NTU GMBA
Survival Guide
First Edition
NTU SC GMBA Main Student Contact
Mike Kappler
LINE ID: mikekappler
R11749056@ntu.edu.tw
Last updated 7/30/2023
The purpose of this guide….
This handbook is student-led and is intended to be used as a guide only.
While we have worked hard to ensure the accuracy of the information, it is
possible that some inaccuracies may exist. Please always contact the
university's official channels, government contacts, or the main contact of
the person in charge of your specific question to ensure you get the correct
information. For questions, updates, or concerns please reach out to the SC
Student Main Contact.
Table of Contents
Other resources available for new/international students:
NTU GMBA Student Handbook
NTU OIA - All You Need To Know
Table of Contents
The purpose of this guide ............................................................................................................................. 2
Academics ..................................................................................................................................................... 2
Financials....................................................................................................................................................... 2
Documents .................................................................................................................................................... 2
Housing ......................................................................................................................................................... 2
Medical.......................................................................................................................................................... 2
Student Life ................................................................................................................................................... 2
Restaurants ................................................................................................................................................... 2
Nightlife......................................................................................................................................................... 2
pg. 2
Academics
Where should I purchase my course textbooks?
You don’t actually need to buy books for class. The professor provides all relevant
course materials and the book is rarely needed. Financial Reporting you will be required
to pay for the book so you also have access to the online portal in which homework is
completed. Chinese courses will also be purchased directly from NTU Language Office.
Most upperclassmen also have PDF versions of textbooks for each course (including
Chinese), so just ask someone!
Things to Note:
If you are looking for a generic bookstore, a popular option is Eslite with a few locations,
but one located nearby campus where you receive a discount with Student ID.
Google Maps Eslite Gongguan
Website
Eslite Official Website
How do I get Microsoft Office for my PC or MacBook?
Once you are on NTU campus WIFI-network (or download the NTU Secure VPN
Software which is a little complicated), you will be able to login to the download center
and there you can download various applications for free, such as Evernote and
Microsoft Office. The NTU VPN software is not required as a student but helps if you are
traveling outside of Taiwan because some systems require network connection such as
the download center.
Things to Note:
Once logged in (again only available on NTU network), you go to Software Downloads
and select what you need. You may need to just click save as and download to desktop
and wait for it to finish, and although an error will come up, it should run as normal.
There are some lengthy instructions you must follow as well.
Website
Instructions
NTU VPN
Email
Download Center
Instruction Guidelines
Pulse Secure VPN
mcchelp@ntu.edu.tw
Are all courses available each semester?
There are core and elective classes, with some only available during Spring or Fall
Semesters.
Core courses only in Fall semester: Data & Statistics | Service Operations Management
Core courses only in Spring semester: Financial Management | Managerial Accounting
pg. 3
How many courses should I take my first semester?
You need 39 credits to graduate so I would think about how soon you want to finish. If
you want to complete all courses in 3 semesters leaving your 4th semester for your
thesis only, that would be 13 credits a semester for 3 semesters. All core classes are 3
credits, but since elective classes can be 1,2, or 3 credits it may depend on how many
elective courses you need to take. Core courses typically are more strenuous so it’s
recommended to have a good balance of both core and elective classes. 2 core courses
+ 2 elective courses are a good first semester schedule. It’s recommended to register
for more classes, then drop the ones you don’t want by the end of the add/drop period.
Website
NTU GMBA Academics
GMBA Handbook Thesis Handbook Examples: Credits per semester
Are there difficult courses that I should not take at the same time?
Since everyone from the GMBA comes from different backgrounds, financial courses
may be difficult for some while others find marketing courses difficult. Instead of
dividing between easy or difficult courses, you may want to divide it between courses
that are time consuming and less time consuming based on workload.
More time-consuming courses:
• Financial Reporting: weekly homework takes between 2 to 5 hours
• Data and Statistics: homework, exams, 4 presentations
Less time-consuming courses:
• Organizational Behavior
• 1 or 2 credit elective courses
Things to Note:
With this being said: Financial Management and Data and Statistics have been
described as having tougher course materials for those not familiar with the topics.
