📲 Join our WhatsApp for Daily Fully Funded Scholarship Alerts
For international students aiming to pursue a cutting-edge doctoral degree in the sciences or technology, finding a program that pairs world-class research infrastructure with substantial financial backing is the ultimate goal. The Taiwan International Graduate Program (TIGP) Scholarships 2027 offer exactly that.
Launched by Academia Sinica—Taiwan’s premier national research institution—in collaboration with top-tier research universities across the island, TIGP provides an all-English, highly advanced academic environment. Taiwan has firmly established itself as a global epicenter for semiconductor technology, artificial intelligence, and biomedical research, making it one of the most exciting landscapes for doctoral studies today.
This comprehensive guide covers everything from financial coverage and program options to step-by-step application instructions for the 2027 cycle.
MUST READ:
- Xi’an Jiaotong University Graduate Funding: National CSC Programs vs. Siyuan Awards, China | Fully Funded
- Tongji University Elite Graduate Guide: Architecture and Environmental Sciences, China | Fully Funded
- Wuhan University International Admissions: The High-Volume Traffic Hub for Global Scholars, China | Fully Funded
What is the TIGP Scholarship?
The Taiwan International Graduate Program is a highly competitive, fully funded research-oriented fast track specifically for prospective PhD students. Rather than operating out of a single university, TIGP works via a joint-admissions framework. Students train in the advanced labs of Academia Sinica while completing coursework and earning their doctoral degrees from elite partner institutions like National Taiwan University (NTU) and National Tsing Hua University (NTHU).
Financial Coverage and Monthly Stipend
TIGP stands out as one of the most financially supportive graduate programs in Asia. Unlike partial waivers, it offers comprehensive funding to cover both educational and living expenses:
- Monthly Stipend: Selected students receive an initial stipend of NT$ 40,000 per month (approximately US$ 1,250) for the first year. This consists of NT$ 34,000 tax-free plus an additional NT$ 6,000 before tax.
- Guaranteed Extensions: Provided the recipient maintains excellent academic standing and hits research milestones, this financial support is extended for an additional two to three years depending on the specific program faculty.
- Zero Application Fees: Unlike western universities that charge steep processing costs, applying to the TIGP portal is entirely free.
Important Dates and Deadlines
The TIGP application cycle runs once a year for the Fall intake. Because it requires coordinating documents between international institutions, you must keep a careful eye on the calendar.
November 2026
Applications Open
The official TIGP online portal begins accepting registrations and document uploads for the Autumn 2027 term.
February 1, 2027
Hard Deadline
The final day to submit the completed online application. The portal closes precisely at GMT+8.
February to April 2027
Review Phase
The admissions committees of individual programs and partner universities review applications and conduct online interviews.
May to June 2027
Results Announcement
Official admission offers and formal scholarship notifications are emailed to successful international candidates.
Offered PhD Programs
TIGP concentrates strictly on interdisciplinary fields where Taiwan holds globally recognized scientific strengths. Currently, there are 14 specialized PhD programs available:
- Artificial Intelligence of Things (AIoT)
- Bioinformatics
- Chemical Biology and Molecular Biophysics
- Molecular and Biological Agricultural Sciences
- Molecular and Cell Biology
- Molecular Medicine
- Earth System Science
- Biodiversity
- Interdisciplinary Neuroscience
- Social Networks and Human-Centered Computing
- Molecular Science and Technology
- Nano Science and Technology
- Sustainable Chemical Science and Technology
- East Asia and the Making of the Modern World
Eligibility Criteria & Document Requirements
To apply, you must meet the general requirements of TIGP alongside any minor variations requested by your specific chosen sub-program:
- Academic Background: You must hold a Bachelor’s and/or Master’s degree in a science or engineering discipline relevant to your chosen program.
