Hualien Launches School Subsidy: High School Students to Receive NT$10,000 Per Semester!

Attention Hualien parents: a new NT$10,000 per semester education subsidy for high school students is now officially in effect. The Hualien County Government announced on September 11 the launch of the 'Subsidy for High School Students’ Tuition Fees,' effective from the first semester of the 115th academic year (2026). All formally enrolled students in public and private senior high schools and vocational schools within Hualien County are eligible to receive NT$10,000 per semester. Students who qualify in both semesters can receive up to NT$20,000 annually.

The policy aims to reduce the financial burden on families during the high school years. County Magistrate Hsu Chen-wei convened a meeting with principals from all public and private high schools and vocational institutions on September 11 to announce the new program. However, actual disbursement will follow the official implementation plan and notifications from individual schools.

Eligibility includes both public and private school students. The only core requirement currently stated is formal enrollment in a Hualien-based senior high or vocational school. Notably, the government has not yet published income thresholds or asset exclusions (wealth exclusions), so families should await official guidelines from their schools and the 'Hualien County Government Subsidy for High School Students’ Tuition Fees Implementation Plan.'

Parents do not need to apply in person at the county office. The Department of Education has already held briefing sessions with school principals and administrative staff, including those from National Hualien Senior High School, to explain the application process. Schools will assist with all necessary procedures, meaning students and parents do not need to take individual action.

In addition to the NT$10,000 tuition subsidy, Hualien County is expanding its free school lunch program to include high school and vocational students starting in the 115th academic year. From September 2026, lunch fees for students in public and private high schools and private elementary and junior high schools will be fully covered by the county government.

This initiative is part of Hualien’s broader '0 to 18 Years Old Care Policy,' aiming to reduce household education expenses across all levels. For eligible high school students, this means both direct financial support and reduced daily meal costs.

Subsidy Summary: - Name: Hualien County Subsidy for High School Students’ Tuition Fees - Start Date: First semester of the 115th academic year - Amount: NT$10,000 per semester (up to NT$20,000 annually) - Eligibility: Formally enrolled students in public or private senior high schools in Hualien County - Application: Handled by schools - Additional Measure: Free school lunches for high school and vocational students starting in the 115th academic year - Note: Final eligibility, documentation, and disbursement details will be announced by the Hualien County Government and individual schools.