There may be a small benefit to take Financial Reporting before Financial Management
as there is some overlap, but not necessarily required.
What are the add/drop and withdrawal period?
Phase II Course Selection – Add and Drop
• This time period allows you to add and drop courses with no penalty
• After this period, you are allowed to withdraw from a course but will still have to
pay
Course Withdrawal
• While you may withdraw from a course until a specific period each semester,
you will still be required to pay for the credits if it is after the add/drop period
• This will show up on your transcript with a W for withdraw
• When your retake the class there will be your completed final grade along with a
W for your previous withdraw
Website
GMBA Fall 2023 Course Schedule | Updated Add/Drop/Withdrawal Dates
pg. 4
Should I take Chinese language courses?
Totally up to you but it never hurts to learn the local language! NTU GMBA students
receive two semesters of Chinese language courses for free. Please keep in mind that
have to take these semesters consecutively, as in you cannot take your 2nd and 4th
semester, but your 1st and 2nd or 3rd and 4th etc.
Chinese classes take place either in the morning (Mon Wed Fri 8:10-10:00) or in the
evening (Tue Thu 18:25-21:05). If you take morning classes, note that your GMBA
courses usually begins in the afternoon or evening. If you want to take the evening
classes, be aware that you both Tue and Thu cannot conflict with GMBA courses.
Things to Note:
• Chinese courses do NOT count as elective credits towards your GMBA
graduation requirements and WILL impact your overall GPA
o Would recommend “sitting in” class unless you want to have the Chinese
courses on your official transcripts: Click here to find out how to “sit in”
• Classes are quite demanding with exams, oral presentation, dictations, and
homework
• For every hour you spend in class you will have to most likely spend at least
same amount of time outside of the classroom studying/working on
assignments (6 hours class = 6 hours of studying/assignments)
Website
OIA International Students | Chinese Courses
What is “sitting in” and how does it work? (Chinese courses only)
Sitting in allows you to attend class without officially registering for the course. You will
need professor approval, which is best attained by arriving early or discussing after class
during the first week of classes (earlier the better). Just explain you are a GMBA student
looking to take the course and learn the language but don’t want it to impact your GPA.
If you have more questions find an upperclassman, most have experience with this
process and it’s quite simple.
Things to Note:
The benefit of sitting in is that it will not impact your GPA, but also won't show on your
transcript. Depending on the professor, you are still required to hand in all homework,
take tests, complete presentations...etc. You will also need the professor to register you
in NTU Cool so you can have access to content or materials. This is simply done by the
professor adding you to the class with your Student ID/School Email.
pg. 5
When should I start writing my thesis?
For a rough idea, you need to complete thesis proposal and find a thesis advisor
(professor) at the beginning of semester you want to graduate (within the first week of
school). It’s best to start finding a thesis advisor and working on your proposal the
semester BEFORE you plan to graduate. The deadlines are listed on the GMBA website
for each semester. It’s best to consult your advisor before writing to ensure your topic,
research material, and content is approved. Most students don’t begin actually writing
their thesis until their final semester.
Things to Note:
• For more information, you can join Prof Leon's electives, "Quantitative Research
Method for Thesis Research" in fall semester and "Thesis Writing" in spring
semester.
• There also some workshops inviting alumni to share their research stories and
tips as well as a thesis proposal competition in the Fall you can join or attend.
• Visit the NTU GMBA Thesis Resources link below to see additional information
on the resources available to plan for you thesis
o The “GMBA Thesis Record” link specifically at the bottom of the page will
provide an excel document of previous students completed thesis
reports that also have links to download externally for reference
Website
National Taiwan University GMBA Timeline and Steps
Website
NTU GMBA Thesis Resources
What is the NTU GMBA grading system? Attendance policy?
NTU GMBA Grading System:
• In order to pass a course for NTU GMBA standards you need to receive at least a
B- score as a final grade
Attendance Policy
• A grade of X (equal to a grade of 0) may result if students have more than 25%
LEAVES or ABSENCE of total class hours
• Individual course instructors may apply other penalties, see GMBA handbook
NTU GMBA Grading Rubric:
Website
GMBA Code of Conduct
pg. 6
Financials
How do I open a bank account in Taiwan? What bank?
