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Student Frequently Asked Questions

If the answer you seek does not appear below please contact the Chinese Studies Program at chinesestudies@ucsd.edu.

How do I know which CHIN course I should take?

For the first Chinese course at UCSD, each student should meet with a language instructor and participate in a Chinese language placement interview. A short and informal conversation with one of our instructors will reveal which CHIN course is best for you.

Can I take courses for Pass/No Pass (P/NP) for my Chinese Studies major or minor?

All courses for the major must be taken for a letter grade with the exception of courses taken taken P/NP during Spring 2020, Fall 2020, Winter 2021, and Spring 2021, which can be counted toward a Chinese Studies major.

I need to meet my language requirement. What is my goal? Can I take CHIN as pass/no pass?

This answer varies according to your college or major. Below are links to the college websites where you will be able to locate the specific requirement and if taking a course as pass/no pass is permissible. 

I took the AP Chinese Language and Culture test and scored a 3, 4 or 5. Which CHIN course should I take?

You still need to do a placement interview to determine which UCSD CHIN course is best suited for your proficiency and language background. 

Chinese is my native language. What CHIN course should I enroll in?

CHIN courses are language acquisition courses designed for non-native speakers to learn vocabulary and sentence structure and are generally not appropriate for native Mandarin speakers. Native speakers may wish to consider taking a non-language Chinese Studies elective, participating in a Proficiency Exam or speaking with an academic advisor regarding alternative courses.

I want to study abroad. Where should I go? What course(s) should I take?

Selecting courses is entirely up to the student. IT'S YOUR TRAVEL EXPERIENCE! The Chinese Studies Program does have guidelines. Visit our Study Abroad tab at the top of this page. Contact the Programs Abroad Office and meet with them by making an appointment for a "First Steps Session"