Introduction
● Purpose of HES
To encourage international students and individuals to undertake Mandarin Chinese language study in Taiwan, the Ministry of Education (MOE) of the Republic of China (Taiwan) established the MINISTRY OF EDUCATION HUAYU ENRICHMENT SCHOLARSHIP (HES) Program in 2005. While providing language study opportunities for Mandarin Chinese and to learn about Taiwan's culture at certified university or college-affiliated Mandarin training centers.
● Scholarship quotas and designated offices
13 one-year HES quotas will be available for US citizens from the Southwest areas of the USA in the year 2024. Applicants who have a permanent address or are currently enrolling or have been enrolled within the past 3 years full-time in a university located in the following areas: Southern California, Arizona, New Mexico, Hawaii, Caroline Islands, Guam, Marshall Islands, Mariana Islands, and American Samoa, please contact or submit your application to:
Education Division
Taipei Economic and Cultural Office (TECO) in Los Angeles
3731 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 770
Los Angeles, CA 90010
Ms. Emily Shen
● How long is the award period?
The following are five award periods for a recipient to choose from. However, the final award period will be decided by your Taiwan Representative Offices:
1. Twelve months
2. Nine months
3. Six months
4. Three months
5. Two months (summer program only) in June/July or July/August of 2024.
For those who are awarded 3 to 12 months, their award period is between September 1st, 2024 , and August 31st, 2025. If recipients fail to undertake their study in Taiwan during this period, their award status will be canceled and cannot be deferred for the next award period. Recipients should be matriculated for the study term/quarter at the individual Mandarin training center as specified in the award. Recipients can defer their matriculation if approved by the Mandarin training center and the MOE; always contact your designated Education Division first for any inquiries/changes; in any case, the yearly award period expires on August 31st, 2025.
If recipients fail to come to Taiwan for enrollment during the above time, they will forfeit their right to retain their scholarships. Scholarship funding will become effective on the date of the recipient’s enrollment. Scholarship funding will end on the month of the expiration of the scholarship, as soon as a recipient drops out, is expelled from a language training center, or if the scholarship is revoked, whichever comes first.
● What are the benefits?
A stipend of NT$25,000 (approximately USD830, subject to exchange rate) is to be offered to the recipient per month. Please note that no additional subsidy will be given. The benefits should be used to cover the entire cost of tuition, as well as providing for room, board, insurance and miscellaneous fees. Recipients are responsible for their own expenses.
Stipends will be awarded monthly based on the students’ attendance records and academic performance and are disbursed through the Mandarin training centers where the recipients attend classes, either by directly depositing into the recipient’s bank account or other method as specified by the individual institutions. Additionally, since the awardees will not be able to receive scholarship before enrollment, it is suggested to prepare at least about USD 3,000 with you for the tuition fees, rent / deposit and living expenses in the first few weeks.
US citizens who are not in the above mentioned areas, please check your relevant TECO listed below:
Areas Designated TECO Offices in USA
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● Areas: Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Washington, D.C., Maryland, Virginia, West Virginia, Bermuda Island, Delaware
● Designated TECO Office: Education Division, Taipei Economic and Cultural Representative Office (TECRO) in the United States https://depart.moe.edu.tw/dc/
___________________________
●Areas: Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, Vermont Education
●Designated TECO Office: Education Division, Taipei Economic and Cultural Office (TECO) in Boston http://www.moebos.org
___________________________
● Areas: Northern California, Nevada, Utah, Alaska, Idaho, Montana, Oregon, Washington, Wyoming
● Designated TECO Office: Education Division, TECO in San Francisco https://depart.moe.edu.tw/SF/Default.aspx
___________________________
●Areas: Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Oklahoma, Texas, Colorado, Kansas, Missouri
●Designated TECO Office: Education Division, TECO in Houston https://www.moetw.org
___________________________
●Areas: Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Michigan, Minnesota, Ohio, Wisconsin, Nebraska, North Dakota, South Dakota
●Designated TECO Office: Education Division, TECO in Chicago http://www.edutw.org
___________________________
●Areas: Connecticut, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania
●Designated TECO Office: Education Division, TECO in New York http://www.edutwny.org
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Note: Please be advised that each TECO office may have different quotas, guidelines, requirements, selection processes, and even deadlines. Please directly contact your relevant representative office for details by the end of January.