Due to the proximity to campus and familiarity with international students it is recommended to
use Hua Nan, Chunghwa Post, or E. Sun Banks. This is also because if you are ever employed by
NTU, need to be reimbursed by the school, or receive a scholarship: you will need to have a bank
account at one of these three banks as it is the only ones in which they will process your payment to
receive the funds.
Things to Note:
You will need an ARC, NTU Student ID, Taiwan Phone Number, physical address in Taiwan, passport,
and bring at least $1,000 NTD cash. Process can take 30-60mins. It is recommended going in person
to set up an appointment. Chunghwa Post Bank has a location in the Gongguan MRT, while Hua Nan
and E. Sun are next to the COM building. International banking limits some functionality of
website/apps such as fund transfers online—you will have to use the ATM transfer to move money
to pay rent, bills, or tuition.
What is an ATM Transfer?
You can pay bills, send money to friends, and even pay tuition through an ATM Fund transfer by
utilizing your Taiwan bank issued debit card. Complete at your home bank in Taiwan to avoid fees,
although you can use your Taiwan debit card to complete transactions at any ATM in Taiwan. You
will need someone’s bank code and Account number to complete the transaction. When paying
tuition, utilize the pay bill/fees option instead of fund transfer option to avoid daily transfer limit
issues.
What is the lottery system that is with Taiwan receipts?
There is essentially a lottery system that will rewards users who keep their receipts and yes, even
foreigners and ARC holders are eligible. The best option is to utilize an app to get your receipt
scanned, but you can also keep track manually with paper receipts, the attached article does a good
job of explaining the system. The apps attached are free programs that allow shops to scan and load
your receipt automatically, and it will check lottery results, and send prize winnings directly to your
bank account.
Things to Note:
Requires a Taiwan bank account and a Chinese speaker to complete registration as there is no
English App
Website
The Taiwan Receipt Lottery: How to Play & Redeem Your Winnings
IOS
發票載具＿統一發票對獎+雲端發票 on the App Store
Android
發票載具＿統一發票對獎+消費享回饋+雲端發票載具歸戶 on Google Store
pg. 7
What is the GMBA Assistantship?
There are a few 50 or 100-hour assistantship positions available each semester paying around or
slightly above Taiwan minimum wage, working on small projects with the GMBA Office. The official
application process is rolled out before or during the first few weeks of each semester via LINE or
Email. There are also additional assistantships through NTU, OIA, check with them directly.
Website
National Taiwan University GMBA Assistantship
What scholarships are available?
There are many scholarships available, some of which take a considerable amount of time to apply
to (some several months before arriving to Taiwan or getting accepted into the NTU program).
Things to Note:
There are also NTU GMBA specific scholarships which are announced before each semester and
will have its own unique application process—keep an eye on LINE or email from the GMBA office.
Website
Scholarships – Degree Admissions | National Taiwan University
Website
National Taiwan University GMBA NTU Scholarship
Are there paid internships or part-time jobs available?
Yes, there are many internships and part/full time positions available, there are updates on the
main GMBA website which list new jobs/internships. There are also several events throughout the
year through GMBA IMP (industry mentoring program).
Things to Note:
The NTU GMBA office will send out internships and jobs via email/Line as well. There are also
plenty of Facebook groups dedicated to part-time positions.
Website
Global MBA National Taiwan University
Website
National Taiwan University GMBA Industry Mentoring Program Overview
Facebook
Non Teaching Jobs in Taiwan | Facebook
Facebook
English Teacher in Taipei | Facebook
Facebook
Work 工作/Full time 全職/Part time job 兼職&打工/English Teacher 英文老師
Do I need to get a work permit?
Yes, it is required for all foreigners working part-time to receive a work permit before working in
Taiwan. Starting in 2023, even teaching-assistants will be required to get a permit.
