Study in Taiwan in 2026: Costs, Visas, Scholarships and Universities

Updated August 2026. Taiwan offers international students a combination that is increasingly difficult to find: respected universities, comparatively affordable living costs, a safe and convenient daily environment, Mandarin-learning opportunities and a growing selection of English-taught degrees.

This guide explains the practical side of studying in Taiwan in 2026, including tuition, living expenses, scholarships, visas, residence permits and part-time work.

Why study in Taiwan?

Taiwan is particularly attractive to students interested in technology, engineering, semiconductors, business, Mandarin Chinese, international relations, public health and Asian studies. Its universities range from large national research institutions to private universities with specialized English-taught programs.

The government-supported Study in Taiwan portal lets applicants search universities, degree programs and scholarships in one place. Students should still verify every deadline and fee directly with the university before applying.

How much is tuition in Taiwan?

There is no single national tuition price. Public universities are often less expensive than private institutions, while medicine, engineering, laboratories, executive programs and credit-based graduate programs may cost more.

As an example of how widely fees can vary, National Taiwan University publishes separate tuition schedules by college and program. Applicants should use a university's current international-admissions fee table rather than relying on a generic countrywide estimate.

When building a budget, include:

• Tuition and credit fees
• Application and registration charges
• Accommodation and deposits
• Health insurance
• Books, laboratory or studio expenses
• Visa, document authentication and ARC fees

Living costs for international students

Location and housing choice have the greatest effect on a student budget. University dormitories are usually the least expensive option, while a private room or apartment in central Taipei costs more.

National Taiwan University's published estimate lists four-month living expenses of NT$48,000–72,000, excluding tuition, and off-campus housing of NT$48,000–72,000 for the same period. Its on-campus options are substantially cheaper, depending on the residence.

A practical monthly budget should account for food, transportation, mobile service, utilities and personal expenses. Students outside Taipei may find lower rent, but the difference depends on neighborhood and housing quality.

Scholarships for studying in Taiwan

The main options are government scholarships, university awards and program-specific funding. The MOE Taiwan Scholarship has historically provided tuition support of up to NT$40,000 per semester plus monthly stipends: NT$15,000 for undergraduate recipients and NT$20,000 for master's and doctoral recipients. Benefits and eligibility must be checked for the applicant's country and application year.

Many universities also offer tuition waivers or stipends. Search the official Taiwan scholarship database and read our Taiwan Scholarship Guide for International Students.

Student visa and ARC process

Your route depends on program length, nationality and how you enter Taiwan. Full-time degree students studying for more than six months commonly use a resident-visa and ARC route.

1. Receive university admission.
2. Prepare the documents required by the relevant Taiwan overseas mission or authority.
3. Apply for the correct visa or residence route.
4. Complete any required document authentication and translations.
5. Apply for an Alien Resident Certificate within the applicable deadline.

Taiwan's Bureau of Consular Affairs warns that people entering visa-free, on a landing visa, or on a visitor visa issued for a purpose other than study generally cannot convert that stay into student residence on the basis of study. The official student resident-visa instructions should be checked before travel.

Can international students work in Taiwan?

International students normally need a valid work permit before beginning part-time work. Taiwan's Workforce Development Agency states that, outside winter and summer vacations, foreign students may work no more than 20 hours per week. A student ARC by itself is not permission to work.

Part-time income can help, but it should not be the foundation of the original financial plan. Scholarship and visa applications may require evidence that the student can support themselves.

How to apply to a Taiwanese university

1. Choose degree level, subject and preferred language of instruction.
2. Confirm that the program accepts international applicants.
3. Check academic, language and document requirements.
4. Prepare authenticated degrees or transcripts when required.
5. Apply directly through the university's admissions system.
6. Apply separately for scholarships unless the university combines the processes.

English-taught does not always mean every elective or administrative service is available in English. Ask for the current course list, graduation requirements and language expectations before accepting an offer.

Is Taiwan a good study-abroad destination?

For students seeking an Asian degree destination with strong infrastructure and comparatively manageable costs, Taiwan deserves serious consideration. The best value is usually found by comparing the complete package—tuition, scholarship, housing, program language and career relevance—rather than choosing a university by ranking alone.