TaiwanICDF Scholarship Recipient, Felix Pratama from Indonesia, Shares the Story of How He Applied for the Fully Funded Award to Pursue His IMBA at National Chengchi University (NCCU) in Taiwan

Hi, I’m Felix Pratama from Jakarta, Indonesia. Nice to meet you!

For a brief introduction, I graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering from Universitas Indonesia. I started my career in the project management field within the supply chain department at the largest FMCG company in Indonesia. After working for three years, I decided to apply for a scholarship to pursue a master’s degree in International Master of Business Administration (IMBA) at National Chengchi University (NCCU), Taiwan.

Why did I choose IMBA at NCCU? NCCU is recognized as the best business school in Taiwan. I chose this program because I wanted to fill my knowledge gap in business and gain international exposure. This knowledge is essential for accelerating my future career. Moreover, I chose Taiwan because I intend to learn Mandarin, a language that is becoming increasingly important in Indonesia.

TaiwanICDF Scholarship Details

I received a fully funded scholarship from the Taiwan International Cooperation and Development Fund (ICDF), which we usually call the TaiwanICDF Scholarship. The application period usually runs from January to March. Unlike other scholarships, the TaiwanICDF Scholarship only covers specific majors at selected universities, and IMBA at NCCU is one of them. Details are available in the official scholarship guidebook.

I’d say this scholarship is one of the most comprehensive, covering:

• Tuition fees
• Credit fees
• Housing (dormitory)
• Airfare (most-direct flights to and from Taiwan)
• Insurance
• Book costs
• Allowance (NT$18,000 for master’s program; NT$20,000 for Ph.D. program)

Before accepting the TaiwanICDF Scholarship, I was also offered the MOE Taiwan Scholarship Program to study for an MBA at the National Taiwan University of Science and Technology (NTUST). The application period is typically February to March. The period is around the same time as the TaiwanICDF Scholarship, so you can prepare for both simultaneously.

The MOE Taiwan Scholarship Program covers all majors at any university in Taiwan, which can be your option if the degree you are aiming for isn’t listed under the TaiwanICDF Scholarship. In terms of benefits, this scholarship covers tuition and miscellaneous fees up to NT$40,000 per semester and a living allowance of NT$20,000 per month for master’s degree or doctoral students. If the tuition exceeds NT$40,000, don’t worry, some universities offer tuition waivers for the MOE Scholarship awardees. Just make sure you check this information directly on the university’s website.

Educational Background

I hold a bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering from Universitas Indonesia, graduating with a GPA of 3.91/4.00. My educational background equipped me with problem-solving skills, analytical thinking, data analysis, cross-functional collaboration, and design thinking. These skills contributed to accelerating my career since the project manager role requires a diverse skillset, especially in the supply chain management field. Considering my educational background in engineering and work experience in supply chain management, applying for the MBA degree will provide a strong foundation for my career advancement.

How Did You Prepare to Apply to National Chengchi University?

I went through the information provided on the university’s website. The guidelines were straightforward and easy to follow, so I didn’t face any difficulties. For instance, the information about the accepted English proficiency test and the minimum score required is clearly mentioned in the guidelines. The application process included submitting an application form, diploma, and academic transcript (in English), recommendation letters, English proficiency test results, CV, and proof of work experience from my former employer (since the MBA program requires a minimum of two years of professional experience).

How Did You Prepare to Apply to the Taiwan International Cooperation and Development Fund (ICDF) Scholarship?

To avoid rushing and making mistakes, I began preparing my scholarship application two months before the application opened. I started with translations of my diploma and academic transcript through a sworn translator, followed by authentication procedures at the Taiwan Economic and Trade Office (TETO). After that, I renewed my English proficiency test, drafted the study plan, and wrote my essay. Therefore, when the application period opened, I only had to request recommendation letters from my professor and line manager.

How Is (was) Your Experience at National Chengchi University?

My experience has been incredible. The institution is very supportive and assigns a dedicated contact person to assist scholarship awardees. They provide guidance starting from arrival in Taiwan, through all administrative procedures, until departure. This support system gave me peace of mind whenever I faced difficulties.

What Do You Think Made Your Application Stand Out?

I believe my academic background, professional achievements, and clear motivation to study for an MBA in Taiwan made my application stand out. In terms of achievement, I highlighted my academic performance and career accomplishments. To make it stronger and credible, these achievements must be validated through the recommendation letters, which were given by my professor and line manager. In terms of motivation, I clearly stated my career goals and how the MBA degree would help me achieve them goals.

What Would You Have Done Differently if You Were Going Through the Process Again?

Currently, I don’t have anything I would have done differently.

What Advice Would You Give Those Looking to Apply for a Similar Scholarship?

Make sure you thoroughly understand the information provided, especially regarding required documents. Submitting complete and accurate documents creates a strong impression and shows your seriousness in applying. If you are currently working, I recommend that you prepare your documents in advance and reach out to previous awardees for some insights or tips.