Things to Note:
There are some regulations with foreign students working part-time so review the OIA information
below. The maximum working time for students is 20 hours per week, except on holiday/summer.
Website
Website
National Taiwan University Office of International Affairs Work Permit
Work Development Agency EZ Work Permit
pg. 8
Documents
How long does it take to get my ARC?
It can take anywhere from 3-10 business days to receive your ARC. Be sure to choose the Taipei
City location for pickup. Go to the E-Gate counter nearby and register while you’re there as well!
Get a native Chinese speaker to help complete the living address part in ARC registration online.
Things to Note:
Go to the immigration office nearby MRT Xiaonanmen station (green line)
Website
NTU OIA: Information on ARC
My ARC expiry date is during summer vacation. Does that mean I have to
stay in Taiwan until the renewal application is complete?
Though the webpage says application can be submitted only within 30 days before your expiry
date, you can try submission before that. There are some students who successfully submitted and
got ARC two months before their expiry dates. These successful students attached their flight
tickets or other valid reasons why they needed to apply earlier.
Things to Note:
When previous semester's enrollment certificate is no longer valid, you can pay tuition fee in
advance to Office of Academic Affairs. Get a payment invoice from OAA, then proceed to the
cashier for payment. Once done, return to OAA and they will provide you with a certificate of
enrollment for which you need during ARC application
What is E-Gate? Should I sign up for this service?
Yes! With your physical ARC card, you are eligible to sign up for Taiwan's E-Gate program which
allows you to bypass immigration coming in and out of the country by airport via an automatic
system saving a ton of time!
Things to Note:
This can be done at the office where you receive your ARC without appointment and in any of the
airports in Taipei, taking less than 5 mins and is completely free.
Website
e-Gate for the US and Global Entry for Taiwan
Can I get a driver or motorcycle license in Taiwan?
Yes, depending on your country, you may be able to exchange your previous home driver or
motorcycle license for a Taiwan license. If not, you can go through the normal process of taking
both written and driving tests to get your license.
Website
Directorate General of Highways, MOTC-Overseas Driving License
pg. 9
Housing
How are the NTU Dorms?
There are two types of dorms available in NTU: (1) BOT dorms (prince dorm) and (2) on-campus
dormitories. Rents and quality are very different between these two types.
Things to Note:
Single rooms (without roommate) are only available in BOT dorms with limited vacancy. Even though
you chose only single rooms, there is a possibility that the school can only provide you with a shared
room. If you really want to live without roommates, better to do some research outside of campus by
yourself. You also may not be notified if you got into the dorms until end of August, not giving you a lot
of time so it wouldn’t be a bad idea to have some alternative housing options ready.
Website
National Taiwan University Student Housing Service Division
What websites can you use to find off campus housing?
General advice:
• Most appointments or communications are via Line and can be rented within a day sometimes
• Is common to deal with intermediaries and not the direct owners, so consider that you need to pay
a fee to the intermediary once you sing the contract (Usually is 50% of one month rent).
• It is common to negotiate the price, but don’t delay as it might be gone quickly
• Utilities are typically not included, double check to see what is or is not
• It’s common to pay 2-month deposit + the first month in advance.
• Many Taiwanese apartments may not include an elevator or even a kitchen
• May need a Chinese speaker to assist in booking appointments
• Downloading a translator can be helpful to communicate in Chinese. Add this translator as a friend
on Line and add them to your chat and it will translate English-> Chinese and vice versa.
591 房屋交易
• Utilize Line to schedule appointments to view apartments, may need a Chinese speaker
My Room Abroad
• Taiwan website for short term rentals
UR House Realty
• Tailored for expats and have English-speakers who can assist in finding you an apartment
• Can be more expensive and up to one months rent commission fee
Facebook Groups:
• Rent Apartment, Find roommates in Taipei & Taiwan
• Rent House in Taipei Group | Facebook
• Short-term Apartment in Taipei (Taiwan)
• Rental Taiwan
pg. 10
Medical
Sexual Health Care
Where can you get tested for STIs (Sexually Transmitted Infections?
