The MOE is encouraging students from countries such as Vietnam, Indonesia and the Philippines to study in Taiwan in programs focused on STEM and finance to meet industry demand.
The MOE is encouraging students from countries such as Vietnam, Indonesia and the Philippines to study in Taiwan in programs focused on STEM and finance to meet industry demand.
Taiwan’s Ministry of Education (MOE) has unveiled an ambitious plan to entice 320,000 international students to the country by 2030, with the goal of retaining at least 210,000 graduates within its borders after their studies.
Backed by a significant investment of NT$5.2 billion ($162 million) spanning five years, from 2024 to 2028, this initiative has received official approval from the Cabinet.
Key nations
The MOE intends to establish up to 10 overseas offices and introduce specialized programs to encourage students from countries such as Vietnam, Indonesia and the Philippines to study in Taiwan, with a focus on STEM and finance fields to meet industry demand.
According to Yang Yu-hui, head of the MOE’s Department of Technological and Vocational Education, the degree programs will be tailored to meet specific demands of Taiwanese businesses — emphasizing fields such as science, technology, engineering, mathematics — and finance.
“These students are our target because of the strong demand for talent in these specific disciplines,” Deputy Minister of Education Liu Mon-chi said in the report.
International students enrolled in two-year degree programs will be eligible for scholarships and living allowances provided by the Cabinet’s National Development Fund during their studies. Furthermore, students will be encouraged to stay in Taiwan for an additional two years after completing their studies, enabling them to participate in the Taiwanese labor market. The initiative aims to address Taiwan’s labor shortage.
Streamlining residence procedures
The government plans to simplify residence permit procedures, ensuring that students can easily obtain residency and permanent residency status in Taiwan, facilitating the transition for international students.
Taiwan’s reputation for higher education excellence has made it an increasingly sought-after destination for international students. Statista data indicates that the total number of international students in Taiwan approached 93,000 in 2021, slightly exceeding the 2020 figure of 90,895.
A recent survey by the Foundation for International Cooperation in Higher Education in Taiwan revealed that 42.7 percent of international students choose Taiwan because of its “quality and reputation,” while 35.8 percent are drawn by the opportunities for employment and residency in the country.
