Chinese Student Barred from NTU Admission Despite 'Starry Scholarship' Acceptance; Minister Cites Legal Constraints
A Chinese student who attended high school in Taiwan and was accepted into National Taiwan University (NTU) via the 'Starry Scholarship' program has been denied admission due to current regulations. Minister of Education Cheng Ying-yao stated that existing laws do not allow for exceptions, expressing hope for the student's future development.
📋 Article Processing Timeline
- 📰 Published: April 30, 2026 at 11:27
- 🔍 Collected: April 30, 2026 at 11:32 (4 min after Published)
- 🤖 AI Analyzed: April 30, 2026 at 12:32 (1h 0m after Collected)
A Chinese student, who grew up in Taiwan and attended high school there, was accepted into National Taiwan University (NTU) through the 'Starry Scholarship' recommendation program but has been denied admission due to eligibility issues. The Ministry of Education clarified that the student's case falls under 'residence permit' regulations, not academic qualifications. The student, who came to Taiwan with parents doing business, was admitted to high school as a dependent child. Upon reaching adulthood, the basis for their continued residence expired, preventing further study in Taiwan. The Ministry explained that while the 'Starry Scholarship' and other university application channels only require academic qualifications (e.g., being a senior or graduate), they do not prohibit foreign or Chinese students from applying. Minister of Education Cheng Ying-yao reiterated that current laws offer no room for exceptions and expressed hope for the student's future. He remained reserved when asked about potential future legal revisions.
FAQ
Why was the Chinese student denied admission to NTU?
The student was denied admission because their legal basis for residing in Taiwan expired upon reaching adulthood, as they were admitted as a dependent child of a business-investing parent.
Can foreign students apply for the 'Starry Scholarship' program?
Yes, the application criteria for the 'Starry Scholarship' and other university entrance exams only require academic qualifications and do not prohibit foreign or Chinese students from applying.
What is the Ministry of Education's stance on this case?
The Ministry of Education stated that current laws do not allow for exceptions and expressed hope for the student's future development.
Does this mean Chinese students cannot study in Taiwan?
The issue is specific to the student's residency status and the expiration of their dependent status, not a general ban on Chinese students studying in Taiwan.