ˇÎˇÎˇÎ CHINESE LANGUAGE TRAINING PROGRAMSˇ@ˇÎˇÎˇÎ ˇ@ˇ@ˇ@ˇ@ˇ@ˇ@ˇ@ˇ@IN THE REPUBLIC OF CHINA A GUIDE FOR FOREIGN STUDENT Introduction to Chinese Language Programs in the Republic of China Language Study The Republic of China(ROC)on Taiwan has for many years been home to numerous institutions devoted to study of the Chinese language. Perhaps this is one reason why the number of foreign students coming to the ROC for all levels of language study has been increasing for so long. Students find that in addition to being able to enjoy the benefits of language training facilities, There is much to be learned from experiencing the blend of tradition and modernity found in Taiwan. Students can simultaneously observe traditional Chinese culture as well as enjoy the advantages of a modern, developed society. This, combined with ease of association with native speakers, is enough to make the ROC a fine Chinese language learning environment. But what is the best way to begin utilizing these advantages? To help foreign students better understand the opportunities available to them, this booklet has been compiled to present a basic description of application procedures, program offerings, living conditions, and visa information. Throughout Taiwan, there are many different language training centers. This booklet will introduce ten such programs. Eight are accredited by the ROC Ministry of Education; two are not. Such a relatively narrow focus is not intended as an endorsement of any particular group of schools. However, attending a government accredited school is important for students who wish to obtain resident status after arrival in Taiwan (see section on visas for more details). The Taipei Language Institute and the Mandarin Daily News Language Center, two non- accredited institutions, have been included in this booklet primarily because of the reputation they have developed over many years in the field of Chinese language education. The eight Chinese language centers which have been accredited by the Ministry of Education are: ˇ@ˇ@1. Fengchia University Chinese Language Center ˇ@ˇ@2. Fu Jen University Language Center ˇ@ˇ@3. Inter-University Program for Chinese Language Studies ˇ@ˇ@4. Mandarin Training Center(MTC) of National Taiwan Normal U. ˇ@ˇ@5. Language Center of National Cheng Kung University ˇ@ˇ@6. Language Center of National Chengchi University ˇ@ˇ@7. Tamkang University Chinese Language Program ˇ@ˇ@8. Tunghai Chinese Language Center In principle, the government-accredited language centers introduced here expect that students will pursue their language study on a full time basis. Generally, "full time study" means ten hours per week or more of class. Application Process A. Application Materials Students may apply to language centers accredited by the Ministry of Education either by using the Application for Admission Form(included within this booklet)or by writing directly to the desired center(the only exception is the Inter-University Program, see below). Applications generally require the following documents, though regulations may vary slightly from institution to institution: ˇETwo copies of the Application for Admission Form. ˇEOne official copy of applicant's transcript(from that school where the ˇ@applicant obtained his or her most recent diploma). ˇETwo letters of recommendation from the applicant's instructors. ˇECertificate of health(including results of a blood test showing the ˇ@applicant is free of infectious or HIV disease). ˇEStudy plan in either Chinese or English. ˇEAny other documents required by the particular language center(s) to ˇ@which the student is applying.(Please see the separate entries for each ˇ@program in this booklet. Some language centers require, for instance, ˇ@some form of financial guarantee to the effect that the student has ˇ@sufficient funds for study. In case of any discrepancies between the ˇ@above items and the requirements of the individual language centers, ˇ@applicants should proceed according to the rules of the language ˇ@center to which they are applying.) Each language school has its own guidelines for application deadlines. Application procedures for the Inter-University Program(IUP) for Chinese Language Studies, the Taipei Language Institute(TLI), and the Mandarin Daily News Language Training Center are different from what has been described above. B. Application Timetable Most language institutes provide admission decisions several months after receipt of application materials. The Taipei Language Institute and the Mandarin Daily News Language Center, however are frequently able to admit and register students who apply in person shortly before the beginning of the term. C. Special Application Procedures at IUP The Inter-University Program(IUP) for Chinese Language Studies in Taipei, also known popularly as the Stanford Center, is located on the campus of National. Taiwan University (NTU). IUP has two important differences from all other programs mentioned in this booklet. First, the application process for IUP