The NTU Health Clinic only tests for HIV and Syphilis and does not cover the wide range of STIs out here, let
alone the most common ones. It is recommended to visit a private laboratory, doctor/clinic, or hospital to
complete STI Testing.
Things to note:
These tests are typically not covered by health insurance unless you have symptoms and is not covered
under preventative care. Hospitals are likely to have more affordable tests while private labs will be more
expensive.
(Da’an United Medical Laboratory)
• Private laboratory that does comprehensive STI testing with English forms and English technicians.
• Near Technology Building (Wanhu Line)
• No appointment required, can cost anywhere from $1,000-3,000 NTD depending on tests
• Does not provide treatment, so would have to go to NTU Clinic or hospital with results to be
prescribed the necessary medicine, results sent by email in 1-3 business days
(HIV self-service vending machines)
• CDC HIV self-service vending machines where you can pay and test yourself for HIV
• IF positive, see NTU Clinic or Hospitals
• Multiple locations throughout Taipei
NTU Hospital (Google Maps)
• Can complete all types of testing here, may have to wait awhile
• Look for English volunteers for assistance
• May not be covered by insurance but will be cheaper than private clinics
Women's Health Resources:
Where can I find medical treatment specifically for Women?
NTU Hospital (Google Maps)
• Have English speaking doctors upon request and can provide all necessary women’s health care and
testing while remaining affordable with/without insurance
Dianthus MFM Clinic (Google Maps)
• English/Japanese friendly doctors, private clinic so double check insurance costs and coverage as it
may be more expensive
Happiness Obstetrics and Gynecology Clinic (Google Maps)
• English friendly doctor, private clinic so double check insurance costs and coverage as it may be
more expensive
pg. 11
Mental Health Care
What resources are available for Mental Health Care in Taiwan?
If you are more comfortable in your own language, or have already
started therapy before arriving, it may be easier to see if your current
therapist in your home country will do virtual sessions. If not, there are
a few resources for English-speaking assistance.
National Taiwan University Student Counseling Center, Office of
Student Affairs
• Can make an online appointment.
• In the web page you can find the contact information of
different Counselors
• Free or low cost for students with English-speaking counselors
Taipei City Counseling Center
• Can be quite expensive with sessions costing up to $3,000 NTD
• Ask for a student discount
• Emergency number: 0932-594-578
Finding the Right Help: Mental Health Resources for Expats in Taipei
• American Chamber of Commerce article and recommendations
for private mental health care
Taipei Suicide Prevention Hotline: Dial 1925
Sports-Related Injury Care
I hurt my ankle playing soccer, where should I go?
If you have a serious injury, please always visit the closest major hospital. For minor sports-related injuries
you can visit a private sports medicine doctor.
Things to Note:
• You do not need to make an appointment in advance.
• A couple of receptionists don’t speak English but all the doctors speak fluent English
If you still don’t have insurance you need to pay 700 NTD. In this case, ask the doctor for 診斷書
(Certificate to present to your insurance to get your money back), $150 non refundable
Google Maps
Multiple locations check website
Website
適康復健科診所 (Sure Care)
•
pg. 12
LGBTQIA+ Resources
Are there resources or groups available for LGBTQIA+ people?
There are a few groups on Facebook and various LGBTQIA+ associations in Taiwan such as Taiwan Tongzhi
Hotline providing a variety of services for people needing assistance. While you may not find LGBTQIA+
specific doctors or clinics in Taipei, almost all doctors speak English and are willing to listen if you describe
the specific health care or treatment you are looking for.
The first student led on-campus LGBTQIA+ organization (NTU Gay Chat) in Taiwan was formed at NTU in
1992 and is still currently running. They often hold various events during the school year and all students
are welcome. Unlike many other countries around the world, Taiwan holds their annual pride events during
the month October with information from the Taiwan LGBT Pride organization linked below.
Can you get PREP in Taiwan?
