UNIVERSITY OF HONG KONG · HONG KONG
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
PhD · Taught in en
At a glance
48 mo
Duration
6.0
IELTS
—
Tuition / yr
en
Language
PhD
Level
- 3 or 4 yearsProgramme Duration
- Full-time or Part-timeAttendance Mode
- Research-focusedProgramme Type
The University of Hong Kong offers Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) programmes designed for individuals seeking to make original contributions to knowledge. Programmes are available in both 3-year and 4-year formats. The 4-year PhD is typically for applicants with a strong Bachelor's or taught Master's degree, while the 3-year PhD is for those who already hold a research Master's degree (e.g., MPhil). Both full-time and part-time study options are offered, with specific normative study periods for each. The PhD thesis must represent an original contribution to knowledge, worthy of publication. The 4-year programme includes coursework to enhance discipline-specific knowledge, language, and research skills, preparing students for their research and thesis writing. Candidates in the 3-year programme may also be required to complete coursework.
Frequently asked questions
- What are the typical durations for the PhD programmes?
- The University of Hong Kong offers PhD programmes in both 3-year and 4-year formats. The attendance mode can be either full-time or part-time.
- What are the general entry requirements for the PhD?
- For the 4-year PhD, applicants typically need a strong Bachelor's or taught Master's degree. For the 3-year PhD, a research Master's degree (e.g., MPhil) is generally required.
- How can I demonstrate English language proficiency for admission?
- Applicants whose prior qualifications were not taught and examined in English must provide proof of proficiency. Accepted tests include IELTS with a minimum overall band of 6.0 (no sub-score below 5.5) or TOEFL with a score of 80 or above.
- How do I apply for the PhD programme?
- Applications are submitted online through the HKU Taught Postgraduate Admission system. You will need to create an account, complete the application form, pay the fee, and submit supporting documents by the specified deadlines.
- What are the estimated tuition fees for international students?
- The provided tuition fees are indicative for a 1-year full-time taught postgraduate programme and may differ for PhD study. Specific fee information for PhD programmes should be confirmed directly with the university.
Entry requirements
Bachelor's degree with honoursConsidered for 4-year PhD
Taught Master's degreeConsidered for 4-year PhD
Research Master's degree (e.g., MPhil)Considered for 3-year PhD
IELTSMinimum overall band of 6.0 with no sub-score below 5.5
TOEFLScore of 80 or above
GCEGrade C or above
IGCSEGrade C or above
Cambridge Test of Proficiency in English LanguageGrade C or above
For qualifications not taught and examined in English, one of the specified English language tests must be provided. Note: From the 2026 intake onwards, IELTS and TOEFL must be taken within two years prior to September 1 of the admissions year.
Fees
Tuition (international)HKD 250,000 per year (for a 1-year Full Time Taught Postgraduate programme, PhD fees may vary)
Tuition (home)HKD 72,500 per year (for a 1-year Full Time Taught Postgraduate programme, PhD fees may vary)
Living—
The tuition fees listed (HKD 250,000 for international, HKD 72,500 for home/domestic per year) are indicative for a 1-year Full Time Taught Postgraduate programme and may differ for PhD programmes. Specific fee information for PhD study should be confirmed with the university.
How to apply
1. Establish Your AccountRegister for an account on the online system using your full name, a valid email address, and a username. If applying for multiple programmes, create a new account for each.
2. Complete the Online Application FormFill in all required sections of the application form. The system has inactivity timeouts, so save your progress regularly. You can preview your application before submission.
3. Pay Application FeesSubmit the application fee online. This is the final step before submission, and no changes can be made to your application after payment. All fees are non-refundable. You will receive an acknowledgement email with an application number.
4. Provide Supporting DocumentsUpload or send your supporting documents for preliminary assessment via the admissions portal by the deadline and within two weeks of completing the online form. Documents not in English must include a certified English translation.
Frequently asked questions
What are the typical durations for the PhD programmes?
+
The University of Hong Kong offers PhD programmes in both 3-year and 4-year formats. The attendance mode can be either full-time or part-time.
What are the general entry requirements for the PhD?
+
For the 4-year PhD, applicants typically need a strong Bachelor's or taught Master's degree. For the 3-year PhD, a research Master's degree (e.g., MPhil) is generally required.
How can I demonstrate English language proficiency for admission?
+
Applicants whose prior qualifications were not taught and examined in English must provide proof of proficiency. Accepted tests include IELTS with a minimum overall band of 6.0 (no sub-score below 5.5) or TOEFL with a score of 80 or above.
How do I apply for the PhD programme?
+
Applications are submitted online through the HKU Taught Postgraduate Admission system. You will need to create an account, complete the application form, pay the fee, and submit supporting documents by the specified deadlines.
What are the estimated tuition fees for international students?
+
The provided tuition fees are indicative for a 1-year full-time taught postgraduate programme and may differ for PhD study. Specific fee information for PhD programmes should be confirmed directly with the university.