Pursuing a master’s degree abroad is an exciting step for many international students seeking high-quality education and global opportunities. One such destination is Taiwan, which is known for its comparatively affordable tuition and living costs. Taiwan provides international students with a vibrant learning environment and access to diverse academic fields, from technology and engineering to the social sciences and humanities.
So, let’s explore the essential requirements you may encounter when applying for a master’s degree in Taiwan, along with the step-by-step application process.
Master’s Degree Admission Requirements
Here is a list of common admission requirements for master’s degree programs at Taiwanese universities. Exact requirements vary by university and program.
| ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS | DOCUMENT DETAILS |
|---|
| Bachelor’s Degree | Applicants to master’s programs generally need a recognized bachelor’s degree or an equivalent qualification. Universities normally require a copy of the diploma or degree certificate as evidence that the applicant has completed the necessary undergraduate education. |
| Official Transcripts | Transcripts provide a comprehensive record of your academic performance. At National Cheng Kung University, for example, documents that are not in Chinese or English must be accompanied by a Chinese or English translation. NCKU currently permits applicants to prepare the translation themselves, but both the original document and the translation must be authenticated by a Taiwanese embassy, representative office, or another authorized overseas mission when required by the university. |
| English or Chinese Proficiency Test Scores | Depending on the program’s language of instruction, applicants may need to submit TOEFL, IELTS, TOCFL, or another accepted language qualification. Accepted tests, minimum scores, and exemption policies vary by university and program. |
| Statement of Purpose | The statement of purpose or study plan helps the admissions committee understand your academic background, motivation, research interests, and career goals. Some research-focused programs may also require a separate research proposal. |
| Letters of Recommendation | These letters assess your academic ability, professional experience, or research potential. For example, National Cheng Kung University currently requires at least two recommendation letters for international degree applications. The number of letters and the preferred recommenders may vary by department. |
Language Proficiency Tests Needed for Master’s Studies
Language proficiency is an important requirement for many master’s programs in Taiwan because students must be able to participate effectively in their courses. The tests accepted depend on the university, department, and language of instruction.
| MEDIUM OF INSTRUCTION | LANGUAGE PROFICIENCY EXAMS ACCEPTED |
|---|
| Chinese-taught Programs | TOCFL (Test of Chinese as a Foreign Language)
Some universities or programs may also accept HSK (Hanyu Shuiping Kaoshi) or another equivalent qualification when specifically stated in their admissions guidelines. |
| English-taught Programs | TOEFL iBT
IELTS
Some universities also accept TOEIC, other CEFR-aligned qualifications, or proof that a previous degree was taught in English. |
Universities in Taiwan set their own minimum language-proficiency standards, and individual departments may impose requirements higher than the university minimum. The examples below provide a general overview, but applicants should always review the requirements for their intended department.
| NAME OF INSTITUTION | MINIMUM SCORES REQUIRED |
|---|
| National Taiwan University | Chinese-taught Programs:
TOCFL Level 2 or HSK Level 4, corresponding to CEFR A2
English-taught Programs:
IELTS 5.5 or TOEFL iBT 72, corresponding to CEFR B2
Departments may set higher standards. |
| National Sun Yat-sen University | Requirements vary by department rather than following one university-wide score. For example, the Department of Foreign Languages and Literature lists TOCFL Level 3 or HSK Level 5 among its Chinese-language requirements, while the Department of Information Management lists TOEFL iBT 79 or IELTS 6.5 for English proficiency. |
| National Tsing Hua University | Chinese-taught Programs:
TOCFL A2 or an accepted equivalent
English-taught Programs:
TOEFL iBT 71 or IELTS 5.5, corresponding to CEFR B2
Departments may set higher standards. |
Master’s Degree Application Process
Applying for a master’s degree in Taiwan involves several important steps. The process varies by university, but the core stages are similar across many institutions. Below are the steps you will generally need to take when applying to a Taiwanese university.
Step 1: Choose a Program that Aligns with Your Educational Goals
Start by identifying a program that aligns with your academic and career goals. Each university offers different disciplines, so carefully review course details, faculty expertise, the language of instruction, and the program structure. For example, National Taiwan University (NTU) provides information about its degree programs and their specific admission requirements.
