Chongqing Travel Program
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 University | Day 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 Chongqing | Days 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 Chongqing | Day 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 Chengdu | Day 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