Q: ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS: What are your requirements for admission?
A: All of GCE's programs are open to people around the world as long as they:
- Are aged between 18 and 60 years (with exceptions)
- Are in a good health
- Have graduated from high school (secondary school)
For further information, please contact our Admissions Department.
Q: EARLY ARRIVAL: Can I arrive in Beijing before my course begins?
A: Arriving early is no problem. Just let us know your arrival plan as soon as possible so we can have accommodation ready. Those students who choose to arrive early will be reponsible for any additional housing costs.
Q: MEALS: What food expenses am I likely to incur?
A: The on-campus canteen provides simple fare for about RMB 4 (US $0.50) per meal. On-campus and local Chinese restaurants offer meals for RMB 10-20 (US $1-3) per person. Western restaurants typically cost RMB 50-100 (US $5-10) per person.
Q: FOOD: Are your apartments equipped with cooking facilities?
A: Yes, all the apartments in GCE residences have a kitchen and a fridge.
Q: INTERNET: Where can I access the Internet?
A: Internet access is provided free of charge to Total Program students in the GCE center as well as the student apartments . We also help to arrange in-room access for students staying in hotels. In addition, there are plenty of Internet cafes in the university district.
Q: LAUNDRY: Where can I do laundry?
A: All GCE residences come with washing machines included. Local Laundromats provide washing, pressing and dry cleaning services. Students living on campus can take advantage of the university's laundry services.
Q: LIVING EXPENSES: What other living expenses am I likely to incur?
A: Transport is relatively inexpensive in Beijing . Public buses cost about RMB 1 per journey, the subway costs RMB 3 per journey, and taxis cost RMB 10 for short distances and about RMB 30 for a journey across town. Many students buy a bicycle during their time in Beijing , as the terrain is relatively flat and the weather mostly dry. Entertainment is also relatively inexpensive in Beijing .
Q: MONEY: What are my options for managing my finances in Beijing ?
A: Initially you should bring cash, travelers' checks or a bank/credit card. ATM machines are widely available throughout the city, and cash can be withdrawn over the counter at most large banks. Major hotels and restaurants now accept credit cards. Students participating in long term courses may open a bank account with the Industrial & Commercial Bank on campus and transfer funds from accounts in their home country.
Q: PREPARATIONS: What do I need to bring with me?
A: Feel free to bring whatever you see fit for the duration of your course. Keep in mind that nearly everything you need can be bought in Beijing for reasonable prices. This includes clothing, toiletries, etc. However, we do suggest that any prescription or over-the-counter medicines are brought from your home country.
Q: VACCINATIONS: What vaccinations should I get?
A: Students coming to China are advised to get the following vaccinations, if they have not already had them: Hepatitis A; Hepatitis B; Japanese B Encephalitis; Tetanus; Polio and Typhoid. Those aged 55 years or older should also have a Pneumococcal Vaccine.
Q: VOLTAGE: What is the electricity voltage in China ?
A: The voltage here is 220. Converters and power strips may be purchased locally.
Q: WEATHER: What is Beijing 's weather like?
A: Winter (December - March) in Beijing is dry and windy, with about two snowfalls. Temperatures average around 0 degrees Celsius for most of the season. Heavy jackets are recommended. Spring (April - May) is brief, but temperatures are pleasant (14 - 18 degrees Celsius). Occasional sandstorms occur. Summer (June - August) is hot and humid with frequent afternoon thundershowers. The average temperature is 26 degrees Celsius. Fall (September - November) temperatures range from 5 degrees Celsius to the mid-teens. Evenings may quickly turn cold. Light jackets or sweaters are recommended. |