differs in that students must apply directly to IUP's offices in Stanford. California. USA. For the other government- accredited language centers it is expected students will apply directly to program offices in Taiwan. Second, IUP requires at least two years of college-level Chinese prior to entry, whereas none of the other institutions requires any background in Chinese. Please see the individual entries on each of the schools for more information. Student Life in Taiwan A. Housing-Short Term The first matter that most students must address upon arrival in Taiwan is finding housing. Temporary housing at moderate prices can be found in such hostel as: ˇEYMCA(Somewhat more expensive) ˇ@19, Hsu Chang Street, Taipei ˇ@Telephone:311-3201 Fax:311-3209 ˇEThe Taipei International Youth Activities Center(TIYAC) ˇ@30 Hsinhai Road, Section 3, Taipei ˇ@Telephone:362-1770 Fax:363-4104 ˇEChientan Overseas Youth Activity Center. ˇ@16 Chungshan N.Road, Section 4, Taipei ˇ@Telephone:596-2151 Fax:595-1861 It is advisable to make advance reservations. The international direct dial(IDD)code for Taiwan is 886; the area code for Taipei city is 2.(If calling from the United States, dial 011-886-2 plus the number shown). If dialing long distance within Taiwan, students should note that the area code is preceded by a 0(e.g. Taipei is 02). At most hostels, students should be prepared to share rooms with up to four or five roommates(single rooms are either much more expensive or simply not available). B. Housing-Long Term Normally, for those students opting to live off-campus, the search for long-term housing will begin while the student is staying in a hostel or hotel. The housing search can take up to two weeks. Taipei does not have a shortage of housing. More often than not, however, the key to finding a place to live is to learn what is available. Bulletin boards posted in hostels or schools, or posted announcements throughout the city are starting places. Classified advertisements in the English and Chinese dailies, or personal introductions can also be helpful. Students attending language centers in the suburbs around Taipei should note that off- campus housing might not be as readily available. There are four major alternatives for long-term student housing in Taipei. ˇESchool dormitory Generally speaking, dormitory living is the most inexpensive long-term housing available to students in Taiwan, but very few schools offer dormitory housing to language students from abroad. Students seeking this type of housing should be particularly careful to get detailed information from the desired institute. ˇEFamily stay Another inexpensive alternative for students is to rent a room from a local family. In addition to reducing expenses, students opting for this type of housing option gain a more in-depth understanding of day-to- day life in Taiwan. Those interested in family stays must make a very specific agreement with the family concerning hours of entry and exit, payment of utilities, and access to kitchen or other facilities. In Taipei, monthly rates generally start at approximately NT$3,500. ˇEShared apartment Rental costs in Taiwan can be reduced by sharing an apartment with other students. In addition to checking the newspapers for offerings, many students find reasonably priced accommodations by walking about the desired neighborhood in search of red privately posted apartment announcements. Because of the high concentration of foreign students in southern Taipei, many individuals find inexpensive apartments in that area. In quest of lower rents(and somewhat cleaner air), more and more students are opting to live in the suburbs around Taipei, such as Neihu, Tienmu, and Mucha. The disadvantage of these choices, however, is that travel between downtown Taipei and the suburban areas is often time-consuming. Generally speaking, individual portions of a three- person shared apartment begin at approximately NT$5,000 monthly. ˇEPrivate apartment Private apartment accommodations are the most expensive type of housing available to foreign students. Most individuals opting for this choice will be interested in studio apartments(tao-fang). Monthly rents for studio apartments begin at approximately NT$15,000. Those students renting apartments will frequently be asked to sign a lease with their landlord. Landlords customarily ask for up to three months' rent as "key money." Some landlords may ask for an additional deposit to cover utilities expense(including gas, water, and electricity, but not necessarily telephone). Students should therefore remember that moving into an apartment can involve a substantial investment. Apartments are not necessarily furnished, but such items as desks, chairs, bookcase, and tatami mats (for sleeping) can be obtained fairly inexpensively. C. Items to Bring to Taiwan from Abroad Most goods that students will need for the duration of their stay in Taiwan are easily available on the market. A wide variety of imported products are also available in Taiwan(note, however, that