Things To Know About Studying in Taiwan

Taiwan is all you may ask for in a student-friendly country. It is highly advanced, financially stable, marked by a distinct culture and language, shows brilliant hospitality, and has some of the best universities in Asia and the world. In the last few decades, it has started garnering significant attention from the international student community evident from the surging numbers so far as international applicants are concerned. So, if anyone of you reading this article is wondering whether Taiwanese higher education is worth your time and money, you know what the answer is.

The first step to knowing a country is to read about it. Of course, you will be able to learn more about Taiwan when you are actually there. However, it is always better to start with a few pointers in mind. Those few pointers are what we are going to cover in this article today. Here are 5 things you should know about studying in Taiwan.

1. Education in technology is a big hit here
   You might know this but let me highlight it anyway: Taiwanese universities are well-known for their academic and research inputs in the field of science and technology. The graduates from these universities are consistently ranked among the best employable ones. Most of these universities secure places among the top 200 and attract a lot of international applicants. Note that those who are interested in STEM programs should definitely check out these universities because they only have a few peers when it comes to the quality of STEM programs they offer.
2. Mandarin could be challenging
   I will put it clearly, Mandarin is not going to be an easy endeavor especially if you are an absolute newbie. English is not uncommon in Taiwan so it should not very difficult for you to adjust there. However, things will become a lot easier once you learn Mandarin. In fact, most universities offer language courses in Mandarin. There is no denying that learning the native language is the best mode to assimilate into society and able to appreciate the nuances of the local life. Moreover, learning a new language stimulates the brain and adds to your resume.
3. Apply for scholarships
   You should consider applying for scholarships because finances could be a real burden for you over here. Since the Taiwanese government has upped its promotional strategy to attract international applicants, you can avail yourself of several scholarship options exclusive to them. For example, there is a MOFA Taiwan Scholarship which has been launched by the trinity of Ministry of Economic Affairs, the Ministry of Education, and the National Science Council and which offers support to those with outstanding academic profiles. So long as your country has diplomatic relations with Taiwan, you should be eligible to apply.
4. Safe and peaceful is what Taiwan is
   As an international student, you would expect an environment where you can safely and peacefully focus on your goals. Taiwan, undoubtedly, is one of the safest destinations in the world and is one of the highest ranked countries in terms of the Global Peace Index. Since the second half of the 20^th century, it has consistently maintained an exceptionally high standard of living, making it one of the four formidable Asian Tigers. So, expect a congenial, adjustable, and harmonious environment coupled with heights of modernity in one of the best places to live in the world. Note that the country was also ranked among the friendliest as per the InterNations’s Expat Inside 2016 Index and scored the highest in terms of hospitality.
5. A Freer nation where you can learn and grow
   Taiwan is often compared with other Asian countries and is different in many ways. It maintains a good record on human rights, advocates democratic freedoms, and shows dedication towards the preservation of the local culture. Over here, you should be able to communicate your thoughts freely to others and experience a significant focus on gender equality. Of course, it is not perfect because no country is but a student should always be exploratory and free otherwise education would be meaningless and hence, the country in which he studies is also of fundamental consequence.