It can be quite difficult, but there are a few doctors who will prescribe the medication but may not be able
to actually get the prescription filled. In Ximen there are a few doctors who will prescribe the medication
and with the prescription you can make a virtual appointment with Pulse Clinic who can send medication
internationally (you need to have a Taiwan-based prescription to order via the Pulse website online). It's a
little tricky--sometimes it's easier to find a Pulse location in Thailand, Malaysia, Hong Kong, Philippines or
Singapore and bring the medication back with you.
Website
Taiwan Tongzhi Hotline Association
Website
Information | Getting Prep in Taiwan
Pulse Clinic
Pulse Clinic | PREP By Mail Taiwan
Facebook
OITW Out in Taiwan | Facebook
Facebook
NTUGayChat | Taipei 臺灣同志遊行 Taiwan LGBT Pride
Chinese Traditional Medicine
What is TCM? Can I go see a doctor there?
TCM doctors use a variety of techniques including acupuncture, herbal medicine, massage, and dietary
therapy to treat aches, pains, and sickness. If you are having serious health concerns, it is recommended to
go to the nearest hospital. Shining TCM has English friendly doctors, English forms, and after your first
walk-in appointment you can then schedule for future appointments via Line.
Things to Note:
o Most treatments are covered by insurance for minimal out of pocket expenses
ranging from 50-200 NTD
o Many TCM locations throughout Taiwan, look for TCM signs and the National
Health Insurance logo
Google Maps
Multiple locations check website, closest Shining TCM location to campus is near
Xinyi Anhe
Website
Shining TCM
pg. 13
Dental Care
Where would you recommend getting Dental Care?
While the NTU Clinic has a dentist office available it may not be the best option. With your health insurance
card, you can get checkups twice a year with minimal out of pocket charges. There is an English friendly
Dental office near the Technology Building (Wenhu Line) / Xinyi Anhe (Red Line) MRT stations.
Things to note:
Evergreen Dental can make appointments via Line messages, have English forms, and an English-speaking
doctor. They provide a very simple cleaning, dental x-rays, and treatments for cavities. Cavities are covered
under insurance, total cost around $100 NTD with insurance. There are also multiple locations.
Google Maps
Evergreen Dental Clinic
Line Profile
Evergreen Dental Care Line
Dental Website
長青牙醫聯盟
Family Medicine / General Practitioner
Where should I go for minor injuries/illness while in Taiwan?
The easiest and most affordable option (with or without insurance) is going to be the NTU Health Center on
campus. If you have a serious medical emergency go to your nearest hospital or NTU Hospital. There are
also private doctor offices that accept insurance. You can always ask for the cost before treatment to have
an idea of the cost, but unless you are having a major medical emergency, most treatment can be
affordable.
NTU Health Center (國立台灣大學保健中心) (Google Maps)
• If you can make an appointment online beforehand, they can get quite busy or arrive as early as
possible. They are open 8am-5pm.
• Have a pharmacy on site if medication is prescribed
NTU Hospital (Google Maps)
• Have English speaking doctors, and English volunteers near entrance
• Can be difficult to find where to go, what counter to go to so it’s best to find a volunteer who will
assist because while the doctors speak English, paying and scheduling services and lab work can be
confusing
Kin Wah Clinic (健華診所) (Google Maps)
• You do not need to make an appointment, have friendly English-speaking doctors
• The receptionist speaks a bit of English so it's not that difficult to communicate
• There is a pharmacy right next door so you can buy your medicine there directly once you get the
prescription
pg. 14
Harassment/Sexual Assault/ Rape Resources
What resources are available if an incident occurs?
General advice: If you have been sexually harassed, assaulted, or raped, you are not alone. If you are not
comfortable reporting to the police directly, that are many other alternatives to get the help you need.
Trusted friends, faculty members, students, mental health counselors, or anyone else you feel safe with
can provide support. They can help you navigate the next steps and connect you with the necessary
resources
Things to Note:
If you experience an incident, it is important to gather evidence as soon as possible. This could include
screenshots of texts, phone calls, or recordings. You should also go to the police and/or doctor
immediately. Do not let anyone gaslight you into believing that what happened was okay. In Taiwan,
consent is only given when someone explicitly says "yes." It is important to reach out and talk to people
about what happened. All of this evidence can be used by the school or police later on.
