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

What you'll study

Study is research-centred rather than module-based on the page: candidates prepare and pursue an original research project under supervision aligned with USTH key research fields. The programmes were developed based on societal needs and emphasize conducting meaningful, publishable research in the chosen discipline.

Entry requirements

• Hold a full-time Master’s degree, or a full-time Bachelor’s degree with very good grade (or Level 7 equivalent for relevant specialized fields).
• Demonstrate research experience via a research-oriented Master’s thesis; OR a scientific publication/report; OR at least two years’ work as a lecturer or researcher in education or R&D organisations.
• English-language qualification: one of TOEFL iBT ≥46, IELTS ≥5.5, TOEIC (L:400 R:385 S:160 W:150), Cambridge B2 First/Linguaskill ≥160, Aptis ESOL B2, or other certificates equivalent to level 4 of Vietnam’s six-level framework. Alternatively, a full-time degree taught in English or a Vietnamese BA in English Linguistics and Literature satisfies the requirement.
• Submit a research proposal approved by proposed supervisor(s) and defend it before an Admissions Interview Committee following dossier evaluation.
• Supervisor rules: applicants may propose up to two supervisors; at least one must be a USTH full-time lecturer or a French lecturer affiliated with USTH laboratories. Supervisors must hold a doctoral degree, have at least three years’ post-doctoral professional experience and be active researchers in the topic during the three years prior to supervision.

Career prospects

Graduates receive a doctoral degree recognised internationally and can pursue roles in academic research and teaching, R&D positions in industry, policy or technical leadership in public and private research organisations, or continue in international research collaborations. The programmes emphasise producing research outputs that enhance employability in research-intensive careers.

Scholarships & funding angle (general)

• Pathway to Success Scholarship (DS-PS): up to 100% tuition for PhD students who graduated from USTH Bachelor/Master programmes (first training year).
• Capacity Building Scholarship (DS-CS): for employees of VAST institutes with at least one-year contracts and nomination; covers 50% tuition for the first year (continuation conditional on USTH requirements).
• Academic Encouragement Scholarship (MS): up to 100% tuition for enrolled PhD students with excellent academic records.
• Access Scholarship (AS) and Support Scholarship (SS): scholarships for employees of institutions that have cooperation agreements with USTH, awarded per the terms of those agreements.
• Other scholarship consideration: candidates without contracts but with equivalent academic, research or professional contributions may be considered by the Scholarship Review Committee; international applicants must provide proof of funds as part of enrollment procedures.