Learn Mandarin faster - and start speaking from your very first lesson
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- Trusted by 2,500+ learners worldwideHelping learners worldwide make real progress in Mandarin
Choose how you want to learn Mandarin
Find the learning format that fits your goals, schedule, and preferred level of immersion
What our students say
Hear how learners experience their progress in Mandarin
Prepare with key vocabulary and grammar in advance, so class time is focused on speaking — while structured review helps you retain and apply what you learn.
Sarah - France
“The structure brought real clarity — for the first time, Chinese truly made sense.”
Max
Germany
“My progress felt steady, consistent, and tangible.”
Sapna
India
“I feel far more confident using Chinese in everyday life.”
Justin
USA
Why Silk Mandarin works
Learn Faster · Connect Better
Prepare before class
Prepare with key vocabulary and grammar in advance, so class time is focused on speaking — while structured review helps you retain and apply what you learn.
Learn Faster · Connect Better
Understand how Chinese works
Learn the logic behind Chinese through one clear rule you can apply when speaking.
Learn Faster · Connect Better
Speak from day one
Use Mandarin actively in everyday situations and build confidence through practice and feedback.
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Start your Mandarin journey with a course that fits your goals, level, and schedule
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Blog
FAQ
1 . Why choose Silk Mandarin?
Silk Mandarin has helped thousands of students from over 80 countries speak Mandarin with confidence. Our unique Blended Learning approach and our Slow Motion Technique—teaching Chinese grammar with just ONE rule—help you learn faster, speak Mandarin with confidence, and enjoy the learning process.
2 . What makes Silk Mandarin’s teaching method different?
Our Blended Learning approach combines live lessons with structured self-study, allowing you to spend more class time speaking Mandarin. Our Slow Motion Technique helps you get the word order right from your very first lesson, while our Preview and Review videos help you prepare before class and reinforce what you've learned afterwards.
3 . Can I learn online, in China, or both?
Absolutely. You can study online from anywhere in the world, join classes at one of our campuses in China, or combine both. Many students switch between online and on-campus learning as their circumstances change.
4 . How many students are in a group class?
To ensure plenty of speaking practice and personal feedback, our group classes usually have 3–6 students, whether you study online, on campus, or through a combination of both. This small-group format gives every student ample opportunity to participate, ask questions, and receive individual guidance throughout each lesson.
5 . How long does it take to speak Mandarin confidently?
It depends on your goals and the time you invest. Many students can hold everyday conversations within a few months, while reaching a higher level naturally takes longer. We'll help you choose the learning path that best fits your goals and schedule.
6 . Do I need previous Chinese experience?
Not at all. We welcome students from complete beginner (HSK 1) to advanced (HSK 6). If you've studied Chinese before, we'll help you find the right level through a placement test.
7 . Where do Silk Mandarin students come from?
Our students come from all over the world. Europe and the Americas make up the largest share, but every year we welcome learners from dozens of other countries, creating a truly international learning environment.
1 . Can Silk Mandarin help me plan my trip in China?
Of course. We're happy to recommend destinations, transportation, and practical travel tips. While we don't make bookings, we're always happy to share our local knowledge.
2 . How do I get around in Shanghai?
Shanghai has an excellent public transport system, including the metro, buses, taxis, and ride-hailing services. Cycling is also a convenient way to explore the city thanks to its extensive bike-sharing system. Simply scan the QR code on a shared bike with an app such as Hello Bike or Meituan Bike, unlock it, and you're ready to go.
3 . Does Silk Mandarin provide airport pick-up?
Yes. We can arrange airport pick-up and drop-off for an additional fee. Simply send us your flight details before your arrival, and we'll take care of the rest.
1 . Do I need a Chinese bank account?
Not necessarily. Most students can link an international Visa or Mastercard to Alipay or WeChat Pay, making it easy to pay almost everywhere in China. A Chinese bank account is only recommended if you plan to stay for an extended period.
2 . What are the living costs in Shanghai?
Your monthly budget depends mainly on your accommodation and lifestyle. As a guideline, most students should budget at least RMB 10,000 per month, with accommodation being the largest expense.
3 . Can I use ATMs and credit cards?
Yes. ATMs are widely available, but digital payments are the standard in China. Alipay and WeChat Pay are accepted almost everywhere and can usually be linked to an international Visa or Mastercard.
4 . Can I exchange money?
Yes. You can exchange money at airports, banks, hotels, and exchange counters. Since digital payments are widely used, you'll only need a small amount of cash as a backup.
1 . Is China safe?
China is generally considered a very safe country for international visitors, and Shanghai is one of the world's safest major cities. As in any large city, it's wise to stay aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings.
2 . Do I have access to English-speaking doctors?
Yes. Shanghai has several international clinics with modern facilities and English-speaking, internationally trained doctors. The quality of care is excellent and comparable to international standards.
3 . Can I drink tap water?
No. Tap water is not safe to drink, but it is safe for washing and brushing your teeth. Bottled water is widely available, and many people also drink boiled water.
4 . Do I need vaccinations before travelling to China?
No. No vaccinations are required for entry to China. However, we recommend making sure your routine vaccinations are up to date and consulting your doctor before travelling.
1 . What visa do I need to study in China?
The required visa depends on your nationality, the length of your stay, your Chinese study programme, and the main purpose of your visit to China.
For students joining a Silk Mandarin Chinese language programme, visa options vary depending on individual circumstances. You may be able to enter China with a suitable short-term visa, such as an X2, L, or F visa, while others may require a different visa option based on their study plans and eligibility.
As visa requirements and eligibility vary by country and individual situation, we recommend contacting Silk Mandarin before applying. Our team will help you determine the most suitable visa option and provide the necessary supporting documents for your application.
2 . Can Silk Mandarin help with my visa application?
Yes. Silk Mandarin can provide the supporting documents required for your visa application, including enrolment confirmation, invitation documents, and, where applicable, relevant school registration or licensing documents.
Our team can also guide you through the application process and help you understand which documents are required for your specific situation.
3 . How long does the visa application take?
Visa processing times vary depending on your nationality, location, and the type of visa you apply for.
In many cases, processing takes around 5–10 working days after a complete application has been submitted. However, processing times may be longer during busy periods or depending on the Chinese Visa Application Centre handling your application.
Once your visa has been issued, the validity period for entry will depend on the visa type and your individual circumstances. Many students are required to enter China within the validity period shown on their visa, often within 90 days of issuance.
To allow sufficient time for document preparation and visa processing, we recommend applying 1–3 months before your planned arrival in China.
4 . What documents do I need?
The required documents depend on your nationality, the type of visa you apply for, and the purpose of your visit to China. In general, applicants may need:
● A valid passport
● A completed visa application form
● A recent passport photo
● Supporting documents related to your Chinese study programme from Silk Mandarin, such as an enrolment confirmation or invitation documents, where applicable
● Any additional documents requested by the Chinese Visa Application Centre or local authorities
The exact requirements may vary depending on your country of application and your individual circumstances.
For the latest visa requirements and application guidelines, please check the official Chinese visa application website:
China Online Visa Application System
Ready to study Chinese now?
+86-21-62378028
Shanghai
Room 1604 - 1605, SOHO Donghai Plaza, 299 Tongren Road, Jing'an District, Shanghai
Suzhou
Room 201, Building 3, DoBe · Yulangqiao Bang, Gusu District, Suzhou