- English Language Proficiency: Since the entire curriculum is in English, non-native speakers must submit a language score taken within the last two years. Minimum thresholds include:
- TOEFL iBT: 79 to 80 (Institutional TOEFL ITP is not accepted).
- IELTS Academic: Minimum overall band score of 5.5.
- TOEIC: Minimum score of 785.
- English Proficiency Waiver: You can automatically waive the language test requirement if you hold a passport from an English-speaking nation, or if your previous highest degree was obtained entirely in English (supported by an official Medium of Instruction certificate from your university).
- Letters of Recommendation: Three separate recommendation letters must be submitted electronically, ideally with one coming directly from your previous thesis or research advisor.
The Step-by-Step Application Process
The TIGP system uses a unified online network, which prevents you from having to send physical paper transcripts across borders during the initial phase.
1.Create an Account on the TIGP Portal:tigp.apps.sinica.edu.tw.
Access the official registration system, select up to two program paths that fit your academic history, and set up your applicant profile.
2.Register Your Three Referees:Automated Prompts.
Input the official institutional email addresses of your three evaluators. The portal will automatically send them a private, secure link to upload their recommendation letters directly.
3.Upload Mandatory Academic Files:PDF Formats.
Upload clear scans of your Bachelor/Master diplomas, comprehensive academic transcripts, CV, and your Statement of Purpose (SOP).
4.Attach Research Accomplishments:Thesis Abstract.
Upload a concise summary or abstract of your previous thesis or major research projects. Do not upload your full entire thesis document.
5.Submit the Application:Before Feb 1.
Double-check all fields and finalize your submission. No physical documents need to be mailed via post unless you are explicitly requested to do so by an individual program coordinator later on.
YOU MAY ALSO LIKE:
- Nanjing University Postgraduate Funding: President’s Scholarship vs. CSC Awards, China | Fully Funded
- Fudan University Elite Graduate Guide: International Postgraduate Admission and Funding, China | Fully Funded
- Shanghai Jiao Tong University (SJTU) Graduate Funding: Research Fellowships, China | Fully Funded
- Official Authentic Link: To begin your registration or check detailed program syllabi, always reference the official portal: Taiwan International Graduate Program Official Website
Insider Tips from the Selection Committee
- Align with a Faculty Mentor Early: Because TIGP is intensely research-driven, look through the faculty directories at Academia Sinica before applying. Mentioning 2 to 3 specific principal investigators whose current laboratory projects match your research background inside your SOP shows genuine intent.
- The Power of the Thesis Abstract: The admissions committee uses your previous research abstract to evaluate your scientific writing ability and critical thinking. Ensure it explicitly outlines the problem, methodology, and your key findings.
- Secure On-Campus Housing Early: Once admitted, apply for the TIGP graduate dormitories immediately. They are subsidized, highly affordable, and located directly within or near the Academia Sinica campus in Taipei, shielding you from the city’s private rental market.
FAQ’s
Is the TIGP Scholarship fully funded?
Yes. The TIGP scholarship provides a comprehensive monthly stipend of NT$ 40,000 to cover tuition, fees, and standard living costs in Taiwan. There are no application fees required to apply.
Can I apply for a TIGP PhD program directly after a Bachelor’s degree?
Yes. Students holding an exceptional Bachelor’s degree are eligible to apply directly to certain TIGP programs. If admitted, they are placed on a fast-track PhD curriculum that bridges master-level coursework with direct doctoral research.
Is an IELTS score mandatory for all applicants?
No. If your prior degree was fully instructed in English and you can provide an official Medium of Instruction (MOI) certificate issued by your home university registrar, you are eligible for an English proficiency exam waiver.
Final Tip From ScholarshipsHive
When coordinating your recommendation letters, don’t wait until January! Professors get busy during winter breaks. Register your referees on the TIGP system the moment you open your profile so they have months to submit their letters before the February 1st cutoff.
Join our WhatsApp Channel for the latest updates on international scholarships and deadlines: WhatsApp Channel