Taiwan stands as a beacon of higher education in Asia. Renowned for their academic rigor, research contributions, and innovative teaching methodologies, Taiwanese universities attract students from all corners of the globe. In this article, we delve into the top 10 universities in Taiwan, each a powerhouse in its own right, shaping the future leaders and innovators of tomorrow.
10. Chinese Culture University (Taipei)

Nestled in the mountains of Taipei, Chinese Culture University (CCU – 中國文化大學) secures its spot in the top 10 with its commitment to preserving and promoting traditional Chinese culture while embracing modernity. Offering a diverse range of programs across various disciplines, the university focuses mostly on humanities and social sciences.
| Chinese Culture University (CCU) | |
|---|---|
| Year founded | 1962 |
| Number of teachers | 717 |
| Number of students | 32,000 |
| Number of international students | 1,000 |
| Global ranking | 1,500+ |
| Regional ranking | 600+ |
9. National Sun Yat-Sen University (Kaohsiung)

Located in the southern port city of Kaohsiung, National Sun Yat-Sen University (NSYSU – 國立中山大學) is the first national comprehensive university in Southern Taiwan and boasts a reputation for excellence in research and innovation. With strong ties to industry and a dynamic learning environment, the university equips its students with the skills and knowledge necessary to thrive in an ever-evolving global landscape.
| National Sun Yay-Sen University (NSYSU) | |
|---|---|
| Year founded | 1924 |
| Number of teachers | 614 |
| Number of students | 10,000 |
| Number of international students | 1,000 |
| Global ranking | 485 |
| Regional ranking | 99 |
8. National Central University (Taoyuan)

Situated in the bustling city of Taoyuan, National Central University (NCU – 國立中央大學) stands as a beacon of academic excellence and scientific discovery. Renowned for its strong emphasis on research and development, the university collaborates with leading institutions worldwide to tackle pressing global challenges and drive innovation across various fields. It is also the first university in Taiwan to research industrial economics and economic development.
| National Central University (NCU) | |
|---|---|
| Year founded | 1902 |
| Number of teachers | 746 |
| Number of students | 12,000 |
| Number of international students | 1,000 |
| Global ranking | 641 |
| Regional ranking | 103 |
7. Tamkang University (New Taipei)

Taiwan’s oldest private institution of higher learning, with a history spanning over six decades, Tamkang University (TKU – 淡江大學) has established itself as a trailblazer in higher education, renowned for its interdisciplinary approach to learning and innovative teaching methodologies. Located in the north of New Taipei City, the university offers a vibrant campus life and a myriad of opportunities for personal and academic growth.
| Tamkang University (TKU) | |
|---|---|
| Year founded | 1950 |
| Number of teachers | 1,367 |
| Number of students | 26,000 |
| Number of international students | 1,500 |
| Global ranking | 1201-1400 |
| Regional ranking | 601+ |
6. National Chengchi University (Taipei)

As one of Taiwan’s leading universities, National Chengchi University (NCCU – 國立政治大學) was originally established in Nanjing, China, and is considered as the earliest public service training facility of the Republic of China. The institution takes pride in its tradition of excellence in education and research. Situated on the east side of Taipei, the university’s rigorous academic programs and state-of-the-art facilities attract top talent from around the world, fostering a dynamic and inclusive learning community.
| National Chengchi University (NCCU) | |
|---|---|
| Year founded | 1927 |
| Number of teachers | 657 |
| Number of students | 16,000 |
| Number of international students | 1,600 |
| Global ranking | 567 |
| Regional ranking | 123 |
5. National Cheng Kung University (Tainan)

Named after the renowned Southern Ming General Koxinga (or Zheng Chenggong), National Cheng Kung University (NCKU – 國立成功大學) in Tainan is synonymous with academic excellence and innovation. With a strong focus on engineering and technology, the university prepares its students to tackle real-world challenges and make meaningful contributions to society.
| National Cheng Kung University (NCKU) | |
|---|---|
| Year founded | 1931 |
| Number of teachers | 2,000 |
| Number of students | 23,000 |
| Number of international students | 2,300 |
| Global ranking | 215 |
| Regional ranking | 36 |
4. National Tsing Hua University (Hsinchu)