these goods are often sold at prices two to three times higher than in the country of origin). Therefore, there is little need to bring many personal belongings. Exceptions might be in the area of certain medicines, American students might discover, for instance, that American-produced vitamins, cold medicines, and prescription drugs are a little more difficult to find (or are much more expensive), while drugs of European or Asian manufacture tend to predominate. D. Climate Taiwan has a subtropical climate. Summers are hot and humid with occasional typhoons. Winters are quite rainy and extend from about December to February. Northern Taiwan(including Taipei) can be chilly, but the temperature never drops to freezing. Winter in central and southern Taiwan tends to be much warmer. When choosing clothing, students should prepare for both hot and cold weather,and remember to bring rain equipment. Cotton materials can be especially warm in winter, and have the added advantage of drying relatively quickly. Heating systems are quite rare in Taiwanese homes and classrooms, but air conditioning is widespread during the long summer season. E. Transportation Most students rely on a combination of three forms of transportation for traveling around Taiwan: ˇEPublic Bus Taipei, as well as other cities in Taiwan, has an extensive public bus system that is often the easiest and least expensive way to travel around town. Taipei bus guides are available in both English and Chinese, and lines usually run from 5:30am to 11:30pm Ticket prices ˇETaxi When bus travel is impractical or inconvenient, Taiwan taxis are available for very reasonable prices. A typical short ride within town costs from approximately NT$60-NT$100. In rush hour traffic, however, taxi transportation is seldom any faster than taking the bus. ˇEMotor Scooter Many local peoplerely upon motor scooters for quick, inexpensive transportation through town. Second-hand motor scooters are available from approximately NT$7,000. Those students planning to drive motor scooters should remember to obtain an International Driving Permit before arrival in Taiwan. Furthermore, students should remember that parking difficult in Taipei, and traffic is often highly congested. Public transportation is generally more comfortable. F. Health Care Taiwan has one of the best health care systems in Asia. Modern health care is generally available to those who need it. However, owing to the rising costs of medical care students are urged to make sure that prior to arrival in Taiwan they subscribe to health insurance policies that cover them for the period of their stay. If necessary, some types of coverage(such as life insurance policies which include medical coverage) can be obtained in Taiwan from foreign insurance companies. Generally, it is not necessary to have any particular vaccinations before arriving in Taiwan. However, it would be prudent to have vaccinations for tetanus and hepatitis B before leaving one's home country. Those who wear glasses should remember to bring a copy of their lens prescription with them. Visas At present, there are two kinds of visas that are available for foreign students wishing to study in the Republic of China. Note, however, that neither is technically designated as a student visa. A. Visitor Visa The first type of visa is the Visitor Visa. It is valid for periods ranging from two weeks to sixty days and can be extended twice. Normally, prior to arrival in the ROC, students will apply for a Visitor Visa at the nearest ROC representative office in their country. At the time of application, students should explain that their purpose for going to Taiwan is language study, and they should ask for the maximum sixty- day, multiple entry visa. (If they receive only a 2-week visitor visa, it will be very difficult to obtain an extension later). They will be asked to produce a letter of acceptance from that institution, a completed application form and one passport size photo. Students will also be asked to present documentation to the effect that they have sufficient financial resources to support themselves during their period of study in the ROC. Finally, students might also be asked to show their return airplane ticket. Take note of the following considerations. First, at the end of six months(after the student has extended the maximum two times permitted), it is necessary to leave the ROC and then reenter, at which time the visa is automatically renewed for sixty days(only if it is a multiple entry visa). Many students simply take the opportunity for a brief visit to Hong Kong or elsewhere, and then reenter the ROC. Second, holders of Visitor Visas are not permitted to assume employment during their period in the ROC. Holders of Visitor Visas who are found to be working illegally can be deported(see the next section on working in Taiwan). Third, banking regulations do not permit holders of Visitor Visas to open bank accounts. B. Resident Visa In view of the possible inconveniences of the Visitor