Admissions
We are actively recruiting PhD and MPhil students interested in theoretical condensed matter physics, especially in topics related to symmetry, topology, and the mathematical structure of quantum many-body systems.
Prospective students are warmly encouraged to contact Prof. Watanabe at hwatanabe@ust.hk before applying.
Scholarships and tuition
Qualified full-time MPhil and PhD students may receive a Postgraduate Studentship (PGS). The basic rate for the 2026/27 academic year is HK$229,620 per year (HK$19,135 per month), according to the Department of Physics scholarships page. This is the amount before tuition, hall fees, and other charges are settled. For application procedures, deadlines, and scholarship and fee details, please consult the HKUST Postgraduate Admissions page.
The Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme (HKPFS) is a competitive fellowship for PhD applicants. Please see the official page for the latest stipend, tuition waiver and other support, eligibility, and application deadlines.
Tuition for research postgraduate programs is HK$47,000 per year in 2026/27, as listed by the Academic Registry. Tuition waivers depend on the conditions of the relevant scheme or award. Students without a tuition waiver need to pay tuition in addition to their living expenses. As of October 2026, the Japanese students in our group receive tuition waivers.
Living costs
Housing costs vary with the hall, room type, location, and living arrangements. The following official figures provide a guide to monthly costs per person.
| Single room in postgraduate housing | HK$5,394–5,785 per person per month (2026/27) |
|---|---|
| Shared double room in postgraduate housing | HK$3,286–3,441 per person per month (2026/27) |
| Off-campus rent | HK$4,500–18,000 per person per month, utilities excluded (2025/26 estimate, updated April 2026) |
Sources: HKUST postgraduate hall charges and the Off-Campus Housing budget guide. Utility charges are included at University Apartments; some other halls charge separately for air conditioning or utilities. As one example from our group, a student pays approximately HK$5,500 per month for a hall room, including utilities, as of October 2026.
The official off-campus budget estimates HK$11,600–25,100 per person per month for 2025/26 (updated April 2026), including rent, utilities, food, local transport, and personal miscellaneous expenses. Tuition and medical insurance are additional. Actual expenses depend on your accommodation and lifestyle.
Medical insurance and PGS payments
Non-local full-time degree-seeking students studying on a student visa/entry permit are required to join the university's medical insurance scheme. For 2026/27, the fee is HK$620 per year, or HK$310 for students starting in the Spring semester. See the official insurance information for eligibility and coverage. This is an annual fee, not a fixed monthly insurance deduction. General consultations and medications at the campus clinic are free for full-time students.
According to Central Student Financials Unit FAQ Q7.7, hall fees, tuition, caution money, and compulsory medical insurance fees that are due are automatically offset against the monthly PGS, and the remaining balance is paid to the student. Check your Student Information System (SIS) account for individual charges, due dates, and payments.
Amounts checked on 25 October 2026. Please refer to the official pages for current rates and conditions.