For applicants who are not US citizens, please contact the Taiwan Representative Offices located in your country or the nearest country. Check online for the Taiwan Representative Offices’ contact information here .
Eligibility
A HES applicant must meet all of the following criteria:
1. Be a US citizen.
2. Be above the age of 18, who processes a high school diploma or above, have excellent academic performance in his/her most recent formal educational study experience and be of good moral character and not have any criminal records.
Applicants with one of the following qualifications are ineligible to apply:
1. Have the status of being an “Overseas Compatriot Student” or dual national of US and R.O.C. (Taiwan) who has acquired or possessed a R.O.C. passport.
2. Is currently registered as a student at a Mandarin Language Center or has sought a degree from a university or college in Taiwan.
3. Has already received a HES or a Taiwan Scholarship in the past.
4. Is an exchange student to Taiwan in accordance with an agreement of collaboration between an international university/college and an educational institute in Taiwan, during the scholarship period.
5. Is simultaneously a recipient of any other scholarship or subsidy offered by other government agency or any other educational institutions in Taiwan.
Application Procedure
● When to apply?
The yearly application period is from February 1st through March 31st, unless specified otherwise.
● Where to apply?
Applicants who are US citizens and have a permanent address or are currently enrolled or have been enrolled within the past three years full-time in a university located in the following areas: Southern California, Arizona, New Mexico, Hawaii, Caroline Islands, Guam, Marshall Islands, Mariana Islands, and American Samoa, please send all required documents to:
Education Division
Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in Los Angeles
3731 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 770
Los Angeles, CA 90010
Attention: Ms. Emily Shen
For applicants, who are located outside of the above listed areas, please contact the Taiwan Representative Office in your area or in the nearest location. Check online for the Taiwan Representative Offices’ contact information .
● What materials are needed to apply?
The following documents are required before the application can be processed:
1. One copy of the completed application Form.
2. One photocopy of US passport or other certificate of nationality.
3. One photocopy of the highest level diploma and an official sealed transcript.
4. Photocopy of completed application forms for the language centers applied applied to in Taiwan, or other documents which can prove applicant’s admission status. For summer 2-month program applicants, an admission acceptance letter from a language center should be enclosed in the application material package.
5. HES terms of Agreement.
6. Participants of the TOCFL (Test of Chinese as a Foreign Language) held by the Education Division, TECO office, will also be considered with priority. As for where and when to take the TOCFL test in LOS Angeles, please click here for sign-up information.
● What else should applicants do?
1. Please note that scholarship applications and language center admission applications are separate. Applicants are responsible for their application to the language centers that they would like to attend. Applicants who are granted scholarships are not guaranteed admission to any language center. Applicants must make note of the different deadlines for scholarships and school admission. As for the list of certified Chinese Language Centers and how to apply for admission, please refer to the Ministry of Education website.
2. For summer 2-month program applicants, an admission acceptance letter from a certified language center should be enclosed right in the application material package, and send to US for processing before March 31st.
3. For those who apply for 3 to 12 months, applicants need to submit a copy of the admission letter to TECO in order to secure their scholarship by no later than June 30th.
4. Late submission of these documents will be deemed as a waiver for accepting the scholarship. Candidates will be disqualified if they fail to pass the application review process of respective language centers.
● Selection Process
1. In principle, selection priority will be given based on applicants’ potential, such as ability to master the language and/or to those who eventually intend to undertake a further degree or to pursue career development related to the language or study of Taiwan.
