At a glance
Taiwan, by the numbers
#1
Best healthcare in the world
Numbeo Health Care Index 2026
#4
Safest countries in the world
Numbeo Safety Index 2026
#54
National Taiwan University
QS World University Rankings 2027
#14
Taipei — one of the fastest climbers, up 12 places
QS Best Student Cities 2027
Field notes
- Bubble tea was invented in Taichung in 1987 — the original teahouse still serves it
- Taipei 101 was the world's tallest building from 2004 to 2010
Highlights
Why Taiwan
Taiwan is one of Asia's best-kept secrets for international students: top-ranked universities with English-taught programs, some of the lowest tuition in the region, and a famously welcoming culture. Add incredible street food, affordable living, and easy travel across the island, and it is easy to see why students fall in love with it.
Mandarin without the price tag
Top language programs at a fraction of big-city costs.
Asia's friendliest welcome
Taiwan is famous for how it treats students and strangers.
Bubble tea, night markets, mountains
The food alone is worth the flight.
A tech island with a laid-back soul
World-class chips by week, world-class trails by weekend.
Budget planning
Cost of living in Taiwan
Typical monthly costs for an international student.
*Prices are estimates based on available sources and may vary by location, lifestyle, and availability.
Dive deeper
Detailed breakdowns, housing, and money-saving tips for students.
Visa Information
Visa at a Glance
Visa type
Visa-free entry (up to 90 days) for eligible nationalities
- Processing time
- On arrival
- Work rights
- Not permitted on short-term entry
- Funds needed
- Per program — no fixed amount for short stays
- show proof of funds for the course
- Short courses do not require the 6-month bank-certificate package used for Resident Visas.
Key requirements
- Application form — Short-program form (MTC)
- Academic records — Per program
- Proof of language — Often none
- Financial proof — Per program
- Passport copy — Valid ≥6 months
- Application fee — Per program
Verified 2026-08-02 · Sources: BOCA — Student Visa · BOCA — Online Application · NIA — Student ARC · EZ Work Taiwan (Work Permits) · BOCA — Fee Schedule
Guides & Articles
Guides & articles for Taiwan
Complete GuideStudy Abroad in Taiwan
Your complete guide to studying in Taiwan — universities, Mandarin learning, costs, and island life.
Read the guide