GMBA Office Staff Contact Info
• Reach out to anyone you feel comfortable with
NTU Gender Equity Department
• Reach out to anyone you feel comfortable with
• On campus, (3rd Floor, Zhanshu Building)
• gender@ntu.edu.tw
Center for Prevention of Domestic Violence and Sex
• Government agency who can assist in reporting, guidance, and support
• Online resources as well as a physical location in Ximen: (Google Maps)
o Site works better in Chinese with Google Translate add-on rather than English page option
• haf_master@mail.taipei.gov.tw
Police Phone #
110
pg. 15
Student Life
What are the best gyms? Should I join the on-campus center?
There are two popular options, going to the NTU Sports Center and World Gym. World Gym can be
quite expensive in comparison to the NTU Sports Center, but has updated equipment with towel
service, sauna, and more space.
NTU Sports Center
• Very affordable (ranging from $1,350-1,800/year depending on swimming access)
• Convenient location located on campus
• Can be quite busy with many students and some outdated equipment
• Also have the option to pay per visit (approximately $50 NTD/visit)
World Gym Taiwan
• Memberships ranging from $1,000-$1,800/month depending on contract
• Minimum membership is 1 year but you can negotiate all fees/pricing/guidelines
• Ability to pay lower cost for the Gongguan location near NTU, or pay extra to visit all WG
locations within Taipei, can be busy during after-work hours
• Recommend WG Gongguan advisor Angel: Ask for a discount. Her Line ID is: 0963975519
What are the best cell-phone providers in Taipei?
There are several different cell phone carriers within Taiwan to choose from:
Chunghwa Telecom
Taiwan Mobile
Far EasTone
T Star Taiwan
GT Mobile Taiwan
Due to their familiarity with international students, discounts, low-cost international data costs, and
good quality—it is recommended to go with Chunghwa Telecom. They have a student discount plan
at Gongguan location for unlimited data and a few free minutes of texts for around 600NTD/month.
Good for international travel around Asia with 88NTD/1gb for most countries in Asia.
Things to Note:
There are options to register for prepaid or postpaid service, both with student discounts if asked.
For those who do not want to visit the store and pay monthly, you can choose the prepaid service.
The monthly fee is about the same but you need to pay upfront total for the 3-12 months depending
on the package. The deposit is not needed for prepaid service, unlike the postpaid service.
Things to Note:
• You will need your ARC, passport, and deposit around $1,000 NTD.
• You can pay bills at any Chunghwa storefront, 7/11, FamilyMart, or online
Google Maps
Chunghwa Telecom Gongguan
Website
Chunghwa Telecom
pg. 16
Are there any student discounts available?
Yes! There are many locations around Taipei (and Taiwan) that will provide you with a small discount
upon showing identification. There are also a lot of shops/restaurants that will provide the discount
near Gongguan so be sure to ask to see who does.
Taiwan High Speed Rail
• The discount only works when the web page is in Chinese (use Google webpage translate to
navigate in English) with up to 25%+ off
• Not valid during Chinese New Year or on "normal" slow trains
• Although the Entry/Exit is automatic with scannable tickets, if they do ask for proof your
student ID does NOT count. You need to carry a physical copy of Certificate of Enrollment (I
think it may be in Chinese only), but is available to download each semester in My NTU, then
E portfolio - Certificate of Enrollment
7 – Eleven / Family Marts
• You can save 5-10% on select items when presenting your Student ID for locations that are on
campus
Cinema/Museums
• Most cinema and museums have discount rated so be sure to ask or if you are purchasing
tickets online be sure to see if they have a student option
All NTU Shops
• Almost all shops and food locations on campus will have a small discount, be sure to show
your ID, although most of the time they automatically take it off.
GU Clothing Stores
• Uniqlo sister-company with a 5% discount with a foreign passport
• Technically nor for ARC holders, but they don’t know/won’t check
pg. 17
Restaurants
Where would you recommend to get food near or in campus?
