Announcement

Pursue Your PhD at Three of China's Leading Research Universities​

International students aspiring to undertake world-class doctoral research now have an exciting opportunity through JUSTCOOL (Joint Examinations and Admissions for International Students to Top Chinese Universities: PhD Program). This prestigious doctoral recruitment initiative brings together three of China's most renowned universities:

• Fudan University
• Shanghai Jiao Tong University (SJTU)
• Tongji University

Designed to attract outstanding international talent, JUSTCOOL offers a unique pathway for exceptional students worldwide to pursue doctoral studies in China within a highly competitive academic and research environment.

What is JUSTCOOL?

JUSTCOOL is a joint doctoral admissions initiative established by Fudan University, in partnership with Shanghai Jiao Tong University and Tongji University. The program aims to identify and nurture the next generation of scientific researchers by recruiting highly qualified non-Chinese students from around the globe.

The program focuses on fundamental scientific disciplines and provides a rigorous research-oriented doctoral education delivered entirely in English.

AVAILABLE PHD MAJORS

Applicants can apply for doctoral studies in the following fields:

• Mathematics
• Physics
• Chemistry
• Biology (Life Sciences)

Program Highlights

1. Jointly organized by three elite Chinese universities
2. Full English-language instruction and academic supervision
3. Access to world-class laboratories and research facilities
4. Opportunity to collaborate with internationally recognized researchers
5. Global academic environment in Shanghai, one of Asia's leading innovation hubs
6. Up to 90 doctoral students admitted annually

Duration

5-year doctoral program

Why Choose JUSTCOOL?

Research in Shanghai: A Global Innovation Hub

Students admitted through JUSTCOOL will study in Shanghai, one of Asia's foremost centers for science, technology, innovation, and higher education. The city offers a dynamic international atmosphere, extensive industry connections, and outstanding research infrastructure, creating an ideal environment for doctoral training and academic growth.

Shape Your Future Through JUSTCOOL

Whether your passion lies in advancing mathematical theory, exploring the frontier of physics, driving discoveries in chemistry, or contributing to breakthroughs in life sciences, JUSTCOOL provides a pathway to doctoral research at three of China's most respected universities.

Cool by name. Cool by nature.

Join a new generation of global researchers and take the next step toward an internationally recognized PhD experience through the JUSTCOOL Joint International Doctoral Recruitment Initiative.

Study at Globally Ranked Universities

The three participating institutions consistently rank among China's leading universities and enjoy strong international reputations for academic excellence and cutting-edge research.

*Nature Index Research Output Ranking (June 2025-May 2026) as presented in JUSTCOOL promotional materials.

These institutions collectively provide students with access to a vast network of research collaborations, innovation centers and interdisciplinary expertise.

Eligibility Requirements

To be considered for the JUSTCOOL doctoral program, applicants must:

• Be a non-Chinese citizen holding a valid passport.

Academic Background

• Demonstrate strong interest and research potential in Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, or Biology.
• Intend to pursue long-term academic and research development in the chosen field.
• Be majoring in one of the eligible disciplines.
• Obtain a Bachelor's degree between June 2026 and July 2027.
• Rank within the top 20% of their undergraduate cohort at the time of application.

English Language Proficiency

Applicants must satisfy at least one of the following conditions:

• Be from an English-speaking country with English as the first language; or
• Have completed their undergraduate studies entirely in English; or
• Achieve a minimum IELTS score of 6.5; or
• Achieve a minimum TOEFL score of 90; or
• Achieve a minimum Duolingo English Test score of 110 within two years prior to the application deadline.

Application Timeline

28 September 2026 to 14 November 2026

Prospective candidates are encouraged to prepare their academic records, language proficiency certificates, and supporting application materials well in advance.

APPLICATION PROCESS

The JUSTCOOL admission process consists of four stages:

Step 1: Online Application

Submit an application through the official JUSTCOOL online portal. (https://justcoolphd.cn/)

Step 2: Written Examination

Applicants who successfully pass the preliminary document review will be invited to participate in a written entrance test.

Step 3: Interview

Candidates who perform successfully in the written examination will proceed to the interview stage.

Step 4: Admission Results

Successful applicants can access their admission results through the online application system and download the official electronic admission notice.

​DISCLAIMER: HEC is only advertising this opportunity. All potential applicants are required to apply directly to the respective university and queries may also be directed to the respective institute. Furthermore, HEC will have no financial liability regarding this opportunity in any case.