Gap year program
Learn, experience and grow in Yangshuo, China
Community
At Omeida Chinese Academy, we value community and have several ongoing projects that foster it, from our social nights and class dinners to weekend activities to explore Yangshuo and language exchanges with native Chinese students in our English school.
In our student lounge, you can regularly see people playing board games, singing and playing instruments or just hanging out. And you can also enjoy our cultural activities, from performances by professionals (music, taichi, calligraphy…) to more cozy explanations by our teachers on different festivals and traditions.
All in all, you will find a vibrant and international community of students and teachers where you can learn, play and enjoy. Have a look at our student life!
Personal Growth
A gap year is the perfect opportunity to explore and grow while having fun. Here at Omeida we have an ideal environment to do so, from learning or improving your Chinese to discovering a new hobby or gaining professional experience and skills through our volunteering program.
In addition to an amazing Chinese learning experience, what we offer is flexibility when it comes to choosing how to set it: you can change activities, practical experience or adjust class hours mid-program.
Some of our volunteer projects include teaching English or working on social media marketing. From time to time, you may also have the chance to participate in environmental initiatives, like cleaning up the Li River cleanup or reforestation in karst areas (please bear in mind that such projects are not always available).
Cultural Experiences
You will have plenty of opportunities to taste authentic Chinese culture in Yangshuo.
In our regular Wednesday cultural classes you can learn about different Chinese holidays and historic periods, experience how to make different chinese dishes (like dumplins or Guilin noodles), enjoy traditional music performances where you can listen to the guqin, the pipa, the guzheng… and many more activities.
You can also join our calligraphy or taichi courses, and if there is anything else you would like to learn, we can help you find quality teachers for tea making, music and other activities you may be interested in.
Outdoor activities
Yangshuo is a top outdoor destination. You can choose how exciting or chill you want it. Take a chill riverside walks, a quiet ride on a traditional bamboo raft down the YuLong River, a hike through Longji Rice Terraces.
For adventure, go for an exciting rock climb excursion (available for all skill levels), explore vast karst cave systems or tackel a via ferrata cliff climb. You can cycle around or rent a scooter, visit ancient villages and market, attend local festivals, and many, many more options.
Immerse yourself in the scenic countryside of Yangshuo, all while enjoying its unique and stunning karst landscape.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
ABOUT GAP YEAR IN CHINA
What is included?
- Mandarin language classes (per your chosen format: standard, intensive, cultural, HSK preparation…).
- Accommodation (campus dorm, homestay, or shared apartment, private/single options available for extra cost).
- Weekly cultural activities.
- Language exchange with your language partner.
- Placement test and study materials
- HSK exam registration support.
- Internship/volunteer placement and mentorship.
- 24/7 campus support (emergency contact, administrative assistance).
What is not included
- Flights to/from China.
- Visa fees (Omeida provides invitation letters for student visas).
- Personal expenses (transportation, extra travel).
- Weekend excursions and class dinners.
- Airport/train station pick (available for a fee).
Can I change activities?
Yes, you can customize your schedule mid program and adjust class hours (like switching from intensive to part time), add or drop cultural lessons like calligraphy or taichi or choose to intern with us. We do ask that you let us know a week in advance so that we can arrange it.
How long can I stay? Is there a minimum duration?
You are welcome to stay for as long as you want and your visa allows. We have both long term and short term students regularly. While thre is no minimum stay, for the gap year program we do recommend a minimum of 6-7 weeks for a full experience.
Ideally, 3 to 6 months if you want to focus on language immersion and cultural exploration or have to balance it with other commitments, and 6 to 12 months if you want to combine with internships and volunteering for deep skill development (great for pre-university or pre-career gap years).
How can I apply?
- Online Application: Submit via Omeida’s website, include your personal details, academic background, motivation letter (why you want a gap year in China), and a reference letter (teacher/employer).
- Acceptance: Receive an official offer letter within 2 weeks of your application.
- Visa & Preparation: Omeida provides support for student visa applications, pre-departure guides (accommodation, packing, cultural tips), and orientation on arrival.
Can you help with the visa?
Yes, we can provide you with an offer letter and support you through the process of student visa application. We also provide pre-departure guides (accommodation, packing, cultural tips), and orientation on arrival.
Why Choose Omeida’s Gap Year Program?
- Yangshuo Advantage: Smaller, safer, and more affordable than big cities (Beijing/Shanghai). Focus on learning, while still enjoying a vibrant expat community.
- Proven Expertise: Omeida’s Mandarin programs are accredited by international education bodies, with 95% of students reporting improved language skills within 3 months.
- Cultural Authenticity: Avoid tourist traps—Omeida’s local partnerships ensure you engage with real Chinese life, not just curated experiences.
Can I take a leave to travel?
Yes, you can take a week off per month. We do ask that you submit a written leave request form and get approval by the head teacher before Thursday afternoon the week before your requested leave. For students on 1-on-1 lessons, request should be at least 48 hours before the scheduled lessons.
what our students
say about us
