Taiwan is one of Asia’s most underrated study abroad destinations — and those who come quickly understand why. Outstanding universities, a vibrant student culture, remarkable safety, and a city in Taipei that manages to feel both cutting-edge and deeply rooted in tradition. We have put together everything you need to plan your study in Taiwan: application process, visa requirements, and life on the ground.
Taipei
Taipei is one of Asia’s most liveable and exciting cities for international students. Modern, safe, and packed with energy — night markets, mountain trails, cutting-edge design districts, and a metro system that makes getting around effortless. It is also one of the most affordable capitals in East Asia, which means your budget stretches further than you might expect.
Capital: Taipei City
Currency: New Taiwan Dollar (NTD)
Population: 23,205,000
Popular programs to study in Taiwan:
Government expenditure on the education system: 978.1 billion New Taiwan Dollars
Key services industries: Financial services, Information and communications technology, Healthcare, Education, Tourism
Key manufacturing areas: Electronics, Machinery, Chemicals, Automotive, Aerospace
Taiwan is home to some genuinely excellent universities, with strong reputations in business, engineering, design, and the sciences. Moreover, the country has made a deliberate push to attract international students, which means programs, support services, and English-language offerings have all improved significantly in recent years.
Compared to Japan, South Korea, or Singapore, Taiwan offers a significantly lower cost of living and competitive tuition fees. Shih Chien University, for example, offers a tuition fee of 2,190 EUR per semester — a genuinely strong value for a quality East Asian university experience. In addition, Taiwan offers scholarships and financial aid programs for eligible international students.
Taiwan has developed a culture that is entirely its own — a blend of Chinese heritage, Japanese colonial history, indigenous traditions, and a thoroughly modern democratic society. The food culture alone is extraordinary: from the legendary night markets of Taipei to the beef noodle shops and bubble tea that the island gave the world. Beyond Taipei, the island’s national parks, coastlines, hot springs, and mountain landscapes are stunning.
Taiwan consistently ranks among the safest countries on the planet — fourth globally according to the Global Peace Index. For students and parents alike, that matters enormously. Cities are clean, public transport is reliable, and the sense of personal safety in everyday life is exceptional. Furthermore, Taiwan’s geographical position gives it a low risk of the kinds of natural disasters that affect other parts of Asia.
Basic Requirements:
Steps:
Why Study Abroad with Asia Exchange?
Just fill out an online application form and submit it with a few attachments
Your study placement can be confirmed as quickly as in a day
Once you get the confirmation, it’s a done deal!
Our on-site team helps you get the most out of your time abroad
Share life-changing experiences together
The type of visa you need depends on the length of your stay:
Resident Visa applicants must also undergo a medical examination and have the resulting Health Certificate legalised at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in their home country before submitting it with the visa application. A police certificate may be requested from certain applicants.
Please note that visa requirements and application procedures may change at any time. Always get the latest information directly from your nearest Taipei Representative Office.
You may work 20 hours per week under a work permit, except during winter and summer breaks.
Yes, all international students with Alien Residence Certificate (ARC) must sign up for the National Health Insurance of Taiwan.
Monthly, you must pay NTD500 for medical insurance and NTD749 for the National Health Insurance Program.
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