What Is Experimental Education? How to Choose and Apply for School-Based, Public-Private Partnership, and Homeschooling (Non-School-Based) Models
Experimental education is a legally recognized form of schooling outside the regular system, based on specific educational philosophies, under the 'Three Laws of Experimental Education.' It is divided into three types: ① School-based experimental education, ② Public schools entrusted to private management (public-private partnership), and ③ Non-school-based experimental education (including individual homeschooling, group, and institutional experimental education). Local students are eligible; non-school-based forms require submitting a plan to the local education authority for approval by a review committee. Student registration and equivalency are handled according to regulations. The following is a neutral summary; actual conditions are subject to the latest regulations from the competent authorities.
FAQ
What types of experimental education exist? How do they differ from regular schools?
Under the 'Three Laws of Experimental Education,' there are three types: school-based experimental education (a whole school operating under a specific philosophy), public schools entrusted to private management (public-private partnership), and non-school-based experimental education (individual homeschooling, group homeschooling, and institutional experimental education). The difference lies in more flexible curricula and assessments, designed according to educational philosophies, but student registration, graduation, and academic pathways must still comply with regulations.
How do I apply for homeschooling (non-school-based experimental education)?
For individual experimental education (commonly known as homeschooling), parents must submit an experimental education plan to the local education authority in the student's household registration area. The plan must be approved by the local experimental education review committee. Each county/city has fixed application periods and forms each semester/academic year; actual procedures are subject to announcements from local education bureaus.
Does experimental education grant student registration? Can students later pursue higher education or obtain a diploma?
For non-school-based experimental education, student registration is typically maintained at the original school district or a designated partner school. Upon completion, students receive equivalent academic qualifications and can pursue higher education through regular channels. School-based and public-private partnership experimental education handle registration through the school itself. Details are subject to regulations from the competent authorities and the school.
Can local (Taiwanese) children enroll in experimental education?
Yes. Experimental education is conducted under local laws, so local students are eligible, without the nationality restrictions of 'foreign schools.' For local students who want an international curriculum, experimental education and bilingual/private schools are common options (see 'Who Can Attend International Schools' on this site).
How much does experimental education cost? Is there a big difference between public-private and private institutions?
Costs vary widely. Public school-based and public-private partnership experimental education generally follow public school fee standards and are lower. Private institutional experimental education and some private experimental schools set their own fees, which may be similar to private or international schools. Individual homeschooling mainly involves textbook and course expenses. Actual fees are subject to each school/institution's announcements; this site does not provide cost estimates.
How do I choose between experimental education and bilingual/international schools?
First, clarify the goal: if you value flexible curricula and specific educational philosophies, consider experimental education; if you prioritize foreign language instruction or overseas academic pathways, consider bilingual or international schools. The three differ in student registration, curriculum systems, and academic pathways. There is no single answer; it is recommended to visit schools and evaluate based on the child's situation.
官方資料來源：全國法規資料庫 — 高級中等以下教育階段非學校型態實驗教育實施條例、全國法規資料庫 — 學校型態實驗教育實施條例、教育部國民及學前教育署
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.