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National Taiwan Normal University (NTNU) is located in the center of Taipei and is a popular choice for many international students pursuing further studies. For international students arriving in Taipei for the first time, adapting to a new living environment and finding suitable rental housing are crucial challenges. This article will provide a detailed overview of what international students need to adjust to when renting an apartment in Taipei, potential issues they might encounter, the surrounding environment of NTNU, and recommended places to visit. This will help you better integrate into life in Taipei, including navigating apartment rentals and student housing options, and experiencing local culture exchanges.
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Introduction of National Taiwan Normal University (NTNU)
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National Taiwan Normal University (NTNU), founded in 1946, is one of the most prestigious educational institutions in Taiwan. NTNU has three main campuses: the Main Campus, the Gongguan Campus, and the Linkou Campus. The Main Campus is the core of teaching and research, offering a wealth of academic resources and advanced teaching facilities. The various colleges and research institutes on campus cover multiple fields, including education, literature, science, and the arts, providing students with diverse learning opportunities. Additionally, NTNU actively promotes international exchanges and has established cooperative relationships with universities from various countries. This provides opportunities for international students to participate in exchange programs and academic visits, creating a multicultural campus atmosphere.
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NTNU- Mandarin Training Center (MTC)
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The Mandarin Training Center (MTC) at National Taiwan Normal University was established in 1956 and is one of the earliest and internationally recognized authorities on Chinese language learning in Taiwan. MTC offers a range of flexible courses, including beginner, intermediate, and advanced levels. It also incorporates cultural courses such as calligraphy, Chinese painting, and Tai Chi, allowing international students to immerse themselves in Chinese culture while learning the language. In addition, MTC provides comprehensive student services, including learning consultations, rental and housing arrangements, and cultural activities, to help international students adapt to life and study in Taipei.
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Course Introduction
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The Mandarin Training Center (MTC) at NTNU offers a diverse range of mandarin courses to meet the varying needs of international students. Whether you are looking for systematic learning through seasonal programs, short-term classes, online courses, or practical Chinese language courses, you can find a suitable option here. These mandarin courses collectively form the rich learning resources at MTC, helping international students enhance their mandarin language skills comprehensively.
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Seasonal Mandarin Programs:
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Seasonal programs are the core courses at MTC, designed for students seeking a systematic approach to learning mandarin. Offered annually in Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter, each program lasts for three months. The courses cover the four major skills: listening, speaking, reading, and writing, with instruction tailored to students’ language levels to ensure that the content matches their needs.
http://www.mtc.ntnu.edu.tw/course-seasonal.htm
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Practical Mandarin Programs:
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The Practical Mandarin Course focuses on improving mandarin language application skills and is suitable for international students with a certain level of mandarin proficiency. This course emphasizes practicality and features diverse situational teaching to help students use mandarin fluently in real-life scenarios. The curriculum includes daily conversations, social etiquette, and business communication, and integrates cultural exchange activities to help students master mandarin through practice.
http://www.mtc.ntnu.edu.tw/course-evening.htm
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Short-term Mandarin Programs:
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MTC Signature Summer Program:
The MTC Signature Summer Program is an intensive two-month summer course designed for international students who wish to improve their mandarin proficiency in a short time.
http://www.mtc.ntnu.edu.tw/Summer-Signature-Program.htm
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NTNU Mandarin Summer Camp:
The NTNU Mandarin Summer Camp is a short-term mandarin course designed for teenagers, lasting four to six weeks. The program combines engaging thematic activities and interactive teaching, allowing young students to learn mandarin while gaining insight into Taiwanese culture and society.
http://service.mtc.ntnu.edu.tw/culture/ntnusummercamp/
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Three-week Intensive Chinese Course:
The Three-week Intensive mandarin Course is a three-week intensive program specifically designed for international students with limited time who want to boost their mandarin skills quickly. The course is concentrated and intensive, covering daily conversation and basic grammar, with simulated situations and practical exercises to achieve rapid language progress.
http://service.mtc.ntnu.edu.tw/culture/ntnumtc3week/chinese/
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MTC Online
MTC Online offers flexible learning options suitable for international students who cannot come to Taipei but wish to study mandarin. Students can schedule courses according to their own time and needs, enjoying high-quality mandarin language instruction without geographical constraints.
http://www.mtc.ntnu.edu.tw/MTC-Online.htm
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Must Visit Around NTNU
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Gongguan commercial District
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The Gongguan Commercial District is a vibrant commercial area in Taipei, just a few minutes’ walk from NTNU. It is a popular leisure spot for students.
