Abstract Education is an important means for people to promote and raise social mobility. In recent years, the USA, UK, and Canada have striven to carry out the principle of positive discrimination by providing the intervention program, to improve learning environment, and to make up the learning gap at the starting point. The purpose of this study is first to discuss the meaning, the categories, and the difficulties that disadvantaged students face. Secondly, to analyze the policy and strategy adopted by the USA, UK, Canada, Mainland China, and Taiwan. The policy regarding disadvantaged students in Taipei City is also examined. Finally, future directions and coping measures of the policy on disadvantaged students in Taipei City are provided.