A guide to the Taiwan (Republic of China) education system and how your credentials compare to US standards for immigration, university admissions, and employment.
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Apply Now →Taiwan (Republic of China) operates a 12-year system of general education with children starting school at age 6. The Ministry of Education is responsible for implementing education policy and regulations. The academic year begins in September and ends in June, divided into two semesters. Mandarin Chinese is the primary language of instruction throughout all levels. Taiwan's education system is highly regarded and has produced a strong tradition of science and technology graduates.
Compulsory. Culminates in the Primary School Diploma. Covers Mandarin Chinese, Mathematics, Science, Social Studies, Arts, Music, Physical Education, and English (introduced in Grade 3).
Compulsory. Students study a broad curriculum preparing for high school entrance. Since 2014, admission to senior high school is primarily through the Basic Competency Test (國中教育會考).
Academic Senior High Schools (普通高中) prepare students for university. Senior Vocational Schools (高職) provide technical and vocational training. Culminates in the Senior High School Leaving Certificate (Diploma) or Senior Vocational School Certificate. University admission is primarily through the General Scholastic Ability Test (學科能力測驗, GSAT) and the Advanced Subject Test (指定科目考試).
Taiwan is home to prestigious universities including National Taiwan University (NTU) and National Tsing Hua University. Bachelor's degrees take 4 years (medicine takes 7 years). Master's degrees are 1–4 years and PhD programs 2–7 years. Taiwan universities use a 100-point grading scale.
| Taiwan Grade | Score Range | US Equivalent |
|---|---|---|
| A (優) | 80 – 100 | A |
| B (良) | 70 – 79 | B |
| C (可) | 60 – 69 | C |
| D (劣) | 50 – 59 | F |
| E (不及格) | 0 – 49 | F |
A formal credential evaluation is required for US university admissions, employment-based immigration petitions, and professional licensing.
All Taiwanese academic documents must be accompanied by certified English translations. Evaluation World offers Mandarin-to-English translation services combined with your evaluation order.