La Trobe University > Confucius Institute > China study tours > Australia-China Student Forum

Australia-China Student Forum

ACSF 2016

The Australia-China Student Forum (ACSF) is a study tour based in Chongqing city and Chengdu city in China, which aims to create a vibrant, intercultural platform for Australian and Chinese students. This program also aims to enhance cultural diversity awareness and to develop a deeper understanding of the Chinese culture through a series of academic and cultural activities.

The forum is jointly organised by La Trobe University (Confucius Institute and the School of Humanities and Social Sciences), and Chongqing University, China.

ACSF Objectives

The objectives of the ACSF are as follows:

  • to advance knowledge and enhance interest in international study through a deep exploration of a wide range of significant issues affecting both Australia and China
  • to enrich the learning experience and encourage students to undertake in-country studies, both in learning another language and gaining greater intercultural understanding
  • to receive a first-hand understanding of China’s unique culture and social landscape and heighten awareness of global citizenship and boost student critical thinking and cross-cultural communication skills

History of ACSF

Past Themes

  • 2021 and 2022: suspended due to the Covid-19 Pandemic
  • 2020: A Tale of Two Cities amid A Critical Time: The Post Covid-19 Pandemic Life in Chongqing and Melbourne (virtual in-country)
  • 2018: Australians’ Early Encounters with China: Inspirations from George Morrison and Frederic Eggleston
  • 2017: The role of youth in China-Australia Bilateral Relations. Under a context mentioned above and the current situation, how do we young people contribute and further develop the relationship particularly the understanding between the two countries?
  • 2016: Under a global context, how do we gauge the situation of building Asia Literacy and Asia Capacity in Australia today?

2023 Program Details

Theme

Clean energy in your everyday life: an observation and reflection in China and Australia

Activities

  • Interactive activities with local students and communities
  • Cultural activities and excursions will also be included in the forum.
  • Formal lectures and seminars
  • University site visits
  • Chinese courses
  • Opportunity to sit for the HSK test at the end of the program
  • Visit Chengdu city and the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding

All participants will receive a certificate from the host university upon successful completion of the program.

Dates

Tentative dates: Week  45-51 of the academic calendar

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

Number of Participants

The number of participants in this forum is up to 20 students from La Trobe University. The minimum number of students required to run the program is 10.

Eligibility

Currently enrolled students* of La Trobe University are eligible to apply.

  • Mandatory completion and passing of the HSK2 language proficiency test before departure to Chongqing, China.
    • Cost of the test will be covered by LTCI. Proof of test completion must be provided to LTCI
  • Individuals who have participated in the Chinese Bridge competition in the past 3 years are not eligible to apply for this program.

Successful applicants are expected to:

  • Demonstrate strong interest in intercultural and educational exchange,
  • Be willing to share ideas, experience and learning with others,
  • Be willing to commit to the activities of the program.

All participants are required to sign a Confirmation of Acceptance Form before the start of the program.

*Other exclusions may apply, please check with the subject Coordinator.

How to Apply

Enrol in subject HUS2ISB or HUS3ISB

The School of Humanities and Social Sciences may offer 15 credit points upon successful completion of the following:

  • Participation and a reflective journal of 2000 words (to be submitted within four weeks after returning from China).

Note: Direct applications are no longer being accepted by Confucius Institute (applications closed 8 September)

Costs

All students will be required to arrange for and cover the following costs:

Item

Indicative Cost (AUD)

International return airfare (economy)

~$2,000 *

Travel insurance

~$100

Visa application fees

~$110

Personal Expenditure

Variable

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

*Air fares may be lower at the end of the year

It is recommended for participants to bring along additional money for emergency and/or personal shopping expenses (at least $200) and have access to a credit card or debit card in case required.

Other costs

La Trobe University and Chongqing University will provide funding to 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

Students who have completed 60 credit points or the equivalent of one full-time semester are able to participate and receive the LTU mobility grant. However for a student to receive OS-HELP, 120 credit points is required to be completed – the equivalent of one full year of study. See more details about eligibility requirements for OS-HELP and Overseas Study.

Contact

If you have any questions regarding the ACSF program, please contact the HUS2ISB or HUS3ISB subject coordinator. Alternatively, you may contact Confucius Institute via email at confuciusinstitute@latrobe.edu.au