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Local Snacks:
The Gongguan Commercial District offers a variety of delicious food options. Notable local delicacies include Chen San Ding’s frog milk and Lan Jia’s pork belly bun. Chen San Ding’s frog milk is well-loved for its unique taste and flavor, while Lan Jia’s pork belly bun provides a juicy, tender meat experience and is a classic local snack.
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Creative Markets:
On weekends, the Gongguan Shopping District often hosts creative markets showcasing various handmade products and artworks. These markets provide a great opportunity to display creativity and purchase unique items, allowing you to find distinctive souvenirs.
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Music Performances:
The Gongguan Shopping District features occasional street music performances and small concerts, adding youthful energy to the area. These music events highlight local creativity and enthusiasm, offering a chance to enjoy the charm of music in a relaxed atmosphere.
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NTNU Night Market
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The NTNU Night Market is one of the most popular night markets in Taipei, located close to National Taiwan Normal University (NTNU). It offers a rich variety of nighttime entertainment and food options for students and visitors alike. The market has many popular food stalls serving classic Taiwanese snacks such as salt and pepper chicken, fried spring rolls, and bubble tea, all prepared with care to satisfy your taste buds. In addition to the food, the night market features fun games and entertainment facilities like balloon shooting and claw machines, adding to the market’s enjoyment. You can also find various small accessories, clothing, and handmade crafts at affordable prices, making it ideal for international students and visitors looking for Taiwanese souvenirs.
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Da’an Forest Park
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Da’an Forest Park is one of the largest green spaces in Taipei, just one MRT stop from NTNU. It provides an ideal location for relaxation and a connection with nature. The park features expansive lawns, lakes, and trails, offering a peaceful natural environment perfect for jogging, walking, and cycling. Throughout the seasons, the park’s trees and flowers showcase different natural beauty. Additionally, Da’an Forest Park has sports fields, a children’s playground, and an outdoor music stage, catering to visitors of all ages. The park frequently hosts various cultural activities and concerts, providing rich recreational options for residents and visitors.
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Yongkang Commercial District
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Yongkang Commercial District is a famous food and cultural district in Taipei, not far from NTNU. It is an excellent place for tasting local delicacies and exploring the local culture. Known for its diverse culinary offerings, Yongkang Commercial District features must-try dishes such as Din Tai Fung’s xiao long bao (soup dumplings) and Yongkang Beef Noodles. Additionally, there are numerous specialty cafes and dessert shops, providing a rich variety of dining options.
Beyond food, Yongkang Commercial District is home to several art galleries and craft shops showcasing the work of contemporary Taiwanese artists. The atmosphere here is filled with artistic flair, making it a must-visit spot for students interested in culture and art. The street also features many independent designer boutiques and specialty stores selling unique clothing and accessories. While shopping, you can take a break at nearby parks or cafes to enjoy Taipei’s relaxed ambiance.
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Things International Students Need to Adapt To
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Language Barriers
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For most international students, language barriers are one of the first challenges they face when living in Taipei. Although Taipei is quite internationalized and many young people and service industry workers speak English, mandarin remains the primary language for communication. If you encounter unfamiliar language situations, you can use translation apps like Google Translate to get immediate assistance and avoid misunderstandings.
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Cultural Differences
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Taiwan’s culture blends tradition with modernity, which can be both a fascinating experience and a challenge for international students. Understanding and respecting local culture will help you better integrate into Taiwanese society.
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Transportation System
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Taipei has a well-developed and efficient transportation system, including MRT, buses, bicycles, and taxis, which is very convenient for daily commuting for international students. However, adapting to Taipei’s transportation system may still require some time and experience.
