The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) is offering two exciting summer opportunities in 2026 for international students. The International Summer School (ISS) is a credit-bearing programme running from 6 July to 7 August 2026, providing students with the opportunity to earn academic credits while experiencing vibrant campus life in Hong Kong. In addition, PolyU is also organising the International Research Summer School (IRSS), a separate programme designed for aspiring PhD candidates. The IRSS is described as fully funded for selected participants, covering major expenses, and the application deadline is 25 February 2026 at 12:00 noon (Hong Kong Time).
Basic scholarship information (with deadlines)
The International Research Summer School (IRSS) is an intensive two-week PhD exploration programme designed for outstanding international students. It offers participants the opportunity to connect with leading academics and researchers at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU), ranked 54th worldwide in the QS World University Rankings 2026. Through IRSS, participants gain first-hand experience of PolyU’s dynamic academic environment and state-of-the-art research facilities, explore interdisciplinary research areas and diverse PhD pathways, and immerse themselves in enriching cultural activities in Asia’s world city.
- Organiser: Graduate School, PolyU
- Location: PolyU Hung Hom Campus, Kowloon, Hong Kong
- Dates: 29 June – 9 July 2026
- Language: English
University/institution details
Host: The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU), Hong Kong.
Location: Kowloon, Hong Kong (ISS materials and partner briefs commonly list Kowloon as the programme location).
Language: ISS subjects are taught in English, and applicants are expected to have a good command of English.
Activities Include:
- Welcome session & campus tour
- Workshops & themed seminars
- Lab visits & research consultations
- Group discussions & project presentations
- Cultural activities & local excursions
Study areas (available program names)
PolyU ISS 2026 groups offerings into three thematic learning tracks (great for SEO headings and scannability):
Track 1: Chinese Language, Culture and Society
- Contemporary Chinese Society and Popular Culture
- Elementary Cantonese
- Discovering Chinese Cultures in Geo-cultural Heritages
- East Asia: Towards a Global Community with Cultural Diversity
- Multilingual Societies: Hong Kong and Beyond
2: Science, Technology and Creative Design
- Introduction to Astronomy
- Renewable Energy for A Sustainable World
- Smart Wearables and Smart Living
- Map Reading and Interpretation
- Obsession, Compulsion and Addictions in Modern Life
- Everyday Ergonomics
- Eyes on Vision
Track 3: Innovation, Entrepreneurship and Global Impact
- Economic Logic in Everyday Life
- The Evolution of World Cuisine
Program Theme
The International Research Summer School this year will focus on the following themes:
- AI+
- Materials Science and Advanced Manufacturing
- Life Science and Health Tech
- Energy and Sustainability
PolyU Hong Kong International Summer School benefits
- Free Student Hall Accommodation (HK$4,700 package covered)
- Full Visa/Entry Permit Subsidy (HK$330 covered)
- Cash Allowance: Up to HK$10,000 (travel support)
- Extra HK$5,000 for mentorship participants
- Programme Fee: Free
Benefits not included (common exclusions)
- Travel costs (often you book first; allowance may reimburse/offset later depending on rules).
- Meals.
- Insurance.
Also note: an application fee of HK$500 is stated for IRSS listings and is non-refundable.
Eligibility criteria for PolyU Hong Kong International Summer School
Because PolyU runs different summer schemes, eligibility differs by programme.
Applicants must be:
- Full-time penultimate/final year undergraduate OR
- Full-time Master’s student
- Able to attend entire programme in person
- Full-time bachelor’s degree students with good academic results who have completed the first year of study by programme start.
- Good command of English (teaching is in English).
- Selection is based on:
- Academic excellence
- Research ability & experience
- English proficiency
- Personal qualities & skills
Required documents (application checklist)
Upload ONE PDF (under 5MB) including:
- Academic transcripts (with grading explanation)
- Degree certificate (if applicable)
- CV
- Application letter
- English test score (if any)
- Awards/certificates (if any)
- Passport-size photo
- Application fee receipt
PolyU Hong Kong International Summer School application process (step-by-step)
- Confirm whether you’re applying to IRSS (fully funded research programme) or ISS (credit-bearing summer school).
- Complete the online application form before the stated deadline (IRSS: 25 Feb 2026, 12:00 noon HKT).
- Complete online application form
- Pay HK$500 application fee
- Pay the required application fee if your call requires it (IRSS listings mention HK$500, non-refundable).
- Prepare all required documents in English and combine them into the required format (IRSS listings mention a single PDF and size limit).
- Upload/submit documents within the stated timeframe after form submission (IRSS listings mention uploading within 2 days).
- Monitor your email for admission/selection updates and next steps (visa/entry permit, hall check-in, orientation details).
Tips for a successful application
- Write a focused motivation letter: connect your background to the programme theme (research interest for IRSS; academic fit for ISS subjects).
- Keep documents clean and consistent (names, dates, passport spelling), because many calls require a single combined PDF and strict file rules.
- Show proof of English readiness (test score if available; otherwise strong academic English evidence) since programmes are taught in English.
- Apply early: deadlines are tight (e.g., IRSS: 25 February 2026), and late submissions typically won’t be considered.
Estimated monthly living expenses in Hong Kong (USD)
Your real cost depends on whether accommodation is covered (IRSS provides accommodation for selected participants, while other schemes may not). A practical planning range for one month:
- Food (economy): $300–$600
- Local transport: $60–$120
- SIM/data: $15–$40
- Personal/misc.: $100–$250
- Total typical range (without rent): $475–$1,010/month
If accommodation is not covered, housing can dominate your budget; if it is covered (as stated for IRSS selected participants), your out-of-pocket monthly cost usually drops closer to food/transport/personal spending.
Why choose this Program? (at least 5 reasons)
- Direct PhD Exploration – Experience PolyU’s research excellence and facilities.
- PhD Scholarship Opportunities – Possible nomination for the Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme (up to HK$1.7M) or other PhD schemes.
- Exclusive Mentorship – Chance for 1-month research mentorship with a PolyU professor.
- Global Network – Connect with students from 20+ countries.
- Generous Sponsorship – Free accommodation, visa subsidy, and cash allowance.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
1) What are the ISS 2026 dates?
ISS materials list 6 July–7 August 2026.
2) Do I need IELTS/TOEFL?
ISS states subjects are taught in English and you need a good command of English; some calls accept “if any” test scores, so it may be optional depending on the scheme.
3) What courses can I study in ISS 2026?
Courses are organized under three tracks, with examples like Elementary Cantonese, Renewable Energy for A Sustainable World, Smart Wearables and Smart Living, and The Evolution of World Cuisine.
4) What costs might I still pay even if selected for “fully funded” IRSS?
IRSS listings say participants are responsible for their own travel, meals, and insurance, and there may be a non-refundable application fee (HK$500 stated in listings).
Timeline
- Application Deadline: 25 Feb 2026
- Selection: March 2026
- Admission Results: By 31 March 2026
- Visa Processing: March–June 2026
- Arrival: On/before 29 June 2026
- IRSS Programme: 30 June – 9 July 2026
