University of Science and Technology Hanoi (USTH, Vietnam-France University)

What you'll study

The programme is research-centered rather than modular. Applicants must submit a 2-page pre-proposal approved by expected supervisors. Available PhD training programs cover specific fields including Pharmacological, Medical and Agronomical Biotechnology; Advanced Material Science and Nanotechnology; Water–Environment–Oceanography; Information and Communication Technology; Energy; Space and Applications; and Chemistry. Research directions and detailed topics are provided by the university for each listed programme.

Entry requirements

To apply you must hold a full-time Master’s degree in the relevant or a related field. Candidates must also meet English-language conditions by either having a Bachelor’s degree taught in English, holding a Bachelor’s in English Linguistics and Literature from a Vietnamese institution, or presenting one of the accepted English test scores: TOEFL iBT ≥46, IELTS ≥5.5, TOEIC component scores (L:400, R:385, S:160, W:150), Cambridge B2 First / Linguaskill ≥160, or Aptis Esol B2. Other foreign language certificates equivalent to level 4 of Vietnam's six-level framework are also acceptable.

Application dossier components include: English application form; notarized and, if necessary, English-translated copies of Bachelor and Master degrees and transcripts (or provisional graduation confirmation if awaiting diploma); valid English certificate; motivation letter; CV; at least one recommendation letter; a 2-page pre-proposal; copies of payment of the application fee; list/copies of publications if any; and other relevant documents. Templates are provided by the university.

Applications are submitted in hard copy to USTH Admissions and Communications and must also be scanned to PDF (≤6MB) and emailed. The application fee is 1,000,000 VND per dossier. The specified submission period for this announcement is 01 July 2026 to 31 August 2026.

Career prospects

Graduates leave with twin doctorates and international supervision experience, positioning them for research careers in academia, public research institutes, and R&D roles within industry. The extended research stay in France can strengthen international collaborations and enhance prospects for postdoctoral appointments or research leadership roles.

Scholarships & funding angle (general)

Co-Tutelles require co-funding from both Vietnamese and French sides. USTH provides financial support for PhD candidates who undertake teaching duties while resident at USTH. Financial support from the French partner depends on the policies of the hosting doctoral school. USTH publishes additional scholarship programmes for international students and details on application and living allowance support on its official website.