Applying for the MOE Taiwan Scholarship: Your Gateway to Higher Education in Taiwan

If you’re an aspiring student from South Asian countries looking to pursue your dreams of higher education in Taiwan, the Ministry of Education (MOE) Taiwan Scholarship Program could be your golden ticket. In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the application process, eligibility criteria, and essential terms and conditions for aspiring scholars seeking to study bachelors, masters, or PhD programs in Taiwan.

About the MOE Taiwan Scholarship Program

The MOE Taiwan Scholarship Program is designed to promote higher education in Taiwan by providing exceptional South Asian students with financial support for tuition and living expenses. The scholarship includes:

  • Tuition and Miscellaneous Expenses: The MOE covers up to NTD 40,000 per semester for each recipient’s approved tuition and miscellaneous expenses. However, any amount exceeding this limit must be paid by the student.
  • Living Allowance: Recipients pursuing undergraduate studies receive a monthly stipend of NTD 15,000 (approximately USD 535 or 39,155 INR), while those pursuing master’s or doctoral studies receive NTD 20,000 per month (approximately USD 641 or 52,290 INR).

For the academic year 2023-2024, a total of forty-eight (48) scholarships will be awarded.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for the MOE Taiwan Scholarship, applicants must meet the following criteria:

  • Nationality: Applicants must be citizens of South Asian countries.
  • Educational Background: Applicants should have a senior secondary school graduation diploma or post-secondary degree(s) with a strong academic record and good moral character.
  • Language Proficiency: If applying for programs not taught entirely in English, applicants must have cleared the “Test of Chinese as a Foreign Language” (TOCFL) Level 3 test. For fully English-taught programs, refer to the list available on the official website.

Ineligible Students include those who are

  • Currently enrolled in a university or college in Taiwan, unless they will be graduating that year.
  • Pursuing a degree at the same level as their intended enrollment.
  • Previous Taiwan Scholarship recipients for a total of five years.
  • Previous recipients of a revoked Taiwan Scholarship or MOE Huayu Enrichment Scholarship.
  • Concurrently receiving other scholarships or subsidies from Taiwan government institutions or education institutions in Taiwan, except for subsidies provided by their university/college to cover outstanding amounts exceeding the scholarship limit.
  • Exchange students.

Application Procedure

To apply for the MOE Taiwan Scholarship, follow these steps:

1. Submit the following documents to the Education Division, Taipei Economic and Cultural Center (TECC) in India within the specified deadline:

  • Taiwan Scholarship Application Form.
  • Copy of your passport or nationality certificates.
  • Copy of your highest degree certificate and academic transcripts (CGPA 6.0 and above).
  • Admission application materials to universities/colleges in Taiwan, including copies of application fee remittances, application forms, and receipts.
  • Two personally signed reference letters.
  • English proficiency proof (TOEFL/IELTS scores or equivalent exams), except for citizens of English-speaking countries.

2. Ensure that the chosen degree program is accredited by the Ministry of Education, as listed on the MOE’s official website.

3. Fully complete the application form as it will not be returned.

4. TECC in India will select successful candidates and place some on a waiting list.

5. Successful candidates must submit a photocopy of their admission letter to the Education Division, TECC in India, by the specified deadline to confirm eligibility.

Note: Failure to be admitted to a university/college or to submit documents on time will result in the loss of scholarship eligibility.

Award Value and Duration

The MOE Taiwan Scholarship offers the following monthly stipends:

  • Undergraduate: NTD 15,000 (39,155 INR).
  • Postgraduate: NTD 20,000 (52,290 INR).

The maximum scholarship duration is as follows:

  • Four years for undergraduate programs.
  • Two years for master’s degree programs.

Living allowance payments begin when the recipient starts attending the university/college.

Selection Procedure

The selection process is based on the following criteria:

  • Contributions to Taiwan’s national development.
  • An average CGPA of at least 6.0 throughout the program.
  • Interviews conducted in person or via video conferencing to assess behavior and moral character.
  • Preference for applicants with a TOCFL certificate or Mandarin study experience recommended by a Taiwanese Mandarin teacher.
  • English proficiency proof for programs taught entirely in English, except for citizens of English-speaking countries.

Terms and Conditions

Recipients of the MOE Taiwan Scholarship should adhere to the following terms and conditions:

  • Apply for admission directly to universities/colleges in Taiwan within the application deadlines.
  • Submit TOCFL results/certificate within the specified timeframe.
  • Cover all expenses other than tuition and other fees unless facing financial hardship, in which case payments may be deducted from subsistence allowances.
  • Maintain academic and conduct standards set by universities/colleges; failing to do so may result in scholarship suspension or revocation.
  • Scholarships will be revoked if recipients concurrently receive other awards or subsidies.
  • Join the National Health Insurance plan.
  • No illegal work while in Taiwan; unauthorised labour activities will result in scholarship revocation.
  • No tolerance for fake documents; scholarships will be revoked, and funds must be returned.
  • Engage in language and culture-related activities as required.

