How many international schools are there in Taipei?

Taipei has a well-developed international school sector with dozens of institutions offering American, IB, British, and other curricula. Major schools include Taipei American School, Dominican International School Taipei, Morrison Academy, and VIS Experimental High School, among others.

What are the typical fees for international schools in Taipei?

Annual tuition at Taipei international schools typically ranges from TWD 400,000 to TWD 900,000 (approximately USD 12,000–28,000). Some schools also charge an initial capital levy or debenture fee on top of annual tuition.

Is Taipei American School hard to get into?

Taipei American School is one of the most competitive international schools in Taiwan. Many year groups have waiting lists, and admission is not guaranteed. Families are advised to apply at least 6–12 months in advance and to have backup school options ready.

Do international schools in Taipei teach Mandarin?

Many international schools in Taipei include Mandarin Chinese as part of their curriculum, though the depth of instruction varies. Schools like Taipei American School offer structured Mandarin programmes, which can be highly beneficial for students in Taiwan long-term.

Best International Schools in Taipei: 2026 Expat Family Guide

Why Taipei Is a Smart Choice for Expat Families

Taipei has quietly built a reputation as one of Asia's most family-friendly cities. Safe streets, excellent public infrastructure, affordable living costs relative to other Asian hubs, and a warm local culture make it an appealing destination for expat families arriving from around the world. For parents, the city's well-established international school sector means education options are plentiful — though choosing between them requires careful thought.

This guide covers what to look for when selecting an international school in Taipei and highlights some of the leading institutions available in 2026.

What to Look for in a Taipei International School

Curriculum Compatibility

Taipei's international schools offer a wide spread of curricula: the American system, the International Baccalaureate, British programmes, and others. If your child is mid-education and likely to move again, portability matters. The IB Diploma is widely recognised globally, while American credentials transfer seamlessly within the US university system.

Language Environment

Most international schools in Taipei teach primarily in English. Some incorporate Mandarin Chinese instruction, which can be a genuine advantage given Taiwan's position in East Asia. A strong Mandarin programme can open doors for your child both academically and professionally in the long run.

Class Size and Campus Facilities

Taipei's international schools vary considerably in size. Larger schools tend to offer a broader range of sports, arts, and extracurricular activities. Smaller schools often deliver more personalised attention. Visit campuses in person when possible — the feel of a school community is difficult to assess from a website alone.

Fees and Debentures

Annual tuition at Taipei international schools ranges from approximately TWD 400,000 to TWD 900,000. Some schools require a one-time capital levy or debenture on enrolment, which can be a significant additional cost. Factor this into your total budget calculations from the start.

Leading International Schools in Taipei

Taipei American School

Taipei American School is the city's flagship international institution and one of the most established American curriculum schools in Asia. It serves over 2,400 students from pre-kindergarten through grade 12 and is known for its strong academics, extensive extracurricular programme, and modern campus facilities. Admission is competitive and wait-listed in many year groups, so families should apply as early as possible.

Dominican International School Taipei

Dominican International School Taipei offers a Catholic-rooted international education environment combining American curriculum standards with strong values-based pastoral care. The school serves students from elementary through high school and appeals to families seeking a community-oriented, values-centred learning environment.

Morrison Academy Taipei

Morrison Academy Taipei is a Christian school offering an American curriculum from kindergarten through grade 12. It has a long history in Taiwan and is well regarded for its academic standards and close-knit community. The school draws families seeking a faith-based international education with a strong track record of university placement.

VIS Experimental High School

VIS Experimental High School takes a more progressive approach to education, emphasising project-based learning and student agency alongside academic rigour. It is a strong option for families looking for an alternative to more traditional curriculum frameworks, with a particular focus on developing independent thinkers.

Admissions Timelines and Practical Advice

The most sought-after schools in Taipei — particularly Taipei American School — fill quickly and maintain active waiting lists. Begin your research and applications at least six to twelve months before your intended start date. Gather academic records, teacher references, and any standardised test scores in advance. Many schools require entrance assessments for older students, and some have language proficiency requirements.

It is also worth contacting your employer's relocation team early: many corporations with offices in Taipei include education allowances in expat packages, and HR may have existing relationships with specific schools that can help with placement.

Explore All Options

Ready to compare all the options in one place? See our full rankings of the best high schools in Taipei, with detailed profiles, parent reviews, fee information, and more.