Visa, students may wish to apply for the second type of visa, known as the Resident Visa. The Resident Visa is valid for one year. Students will enter the ROC holding a Visitor Visa, and will then apply at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to have their visa converted to a Resident Visa. Doing so will require supporting documentation from the student's school to the effect that the student is in fact taking classes full time(at least ten hours per week), has completed 4 months of study in an institution accredited by the Ministry of Education, and has registered and paid tuition for the next three months. Once the Resident Visa is obtained, the student must then apply within 20 days at the nearest city or county police headquarters for a document known as an Alien Resident Certificate. The application fee is NT$1,000. The main drawback of the Resident Visa is that the holder must register with the police prior to departure from the ROC. Further, holders are required to obtain ROC tax clearance certification. Language schools not accredited by the ROC Ministry of Education are not eligible to provide the documentation needed to obtain the Resident Visa. This would mean that if the student has a sixty-day visa, he or she must leave the ROC at the end of that period and reenter in order to continue classes. Holders of Resident Visas should be aware that the Reediest Visa does not include automatic permission to work in the ROC(see the section below on working). Working ROC laws provide legal channels by which foreign students can work in Taiwan. Potential employers must obtain work permits on behalf of foreign students by applying to the Ministry of Education. This includes cases where foreign students are hired to give private tutorials. Any foreign student who is pursuing language study in the ROC and who wishes to be eligible to work must have been enrolled in an accredited institution for one year or longer, must have excellent grades(as defined by the institution which the student is attending), and must be enrolled on a full time basis. The work he or she intends to perform must be related to his or her area of study or language teaching. For further details, see Appendix V. Potential employers must apply to the Ministry of Education on the student's behalf one month prior to the commencement of employment. Employment is not legal until a permit has been issued by the Ministry of Education. Except during vacations, hours of employment may not exceed twelve hours per week. Work permits are valid for one year. They may be extended for a period of up to one more year. If the student changes employer, a new permit must be obtained. Only on change is permitted. If the student withdraws from school, graduates, or changes employment, his or her work permit is automatically invalidated. Income is normally subject to taxation. Some employers will automatically deduct tax from earnings, while others will not. Generally speaking, those who have lived in Taiwan for 183 or more days in a given year are taxed at rates between 6% and 40%, depending upon income. Those living in Taiwan less then 183 days are taxed at 20%. Students are advised to contact the National Tax Bureau for current information. National Tax Administration of Taipei 12, Chung-hwa Street, Section 1 Telephone:(02)311-3711 Students who violate work regulations will lose their eligibility to work. Note:The above information regarding work and visa regulations is valid as of May 10, 1993. However, major changes are now under discussion. Students are advised to check with the local ROC representative office for up-dated regulations. Customs Regulations Personal effects under the value of US$500 can be brought into Taiwan duty-free Electronic equipment(including computers, cameras, and communication equipment) is separately dutiable, but allowances can be made for personal or academic use. Students are warned not to attempt to smuggle drugs or narcotics. The ROC mandates severe penalties for the use, sale, possession, and abuse of drugs and narcotics. Social and Cultural Life Students in the Taipei area will find a vibrant social and cultural life conducive to both recreation and improving Chinese language skills. Taipei offers a wide variety of restaurants, tea houses, bars, dance clubs, movie theaters, museums, libraries, art exhibits, and book stores. Restaurants in Taiwan cater to a wide range of tastes and budgets, Whether students wish to try local dining, other types of Chinese regional food, Japanese, Western, or other international cuisine, a suitable restaurant is always easily found. Students will find many reasonably priced restaurants in the southern part of Taipei, where several universities are located. Most major fast-food companies operate restaurants in Taiwan, particularly in Taipei. Prices tend to be more expensive than in the United States. Most street cornes in Taipei also have twenty-four hour convenience stores for late snacks or other unanticipated needs. Those