The Chinese language has several major dialects. The most common dialect, spoken by 70% of the Chinese population and used for signs and notices, is Mandarin. In Shanghai, the local language is Shanghainese, a dialect of Wu Chinese, although Mandarin is the official language. The majority of people under 26 will be able to speak some English, as it is taught as a mandatory part of the curriculum in Chinese schools.

Mandarin Courses are available at:

• Fudan University
  280 Zhengtong Road
  Tel: 6564-2222
  Foreign Affairs Office: 6511-7628
  Fax: 6564-1875.
  Website: www.fudan.edu.cn
• Tongji University
  1239 Siping Road, 200092.
  Tel: 6598-2200
  Foreign Affairs Office: 6598-3611
• Shanghai International Studies University
  550 Dalian Road West.
  Tel: 6531-1900
  Foreign Affairs Office: 6536-0599
  Fax: 6542-0225.
• Ease Mandarin
  Tel: 6466 8403
  Fax: 6466 8404
  Email: easemandarin@online.sh.cn