A big part of what makes China both daunting and interesting for expats is the language barrier. Mandarin has a reputation for being difficult to master, and not knowing any can make you feel out of touch with the local community. There are limits to what you can learn by yourself; unless you’re super-motivated and dedicated, the chances are you won’t make much progress. Language exchanges can be really useful, but the best way to gain some basic knowledge, grammar, and vocabulary is to take a course at one of Shanghai’s many language schools. Here are some of the most trustworthy and effective:

 

Mandarin House
Mandarin House’s motto is ‘Language… Culture… Experience’, and it offers more than just Mandarin classes. You can also sign up for social activities and cultural classes like traditional calligraphy, dance, martial arts, and cookery. You can tailor your course to suit your own needs and schedule, choosing from group classes to one-on-one. All levels are welcome, and you will be given an assessment to gauge your level. There are several branches including at People’s Square, Plaza 66, Hongqiao, and Pudong. Visit www.mandarinhouse.cn for more details and price plans.

New Wave ChineseView In Map
A relative newcomer on the language school scene, New Wave offers a variety of courses in both language and cultural education. The prices are relatively cheap – 40-90 RMB per lesson depending on how many you sign up for, and if you choose group classes or one-on-one. Your first demo class is free.
Room B, 16/f, Building B, 605 Beijing Xilu, near Datian Lu 北京西路605弄B栋16B室
www.newwavechinese.com

New Concept Mandarin View In Map
New Concept was begun in Hong Kong by a teacher called Fu Xianling who has 10 years’ experience in Australia. This is a school geared towards people wanting to learn business Mandarin, and offers 10 to 90 day immersion courses, along with classroom methods using face-to-face teaching and CD-Rom work. New Concept prides itself on being “personal, practical, flexible and fun” and has taught over 10,000 people.
Room 9H, Ladoll International Building, 831 Xinzha Lu, near Shimen Er Lu 上海市静安区新闸路831号丽都新贵9楼H座
www.newconceptmandarin.com

iMandarin
iMandarin has some impressive accolades. It has Education Ministry certification, and was mentioned in the Lonely Planet. This, along with six years of business, makes it a sound choice. There are over 15 courses on offer for absolute beginners to more advanced learners, and prices start at 75 RMB for 50 minutes. Branches in Xintaindi, Gubei, Xuhui, Lujiazui and Jinqiao. Go to www.imandarin.net for details.

Fly Mandarin SchoolView In Map
Fly Mandarin wants to be your best friend, or so they claim on their website. Not satisfied just to offer the standard array of Mandarin courses, they also have a unique language "salon" where you can practise your oral Mandarin with native speakers. Their classes start at 50 RMB per hour and there are lots to choose from, including Chinese for business, survival, and HSK, and special Hanzi and online learning options.
Rm 2606, Bldg 2, 358 Jiaozhou Lu, near Wuding Xi Lu 胶州路358弄6号2606
www.flymandarin.com

Reading reviews and checking websites is a good start, but make sure you shop around and visit several schools to find the one that’s best for you. Meet the administrators and teachers face to face, and get a feel for each school. Also, an important warning: if you’re planning to study for a long time, don’t pay all the money upfront in case you’re not satisfied with things once you start.

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