wishing to cook for themselves will find fully stocked Western supermarkets in the basements of most large department stores. Outdoor markets, scattered throughout Taipei and other areas in Taiwan, sell assorted fresh fruit, produce, cooked snacks, and ready-to-eat boxed meals(bian dang) at low prices. Movie theaters have first-run movies from Taiwan, the United States, and Hong Kong. Taiwan has three regular Chinese television stations that broadcast English language programming at certain times of day. More extensive English language programming, such as twenty-four hours news and movie channels, is available on cable. Urban areas abound with video rental shops that offer a wide selection of Chinese and English movies. Taiwan has many different Chinese language radio stations, most of which broadcast in Mandarin(though some are in Taiwanese). ICRT(International Community Radio Taipei) is an English language station available throughout the island that plays a wide variety of music throughout the day. Both indoor and outdoor tea-houses provide a relaxing, quiet setting in which to study or visit with friends. Tea is normally ordered by the pot, and most establishments will provide free hot-water refills. Book stores abound in Taipei. Popular Chinese language titles may be found almost anywhere, but those searching for academic materials or English language books may wish to try the following stores first. ˇEThe Student's Book Store ˇ@198, Ho Ping East Road, Section 1 ˇ@Taipei, Taiwan ROC ˇ@Telephone:(02)363-4156ˇ@ˇ@Fax:363-6334 The Student's Book store has Taipei's best selection of academic titles written in Chinese, The staff is extremely knowledgeable and helpful in locating desired books. ˇESan-min Book Store ˇ@61, Chung-ching South Road, Section 1 ˇ@Taipei, Taiwan ROC ˇ@Telephone:(02)363-7511ˇ@ˇ@Fax:312-1166 One of the largest bookstores in Taipei, San-min carries both academic books and those of more general interest. Browsing through the store gives one a good feel of the titles ˇEThe Eslite Bookstore ˇ@477, Tun Hwa South Road ˇ@Taipei, Taiwan ROC ˇ@Telephone:(02)775-5977ˇ@ˇ@Fax:741-6733 In terms of atmosphere, Eslite is perhaps the most sophisticated bookstore in Taipei. An extensive selection of both academic and general books in Chinese and English is available. The basement floor offers a particularly wide selection of books on Asian and Western art, as well as a well-known art gallery that is open to the public. ˇECaves Books ˇ@103 Chungshan North Road, Section 2 ˇ@Taipei, Taiwan ROC ˇ@Telephone:537-1666ˇ@ˇ@Fax:597-5866 Caves Books sells English books of general interest. It has perhaps the largest selection of English magazines and foreign newspapers in Taipei and also sell English language reference works on China at prices far below those in the West. Taipei's several libraries form another important resource that students will want to utilize. Apart from university libraries, the most extensive holdings may be found at the following locations. ˇENational Central Library ˇ@20 Chungshan South Road ˇ@Taipei, Taiwan ROC ˇ@Telephone:(02)361-9132ˇ@ˇ@Fax:(02)311-0155 Applications for reader cards are available upon presentation of two wallet sixes photographs and a passport. ˇETaipei Municipal Library(Main Branch) ˇ@125 Chienkuo South Road, Section 2 ˇ@Taipei, Taiwan ROC ˇ@Telephone:(02)755-2823 Approximately twenty smaller branch libraries are located throughout the city. To apply for a library card, students should take their passport and/or Alien Resident Certificate. Students will also enjoy exploring Taiwan's many museums and galleries. While many cities throughout the island have impressive art holding, Taipei remains the artistic center of Taiwan. Among the more famous art museums are: ˇENational Palace Museum ˇ@Waishuanghsi, Chilean, Taipei ˇ@Telephone:881-2021ˇ@ˇ@Fax:882-1440 ˇETaipei Fine Arts Museum ˇ@181 Chungshan North Road, Section 3, Taipei ˇ@Telephone:595-7656ˇ@ˇ@Fax:591-2181 Taiwan Folk Arts Museumˇ@ ˇ@32 Yuya Road, Peitou, Taipei ˇ@Telephone:891-2318ˇ@ˇ@Fax:892-1473 Those outside the Taipei area will also find varied social and cultural resources, but in addition may have more convenient access to such activities as hiking and mountain climbing. Many opportunities are available throughout central Taiwan. Kenning National Park(approximately two hours outside of Kaohsiung), as well as Taroko Gorge and the Chitou Forest Recreation Area(both in the center of the island) are favorite scenic destinations for weekends and short get-awes. Ministry of Education Scholarships After three months of study, students with superior academic performance may apply for ROC Ministry of Education scholarships. Ministry of Education scholarships are awarded by the Ministry of Education for a period of six months. Scholarships provide a monthly stipend of NT$8,000 for foreign students. Language schools at which Ministry of Education scholarships are the only source of financial assistance are denoted by "MOE" in the scholarship item of the program profiles.