Taipei is one of Asia's most underrated destinations for expat families. Clean, safe, efficient and genuinely welcoming, Taiwan's capital offers a high quality of life at a lower cost than comparable Asian cities like Tokyo, Singapore or Hong Kong. For families relocating to work in technology, manufacturing, semiconductors or trade, finding the right international school in Taipei is often the first step after securing accommodation. This guide covers the best international schools, curricula, fees and practical admissions advice for 2026.
Why Expat Families Choose Taipei
Taiwan punches well above its weight as a destination for international business. Home to TSMC and a dense ecosystem of technology and electronics manufacturers, the island attracts engineers, executives and entrepreneurs from around the world. Taipei's Xinyi, Da'an and Zhongshan districts are popular with expat families, offering modern apartments, excellent food, green spaces and good transport links.
The city is known for being exceptionally safe, with low crime and a friendly local culture that makes newcomers feel welcome quickly. Healthcare is excellent and affordable. Most day-to-day life in Taipei can be managed with English in expat-friendly areas, though learning some Mandarin significantly enriches the experience. Most international schools in Taipei offer Mandarin Chinese as part of the curriculum, which is a genuine advantage for children who grow up here.
International School Curricula in Taipei
The international school scene in Taipei is dominated by American-curriculum schools, reflecting the strong historical and business ties between Taiwan and the United States. Several schools follow or are accredited by US accrediting bodies, offering a familiar curriculum for North American families and a globally portable education for others. There are also bilingual Mandarin-English programs, which are increasingly popular as demand for Mandarin literacy grows, as well as schools with an alternative or progressive pedagogical approach. IB programs are available at some schools, providing a pathway for students heading to universities in Europe or beyond.
Top International Schools in Taipei
The schools below are listed on the ISA Taipei school ranking, based on verified parent reviews and school engagement.
Morrison Academy Taipei
Morrison Academy Taipei is one of the most established international schools in Taiwan, with a long history of serving the English-speaking expat community. The school follows an American-style curriculum and is accredited by Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC), giving its qualifications strong recognition for US university applications. Morrison offers programs from kindergarten through high school, and its Taipei campus has a well-developed extracurricular program including sports, arts and community service. The school has a Christian ethos, which is reflected in its values and community culture, and it attracts families from across North America, Europe and Asia.
School fees: Approximately TWD 450,000–600,000 per year (roughly USD 14,000–19,000).
Dominican International School Taipei
Dominican International School Taipei is a Catholic school offering an English-medium education with a strong emphasis on values, character development and academic rigour. The school serves students from kindergarten through to secondary level, and its program prepares graduates for admission to universities in the United States, Canada and Europe. Dominican International has a smaller, more intimate campus community than some of Taipei's larger schools, which many families appreciate for the sense of belonging it creates. Mandarin Chinese is taught as a second language throughout the school, preparing students for life in Taiwan and beyond.
School fees: Approximately TWD 380,000–520,000 per year (roughly USD 12,000–16,500).
Acton Academy Taipei
Acton Academy Taipei is part of the global Acton Academy network, which takes a radically learner-centred approach to education. Rather than traditional teacher-led instruction, students at Acton work through self-directed learning journeys, mastering core skills through Socratic discussions, real-world projects and peer accountability. This model produces highly self-motivated, independent learners, and many Acton graduates perform strongly at university level precisely because they have already developed strong self-management skills. The school is a strong choice for families who are dissatisfied with conventional education models and want something more innovative and personalised.
School fees: Approximately TWD 300,000–420,000 per year (roughly USD 9,500–13,000).
International School Fees in Taipei
One of Taipei's genuine advantages over other major expat cities is the relative affordability of its international schools. Fees typically range from TWD 300,000 to TWD 650,000 per year (approximately USD 9,500 to USD 20,000), which is considerably lower than comparable schools in Singapore, Tokyo or Hong Kong. Families should also factor in registration fees, activity fees, and the cost of school uniforms and materials, which typically add TWD 20,000–50,000 to the annual bill.
Many of the multinational companies with operations in Taiwan include school fee support as part of their relocation packages. It is always worth clarifying the specifics of this support with your employer's HR team before committing to a school.
Practical Admissions Tips for Taipei
Taipei's international schools are experienced at receiving families from abroad, and the admissions process is generally efficient and straightforward. Here are the key points to keep in mind:
Apply before you arrive. The best international schools in Taipei can fill up quickly, particularly at the secondary level. If you know your relocation date, reach out to schools as early as possible, even if your arrival is several months away.
Document requirements. Most schools require recent school reports (usually the last two years), a copy of the child's passport, proof of residence in Taipei, vaccination records, and a completed application form. Some schools also require an entrance assessment or interview.
Academic year timing. Taipei's international schools generally follow the North American academic calendar, running from August or September to June. Mid-year entry in January is also possible at most schools.
Mandarin Chinese preparation. If your children have no prior exposure to Mandarin, do not be concerned — international schools in Taipei provide Chinese language instruction tailored to different ability levels, and children typically make rapid progress in a Mandarin-speaking environment.
Explore the Full Taipei School Ranking
The schools profiled above represent a strong starting point. For a full comparison of international schools in Taipei, including parent reviews and fee information, visit the International School Advisor Taipei ranking.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best international school in Taipei?
The best international school in Taipei depends on your family's priorities. Morrison Academy Taipei is one of the city's most established schools with US accreditation. Dominican International School offers a Catholic, values-centred environment. Acton Academy Taipei is ideal for families seeking a self-directed, innovative learning model. Compare all options on the ISA Taipei ranking.
How much do international schools in Taipei cost?
International school fees in Taipei typically range from TWD 300,000 to TWD 650,000 per year (approximately USD 9,500 to USD 20,000). Taipei is considerably more affordable than comparable expat cities in Asia such as Singapore, Tokyo or Hong Kong. Additional costs including registration, activities and materials typically add TWD 20,000–50,000 per year.
Do international schools in Taipei teach Mandarin Chinese?
Yes. Almost all international schools in Taipei integrate Mandarin Chinese instruction into their curriculum, typically offering different levels to accommodate students with varying prior exposure. This is a significant advantage for children growing up in Taiwan, giving them functional Mandarin skills alongside their English-medium education.