Why can Japan and Taiwan be your next dream study-abroad destination?

There has been a notable rise in the number of students wanting to pursue studies in Asian countries. Due to globalization and the creation of an almost borderless world, the race to get into any university in the Big Four, i.e., the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia, has reduced. The aspects shaping the choice of study destination are becoming more practical and explorative. Students are thinking beyond big countries; they are considering factors such as cost efficiency, culture, and the strictness of educational standards.

Japan and Taiwan are two such Asian countries that are consistently working to build an education system that fosters multiculturalism. Here's why Japan and Taiwan can be your next dream study-abroad destinations:

• Backed by government policies: Japan has implemented policies to foster "Top Global Universities" and has relaxed visa rules to encourage post-study work. Taiwan’s "New Southbound Policy" targets Southeast Asian students to build stronger regional ties.

• Attracting talent: Both countries are expanding the number of English-taught programs to make their higher education systems more accessible and appealing to global audiences.

• Strong alternative: Both countries are positioning themselves as more cost-efficient alternatives to Western nations in education.

Opportunities in STEM

Japan is becoming a hub of STEM opportunities for international students. The government is providing the MEXT Scholarship (a prestigious, fully funded government scholarship for international students to study in Japan) for research, graduate, and undergraduate students. It has started to lead in AI, robotics, data science, and engineering.

Taiwan also offers quality programs in semiconductors, AI, and green energy for international students with a wide variety of research and internship opportunities available. Technological development is one of Taiwan’s strong suits; this is a clear advantage for STEM students. They can learn from experts in the field and stay updated on the latest developments. National Taiwan University (NTU), National Tsing Hua University (NTHU), and National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University (NYCU) are recognized globally for engineering, computer science, and technology.

Opportunities in Economics, Commerce, and Finance

 Japan offers the METI( Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry) Internship Program, which provides practical training with support fees. It also provides the Japan-IMF Scholarship Program for Asia (JISPA), i.e.,  a scholarship initiative aimed at developing future leaders in economic policymaking across Asia and the Pacific. 

In Taiwan, leading programs in Economics, commerce, and finance are offered by Ming Chuan University, National Taiwan Ocean University, and Tamkang University. Being one of the four Asian tigers(countries that have achieved rapid industrialization and high growth rates since the 1960s, transforming into wealthy, developed economies through export-oriented policies), the country certainly values financial acumen and economic knowledge.

Opportunities in Humanities

Many universities in Japan offer English-language programs focused on Japanese culture, history, and literature, such as Kyoto University's Transcultural Studies. Japan Society for the Promotion of Science (JSPS) offers summer programs for pre-/post-doctoral researchers in the humanities. Programs like this will allow those having a keen interest in Japanese culture to quench their curiosity by diving deep into the country’s past, literature, and customs.

International students in Taiwan have access to numerous opportunities in the Humanities, including English-taught Master's and PhD programs in Linguistics, Literature, Teaching Chinese as a Second Language, and Inter-Asia Cultural Studies at top institutions such as National Cheng Kung University and National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University.

Conclusion

Japan and Taiwan are two such countries that value international talent and help students sharpen their potential and prospects. When it comes to pursuing education abroad, the study destination is where the journey truly begins, so make your choice wisely. It is in your best interest to keep Taiwan and Japan in your list of study abroad destinations. 

Wondering how you can make your way to foreign universities? We are here to lay out the map for you! Hello Study Global will make it all easier for you.

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Is Japan or Taiwan better for STEM students?

Both are strong in STEM. Japan is globally known for robotics, AI, and advanced engineering, while Taiwan is a global leader in semiconductors and electronics. The better choice depends on your specific specialization and long-term career goals.

Do students need to know Japanese or Mandarin before applying?

Not necessarily. Many programs are offered in English. However, learning basic Japanese or Mandarin significantly improves daily life, networking, and job opportunities.

Are scholarships highly competitive in Japan and Taiwan?

Government-funded scholarships like MEXT and Taiwan’s Ministry of Education scholarships are competitive but achievable with strong academics and a clear academic purpose.