Life‑changing study experience awaits UEA students heading to China
By: Communications
Students from the University of East Anglia (UEA) will travel to China this summer on a fully funded cultural and academic tour, after the university was selected as the East of England’s sole partner in a major new programme.
Through the Study Tour China Pioneering Scheme, 75 UEA students have been given a unique opportunity to experience life and study in the country over a two-week period in June,
Organised by the Chinese Service Centre for Scholarly Exchange (CSCSE) and facilitated and supported by Achieve International Education Group (AIEG) and the High Achiever Programme (HAP), the landmark initiative has been designed to enhance youth mobility between the UK and China.
As one of eight partner universities in the UK, including Greenwich, Kent, Birmingham, Exeter, York, Southampton and Newcastle, UEA students will join a larger delegation of more than 300, where they will strengthen academic collaboration, deepen their cultural understanding and develop global perspectives and skills.
Prof Steven McGuire, Senior Pro-Vice-Chancellor and Deputy Vice-Chancellor at UEA, said: “This programme represents an exceptional opportunity for our students to experience China’s world‑leading universities and rich cultural heritage first‑hand.
“International experiences like this have a profound impact on students’ personal development, confidence and future career prospects, and I am incredibly proud that UEA has been selected as one of only five UK universities to take part.
“We would like to extend our sincere gratitude to the Partnership with HAP for their coordination and support in facilitating the University’s involvement in this exciting venture.
“I have no doubt that our students will serve as outstanding ambassadors for UEA, and I look forward to seeing how this transformative opportunity shapes their future aspirations.”
A unique cultural and academic experience
Students can choose from 13 courses and students can choose to study at two of 10 leading Chinese universities, including Fudan University, Donghua University, Central China Normal University and the University of International Business and Economics. Students will also be visiting Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing University of Posts and Telecommunications, East China University of Political Science and Law, Southwest Jiatong University, University of Electrical Science and Technology, and Shandong University.
Through a combination of lectures, cultural activities, industry visits and collaborative workshops, participants will explore China’s rich history, rapid technological developments and contemporary social and economic landscape.
The programme aims to build practical skills such as leadership, teamwork, critical thinking and cross‑cultural communication, whilst exploring the dynamic urban landscapes of Beijing, Shanghai, Wuhan, Chengdu and Jinan.
Final year Literature student, Dhara Ranavaya, 21, shared her excitement ahead of the upcoming trip: “I couldn’t contain my excitement when I found out I was selected, and I feel incredibly privileged to be taking part. It’s a packed programme and it will be my first time in China, so I’m excited about pushing myself out of my comfort zone and immersing myself in a new culture.
“I’m especially looking forward to learning more about Chinese archaeology and civilisation, and I am still in awe at the opportunity to travel to these historical sites and bring my experiences back to the UEA community.”
Strengthening global connections
The Study Tour China programme brings together talented students from around the world and offers access to high‑quality teaching and immersive learning experiences.
It also represents a significant opportunity for UEA to deepen its international engagement, supporting long‑term academic partnerships and showcasing UEA students globally.
Lord Jo Johnson, Chairman of HAP said: “Overseas study builds understanding between people and creates lifelong friendships. I am delighted that more than 300 UK students will take part in this summer’s study tour programme made possible by the CSCSE.
“The relationships formed through programmes like this can, over time, deepen ties of culture, trade, investment and cooperation between countries. I hope every student returns with new perspectives, greater confidence, and lasting memories.”
A fully funded experience
For this inaugural 2026 programme, travel, accommodation, tuition, catering and in‑country transport have all been fully funded by CSCSE and AIEG.
Students also received visa support and will be accompanied by UEA academic staff throughout the tour.
The University is committed to supporting this programme in future years, recognising the transformative impact international opportunities have on students’ confidence, employability and world‑view.
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