XIAMEN UNIVERSITY · CHINA
Doctoral Programs at Xiamen University
PhD · Taught in en
At a glance
48 mo
Duration
6.0
IELTS
€5k
Tuition / yr
en
Language
PhD
Level
- 19 disciplines in ESI global top 1%Global Academic Standing
- Chemistry, Materials Science, Engineering in ESI global top 1‰Leading Disciplines
- 6 disciplines in national world-class list (2022)National Recognition
- Nearly 3,000 faculty membersFaculty Size
- 15 members of Chinese Academy of Sciences/EngineeringDistinguished Faculty
- Over 47,000 students enrolledStudent Body Size
Xiamen University (XMU), founded in 1921 by Mr. Tan Kah Kee, a prominent overseas Chinese leader, is a leading university in China. It is recognized as a key university under the "211 Project", "985 Project", and the "Double First-Class" initiative. Situated by the sea in Xiamen, the university is known for its beautiful campus and comprehensive academic offerings across 35 schools and 17 research institutes. Several disciplines, including Chemistry, Materials Science, and Engineering, are ranked among the top 1% globally (ESI), with Chemistry, Marine Science, Biology, Ecology, Statistics, and Education selected for national world-class discipline development. XMU fosters international collaboration with 277 partner universities worldwide.
Frequently asked questions
- What are the tuition fees for doctoral programs at Xiamen University?
- For Humanities/Social Sciences, tuition is CNY 30,000 per year, and for Science/Engineering/Medicine/Economics/Law/Arts, it is CNY 34,000 per year. This fee covers the first three years, with the fourth year being tuition-free.
- What are the application deadlines for PhD programs?
- The general application period for Type B scholarships and self-funded students is from December 1, 2025, to February 15, 2026. Self-funded students can apply until May 10, 2026.
- What are the English language proficiency requirements for international applicants?
- Applicants need an IELTS Academic score of 6.0 or higher, or a TOEFL iBT score of 80 or higher. Applicants whose previous degree was taught in English or who are nationals of English-speaking countries may be exempt.
- What documents are required for the PhD application?
- Required documents include a passport, birth certificate, parents' ID, degree certificates and transcripts, language proficiency proof, recommendation letters, a study/research plan, CV, medical form, financial guarantee, and a criminal record certificate.
- Are there scholarships available for international PhD students?
- Yes, Xiamen University offers several scholarships including the Chinese Government Scholarship (Type B), Fujian Provincial Government Scholarship, and the Xiamen University International Student Freshman Scholarship, among others. Some scholarships cover tuition and living expenses.
- What are the estimated living costs for students in Xiamen?
- Accommodation costs range from CNY 35-65 per day on Siming Campus and CNY 1600-4000 per year on Xiang'an Campus. Food expenses are estimated at CNY 1000-1500 per month, and insurance is approximately CNY 800 per year.
Entry requirements
Master's degreeApplicants should hold a Master's degree or be current Master's students graduating before enrollment.
AgeGenerally not older than 50 years old by September 1, 2026.
IELTS Academic6.0 or higher
TOEFL iBT80 or higher (Institution Code: C310)
Previous degree taught in EnglishAccepted with proof of language of instruction
English-speaking country nationalExempted
For Chinese-taught programs, HSK 5 (210+) is required for Humanities, Social Sciences, Economics, Law, and Arts. HSK 4 (210+) is required for Science, Engineering, Medicine, and Sports. Applicants whose previous degree was taught in Chinese can provide proof from their institution.
Fees
Tuition (international)Humanities/Social Sciences: CNY 30,000/year; Science/Engineering/Medicine/Economics/Law/Arts: CNY 34,000/year. This fee covers the first three years; the fourth year is tuition-free. Fees are charged annually and do not include textbook costs. Standards are subject to change.
Tuition (home)—
LivingAccommodation: Siming Campus (2-person room) CNY 35-65/day/person; Xiang'an Campus (suite with 2-person rooms) CNY 1600-4000/year/person. Off-campus rent in Siming District is approximately CNY 2500/room/month. Food: CNY 1000-1500/month. Insurance: CNY 800/year.
Application fee: CNY 400 (non-refundable). Tuition is in CNY. Prices are subject to official confirmation.
How to apply
1. Online ApplicationComplete the application form on the Xiamen University Overseas Student Application System (application.xmu.edu.cn) and pay the non-refundable application fee of CNY 400.
2. Document SubmissionUpload all required supporting documents to the application system. These include passport copy, birth certificate, parent's ID, academic transcripts and certificates, language proficiency proof, recommendation letters, study/research plan, CV, medical examination form, financial support statement, and a criminal record certificate.
3. Application ReviewThe university will conduct a qualification review of your application, followed by an academic review by the relevant department, which may include remote interviews or tests.
4. Admission DecisionAdmission offers will be based on the qualification and academic review results. Applicants can check their admission status via the online system, typically by June-July.
Scholarships
Chinese Government Scholarship (Type B)—
New Sinology Program PhD Fellowship—
Fujian Provincial Government ScholarshipCNY 50,000
Xiamen University International Student Freshman ScholarshipTuition waiver, living expenses for outstanding Master's and PhD students.
XMU Sustainable Coastal Development Scholarship—
Xiamen Tan Kah Kee Scholarship (Currently Suspended)—
Chinese Government Scholarship (Type A - various programs)—
Frequently asked questions
What are the tuition fees for doctoral programs at Xiamen University?
+
For Humanities/Social Sciences, tuition is CNY 30,000 per year, and for Science/Engineering/Medicine/Economics/Law/Arts, it is CNY 34,000 per year. This fee covers the first three years, with the fourth year being tuition-free.
What are the application deadlines for PhD programs?
+
The general application period for Type B scholarships and self-funded students is from December 1, 2025, to February 15, 2026. Self-funded students can apply until May 10, 2026.
What are the English language proficiency requirements for international applicants?
+
Applicants need an IELTS Academic score of 6.0 or higher, or a TOEFL iBT score of 80 or higher. Applicants whose previous degree was taught in English or who are nationals of English-speaking countries may be exempt.
What documents are required for the PhD application?
+
Required documents include a passport, birth certificate, parents' ID, degree certificates and transcripts, language proficiency proof, recommendation letters, a study/research plan, CV, medical form, financial guarantee, and a criminal record certificate.
Are there scholarships available for international PhD students?
+
Yes, Xiamen University offers several scholarships including the Chinese Government Scholarship (Type B), Fujian Provincial Government Scholarship, and the Xiamen University International Student Freshman Scholarship, among others. Some scholarships cover tuition and living expenses.
What are the estimated living costs for students in Xiamen?
+
Accommodation costs range from CNY 35-65 per day on Siming Campus and CNY 1600-4000 per year on Xiang'an Campus. Food expenses are estimated at CNY 1000-1500 per month, and insurance is approximately CNY 800 per year.