2. Applications will be reviewed; applicants may be interviewed, if necessary, and will be notified of the preliminary result of the selection by (TECO) no later than May 10 of the year. Summer 2-month program applicants, will be notified the final result by April 30th.
3. After an admission acceptance letter of a language center sent by applicants is received, (TECO) will proceed to finalize its scholarship selection reviews. Except summer 2-month application, the final confirmation of scholarship recipients will be made by the end of July. The roster of the scholarship recipients will be submitted by the end of July to the Ministry of Education and the language centers they have been admitted to.
TOCFL - Be an efficient and TOP-noth learner of Mandarin Chinese !
The Test Of Chinese as a Foreign Language (TOCFL) is Taiwan's national standardized test designed and developed by the National Taiwan Normal University to evaluate and certify the Chinese language proficiency of non-native speakers, such as foreigners and overseas Chinese. TOCFL test is administrated by the Ministry of Education through the Steering Committee for the Test Of Proficiency-Huayu (SC-TOP). Overseas, the SC-TOP co-proctors test administration with local Taiwan representative offices and/or educational institutions.
Visit TOCFL Page
HES Application Forms & Guidelines
● Huayu_scholarship_application_form.pdf
● 2024_HUAYU_SCHOLARSHIP_General Regulation.pdf
● The Terms of Agreement of HES (PDF)
Disclaimer
The HES Program General Regulations announced by the Education Division, TECO in Los Angeles are adapted from the "Ministry of Education Huayu Enrichment Scholarship (HES) Regulations". If there is any discrepancy or conflict between the Ministry of Education (MOE) regulations and TECO regulations, the MOE regulations shall prevail. Matters not mentioned herein shall be governed by relevant MOE regulations.
Additional Important Information
● Suspension
1. Attendance Records: If a recipient is absent from his/her required language sessions for up to 12 hours within a single month, the award will be suspended for 1 month and the stipend cannot be reclaimed.
2. Academic Performance: Beginning from the first term/quarter of his/her study in Taiwan, if a recipient's overall academic average scores for a study term/quarter are less than 80 out of 100, the award will be suspended for 1 month and the stipend cannot be reclaimed.
3. For recipients whose award periods are 9 months or longer, if she/he did not submit a qualified copy of the test score report or certificate for the " Test of Chinese as a Foreign Language" (TOCFL) (Basic/Level 3 or above and must take within 2 years) during the application for the scholarship, then the recipient must submit a copy of the TOCFL test score report or certificate (Basic level/ Level 3 or above) to the institutions where she/he is studying. Deadline for submission of the test score report or certificate is 1 month before the due date of their award period. Recipients who fail to do so will lose 1 month’s stipend. TOCFL registration fee is the full responsibility of the recipient.
● Revocation
A recipient will be permanently disqualified from receiving a HES and the remaining stipends will be cancelled, if one of the following situations arises:
1. Failure to achieve an average academic score of 80 or above out of 100 for two consecutive terms/quarters of study.
2. Missing a final achievement score for any study term/quarter, with the exception of serious illness or accident.
3. The recipient will not continue to receive the scholarship if he/she violates R.O.C. laws.
4. The scholarship will be suspended or revoked if the recipient violated University or Mandarin Language Center regulations.
● Transfer of Institutions
After the study term/quarter, recipients of 12 months scholarship can request a one-time only transfer to another Mandarin Language Center with permission of the original Mandarin Language Center. Recipients of the summer class, 3 months, 6 months or 9 months scholarship are not eligible to apply for a transfer.
● Course Hours
The recipient should undertake at least 15 hours of language courses each week. This does not include cultural visits, speeches, and other self-learning curriculum or activities.
● Medical/Health Insurance Requirements
Recipients of a six month or longer scholarship are mandatory by law to join the National Health Insurance Program after four months from the date of your arrival. Before joining, recipients should purchase student accident insurance and other relevant insurance. Insurance fees can be deducted by the Mandarin Language Centers from the monthly stipend before granting to recipients.
