Experimental Education, Homeschooling, and College: A Look at Student Status, Equivalent Academic Qualifications, and Pathways
Short answer: Yes. Children in non-school experimental education (homeschooling) or experimental schools have formal pathways to higher education under the Three Experimental Education Acts. Completion of junior high school yields a diploma for senior high school admission; completion of senior high school yields a diploma, certificate of completion, or certificate of participation in experimental education, which after a certain period qualifies as equivalent academic qualifications for university admission. The following is based on Ministry of Education regulations; actual recognition depends on the competent authority and admissions brochures.
First, the answer: Experimental education students have formal pathways—it's not a one-way street away from the system.
This is the biggest concern for parents. Under the Act for Non-School-Based Experimental Education at the Preschool, Elementary, and Secondary Levels, students who complete each stage of experimental education (including homeschooling) can obtain academic credentials or equivalent qualifications as stipulated, and proceed to higher education through regular channels—it's not a dead end. What you need to understand is what credential you get at each stage and how it is recognized for admissions.
Official Source：National Laws and Regulations Database — Non-School-Based Experimental Education Implementation Act
Junior high stage: Completion yields a diploma for senior high admission
Under the Act, students who participate in non-school experimental education at the junior high level and pass their assessments can receive a junior high diploma from the school where they are registered. With this diploma, they can participate in senior high school admission channels such as the open enrollment system, just like regular junior high graduates. (The Comprehensive Assessment Program for Junior High School Students is one of the comparison items; experimental education students register according to regulations.) Actual eligibility and timelines are subject to announcements by local admission districts and education authorities.
Official Source：Ministry of Education, K-12 Education Administration
Senior high stage: Diploma, certificate of completion, or certificate of participation in experimental education
For senior high experimental education, depending on the assessment and implementation method, students may receive a diploma or a certificate of completion. If the program has been running for at least 1.5 years and the learning report has been approved, a 'Certificate of Participation in Senior High Experimental Education' may also be issued. These credentials differ in nature but are all important for subsequent admissions (especially for using equivalent qualifications to apply to universities). Keep them safe and ensure they are officially issued by the school or competent authority.
Official Source：National Laws and Regulations Database — Non-School-Based Experimental Education Implementation Act
How to apply to university: After a certain period and with a completion certificate, use 'equivalent academic qualifications'
Under Article 30 of the Act, students who have completed at least three years of senior high experimental education (or a combination of regular senior high and experimental education totaling three years) and hold a 'Certificate of Completion of Senior High Experimental Education' issued by the competent authority may use 'equivalent academic qualifications' to apply to universities. This means they can register for the General Scholastic Ability Test (GSAT) and the Advanced Subjects Test (AST) and use regular university admission channels. Individual departments may have additional requirements for equivalent qualification applicants; actual recognition is subject to Ministry of Education regulations and the College Entrance Examination Center brochures.
Official Source：College Entrance Examination Center
FAQ
If I homeschool my child or enroll them in experimental education, can they still go to university?
Yes. Under Article 30 of the Non-School-Based Experimental Education Implementation Act, students who complete at least three years of senior high experimental education (or a combination of regular senior high and experimental education totaling three years) and hold a completion certificate may use equivalent academic qualifications to apply to universities. They can register for the GSAT and AST. Actual recognition is subject to Ministry of Education regulations and the College Entrance Examination Center brochures.
Do experimental education students get a junior high diploma? Can they take the Comprehensive Assessment and apply to senior high?
Yes. Students who pass junior high experimental education can receive a junior high diploma from their registered school, which allows them to participate in senior high admission channels such as open enrollment. The Comprehensive Assessment scores are one of the comparison items; experimental education students register according to regulations. Details are subject to announcements by local admission districts.
What is the difference between applying with 'equivalent academic qualifications' and applying as a regular senior high graduate?
Equivalent academic qualifications are a status that allows individuals without a regular senior high diploma but meeting legal requirements to take university entrance exams. The exams (GSAT/AST) are the same; the difference lies in the qualification documents required for registration. Some departments may have additional requirements for equivalent qualification applicants; check each department's brochure.
What credential do students receive after completing senior high experimental education?
Depending on the assessment and implementation method, they may receive a diploma, a certificate of completion, or, if the program has run for at least 1.5 years and the learning report is approved, a 'Certificate of Participation in Senior High Experimental Education.' These are important for subsequent admissions using equivalent qualifications; keep them safe.
Is the admission pathway the same for school-based experimental schools (including charter schools) and homeschooling?
Not exactly. School-based and charter experimental schools handle student registration and diplomas, so their admission pathways are closer to regular schools. Non-school-based experimental education (homeschooling, groups, institutions) typically uses completion certificates and equivalent qualifications for admission. Actual procedures depend on the school and competent authority.
Can students in experimental education with an international curriculum pursue both Taiwanese and foreign university admissions?
It depends on the curriculum and credentials. If they also take foreign courses (e.g., IB/AP), they may apply to foreign universities. To use Taiwanese university channels, they must meet Taiwan's equivalent qualification or credential recognition requirements. The two paths have different requirements; it is advisable to confirm with the school and the College Entrance Examination Center early (see also our article 'How to Choose IB, AP, or A-Level Courses').
Official Source：National Laws and Regulations Database — Act for Non-School-Based Experimental Education at the Preschool, Elementary, and Secondary Levels、College Entrance Examination Center (GSAT, AST)、Ministry of Education, K-12 Education Administration
This page is a neutral compilation of information for reference only. It does not constitute admission advice or any promise of admission or visa outcomes.