TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Taiwan's Ministry of Education (教育部) launched the "Youth Career Pilot Program" (青年生涯領航計畫) Tuesday (Oct. 7), offering high school graduates up to NT$285,000 (around US$9,356) in comprehensive scholarships. The initiative encourages students to explore diverse career paths before university. Applications open Nov. 1, through Feb. 28, 2026, for qualified participants seeking alternative educational pathways.
The program accepts applications from high school graduates holding Republic of China (中華民國), Taiwan's official designation, residency status exclusively. Participants receive monthly practice bonuses of NT$10,000 (around US$328), comprehensive workplace experience opportunities, and professional certification training programs. Total potential earnings may reach NT$285,000 (around US$9,356) over the complete two-year program duration.
Program organizers designed six comprehensive experiential learning opportunities: workplace experience, volunteer service, domestic and international exploration, expert apprenticeships, entrepreneurial internships, and community internships. The initiative enables youth to independently plan their comprehensive learning journey over two years with flexible scheduling options. Students gain practical skills while exploring various career paths before making informed university decisions.
Participants receive comprehensive support from dedicated counseling committee members throughout the entire program duration for guidance and mentorship. The initiative helps youth enter their desired schools and departments through specialized "special talent selection" and "flexible department selection" pathways. The program also provides crucial assistance with military service deferral procedures and extended overseas university application processes. ◼ (At time of reporting, US$1 equals approximately NT$30.465)