Who Can Attend International Schools? Admission Qualifications and Nationality Restrictions for Foreign Schools
In Taiwan, schools registered as "Foreign Schools" (e.g., various foreign community/international schools) generally require students to hold foreign nationality or a specific residence status to enroll, according to Ministry of Education regulations. In contrast, bilingual schools, private schools, and experimental education institutions registered under Taiwan's domestic education system are open to Taiwanese students. Therefore, whether a child can attend depends first on the school's registration type, and then on each school's own admission criteria. The following is a neutral explanation; actual qualifications are subject to the latest regulations of each school and the competent authority.
FAQ
Can a child with Taiwanese nationality attend an international school?
It depends on the school's registration type. Schools registered as "Foreign Schools" are generally limited to students with foreign nationality or specific residence status, according to the Ministry of Education's establishment and management regulations. However, bilingual schools, private schools, and experimental education institutions registered under Taiwan's domestic system accept Taiwanese students. It is recommended to confirm the school's registration type and target student group directly with the school.
What are the typical admission requirements for foreign schools?
In addition to legal restrictions on nationality or residence status, each school sets its own criteria, which commonly include language (e.g., English) proficiency assessment, entrance exams or interviews, previous academic records, and seat availability. Actual requirements and required documents are subject to each school's admission announcements.
If my child does not hold foreign nationality, what options are available for studying international curricula (IB/AP/A-Level)?
Common options for Taiwanese families include: enrolling in bilingual or private schools that offer international curricula, participating in experimental education, or studying abroad first and then transferring. Each option differs in terms of student status, curriculum, and articulation for further education. It is advisable to evaluate based on the child's age and academic goals, and to confirm with the school. You may also refer to our pages "What is the difference between international schools and bilingual schools?" and "How to choose between IB, AP, and A-Level curricula?".
Does holding a foreign residence permit or permanent residency guarantee admission to a foreign school?
Not necessarily. Nationality or residence status is only one of the legal conditions. Whether it meets the requirements depends on the school's registration type and admission regulations. Some schools may have additional requirements regarding the parent's status or type of residence. Please confirm with the school and the latest regulations of the education authority.
How can I find out whether a school is a foreign school and which students it admits?
You can request the school's registration documents, check the school's registration type with the education authority (the K-12 Education Administration of the Ministry of Education or local education bureaus), and read the admission brochure that specifies the target student group. This website provides a neutral compilation of public information and does not make determinations on individual schools' qualifications. All information is subject to the official announcements of each school.
官方資料來源：教育部主管法規查詢系統（外國僑民學校設立及管理辦法）、教育部國民及學前教育署、內政部移民署（居留／定居）
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.