted on campus
  • Seminars
  • Language classes
  • Site visits
  • Local tours

Funding & Grants

Mobility Funding

For details about funding please see Program Funding and Costs.

OS-HELP Loan

See more details about eligibility requirements for OS-HELP and Overseas Study.

Contact

If you have any questions regarding the Chongqing travel program, please contact the Confucius Institute at confuciusinstitute@latrobe.edu.au