Taiwan is adjusting its student loan rules, welcome news for students and families that eases financial pressure from their studies through to their first years in the workforce.

• The new student-loan scheme for students at senior-high level and above takes effect in August, with the government covering all interest during the period of study.
• Of roughly 150,000 students currently holding loans, about 97% already pay no interest while studying, and the new scheme expands this further.
• Repayment after graduation is also more flexible, and can be deferred while continuing on to further study, doing military service, or completing an internship.
• Students from low-income or lower-middle-income households, or those affected by a major disaster, can apply to defer repayment or for related assistance.
• The new scheme also tightens oversight of how funds for expenses such as book fees and accommodation are disbursed, requiring schools to ensure the money actually reaches students.

Outlook: With enrolment for the new semester and the loan-application period getting under way, eligible students can study free of interest charges and will have more time to repay after graduating.