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MRT System:
The Taipei MRT is one of the most commonly used modes of transportation within the city. It is recommended for international students to purchase an EasyCard, which is a rechargeable transportation card that can be used for the MRT, buses, and some stores. Familiarizing yourself with the MRT route map and transfer rules will make your travels smoother.
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Buses and Bicycles:
Taipei’s bus system is extensive but may seem complex at first. Getting to know the commonly used bus routes and stops, and using a bus app to check schedules, will help you manage your trips accurately. Additionally, the YouBike public bicycle system is an ideal option for short-distance travel, allowing you to conveniently rent and return bicycles throughout the city.
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Considerations for Renting a House
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Property Information
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For international students, finding suitable housing is an important task. Taipei’s rental market is diverse, but there are several key points to consider when choosing a rental property.
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Communication with Landlords:
If your mandarin is not fluent, it’s best to find a landlord who speaks English or bring a friend to assist with translation. Reaching a mutual understanding and knowing the lease terms is crucial. Before finalizing a rental agreement, inquire in detail about the rent, deposit, lease duration, payment methods, and other relevant information to avoid misunderstandings later.
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Credibility:
The credibility of the landlord is a critical factor when selecting a property. You can check reviews of landlords or properties on online platforms, which can help you understand other tenants’ experiences and assess the landlord’s reliability. If the rent seems unusually low or the conditions too good to be true, meet the landlord in person and view the property to avoid falling for false advertisements or scams.
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Rental Budget
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Rent is one of the significant considerations in the rental process, and a reasonable rental budget will help you find suitable housing in Taipei. First, set a reasonable rent range based on your financial situation. Generally, rent should be kept between one-third to half of your monthly income to ensure you have enough funds for other living expenses. Additionally, consider the deposit requirement; renting in Taiwan typically requires a deposit of 1-2 months’ rent, so prepare this amount in advance and understand the terms for the return of the deposit to ensure it can be smoothly refunded at the end of the lease. Moreover, besides rent, consider other potential additional costs such as utilities, internet fees, and management fees. Confirm these costs with the landlord in advance to avoid financial pressure later.
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Housing Quality
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The quality of the property directly impacts the comfort and safety of living, so careful inspection is needed when choosing a rental.
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Condition of the Property:
When inspecting a property, ensure that indoor facilities such as air conditioning, water heaters, lighting, and furniture are complete and functioning properly, especially the kitchen and bathroom facilities, which should be clean and undamaged. Additionally, check the property’s structure for any signs of cracks, leaks, or mold in the walls, ceiling, and floors, as these issues can affect your living quality.
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Safety:
Understanding the security situation of the neighborhood is crucial when choosing a property. You can gather information by checking online or asking local residents. Choosing a neighborhood with good security will ensure your safety. Also, check if the property is equipped with basic safety features such as door and window locks, fire alarms, and fire extinguishers, as these can provide essential protection in emergencies.
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Co-living Apartment Recommendation – Home Sweet Home Share House
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For international students attending NTNU, choosing suitable housing is crucial for adapting to the new environment and successfully completing their studies. Home Sweet Home Share House is a highly recommended co-living apartment option that provides a comfortable, convenient, and socially engaging living experience.
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Home Sweet Home Share House offers well-equipped apartments with various living options, including single rooms and shared rooms, each furnished with basic furniture and ample storage space. The apartment features shared areas such as a fully functional kitchen, a cozy living room, and relaxation spaces, where residents can socialize and unwind. The location of the apartment allows students to easily commute to campus, saving them from the hassle of long commutes.
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The interior of the apartment is modern and comfortable, equipped with essential amenities such as internet, washing machines, and dryers to meet students’ daily needs. More importantly, Home Sweet Home Share House emphasizes creating a friendly social atmosphere that fosters cultural exchanges and friendships among students from different countries.
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Living and studying in Taipei presents both challenges and unique growth opportunities for international students. By understanding the local culture, familiarizing yourself with the apartment rental process, and exploring the surrounding environment, you will be able to adapt more quickly to your new life and fully enjoy your time at MTC. At the same time, don’t forget to take advantage of your free time to explore this vibrant city, experiencing the rich and diverse culture that Taipei has to offer. We hope this guide will be helpful, allowing you to have a fulfilling and unforgettable student housing experience in Taipei!