Originally founded in Beijing, China, but now nestled in the picturesque city of Hsinchu, National Tsing Hua University (NTHU – 國立清華大學) is renowned for its rigorous academic programs and groundbreaking research initiatives. With a strong emphasis on science and technology, the university fosters a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship, empowering students to become leaders in their respective fields.
Note: NTHU is independent and distinct from the Tsinghua University in Beijing, even though they share the same origins and have similar emblems.
| National Tsing Hua University (NTHU) | |
|---|---|
| Year founded | 1911 |
| Number of teachers | 1,300 |
| Number of students | 18,000 |
| Number of international students | 1,700 |
| Global ranking | 210 |
| Regional ranking | 39 |
3. National Taiwan Normal University (Taipei)

Dedicated to the pursuit of excellence in teacher education and academic research, National Taiwan Normal University (NTNU – 國立臺灣師範大學) in Taipei stands as a testament to Taiwan’s commitment to fostering quality education. With a focus on nurturing future educators and leaders, the university plays a pivotal role in shaping the educational landscape of Taiwan and beyond.
It is also the largest Chinese language teaching institution in the country. If you’re going to Taiwan to study Chinese, chances are you’ll choose NTNU.
| National Taiwan Normal University (NTNU) | |
|---|---|
| Year founded | 1922 |
| Number of teachers | 1,500 |
| Number of students | 15,000 |
| Number of international students | 1,700 |
| Global ranking | 970 |
| Regional ranking | 70 |
2. National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University (Taipei)

Formed through the merger of two prestigious institutions, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University (NYCU – 國立陽明交通大學) in Taipei is renowned for its excellence in science, engineering, and medicine. With a strong emphasis on interdisciplinary collaboration and cutting-edge research, the university prepares its students to address complex global challenges and drive innovation in their respective fields.
| National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University (NYCU) | |
|---|---|
| Year founded | 2021 |
| Number of teachers | 1,150 |
| Number of students | 20,000 |
| Number of international students | 1,400 |
| Global ranking | 217 |
| Regional ranking | 47 |
1. National Taiwan University (Taipei)

Topping the list is National Taiwan University (NTU – 國立臺灣大學), widely regarded as the pinnacle of higher education in Taiwan. With a rich history spanning over nine decades, the university excels in research, teaching, and community engagement, earning its reputation as a world-class institution of higher learning. Situated in the heart of Taipei, NTU offers a vibrant and inclusive campus environment, attracting top talent from around the globe and shaping the future leaders and innovators of tomorrow.
| National Taiwan University (NTU) | |
|---|---|
| Year founded | 1928 |
| Number of teachers | 2,000 |
| Number of students | 32,000 |
| Number of international students | 6,000 |
| Global ranking | 68 |
| Regional ranking | 21 |
Summary
| University | Number of Teachers | Number of Students | Number of International Students | Global Ranking | Regional Ranking |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| CCU | 717 | 32,000 | 1,000 | 1,500+ | 600+ |
| NSYSU | 614 | 10,000 | 1,000 | 485 | 99 |
| NCU | 746 | 12,000 | 1,000 | 641 | 103 |
| TKU | 1,367 | 26,000 | 1,500 | 1201-1400 | 601+ |
| NCCU | 657 | 16,000 | 1,600 | 567 | 123 |
| NCKU | 2,000 | 23,000 | 2,300 | 215 | 36 |
| NTHU | 1,300 | 18,000 | 1,700 | 210 | 39 |
| NTNU | 1,500 | 15,000 | 1,700 | 970 | 70 |
| NYCU | 1,150 | 20,000 | 1,400 | 217 | 47 |
| NTU | 2,000 | 32,000 | 6,000 | 68 | 21 |
As Taiwan continues to thrive as a hub of higher education and innovation, these universities will undoubtedly play a crucial role in shaping the future of the nation and beyond.
