2025 SJTU Tsung-Dao Lee Institute International Graduate Admissions
Fall 2026 admissions for Tsung-Dao Lee Institute (TDLI) opened on 15 October 2025. Applicants from all over the world are welcome to apply for graduate programs at TDLI.
1. Why TDLI
TDLI is an international center for fundamental physics and astronomy research. We focus on the biggest questions of our universe—from the nature and origin of matter and particle & nuclear physics, to emergent phenomena in condensed matter and the structure and evolution of the cosmos.
TDLI unites world-class faculty, advanced experimental and computational facilities, and an interdisciplinary culture to enable breakthrough discovery. Ranked around #34 globally in physics, TDLI offers competitive scholarships and funded opportunities to support outstanding international graduate students.
2. Research Divisions
Physics
- Particle & Nuclear Physics — theory and experiment addressing fundamental interactions.
- Condensed Matter Physics — quantum materials, topological phases and novel devices.
Astronomy (PhD Only)
- Astronomy & Astrophysics — observations and theory of cosmic structure, compact objects and cosmology.
(Choose a theory or experiment path according to your research interest and agreement with a prospective supervisor.)
3. Programs & Duration
| Full-time Programs | Degree Entry Requirement | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Direct PhD | Bachelor’s degree | 5 years |
| Standard PhD | Master’s degree | 4 years |
| Master’s Program | Bachelor’s degree | 3 years |
We strongly encourage exceptional bachelor’s-holders to apply for the 5-year Direct PhD. In rare cases, a master’s pathway may be offered with supervisor approval.
4. Important Dates
- October 15, 2025 — Opening of 2026 applications
- December 15, 2025 — Deadline for 1st Round of Chinese Government Scholarship applications
- February 15, 2026 — Deadline for the 2nd (and final) Round of Chinese Government Scholarship (CGS) applications
- March 31, 2026 — Deadline for applications for the SGS Scholarship and SJTU Scholarship
- May 31, 20256— Deadline for self-supported applications
- September 2026 — Enrollment
5. Eligibility
Nationality
Applicants should be non-Chinese citizens with a valid private ordinary passport.
Note: Whether an applicant holding a foreign nationality also possesses the nationality of the People’s Republic of China shall be determined by the nationality appraisal issued by the Exit and Entry Administration of the Chinese public-security authorities. If an applicant is determined to hold Chinese nationality or is otherwise ineligible at any point during the application, admission, or enrollment process, their application, offer of admission, or student status will be revoked.
Physical and Mental Health
Applicants should be in good health and possess good character, meeting the medical examination requirements of both the country and the university. Applicants should have no criminal record and maintain a friendly attitude towards China. They must comply with Chinese laws and regulations and the rules of SJTU.
Academic Qualifications
- Direct PhD: Bachelor’s degree or equivalent recognized in China.
- Standard PhD: Master’s degree or equivalent recognized in China.
- Master's Program: Bachelor’s degree or equivalent recognized in China.
6. Language Requirements
All international applicants must provide evidence that their English language proficiency meets the minimum requirements for admission.
Being born in a native English-speaking country is not sufficient. Applicants may satisfy the requirement by either an English Language Test or prior study in English at a recognized institution.
a) English Language Tests
SJTU recognizes a range of English language tests and preparation courses. Test scores must be valid within required years of application as in Language Requirements for SJTU International Graduate Programs.pdf
b) Prior Study in English
If you have completed an assessable Senior Secondary or post-secondary study at an accredited English-speaking institution within two years, and taught/examined in English, English proficiency proof is not required.
*Recognized English-speaking countries include: American Samoa, Australia, Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, Botswana, Canada, Fiji, Gibraltar, Ghana, Guyana, Ireland, Jamaica, Kenya, Lesotho, Liberia, New Zealand, Nigeria, Papua New Guinea, Singapore, Solomon Islands, South Africa, The Gambia, Tonga, Trinidad and Tobago, United Kingdom (including Northern Ireland), United States of America, Zambia, Zimbabwe.