There is no shortage of places to get a bite to eat here in Taipei. With vegetarian buffets, coffee, and to togo lunchboxes, there are plenty of different shops and restaurants where you can receive affordable
meals right on campus. There is more information on the NTU Website and NTU GMBA Handbook with an
extensive list of food options.
Near Gongguan/campus:
JJ's Poke Bowl (Google Maps)
• 140 NTD for decent portion relatively healthy poke bowl
• 5 minutes from campus and have English speakers
Gongguan Night Market
• Opens at 3pm, but most vendors are there around 5/6pm.
• Lots of cheap and quick food available
Shida Night Market
• Larger than Gongguan Night Market, with more options and restaurants
• 20-30-minute walk from the College of Management building in NTU
Tian Jin Onion Pancake
• Famous 100% vegetarian pancake
Lan Jia Gua Bao Traditional Taiwanese Snack
• Famous traditional Taiwanese Bao Bun, around 70NTD
• Always busy but the line moves quick, only Chinese menu
Bich Loan
• Good banh mi for an affordable price
• Take away only not dine in
Website
NTU | On-Campus Food Options
pg. 18
Any recommendation outside of the campus?
Other popular restaurants:
Din Tai Fung
• Famous Taiwanese restaurant with many locations
• Can have long wait times, try going early and grabbing a waiting ticket and you can check your spot
in the line online through the QR code provided, you also order directly from your phone (can also
do in advance)
Haidilao 海底捞
• Popular hot-pot restaurant with many locations
• Make an appointment in advance as tables usually need reservations
• They have small Chinese performances during dinner (12:00/6:00pm—double check)
• You can get your nails done while you wait, make an appointment at the counter when you first
arrive
Pasta 2 Go | Taipei (Google Maps)
• Italian owner with English menus around 120NTD+
越來越 PHO 越南河粉 / 越南河粉 / 越式料理 / 萬隆站 / 文山區
• Very good pho
武鼎越豐
• Must try Cơm tấm here
Pizza Recommendations:
Little New York Pizza
Pizza Rock Taiwan
pg. 19
Nightlife
What bars do you recommend?
Casual Bar Recommendations:
Another Brick | Taipei
• Belgian bar with good drinks and atmosphere, best French fries in Taipei
Dubh Linn Irish bar
• Irish pub
45 Old Bar Coffee 公館
• Rock bar, great for drinks and late-night snacks
Babylon Taipei
• Good views of Taipei 101 with a spacious roof deck
• Many other bars/clubs located in the same building, ATT 4 Fun
Café Dalida
• LGBTQ+ outdoor café in the Red Square
• Many other outdoor LGBTQ+ bars as well in the area
Beer Recommendations:
Red Point Brewery
• GMBA Alumni owner
Zhangmen Tap Bistro
• Nice outdoor patio near Taipei 101
The Brass Monkey
• Popular for sports events
Cocktail Bar Recommendations:
Staff Only
Nite Nite
Silver Lining
Bar without
FOUR Taipei
Ginspiration
City North
B line by A train
Digout
pg. 20
What nightclubs do you recommend?
Omni Nightclub (Google Maps)
• Popular nightclub for electronic music
Studio 9 (Google Maps)
• House/Electric/Techno club on the rooftop of the H&M in Ximen
• Often holds LGBTQ+ events
Pawnshop (Google Maps)
• House/Electric/Techno
• Often holds LGBTQ+ events
• Hidden entrance inside Anytime Fitness
G Star Club (Google Maps)
• LGBTQ+
• K-Pop with on-stage dancing
Taboo (Google Maps)
• LGBTQ+ | mostly Lesbian bar
Triangle (Google Maps)
• Located in Maji Square where you have other bar and restaurants but can also grab drinks
from 7/11 and sit outside
Barcode (Google Maps)
• Near Taipei 101 with an outdoor terrace, good for parties and large group reservations
Marque Taipei (Google Maps)
• Near Taipei 101
Belle's Taipei (Google Maps)
• Entry ticket for show which includes 2 drinks
• LGBTQ+ friendly with men, women, and drag performers (show around 12am)
pg. 21