Suspension and Cancellation

Scholarship suspension or revocation may occur under various circumstances:

  • Failure to submit TOCFL results/certificate within the specified period.
  • Excessive absences exceeding one-third of a single month, excluding school breaks.
  • Studying in another country as exchange or dual/joint degree students while receiving the scholarship.
  • Undertaking overseas internships without receiving living allowances or scholarship money during the internship semester(s).
  • Violation of MOE laws.

Transfers

Recipients are allowed to transfer to another university/college/department during their degree program with approval from the relevant educational institutions.

Key Expenses

Finally, when planning to study in Taiwan, consider these estimated expenses:

  • Student Visa: 1000 NTD – 1330 NTD (+1000 NTD for attestation) or Rs 3000 – 4000 (+ Rs 2000 for document attestation).
  • One-way Flight: 8350 NTD – 10000 NTD or Rs 25,000 – Rs 30,000.
  • Airport Transfer (Taoyuan City to Taipei): 1000 NTD or Rs 2600.
  • Monthly Rent (shared basis, varies by location): 5500 NTD – 13,000 NTD or Rs 14,300 – Rs 33,800.
  • Daily Travel Expenses (public transportation, including bus, metro, and Ubike): 30-70 NTD per day or Rs 78 – Rs 182.
  • Daily Meal Expenses (breakfast, lunch, dinner): 300-600 NTD per day or Rs 780 – Rs 1560.

Comparing Taiwan and India: QS World University Rankings 2024

Here’s a side-by-side comparison of the top 10 universities in Taiwan according to the QS World University Rankings 2024 and the top 10 universities in India according to the QS World University Rankings 2024

Taiwan Universities (QS Ranking 2024)India Universities (QS Ranking 2024)
1. National Taiwan University (69)1. IISc Bangalore (155)
2. National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University (217)2. IIT Bombay (172)
3. National Cheng Kung University (228)3. IIT Delhi (174)
4. National Tsinghua University (233)4. IIT Madras (250)
5. National Taiwan University of Science and Technology (387)5. IIT Kanpur (264)
6. National Taipei University of Technology (431)6. IIT Kharagpur (270)
7. National Taiwan Normal University (431)7. IIT Roorkee (369)
8. National Sun Yat-Sen University (505)8. IIT Guwahati (384)
9. National Chengchi University (567)9. IIT Indore (396)
10. Taipei Medical University (577)10. University of Delhi (521-530)

Comparing the top universities in Taiwan and India based on the QS World University Rankings 2024 offers valuable insights for students seeking higher education opportunities. Both Taiwan and India boast prestigious institutions that cater to diverse academic interests.

In Taiwan, National Taiwan University takes the lead with an impressive global ranking of 69. It’s followed closely by National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, National Cheng Kung University, and National Tsinghua University, all within the top 250 globally. Taiwan’s universities are known for their research excellence and strong academic programs.

On the other hand, India showcases its academic prowess with IISc Bangalore securing the top spot among Indian universities, ranking 155th globally. The Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs), including IIT Bombay, IIT Delhi, IIT Madras, IIT Kanpur, IIT Kharagpur, IIT Roorkee, IIT Guwahati, and IIT Indore, are renowned for their engineering and technological education, with global rankings ranging from 172 to 396. The University of Delhi also makes a significant presence in the 521-530 rank bracket.

Students can use this comparison as a starting point to explore their academic options in these countries. Both Taiwan and India offer world-class education, and the choice ultimately depends on one’s field of study, career aspirations, and personal preferences. Whether it’s the vibrant cultural experience in Taiwan or the diverse academic landscape in India, both nations provide exciting opportunities for higher learning.

Your Future Awaits: Seizing Taiwan’s Educational Opportunities

In conclusion, the Ministry of Education (MOE) Taiwan Scholarship Program serves as an excellent gateway to higher education in Taiwan for aspiring students from South Asian countries. This comprehensive guide has provided a detailed overview of the scholarship, including its benefits, eligibility criteria, application procedure, award values, and essential terms and conditions.

For those considering studying in Taiwan, understanding the MOE Taiwan Scholarship Program is crucial, as it not only provides financial support but also opens doors to a vibrant academic environment in Taiwan’s esteemed institutions.

Meiyu Chinese Language Centre: Your Scholarship Companion

Additionally, it’s worth noting that Meiyu Chinese Language Centre plays a pivotal role in assisting its students in applying for the MOE scholarship, further enhancing their educational prospects in Taiwan.

By following the steps outlined in this guide and carefully considering your options, you can embark on a transformative educational journey in Taiwan while managing your finances effectively. Best of luck with your application, and may your pursuit of higher education in Taiwan be both rewarding and fulfilling!