HONG KONG POLYTECHNIC UNIVERSITY · HONG KONG
Master of Philosophy (MPhil) and Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
PhD · Taught in en
At a glance
24 mo
Duration
—
IELTS
€22k
Tuition / yr
en
Language
PhD
Level
- 10th in AsiaQS Asia University Rankings 2026
- 54th in the WorldQS World University Rankings 2026
- 47,000 HKDAnnual Tuition Fee (Local)
- 200,000 HKDAnnual Tuition Fee (International)
- Approx. 225,650 HKDEstimated Annual Living Costs (International)
The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) offers research-focused postgraduate programmes leading to a Master of Philosophy (MPhil) and a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD). These programmes are designed for students who wish to engage in in-depth research and contribute to academic knowledge. PolyU is a world-class research university with a strong history of academic excellence and innovation. The university is committed to nurturing students who are critical thinkers, effective communicators, and creative innovators, ready to make a positive impact on the world. Admissions to these research postgraduate programmes are competitive, with selection based on academic merit and research potential. The university encourages applications from individuals with a strong academic background and a passion for research. Prospective students are advised to review the specific admission requirements for their chosen research area. PolyU offers a vibrant campus environment and a supportive academic community for postgraduate students.
Careers
Graduates from MPhil and PhD programmes are well-prepared for a variety of academic and professional careers. The research skills, critical thinking, and specialized knowledge gained during their studies are highly valued in both academia and industry.
- University Professor/Lecturer
- Researcher (Academia or Industry)
- R&D Scientist/Engineer
- Policy Analyst
- Consultant
- Senior Management Roles
Frequently asked questions
- What are the tuition fees for international students in the MPhil and PhD programmes?
- The international tuition fee is HK$200,000 per academic year. An application fee of HK$450 is also required.
- What are the estimated living costs for international students?
- The estimated living cost for non-local students is HK$287,655 per academic year, which includes tuition, accommodation, meals, and personal expenses.
- What are the general academic entry requirements for MPhil and PhD programmes?
- You generally need excellent results in the Hong Kong Advanced Level Examination (HKALE) or equivalent, a Bachelor's degree with Honours from PolyU or equivalent, or satisfactory completion of a Master's degree or equivalent. Specific departmental requirements must also be met.
- What are the English language proficiency requirements?
- Generally, a minimum IELTS score of 6.0 or a TOEFL iBT score of 80 is required, though specific programmes may demand higher scores. Some applicants may be exempt if their previous studies were in English.
- How can I apply for the MPhil or PhD programmes?
- Applications are submitted online through the PolyU eAdmission system. You will need to check admission requirements, prepare documents like transcripts, a research proposal, and recommendation letters, and pay the application fee.
- When are the application deadlines and when does the programme start?
- Applications typically open in September/October for the following academic year's intake, with a deadline usually in December. The programme usually starts in September of each year.
Entry requirements
General University Admission RequirementsExcellent results in the Hong Kong Advanced Level Examination (HKALE) or equivalent; OR Bachelor's degree with Honours from PolyU or equivalent; OR Satisfactory completion of a Master's degree or equivalent.
Specific Programme RequirementsMeet specific departmental or programme requirements, which may include a strong academic record in a relevant field, research proposal, and potentially previous research experience.
IELTSGenerally a minimum of 6.0, but specific programmes may require higher scores.
TOEFLGenerally a minimum score of 80 for the internet-based test, but specific programmes may require higher scores.
English language proficiency requirements are typically set by individual departments. Applicants are advised to check the specific requirements for their intended MPhil or PhD programme. Some applicants may be exempt if their previous studies were conducted in English. For mainland Chinese applicants, excellent English results from the Gaokao may be considered.
Fees
Tuition (international)HK$200,000 per academic year
Tuition (home)HK$47,000 per academic year
LivingAn estimated HK$287,655 per academic year for non-local students, including tuition, accommodation, meals, and personal expenses. This comprises HK$200,000 for tuition, HK$17,305 for university-managed accommodation (first year), HK$52,000 for basic meal charges, and HK$18,350 for personal expenses.
University-managed accommodation is generally provided for the first year of study. For subsequent years, non-local students are responsible for arranging their own accommodation. The lodging fees for future academic years will be announced. An application fee of HK$450 is required.
How to apply
1. Check Admission RequirementsReview the general and specific admission requirements for MPhil and PhD programmes, including academic qualifications and English language proficiency. Visit the PolyU website for detailed information.
2. Prepare Application DocumentsGather all necessary documents, which typically include academic transcripts, degree certificates, research proposal, letters of recommendation, English proficiency test scores, and a personal statement.
3. Submit Online ApplicationComplete the online application form through the PolyU eAdmission system. Upload all required supporting documents and pay the application fee.
4. Attend Interview (if required)Some departments may require applicants to attend an interview, either in person or online, as part of the selection process. You will be notified if an interview is required.
5. Await Admission DecisionAdmission decisions are typically released by the university and relevant departments. Successful applicants will receive an offer letter.
6. Accept Offer and Visa ApplicationIf you receive an offer, follow the instructions to accept it and apply for a student visa for Hong Kong.
Scholarships
PolyU Scholarships for Research Postgraduate StudentsDetails vary, may include tuition waiver and/or stipend.
Research Assistantship / Research Assistantship (RA) SchemeIncludes stipend and tuition fee waiver.
Non-local Student ScholarshipsVaries.
Accreditation
The Hong Kong Polytechnic University is a public research university established by law in Hong Kong. Its degrees are widely recognised internationally.
Frequently asked questions
What are the tuition fees for international students in the MPhil and PhD programmes?
+
The international tuition fee is HK$200,000 per academic year. An application fee of HK$450 is also required.
What are the estimated living costs for international students?
+
The estimated living cost for non-local students is HK$287,655 per academic year, which includes tuition, accommodation, meals, and personal expenses.
What are the general academic entry requirements for MPhil and PhD programmes?
+
You generally need excellent results in the Hong Kong Advanced Level Examination (HKALE) or equivalent, a Bachelor's degree with Honours from PolyU or equivalent, or satisfactory completion of a Master's degree or equivalent. Specific departmental requirements must also be met.
What are the English language proficiency requirements?
+
Generally, a minimum IELTS score of 6.0 or a TOEFL iBT score of 80 is required, though specific programmes may demand higher scores. Some applicants may be exempt if their previous studies were in English.
How can I apply for the MPhil or PhD programmes?
+
Applications are submitted online through the PolyU eAdmission system. You will need to check admission requirements, prepare documents like transcripts, a research proposal, and recommendation letters, and pay the application fee.
When are the application deadlines and when does the programme start?
+
Applications typically open in September/October for the following academic year's intake, with a deadline usually in December. The programme usually starts in September of each year.