Step 2: Check Eligibility and Requirements
Before applying, make sure you meet the essential eligibility criteria, such as holding a recognized bachelor’s degree and satisfying the applicable language-proficiency requirements. You should also review the program-specific criteria published on the university’s website.
Each university and program may have different eligibility requirements, particularly for specialized fields such as engineering and medicine. Here are some Taiwanese institutions and their admission requirements: Chang Gung University, Kaohsiung Medical University, National Sun Yat-sen University, National Taipei University, and Yuan Ze University. Compare the institutions that offer your intended program to determine which one best fits your academic goals.
Step 3: Prepare Required Documents
Gather all required documents, which may include your bachelor’s degree certificate, academic transcripts, language-proficiency test scores, letters of recommendation, statement of purpose, and proof of sufficient funds or a full scholarship. Double-check that the documents meet the university’s formatting, translation, authentication, and certification requirements.
Step 4: Submit Online Application
Many universities in Taiwan use an online application system. Applicants generally create an account, complete the application form, upload the required documents, and pay any applicable application fee. The fee varies by university and program. At National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, the standard application fee is currently NT$2,000 per department. Applicants who previously participated in an eligible NYCU study program may qualify for a reduced fee of NT$1,500 per department.
Step 5: Await Admission Results
After submitting your application, monitor the university’s online application portal and your email for admission announcements, requests for additional documents, and enrollment instructions.
FAQs: Master’s Application Process in Taiwan
Is it Expensive to Study Master’s in Taiwan?
Studying for a master’s degree in Taiwan is generally less expensive than studying in many Western countries. Taiwan’s Ministry of Education estimates graduate tuition at approximately USD 1,600 to USD 2,000 per semester, although the actual amount varies by institution and field of study.
Living costs also differ considerably by location and lifestyle. Current government estimates place average monthly living expenses at approximately NT$19,000 to NT$21,000 in Tainan, NT$21,000 to NT$23,000 in Kaohsiung, NT$23,000 to NT$25,000 in Taichung, NT$22,000 to NT$24,000 in New Taipei City, and NT$28,000 to NT$30,000 in Taipei.
How Long Does It Typically Take to Prepare for Applying to a University in Taiwan?
There is no universal preparation period for a master’s application in Taiwan. Allowing approximately three to six months is a practical planning estimate for researching programs, requesting recommendation letters, preparing translations or authenticated documents, and completing any required language tests. Applicants who still need to take a language examination or obtain document authentication may need additional time.
Application periods and document requirements change by intake, so consult the current deadline information for institutions such as National Cheng Kung University and Taipei Medical University (TMU) before preparing your application schedule.
Are there Scholarship Opportunities for International Graduate Students in Taiwan?
Yes, Taiwan offers a variety of scholarship opportunities for international graduate students. The Taiwanese government provides scholarships such as the Taiwan Scholarship. Under the current Ministry of Education scholarship structure, eligible master’s students may receive up to NT$40,000 per semester toward tuition and miscellaneous fees, plus a monthly living allowance of NT$20,000. Eligibility, application periods, and available awards depend on the applicant’s country or territory and the responsible Taiwanese overseas mission.
Universities also provide their own awards. National Taiwan University offers scholarships for international degree students that may include a tuition waiver and a monthly stipend, depending on the award. National Cheng Kung University provides the NCKU Distinguished International Student Scholarship. Under the rules for newly admitted master’s and doctoral students beginning in the 2026–2027 academic year, the award may include a full tuition waiver, including the basic credit fee, and a monthly stipend determined by the student’s college. Awards remain subject to university selection, funding, and renewal requirements.
A master’s degree in Taiwan offers an opportunity to receive a high-quality education in a dynamic and diverse environment. With a relatively straightforward application process, competitive tuition fees, and various scholarship options, Taiwan remains an attractive destination for international students seeking academic and professional growth.
We hope this guide clarifies what you need to know about applying for a master’s degree in Taiwan. Learn more about the country by visiting our Study in Taiwan Page. If you are unsure which course to take, search our Available Programs for International Students!
