Taiwan’s mobile market is highly competitive, and students — both local and international — can benefit from special discounts and tailored plans. With over 20 million mobile subscribers, the four major operators (Chunghwa Telecom, Taiwan Mobile, Far EasTone, and T-Star) offer student-specific deals that reduce monthly fees or provide extra data. This article examines current student mobile plans in Taiwan, including eligibility, pricing, data allowances, and contract terms. It also covers prepaid alternatives and tips for choosing the right plan.
Why Student Plans Exist in Taiwan
Student plans are designed to attract younger users with limited budgets but high data needs. Operators offer discounts of 10–30% off regular rates, or add bonus data and streaming perks. These plans typically require a valid student ID from a Taiwanese university or college. Some operators also accept international student IDs if the student is enrolled in a local institution. The National Communications Commission (NCC) does not mandate student discounts, but market competition drives operators to offer them.
Major Operators and Their Student Offers
Chunghwa Telecom
Chunghwa Telecom, the largest operator, offers the “Student 488” and “Student 688” plans (monthly fees NT$488 and NT$688). The NT$488 plan includes 4G unlimited data (throttled after 50GB at high speed) and unlimited calls within Chunghwa network. The NT$688 plan adds faster speeds and more high-speed data. Both require a 30-month contract and a valid student ID. Chunghwa also offers a 5G student plan at NT$799 for 60GB of 5G data, then unlimited at 4G speeds. For more on 5G plans, see Best 5G Plans in Taiwan 2025.
Taiwan Mobile
Taiwan Mobile’s student plan is called “Student 399” (NT$399/month) for 4G with 12GB of high-speed data, then unlimited at reduced speeds (1Mbps). They also have a “Student 499” plan with 21GB high-speed data. Both require a 24-month contract. Taiwan Mobile occasionally adds free streaming services like myVideo or KKBOX for students. Their 5G student plan starts at NT$599 for 60GB of 5G data.
Far EasTone
Far EasTone (FET) offers “Student 388” and “Student 588” plans. The NT$388 plan includes 10GB of high-speed 4G data, then unlimited at 1Mbps. The NT$588 plan includes 30GB high-speed data. Both require a 30-month contract. FET also bundles friDay music or friDay video subscriptions. For a comparison between Far EasTone and T-Star, see Far EasTone vs T-Star Comparison.
T-Star (Taiwan Star Telecom)
T-Star, now part of Taiwan Mobile, still offers student plans under its own brand. Their “Student 299” plan (NT$299/month) provides 4G unlimited data at up to 21Mbps speeds, with no throttling. It is one of the cheapest unlimited data plans for students. T-Star also has a “Student 399” plan with faster speeds (up to 50Mbps). Contracts are 12 or 24 months. T-Star’s coverage is weaker in rural areas, so check coverage before signing.
Prepaid Options for Students
Prepaid SIM cards are popular among international students and those who want flexibility. All four operators offer prepaid data plans. For example, Chunghwa’s “Prepaid 4G” plan costs NT$300 for 5GB (30 days). Taiwan Mobile’s “Prepaid 4G” starts at NT$180 for 1.2GB (30 days). Far EasTone’s “Prepaid 4G” has a NT$300 plan with 5GB. T-Star’s prepaid is NT$250 for 3GB. Prepaid plans do not require a student ID, but they lack the discounts of postpaid student plans. For a full guide, see Prepaid SIM Card Taiwan Buying Guide and Best Prepaid Data Plans in Taiwan.
How to Apply and Eligibility
To apply for a student postpaid plan, you need:
- A valid Taiwanese student ID (or enrollment certificate) from an accredited university or college.
- An ARC (Alien Resident Certificate) for international students, or a National ID for locals.
- Proof of address (e.g., utility bill) for credit check.
- Some operators require a deposit (NT$3,000–5,000) for international students without credit history.
Applications can be made at operator stores or online. Many stores near universities have English-speaking staff. For students under 20, parental consent may be needed.
Tips for Choosing a Student Plan
- Check coverage: Use the operator’s coverage map. T-Star and sometimes Far EasTone have weaker coverage in rural areas. For speed comparisons, see 5G Speed Test Taiwan.
- Consider data needs: If you use over 50GB/month, choose unlimited plans like Chunghwa’s Student 488 or T-Star’s Student 299.
- Contract length: Shorter contracts (12–24 months) offer flexibility; longer ones (30 months) often have lower monthly fees.
- International calls: Some student plans include free minutes to certain countries. Check if you need to call home often.
- Perks: Streaming subscriptions (KKBOX, myVideo) can add value if you use them.
Conclusion
Student mobile plans in Taiwan offer significant savings compared to regular plans. With monthly fees ranging from NT$299 to NT$799, students can get unlimited data or generous data caps. International students should ensure they have the required documents and be prepared for deposits. Prepaid plans are a good alternative for short stays or those who prefer no contract. Always compare plans and read the fine print about throttling and fair usage policies. For a broader overview, see The Complete Guide to Choosing the Best Mobile Plan in Taiwan.
Related articles
- Far EasTone vs T-Star Comparison
- Best 5G Plans in Taiwan 2025
- 5G Speed Test Taiwan
- Prepaid SIM Card Taiwan Buying Guide
- Best Prepaid Data Plans in Taiwan