● What other privileges are there for recipients?
1. Once your application is approved, you will receive one copy of the Scholarship Certificate Letter issued by TECO for you to keep as an honor. The certificate is also used as a personal financial statement shown to schools and for applying for a visa to enter Taiwan, as well as for obtaining an Alien Resident Certificate (ARC) for legally staying in Taiwan afterwards.
2. Recipients will be invited to attend an orientation organized by their designated TECO office, usually in August, to better understand the living and study environment in Taiwan. It is also a chance to meet and exchange with returning recipients before the new recipients depart for Taiwan.
3. HES recipients who intend to further pursue degree studies at a university or college in Taiwan can follow application procedures specified by the Taiwan Scholarship Program Guidelines. Applicants who are interested in the Taiwan Scholarship can obtain information about the universities/colleges in Taiwan and the latest program guidelines by going to the website of the Ministry of Education (https://www.studyintaiwan.org/) of Taiwan, or writing to the designated TECO Office directly for information about requirements and availability of programs. One can also visit the official government website for advice on studying in Taiwan at www.studyintaiwan.org .
4. All scholarship recipients are automatic members of Taiwan Alumni Association in Los Angeles ( https://www.facebook.com/TAALAUSA/). The Taiwan Alumni Association Los Angeles Chapter aims to bring individuals together who have previously studied in Taiwan and are now located in the L.A. area or beyond. All those interested in experience-sharing, engaging in dialogue on culture or language, or networking with fellow Taiwan alumni are welcome to participate in this organization.
Why Learn Chinese in Taiwan
Jon Huntsman, former U.S. Ambassador to China said "Mandarin has become more useful in the world. People who can speak English and Mandarin are more likely to succeed." And where did Mr. Huntsman learn his Mandarin? -- in TAIWAN.
Kevin Rudd, the former Prime Minister of Australia, once declared that "I am committed to making Australia the most Asia-literate country in the collective West," And where did Mr. Rudd study Chinese language and history? -- in TAIWAN.
Scott K. Oelkers, Managing Director of Domino's Pizza in Taiwan and China, said “Our experience in Taiwan has helped us in the area of leadership. We can leverage our management in Taiwan to lead the effort in China.” And where did Mr. Oelkers learn his Mandarin? -- in TAIWAN.
Taiwan has been home to numerous world-renowned Mandarin Chinese language institutions. This is one of the reasons why thousands of international students coming to Taiwan for all levels of language study every year. Students in Taiwan can enjoy the benefits of high-quality teaching and a rich learning environment. In addition, there is much to be gained from experiencing the blend of tradition and modernity found in Taiwanese culture and society.
Taiwan is the only place in the world where traditional Chinese writing (正體字) is widely taught and used. A mastery of traditional Chinese characters provides access to an enormous body of ancient Chinese literature, key to understanding the origins of Chinese culture.
Taiwan is a democratic and liberal country; its political, economic, and societal framework are very similar to those of the western world. Taiwan values free speech and human rights. It is also a deeply traditional Asian country with a fascinating language and culture that are thousands of years old.
Taiwanese people are among the friendliest in the world, and generally maintain agreeable attitudes towards the West and the U.S. Many Taiwanese are able to communicate in English, but also willing to help foreigners with learning Chinese. Taiwan is working hard to create a friendly environment for its international friends. Government offices and public affairs offices have created English and Chinese websites in order to assist individuals with accessing information and services in a more efficient and convenient manner.
This thriving and democratic society also offers a clean and safe living environment with a low crime rate and overall high level of security and comfort.
Taiwanese enjoy a terrific nightlife. Taiwanese shops, restaurants, bars, teahouses, coffee shops, night markets and nightclubs all stay open very late. You can shop, socialize, eat and dance long into the night.
