Apply to Study Chinese in Kunming
Program Costs
- 📝 Registration fee (one-time): $100 USD
- 💰 1-on-1 class fee: $18 USD per class ($15 summer rate through Aug 31, 2026)
- 👥 Small group class fee: $15 USD per class (Sept 2026 inaugural cohort: $13/class — see Small Group Classes)
Each class = 45 minutes. Half-day program: 2 classes/day. Full-day program: 4 classes/day. Monday–Friday.
No minimum class requirement — choose the number of classes that fits your schedule and goals.
🛡️ Insurance: X2 visa students pay a flat $60 USD for up to six months. Students who do not need X2 support pay $7 USD per 30 days. Compare coverage →
Payment methods and X2 visa details
Pay by SWIFT bank transfer, PayPal, Wise, WeChat Pay, Alipay, or Visa/Mastercard through Stripe.
KCEL provides a School Admission Letter for your X2 application. You apply at your local Chinese consulate. Full program payment, including the $60 X2 insurance fee, is required before we issue the letter.
All fields marked with * are required.
✅ What happens next?
- We'll review your application within 24 hours
- You'll receive a confirmation email with next steps
- We may contact you to discuss your learning goals and answer questions
- We'll send you program details and enrollment information
Not Sure Which Program?
Full-time study, X2 visa support, all levels HSK Exam Preparation
HSK 1-6, certified Hanban teachers Culture & Travel Program
2-4 weeks, study + explore Yunnan, tourist visa OK 1-on-1 Private Lessons
Flexible schedule, customized curriculum
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to process my application?
We review all applications within 24 hours. Once accepted, your School Admission Letter (录取通知书) is typically ready within 5–10 business days after full payment. You then apply for your X2 visa at your nearest Chinese consulate. Allow about 6 weeks total before your intended start date.
Can I start at any time during the year?
Yes. KCEL offers flexible start dates year-round, and new students can usually start any Monday.
Do I need to speak any Chinese before applying?
No. Programs run from complete beginner through advanced HSK 6. We assess your level and place you appropriately.
How much does it cost in total?
1-on-1 classes are $18 USD each (summer promo: $15 through August 31, 2026), plus a one-time $100 registration fee. Small group classes are $15 per class. Insurance is $60 flat for X2 students studying up to six months, or $7 per 30 days for non-X2 students. Accommodation, meals, and consular visa fees are separate. Use the pricing calculator for an estimate.
Does KCEL help with student visa applications?
Yes. KCEL issues the School Admission Letter used for an X2 application. You submit the visa application yourself at your local Chinese consulate. See our visa support page.
Can I extend or adjust my schedule mid-program?
Yes. You can extend, take a short break, or adjust class times with advance notice.
What does student insurance cover?
X2 visa students — $60 USD flat for up to six months:
- Death and disability — up to ¥100,000
- Medical treatment for accidental injury — up to ¥20,000
- Outpatient and emergency medical care — up to ¥20,000 (¥600 daily limit, ¥650 deductible, 85% reimbursement)
- Hospitalization and medical care — up to ¥400,000
Students without X2 support — $7 USD per 30 days: Taiping General Insurance Plan Three covers accidental death/disability up to ¥300,000, accidental medical expenses up to ¥30,000, and a ¥50/day hospital allowance.
The X2 policy is available to eligible students ages 8–69 who are healthy and able to participate in their studies. Policy exclusions, deductibles, and insurer approval apply. We recommend separate travel insurance, especially for evacuation, trip interruption, and coverage outside the school-arranged policy.
Have questions? Feel free to reach out - we're here to help you start your Chinese learning journey!