Taking refuge in a guru is not only prescribed in Tibetan Buddhism but also in Han Chinese Buddhism and Theravada Buddhism. It is clearly stated in the precepts of Theravada Buddhism that, after receiving precepts, only after following a master for at least ten years can a disciple be qualified to live on his own. Before that, free activities are disallowed.

～ Luminous Wisdom 3 ：The Guru Yoga Practice of The Seven Line Prayer