When searching for Chinese language programs in Taiwan from abroad a few top notch language learning programs will catch your attention. Many of the best universities offer different mandarin programs and you are likely looking for the best way to learn Chinese while living in Taipei. One of the schools that always get mentioned is NTU which is the top ranked university in Taiwan. When you go to apply you might think it is a straightforward process, however, there’s one big thing to clear up first: National Taiwan University (NTU) actually has two major Chinese programs, and they are very different!
National taiwan university (NTU) is the top university in Taiwan, so it tries to cater to every possible type of Chinese language learner: This school being the premier school ,it of course has thousands of students yearly and each may have different requirements. Are you here in Taiwan only to study for Chinese as your primary reason, are you here taking a six months semester abroad program and want to get credits, are you here to go down the academic route and learn classical Chinese . Whatever it is , NTU university offers it, so it is important to find one that is aligned with your goals , budget and future plans and dates.
These are for people whose primary reason for being in Taiwan is to learn Chinese.
Key features : why they are separate?
They are independent of the main university degree programs. You don't have to be an NTU "student" to apply here.
They offer a lot more hours than regular semester programs .
limited class size for greater personal learning.
ICLP International Chinese language practice. Chinese: 國際華語研習所; pinyin: Guójì Huáyǔ Yánxísuǒ (The Intensive Track):
CLD Chinese language division. (The Standard Track): This is for people who want a balanced life. It’s cheaper, has more social activities, and is the go-to for many international students.
Think of these as the "Hard Mode" vs. the "Regular Mode" of Chinese learning.
| Feature | ICLP (The Intensive One) | CLD (The Standard One) |
| Full Name | International Chinese Language Program | Chinese Language Division |
| Vibe | Academic, elite, extremely fast-paced. | Practical, social, standard pace. |
| Class Size | 1–4 students (Very small). 1-1 tutor | 6–12 students. |
| Hours/Week | 20 hours + hours of homework. | 15 hours. |
| Price (approx.) | ~NT$170,000 per quarter. | ~NT$45,000 per quarter. |
| Goal | Academic research or professional fluency. | Daily communication and HES scholarship. |
If you are already an NTU student (e.g., doing a Master's or an Exchange year), NTU offers free (or low-cost) Chinese classes through the Office of International Affairs (OIA).
General Chinese: A 6-hour-per-week course that gives you 3 academic credits. It’s meant to help you survive daily life while you study your other subjects.
Enhancing Chinese: An extra 4 hours of practice you can add on.
Why they exist: NTU wants its international degree students to integrate into Taiwanese society without the language barrier becoming a distraction from their main studies.
This is totally different. This is for students who want to study Chinese Literature as their major.
Focus: It’s not about "learning the language"—it’s about analyzing classical poetry, history, and philosophy.
Why it exists: This is the equivalent of an English major in the US or UK. It’s for people who are already fluent and want to dive into the deep culture.
If you are applying to Chinese this year , then you need to watch these deadlines closely. there are many general things to know , strictly Chinese courses offered at any language center in Taiwan are often split into semesters by seasons. they run for up to three months a (quarter ) , spring, summer , fall , winter. Which is sightly different from regular school semesters so make sure to understand your schedule first.
Perfect for the typical international student.
Summer Term 2026 (Jun–Aug): Application deadline is February 20, 2026.
Fall Term 2026 (Aug–Nov): Application deadline is May 16, 2026.
Winter Term 2026 (Nov–Feb): Application deadline is August 14, 2026.
For serious scholars and those with a bigger budget.
Summer 2026 (9-week program): Priority deadline was Jan 15, but Regular deadline is March 1, 2026.
Fall 2026: Application deadline is June 30, 2026.
Applying to NTU’s language programs is a multi-stage process. Whether you are aiming for the high-intensity ICLP or the social CLD, here is your roadmap to getting settled in Taipei.
Both programs use their own dedicated online portals. You will typically need to upload:
A Statement of Purpose: Why Taiwan? Why NTU? (ICLP requires a more detailed academic/career plan).
Academic Transcripts: Usually a digital scan of your most recent collegiate work.
Letters of Recommendation: ICLP requires two references; CLD is generally more flexible but check current year requirements.
Application Fee: Usually around NT$1,000 to NT$3,000 depending on the program.
Once you are accepted, NTU will send you an Admission Letter. This is your most important document!
Visitor Visa (for Chinese Study): This is depending on your country and stay lenght but mmost countries do have 90 -day visa entry in taiwan. if not You must apply for a tourist visa at your nearest Taipei Economic and Cultural Office (TECO) in your country before arriving. click link for more explanation.
Financial Proof: You will need to show a bank statement (usually around US$2,500+) to prove you can support yourself for at least three months.
Note: If you plan to stay for more than 6 months, you will eventually convert this to a Resident Visa and an ARC (Alien Resident Certificate) after you've completed your first term.
Shortly before the semester starts, you will head to the NTU campus for:
The Placement Test: A written and oral exam to ensure you aren't in a class that is too easy or too hard.
Tuition Payment: You’ll receive a bill to pay at a local bank or convenience store.
Once you have completed your placement test and paid your tuition, you are officially an NTU student! This final step is often the most exciting, as you will receive your student ID and gain access to one of Taiwan's most beautiful campuses, including the massive Main Library and the Sports Center. Remember to keep all your payment receipts, as you will need them if you plan to convert your initial Visitor Visa into a Resident Visa and apply for an ARC (Alien Resident Certificate) after completing your first term.
Finding the right place to live is just as important as choosing the right program. The area around National Taiwan University (Gongguan and Da’an Districts) is the heartbeat of student life in Taipei.
The Experience: Living in the Prince House or other NTU dorms is the most convenient option.
The Reality: Space is extremely limited and highly competitive. Rooms are often shared, and strict rules regarding visitors and cooking can make it feel a bit restrictive for older or more independent students.
Community First: Many international students at ICLP and CLD choose to live in a Taiwan Share House. It is the best way to immediately meet people from around the world—not just from your own country.
Location: We have several houses located in the Gongguan and Da’an areas, meaning you can walk or bike to your NTU classes in minutes.
All-Inclusive Living: Unlike traditional apartments where you have to set up your own utilities and internet, our houses come fully furnished with all-inclusive rent, making your transition to Taipei stress-free.
The Search: You can find rooftop studios or shared apartments on local sites like 591.
The Challenge: Most landlords require a one-year lease and a two-month deposit. Language barriers can also make signing contracts and managing repairs difficult if your Mandarin is still in the "beginner" phase.
Living near NTU means you are surrounded by the Gongguan Night Market, endless affordable student cafes, and the
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