Taiwan is a beautiful subtropical country with beautiful mountains and pristine beaches. The Portuguese called Taiwan "Formosa,” which means “beautiful island," when they resided on Taiwan during the 16th century. Outdoor sports and adventure are available year-round.
Most importantly, more than 30 college or university-affiliated Mandarin Chinese language centers in Taiwan provide high quality instructors and utilize the most modern and practical approach to language learning. Make your learning experience of the difficult Chinese language efficient and worthy.
Taiwan's universities are able to offer affordable tuition rates. Tuition fees for Chinese-learning students in a university affiliated language center in a small group setting may vary from NT$23,000 to NT$11,000 (approximately US$ 800 to $370, subject to exchange rate and expected to change every year) for a 12-week course. General expenses per year include books, housing, meals and transportation, insurance, entertainment, etc., and are estimated to be around NT$200,000 to NT$300,000 (equivalent to US$ 6,850 to US$10,000). With a high standard of teaching, inexpensive tuition rates, and affordable cost of living, Taiwan is an ideal place to learn Chinese.
Visa Application Procedure
The following information is intended for US citizens who live in Southern California, Arizona, New Mexico and Hawaii. If you reside outside of the above listed areas while applying for visa, please direct the application and inquiry to your local TECO's consular Office instead. Check online for the Taiwan Representative Offices’ contact information.
Visa Category:
1. Recipients with scholarship period more than 6 months are eligible to apply for multi-entry Resident Visa
2. Recipients with scholarship period equal to or less than 6 months are eligible to apply for multi-entry Visitor Visa
Purpose of Stay: Study Chinese
● Residents in the following areas: Southern California, Arizona, and New Mexico.
a. Walk-in Service
Required Documents:
1. Scholarship Certificate issued by Education Division of TECO in Los Angeles.
2. A certificate of admission issued by the Chinese language center.
3. A completed barcoded Visa Application printout.
4. A U.S passport valid for no less than six months.
5. Two 2x2-inch color photos with a plain color (white color recommended) background taken within the last six months.
6. Health Certificate issued within the last three months, required only for Resident Visa application.
7. Visa processing fee of $160.00 (cash, money order, or cashier's check)
*Health Certificate
A health certificate issued within the past three months by a licensed foreign hospital or clinic is required. The required items for examination are determined by the health authority. The certificate should be authenticated at a ROC Embassy, Consulate or Mission within the jurisdiction of the issuing agency. Please submit with “Application form for Authentication” and authentication fee is $15.
b. Mail-in Service
All the required documents are same as above.
1. Mailing Address:
Consular Service Division
TECO in Los Angeles
3731 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 700
Los Angeles, CA 90010
2. Postage** for returning passport and documents by express mail : US$29 (domestic only)
** The acceptable methods of payment are: money order, or cashier's check made payable to TECO.
● Residents in Hawaii
Please contact the Consular Service Division of TECO in Hawaii for detailed information and assistance:
Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in Honolulu
2746 Pali Highway,
Honolulu, HI, 96817
Tel:(808)595-6347
FAX:(808)595-6542
Testimonials
Michael Paul, Ph.D. - Assistant Professor of Chinese, Brigham Young University-Idaho; 2007 Huayu Enrichment Scholarship Recipient
In 2007 I received a TECO Huayu Enrichment Scholarship and spent six months studying in Taiwan. I specifically chose to study in Taiwan because the great reputation that many of the language programs there have. Additionally, I was concerned about finding a program where I could study at the advanced level. Finally, I have a family with small children and felt comfortable taking them to a developed country like Taiwan because of the excellent healthcare facilities and family-friendly environment.
The generous scholarship from TECO and the excellent language program at National Taiwan University made it possible for me to accomplish my language learning goals. After completing my studies I was able to land a Chinese language teaching position at a university and currently teaching beginning and intermediate-level Chinese language classes. I now recommend that my own students consider studying in Taiwan and applying for the TECO Huayu Enrichment scholarship.