In response to rapidly evolving global dynamics, particularly the recent tightening of international student admission policies in the United States, Academia Sinica announces the launch of the second round of the “Fast-Track PhD Admission Pilot Program for Elite Students.”
The program continues to open doors for international students seeking to pursue advanced research in Taiwan, offering generous financial support and access to a world-class research environment.
The program was first launched in April 2025, receiving an enthusiastic response. Within two weeks, numerous applications were submitted, and after thorough review, 11 outstanding students from both Taiwan and abroad were admitted. These students will formally join the Taiwan International Graduate Program (TIGP), hosted by Academia Sinica in collaboration with local universities, and will begin their doctoral research in September.
To further support students facing uncertainty regarding their overseas academic plans, Academia Sinica has decided to initiate a second round of applications. This round targets newly admitted PhD students from top global universities, providing them with an opportunity to transfer directly into the TIGP PhD program and continue pursuing their research aspirations in Taiwan.
Application Procedure
Identify Potential Advisors
Please visit the TIGP official website (click here) and select one to three potential faculty members whose research interests align with yours. These advisors may be affiliated with one of the seven programs under the Mathematics and Physical Sciences Division or one of the six programs under the Life Sciences Division.
Prepare and Submit Application Documents to the Department of International Affairs (DIA), Academia Sinica:
1. A brief statement explaining your choice of advisors and a concise research proposal (limited to one page per advisor).
2. Your original PhD application materials, including Statement of Purpose, official transcripts from your highest degree, English proficiency test scores, and admission letter from the university.
3. At least one letter of recommendation.
Review Process
Upon receiving your application materials, the DIA will contact the selected advisors to confirm their willingness to supervise. Once approval is obtained and the application is reviewed successfully, you may begin your research at Academia Sinica.
Benefits During Research Period and Future Pathways
Admitted applicants will undertake a research internship at Academia Sinica for a duration of several months to one year. During this period, a monthly stipend of TWD 40,000 to TWD 50,000 (subject to tax) will be provided. If you are currently residing overseas, Academia Sinica will offer reimbursement for an economy-class round-trip airfare between your current location and Taiwan.
You may formally enroll in TIGP for the 2026 Spring Semester (February) or Fall Semester (August), subject to program requirements. If the U.S. government later relaxes its policies toward international students and you choose to resume your PhD studies in the U.S., you may still be eligible to return to Academia Sinica for dissertation research through the TIGP-X Pilot Program, benefiting from academic training and research resources in both locations.
Application Timeline
Applications are accepted starting from June 16, 2025, on a rolling basis.
Interested applicants should compile the above-mentioned materials and send them to: tigpx@gate.sinica.edu.tw
Contact Information:
Mr. Stanley Lin, Section Chief LSD@as.edu.tw ｜ (02) 2789-9446
Ms. Angelina Shen angelinashen@as.edu.tw ｜ (02) 2787-1412