Free Online Chinese Language Courses & MOOCs

Tsinghua Chinese: Start Talking with 1.3 Billion People (edX)

EdX

Tsinghua University,TsinghuaX

Tsinghua Chinese: Start Talking with 1.3 Billion People (edX)

Languages & Literature

Discover the fundamentals of Mandarin Chinese with 'Tsinghua Chinese: Start Talking with 1.3 Billion People.' This introductory course, offered by China’s prestigious Tsinghua University, is designed for beginners eager to learn everyday language skills in Mandarin. With a focus on practical communication and the use of pinyin, this course provides an accessible pathway into the world's most spoken language.

Self Paced

Self-Paced

Chinese Chinese Language Mandarin

Coursera

Arizona State University

Chino básico: Cómo dar una primera impresión positiva (Coursera)

Languages & Literature

Sumérgete en el fascinante mundo del chino con nuestro curso básico diseñado para hispanohablantes. Este programa especializado te introducirá al lenguaje y cultura empresarial china, mejorando tu primera impresión y comunicación efectiva. Desde alfabeto Pinyin hasta conversaciones cotidianas sobre familia y gustos, este curso es tu puerta de entrada al chino.

Aug 24th 2026

5-12 Weeks

Chinese Chinese Language Pinyin Alphabet

Coursera

Peking University

Chinese for HSK 1 (Coursera)

Languages & Literature

Welcome to 'Chinese for HSK 1', an introductory course that will guide you through the basics of Mandarin Chinese, preparing you for the HSK Level 1 exam. Taught by YU Bin, this course is perfect for beginners looking to build everyday conversational skills and understand Chinese culture. Learn at your own pace with engaging lessons designed to help you master the fundamentals of the language.

Aug 24th 2026

5-12 Weeks

Languages China Chinese

Coursera

Shanghai Jiao Tong University

Mandarin Chinese 3: Chinese for Beginners (Coursera)

Languages & Literature

Take your Mandarin Chinese skills to the next level with 'Mandarin Chinese 3: Chinese for Beginners'. This continuation of our beginner's series focuses on enhancing your oral proficiency and expanding your vocabulary. With a blend of lectures, short plays, interactive exercises, and cultural tips, this course is tailored for learners who have completed Mandarin Chinese 2. By the end of this 5-lesson course, you'll be able to handle 15 real-life situations confidently, having mastered approximately 500 words and reaching a proficiency level of 60 language points.

Aug 24th 2026

5-12 Weeks

Languages China Chinese

FutureLearn

Shanghai International Studies University - SISU

An Introduction to Chinese Sign Language and Linguistics (FutureLearn)

Languages & Literature

Dive into the fascinating world of Chinese Sign Language (CSL) and sign language linguistics with our beginner-friendly online course. Over four weeks, you'll gain a solid foundation in CSL, explore the complexities of sign language linguistics, and learn about deaf culture and education in China. Join us at Shanghai International Studies University for an enriching learning experience.

Self Paced

5-12 Weeks

Languages Chinese Linguistics

EdX

MandarinX

Mandarin Chinese Essentials (edX)

Languages & Literature

Embark on your journey to fluency with 'Mandarin Chinese Essentials'. This beginner's course is crafted to equip you with the fundamental skills needed to converse confidently in Mandarin. Dive into understanding tones, mastering pinyin, grasping essential grammar rules, learning characters, and building basic structures—all within a relatable business context.

Self Paced

Self-Paced

Languages Chinese Chinese Language

EdX

MandarinX

Mandarin Chinese Level 2 (edX)

Languages & Literature

Expand your Mandarin proficiency with our intermediate-level course designed for those who have a basic understanding of the language. This course will equip you with practical communication skills, including advanced vocabulary, comparisons, and expressing personal perspectives using complex sentence structures. Ideal for learners aiming to enhance their daily conversation and business interactions in Mandarin.

Self Paced

Self-Paced

Languages Chinese Chinese Language

EdX

MandarinX

Chinese Idioms: A Thousand Miles (edX)

Languages & Literature

Embark on a journey through the rich tapestry of Chinese culture with 'Chinese Idioms: A Thousand Miles'. This course is designed for learners of all levels who wish to delve into the fascinating world of Chinese proverbs and idioms. Gain insights into their historical roots, understand their nuanced meanings, and learn how they are used in everyday conversation.

Self Paced

Self-Paced

Chinese Culture Chinese Chinese Language

Coursera

Saint Petersburg State University

Fundamentals of the Chinese character writing (Part 1) (Coursera)

Humanities History

Dive into the fascinating world of Chinese calligraphy with our introductory course 'Fundamentals of the Chinese Character Writing (Part 1)'. This course offers a concise yet thorough exploration of the Chinese character-writing tradition, from its origins and evolution to the diverse styles and influential masters. Whether you're a beginner or simply curious about Chinese culture, this course will equip you with a foundational understanding of Chinese writing aesthetics.

Aug 8th 2022

5-12 Weeks

Writing Chinese Language Chinese Calligraphy