The webinar began with an opening speech by the Head of the International Partnership Division from the ITB Partnership Bureau who also works as an ITB SBM (School of Business and Management) lecturer, Andika Putra Pratama, MSM., Ph.D. On the other hand, the presentation was conveyed by Tirta Amerta and Lia Citania from TEC Indonesia.

"TEC Indonesia is the official representative for the Ministry of Education in Taiwan and the Education Division of TETO,” Tirta explained. “TEC is tasked with providing information about education and scholarships in Taiwan for interested Indonesian students.”

Taiwan is one of the best countries to pursue higher education, especially in Asia. Besides having excellent academic and research facilities that are on par with the United States and Europe, its living cost is affordable enough for foreign students. Taiwan has many scholarship opportunities, employment prospects, and accessible stores to purchase halal meals. Currently, it is one of the best and safest countries in handling COVID-19 cases.

International students in Taiwan can fully enjoy the foreigner-friendly accommodations, such as the student dormitories, public transportation, and places of worship for different religions. "By using these public facilities, living costs in Taiwan can be more economical," Lia added.

Throughout the years, Taiwan has welcomed many Indonesian students. Indonesia itself becomes the 4th country with the most students studying there in 2019 with a total of 13907 students. Thus, it is easy to find fellow Indonesians there. The majority are enrolled in majors relating to Engineering, Administration and Business, Mandarin Language, and Tourism. Studying in Taiwan also provides multitudes of non-academic experiences, ranging from relations, international conferences, to cultural exchanges.

During the COVID19 pandemic, Taiwan’s learning system allows for face-to-face approaches; however, it is still mandatory to wear masks in public places, including campuses. “It is also required to undergo self-quarantine and self-health management for 14 days and 7 days respectively upon arrival," Lia noted.

Applying for a study visa can be done if students have gained permission from the Ministry of Education and the International Office of the chosen university in Taiwan. Additionally, most online university enrollment opens for February-March (Fall Semester registration) and September-October (Spring Semester registration).

Seven documents are needed to apply for college in Taiwan. "You need to prepare up to three recommendation letters from your academic advisors or lecturers, an eligible passport, academic transcript in English, TOEFL result with a minimum score of 450, proficiency certification of the Mandarin language with a minimum level of B1, CV, study plan, and financial statement," Tirta listed. She also reminded the audience that there is no requirement for a minimum GPA despite its possibility to affect the selection process.

Both Tirta and Lia then clarified the different types and providers of scholarships in Taiwan. Undergraduates, postgraduates, and doctoral students can try applying to the Huayu Enrichment Scholarship and Ministry of Education of Taiwan Scholarship. For postgraduates and doctoral students only, the available scholarship is the Taiwan ICDF Scholarship. Lastly, the Taiwan International Graduate Scholarship Program is open to only doctoral students. All scholarships mentioned, except for the Taiwan International Graduate Scholarship Program, are available for all study programs. Full information can be accessed studiditaiwan.blogspot.com.

Reporter: Yoel Enrico Meiliano (Food Engineering, 2020)

Translator: Ruth Nathania (Environmental Engineering, 2019)