The Alien Resident Certificate (ARC) is your key document for legal stay in Taiwan. If it is lost or nearing expiration, you must apply promptly for replacement or renewal via the National Immigration Agency. ARCs are typically valid for one year, with some programs eligible for two-year extensions. We recommend reviewing your expiry date about three months in advance and preparing your enrollment certificate, passport, and address registration documents to avoid over-stay risk.

Yes — when you transition from a language program to a degree program in Taiwan, you generally must change your residence status to “degree study.” After admission, you’ll need to cooperate with the school and immigration authorities to adjust your status so that your visa, ARC and program type align. Failing to do so may affect your legal status, part-time work eligibility, or ability to extend your stay. It’s best to begin discussing this with your international office toward the end of the language program.

Yes — you may work part-time while studying at university in Taiwan, but only if you have obtained the official “work permit for international students.” During the semester most students are allowed to work up to 20 hours per week; the limit may be relaxed in winter or summer breaks. Working without approval can result in fines or risk your student status. Make sure you’re a full-time degree student and ask your school to assist you in securing the permit.

After completing your degree program, if you wish to work in Taiwan you must change your residence status from “student” to “employment” or another applicable category. You’ll need to secure a job offer, obtain employer sponsorship and apply for a work-residence visa. Ensure this is completed before your current student residence expires. It’s advisable to begin this process 6 to 12 months before graduation by consulting your university’s international office or career services.

When choosing a university and program in Taiwan, consider these three key aspects:

• Your interests and career path: which field are you passionate about? Which industry do you wish to work in? Choose a major aligned to your goals.
• Language of instruction and international support: is the program in English, bilingual or Chinese? How strong is the support for international students (housing, language center, international office)?
• Campus location and living environment: which city or town do you prefer? What’s the cost of living, transport, culture like?

We recommend reviewing each school’s “International Admissions” page, program overview and international student data, then compare before deciding.

When you’re transitioning from a language school to a degree program, you’ll typically need: application form, proof of enrollment or graduation from the language school, transcripts, passport copy, language proficiency certificate (eg. TOEFL/IELTS or Mandarin test), recommendation letters (if required), and a study plan. After admission, you’ll also need to process your visa/residence status, register your address and enroll in insurance. We suggest starting 4-6 months ahead: gather your documents, check deadlines and contact your university’s international office.

English-taught programs are delivered primarily in English and suit students with strong English proficiency who seek an international classroom environment. Chinese-taught programs operate in Mandarin and are ideal if you already have a foundation in Chinese and want full immersion. Bilingual programs fall somewhere in between. When choosing, think about: your current language proficiency, whether your future career demands English, and the type of learning environment you prefer (international vs local). If you have already studied Mandarin in Taiwan, a Chinese- or bilingual-taught program may give you an edge; if you’re aiming for an international career, English-taught may be the better fit.

Studying in Taiwan is more than classroom learning—it involves language, community and culture. We recommend you:

• Actively join international student groups and local student communities
• Challenge yourself weekly to use Mandarin in daily life—ordering food, commuting, joining club activities
• Explore off-campus life: visit night markets, local festivals and markets to get a feel of Taiwanese daily culture
• Keep an open mindset—make friends, join volunteers or campus clubs

This approach not only accelerates your language learning but also helps you build your social network, cultural awareness and an international profile in Taiwan.

Night markets and street food are a key part of Taiwanese culture. For a safe and enjoyable experience, we suggest:

• Choose food stalls with good reputations and clean environments. Check if food is fresh and well-cooked.
• Be mindful of traffic: many night markets are on streets or alleys—watch for cars and crowds when walking/biking.
• If you have dietary restrictions (allergies or religious), ask vendors about ingredients or alternative options in advance.
• Secure your belongings: in crowded places keep your bag and phone safe.

This way you can enjoy authentic Taiwanese culture and build connections through food.

In Taiwan you’re not just studying a language—you’re building an international network and cultural understanding. You can:

• Join school clubs, international student meet-ups, and volunteer activities—great places to make friends and expand your network.
• Participate in local cultural events: temple festivals, markets, music concerts or art exhibits—to experience authentic Taiwanese culture.
• Use language exchange apps or join tandem groups to learn from local students and share culture.

By embracing these opportunities, you’ll not just study in Taiwan—you’ll craft your own international experience.