NCNU Intensive Chinese Program — Campus Life

NCNU campus near Sun Moon Lake

Campus Life

What day-to-day life looks like at NCNU: where you’ll sleep, eat, study, do laundry, get online, and shop for basics. Everything here is student-tested and kept simple.

Dorms

NCNU dorm building exterior

Shared Rooms, On Campus

You’ll share a clean room with one other student. Each room includes beds, desks, closets, A/C, and Wi-Fi access. Bathrooms are shared by floor. Bedding is provided; bring or buy a small towel.

  • 2 students per room; male/female floors separated
  • Quiet hours enforced (see below)
  • Elevators, secure entry, and 24/7 campus security
Move-in tip: Power & adapters: Taiwan uses the same outlet shape and voltage as the US and Canada (110V). Standard two-prong cords from the US/Canada will plug in directly. If your device has a three-prong plug (with a ground pin), please bring a small 3-to-2 prong adapter like this one: 3-to-2 prong adapter on Amazon.ca, or plan to buy a similar adapter after you arrive in Taiwan.
Typical dorm room layout
Typical room layout. Two students per room.
Quiet study space on campus
Plenty of quiet spaces to study.

Meals

On-campus dining at NCNU

Cafeteria & Local Eats

Your program includes breakfast plus weekday lunch and dinner at the campus cafeteria. Vegetarian options are available. For variety, campus and nearby streets have bakeries, noodle shops, bubble tea, and convenience stores.

  • Cafeteria hours posted on site (summer schedule)
  • Cash, card, and mobile pay (Line Pay, Apple Pay in some shops)
  • Bring a reusable water bottle; refill stations are common
Allergies: Tell staff and your instructor at orientation. Ingredients are generally labeled; when in doubt, ask.

Wi-Fi & SIM Cards

Student using Wi-Fi on campus

Easy Connectivity

Campus Wi-Fi is available in academic buildings and dorms. You can also buy a prepaid data SIM at the airport or in Puli (passport required). eSIM options exist for most carriers.

  • Campus Wi-Fi details provided at check-in
  • eSIM or physical SIM: choose a 30-day plan with at least 10–20 GB
  • Keep your passport handy for telecom registration

Laundry

Laundry facilities

Washers, Dryers & Drying Racks

Dorms have coin/card-operated washers and dryers. Many students also use drying racks on balconies. Bring a few laundry pods or buy detergent at the convenience store.

  • Have small coins or campus card ready
  • Label your rack/clothespins
  • Typical cycle: 40–60 minutes

Groceries & Essentials

Convenience stores near campus

Convenience Stores & Markets

Campus and nearby streets have 7-Eleven/FamilyMart for snacks, toiletries, adapters, and SIM top-ups. Puli’s markets and supermarkets carry fresh fruit, drinks, and everyday items.

  • Toiletries, snacks, umbrellas at convenience stores
  • Fresh fruit and local foods at Puli markets
  • Basic stationery at campus shops

What to Pack

  • Passport, photocopies, and travel insurance details
  • Light clothing + a light rain jacket; comfortable walking shoes
  • A small extension cord
  • Medication/prescriptions; basic first-aid items
  • Reusable water bottle; small towel; flip-flops for showers
  • Portable battery pack; phone eSIM/SIM ready

Money & Banking

Paying at a shop in Taiwan

Cash + Card = Best Combo

Taiwan is card-friendly in chains and transport, but small shops often prefer cash. ATMs are common at convenience stores and banks. Tell your bank you’re traveling.

  • Carry a small amount of cash for markets and buses
  • Debit/credit widely accepted at larger stores
  • Mobile payments (Line Pay, Apple Pay) available at many chains
Exchange rate tip: Your bank’s rate + fees usually beats airport kiosks. Withdraw at reputable bank ATMs.

Residence Rules & Daily Tips

  • Quiet Hours: Respect posted quiet hours; keep hallways and rooms calm.
  • Visitors: Follow dorm policy on guests and sign-in requirements.
  • Trash & Recycling: Sort waste as posted; Taiwan is strict about recycling.
  • Safety: Keep doors locked, store valuables, and carry student ID.
  • Health: If you feel unwell, tell staff; pharmacies and clinics are nearby.

Campus Life FAQ

Is bedding included?

Yes. Sheets and a pillow are provided. Bring or buy a small towel.

Do I need an adapter?

Outlets are Type A/B at 110V. Taiwan uses the same outlet shape and voltage as the US and Canada (110V). Standard two-prong cords from the US/Canada will plug in directly. If your device has a three-prong plug (with a ground pin), please bring a small 3-to-2 prong adapter like this one: 3-to-2 prong adapter on Amazon.ca, or plan to buy a similar adapter after you arrive in Taiwan.

Can I cook in the dorm?

Cooking in rooms is not allowed. Hot water dispensers and shared areas are available.

Are there gyms or sports facilities?

Yes. Campus has courts, tracks, and fields; access varies by season. Ask at orientation.