Taiwan Fellowship 2027: A Guide for International Researchers

The Taiwan Fellowship offers international scholars and researchers a unique opportunity to conduct advanced research in Taiwan. Supported by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) of the Republic of China (Taiwan), this fully funded program encourages global academic exchange and strengthens international research collaboration. The fellowship is designed for individuals interested in topics related to Taiwan, cross-strait relations, the Asia-Pacific region, Sinology, diplomacy, and emerging geopolitical issues.

Established to foster international academic ties, the Taiwan Fellowship has become a respected program for global researchers. It provides significant financial and academic support, allowing fellows to immerse themselves in Taiwan’s academic environment and build valuable professional networks. The program is administered by the Center for Chinese Studies under the National Central Library of Taiwan.

Research Areas for the Taiwan Fellowship

The fellowship supports research across a wide range of disciplines that connect to Taiwan and its regional context. Applicants are encouraged to align their proposals with Taiwan’s current diplomatic, regional, and academic priorities. Key research areas include:

Taiwan Studies: Focusing on the history, culture, politics, and society of Taiwan.
Cross-Strait Relations: Examining the complex relationship between Taiwan and mainland China.
People’s Republic of China Studies: Researching various aspects of China’s development and policies.
Asia-Pacific Studies: Analyzing regional dynamics, economics, and politics.
Taiwan and International Relations: Investigating Taiwan’s role and interactions on the global stage.
Indo-Pacific Security: Studying security challenges and strategies within the Indo-Pacific region.
First Island Chain Security: Focusing on the strategic importance of the island chain in East Asia.
Sinology: Engaging in the study of Chinese language, literature, history, and culture.
Energy Security: Researching energy policies and challenges in Taiwan and the region.
Supply Chain Resilience: Analyzing the robustness and vulnerabilities of global supply chains, with a focus on Taiwan’s role.
Submarine Cable Security: Investigating the protection of critical undersea communication infrastructure.
Foreign Information Manipulation and Interference (FIMI): Studying efforts to influence public opinion and political processes through disinformation.
Transnational Repression: Examining state-sponsored efforts to silence dissent beyond national borders.
Public Diplomacy: Researching strategies for engaging with international audiences and promoting national interests.
Regional Geopolitics and Strategic Affairs: Analyzing the political and strategic landscape of East Asia and the broader Indo-Pacific.
Chinese Studies: Broader research into Chinese language, culture, and society.
Humanities and Social Sciences related to Taiwan and East Asia: Covering a wide spectrum of academic inquiry within these fields.

Benefits of the Taiwan Fellowship

The Taiwan Fellowship offers substantial support to its recipients, covering financial needs and providing access to academic resources. Successful applicants receive a monthly research grant, which varies based on academic rank. Professors, associate professors, and researchers receive NT$60,000 per month, while assistant professors, assistant researchers, postdoctoral researchers, and doctoral candidates receive NT$50,000 per month.

In addition to the monthly stipend, fellows are provided with:

Airfare Assistance: A round-trip economy class airfare for the most direct route, subject to Ministry of Foreign Affairs regulations.
Insurance Coverage: NT$1 million in accidental injury insurance and accidental injury medical insurance for the duration of the research period in Taiwan.
Academic Access: Opportunities to conduct independent research at leading Taiwanese universities, libraries, think tanks, and academic institutions.
Networking: Chances to build valuable academic and professional networks with scholars and institutions across Taiwan.
Cultural Exposure: Immersion in Taiwan’s academic, political, and cultural environment.

Fellowship Duration and Timing

The research period for the Taiwan Fellowship 2027 is scheduled between January and 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 expected to commence in January 2027 for all recipients.

Eligibility and Application Requirements

The Taiwan Fellowship is open to foreign scholars and researchers who possess academic or professional backgrounds relevant to their proposed research fields. This includes professors, associate professors, assistant professors, postdoctoral researchers, doctoral candidates, doctoral students, and researchers from academic institutions. Individuals specializing in Taiwan studies, Chinese studies, Asia-Pacific studies, Sinology, and cross-strait relations are particularly encouraged to apply. Applicants recommended by Taiwan’s overseas missions are also eligible.

A strong research capability and a well-developed research proposal are essential. Applicants must submit the following documents:

A completed online application form.
An updated Curriculum Vitae (CV) or resume.
A list of publications.
A detailed research proposal outlining the research objectives, methodology, and expected outcomes.
Two letters of recommendation.

Alternatively, applicants may submit one recommendation letter along with one institutional agreement letter from the highest administrative director of their institution. All submitted documents must be complete and accurate.

Application Process and Deadline

The application period for the Taiwan Fellowship 2027 runs from May 1, 2026, to June 30, 2026. The final deadline for submission is June 30, 2026. Applicants must complete the online application and mail all required documents to the nearest Taiwan Embassy or Representative Office (TECO) before the deadline.

The application process involves several steps:

Review Guidelines: Carefully read the official Taiwan Fellowship regulations and eligibility criteria.
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 supporting documents.
Mail Application: Print the completed form and mail it with all required documents to the relevant TECO.
Selection Process: Applications are reviewed by overseas missions and academic committees. Selected candidates are notified via email.
Obtain Acceptance: Selected fellows 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 Grant Authorization: Successful candidates will receive an official Grant Authorization Letter.
Apply for Visa: Recipients must apply for an appropriate FR visa using the authorization letter.
Begin Research: Travel to Taiwan and commence the fellowship research program.

Why Apply for the Taiwan Fellowship?

The Taiwan Fellowship 2027 presents a significant opportunity for researchers interested in Taiwan, Indo-Pacific affairs, Sinology, diplomacy, and regional security. Taiwan’s strategic position in Asia and its robust academic infrastructure make it an ideal location for international research. The fellowship not only provides essential financial backing but also facilitates the development of long-term academic partnerships and grants access to valuable research resources. By participating, scholars can contribute to important discussions shaping the future of the Indo-Pacific region and gain invaluable international research experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Taiwan Fellowship?

The Taiwan Fellowship is a program funded by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) that allows international scholars and researchers to conduct advanced research in Taiwan.

What research areas does the fellowship cover?

It supports research on Taiwan Studies, cross-strait relations, Asia-Pacific Studies, Sinology, diplomacy, Indo-Pacific security, energy security, supply chain resilience, and more.