The Taiwan Fellowship offers a unique opportunity for international scholars and researchers to conduct advanced studies in Taiwan. This fully funded program, supported by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) of the Republic of China (Taiwan), aims to foster global academic exchange and strengthen research collaborations. It is designed for individuals interested in topics related to Taiwan, cross-strait relations, the Asia-Pacific region, Sinology, diplomacy, and emerging geopolitical issues. The fellowship provides financial support, airfare assistance, and insurance, allowing recipients to focus on their research for a period of three months to one year.
About the Taiwan Fellowship
Established to encourage international academic interest in Taiwan and the Indo-Pacific region, the Taiwan Fellowship has grown into a respected program. It supports research across a wide array of subjects, including Taiwan studies, Asia-Pacific affairs, Sinology, diplomacy, security studies, energy resilience, cross-strait relations, and global supply chain concerns. Fellows conduct their research at Taiwanese universities, libraries, think tanks, and academic institutions, building valuable professional connections. The Center for Chinese Studies at the National Central Library of Taiwan manages the fellowship.
Research Areas
The fellowship welcomes research proposals in various fields connected to Taiwan and regional studies. These include, but are not limited to:
- Taiwan Studies
- Cross-Strait Relations
- People’s Republic of China Studies
- Asia-Pacific Studies
- Taiwan and International Relations
- Indo-Pacific Security
- First Island Chain Security
- Sinology
- Energy Security
- Supply Chain Resilience
- Submarine Cable Security
- Foreign Information Manipulation and Interference (FIMI)
- Transnational Repression
- Public Diplomacy
- Regional Geopolitics and Strategic Affairs
- Chinese Studies
- Humanities and Social Sciences related to Taiwan and East Asia
Applicants are encouraged to align their proposals with Taiwan’s current diplomatic, regional, and academic priorities.
Fellowship Benefits
Successful applicants receive substantial financial and academic support. This includes a monthly research grant, which varies based on academic or professional standing. Professors, associate professors, researchers, and associate researchers receive NT$60,000 per month. Assistant professors, assistant researchers, postdoctoral researchers, doctoral candidates, doctoral students, and other recommended candidates receive NT$50,000 per month.
In addition to the monthly stipend, fellows receive:
- One round-trip economy class airfare for the most direct route, according to MOFA regulations.
- NT$1 million in accidental injury insurance coverage during their research period in Taiwan.
- Accidental injury medical insurance.
- Access to leading Taiwanese universities and academic institutions.
- Opportunities for international academic collaboration.
- Exposure to Taiwan’s academic, political, and cultural landscape.
- Research networking opportunities with scholars and institutions across Taiwan.
Fellowship Duration
The research period for the Taiwan Fellowship 2027 runs from January to December 2027. Applicants can choose a fellowship duration ranging from a minimum of three months to a maximum of one year. The residency research program in Taiwan is scheduled to begin in January 2027.
Eligibility and Application Documents
The Taiwan Fellowship is open to international scholars and researchers with relevant academic or professional backgrounds. Eligible applicants include professors, researchers, postdoctoral researchers, and doctoral candidates from universities and academic institutions. Scholars specializing in Taiwan studies, Chinese studies, Asia-Pacific studies, Sinology, and cross-strait relations are particularly encouraged to apply. Applicants must demonstrate strong research capabilities and submit a well-developed research proposal.
Required application documents include:
- A completed online application form.
- An updated Curriculum Vitae (CV) or resume.
- A list of publications.
- A detailed research proposal.
- Two recommendation letters.
Alternatively, applicants may submit one recommendation letter and one institutional agreement letter from their institution’s highest administrative director. All submitted documents must be complete and accurate.
Application Process and Deadline
The application period for the Taiwan Fellowship 2027 is from May 1, 2026, to June 30, 2026, with the final deadline on June 30, 2026. Applicants must complete the online application and mail all required documents by the deadline.
The application process involves several steps:
- Review Guidelines: Carefully read the official Taiwan Fellowship regulations and eligibility requirements.
- Prepare Documents: Gather all necessary materials, including CV, publication list, research proposal, and recommendation letters.
- Complete Online Application: Fill out the online application form and upload required documents.
- Mail Application: Print the completed form and mail all documents to the nearest Taiwan Embassy or Representative Office (TECO).
- Review and Selection: Applications are evaluated by overseas missions and academic review committees. Selected candidates are notified via email.
- Obtain Acceptance: Selected applicants must secure a formal letter of consent from a Taiwanese university or research institution.
- Submit Acceptance Letter: Send the acceptance letter to the Taiwan Fellowship team by December 31, 2026.
- Receive Authorization: Successful candidates receive the official Grant Authorization Letter.
- Apply for Visa: Recipients apply for an FR visa using the authorization letter.
- Begin Research: Fellows travel to Taiwan to commence their research program.
Why Apply?
The Taiwan Fellowship 2027 presents an excellent opportunity for researchers interested in Taiwan, Indo-Pacific affairs, Sinology, diplomacy, and regional security. Taiwan’s strategic position in Asia and its robust academic environment offer a valuable setting for international research. The fellowship not only provides financial backing but also facilitates the development of long-term academic partnerships, access to research resources, and contributions to important discussions shaping the future of the Indo-Pacific region.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Taiwan Fellowship?
The Taiwan Fellowship is a fully funded program by Taiwan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs for international scholars to conduct advanced research in Taiwan for three months to one year.
What research areas does the fellowship cover?
It covers a wide range of topics including Taiwan Studies, cross-strait relations, Asia-Pacific studies, Sinology, diplomacy, security, and emerging geopolitical issues.
What are the benefits of the Taiwan Fellowship?
Benefits include a monthly research grant (NT$50,000-NT$60,000), round-trip airfare, accident insurance, and access to Taiwanese academic institutions.
When is the application deadline for the Taiwan Fellowship 2027?
The application period is from May 1, 2026, to June 30, 2026, with the final deadline on June 30, 2026.
