Shanghai Jiao Tong University released the doctoral enrollment brochure for the campus-based programs in 2026 last mid-month. Among the tuition fee standards attached, the “sky-high” tuition fee of 780,000 yuan per term for non-full-time doctoral students in accounting has attracted attention from netizens.
The enrollment brochure of Shanghai Jiao Tong University shows that around 5,000 doctoral students are planned to be enrolled in 2026, with approximately 4,000 at the main campus. The basic study period for direct doctoral students is 5 years, while for other doctoral students, it is 4 years.
The study formats are divided into full-time and non-full-time, with academic doctoral programs generally being full-time, while there are two forms for professional doctoral programs.
The tuition fee standards show that full-time engineering doctoral programs, full-time biological and medical doctoral programs, and full-time pharmaceutical doctoral programs all have an annual tuition fee of 10,000 yuan, while the highest tuition fee for full-time accounting doctoral programs is 520,000 yuan per term.
Non-full-time tuition fees are generally higher than full-time ones, such as 200,000 yuan per term for non-full-time engineering doctoral programs, 480,000 yuan per term for non-full-time legal doctoral programs, and the “sky-high” 780,000 yuan per term for non-full-time accounting doctoral programs.
The high tuition fees have sparked discussions among netizens, with comments like, “Knowledge changes destiny, ordinary people may not even have the opportunity to step through the door of knowledge.” “Who are the non-full-time doctoral students?” “Probably corporate executives, bosses, who might have their companies finance it.” “After studying for 4-6 years, they are eligible to pursue further studies abroad! After graduation, just a few accounting jobs will pay off, and the rest is profit!” “I understand now, in the future, money equals education, alumni networks, and prestige. 700,000-plus is just a month’s income for some executives.” “This university surely knows how to make money!”
Some netizens have asked, “Which companies can reimburse these expenses?”
In response to this, a staff member of the Graduate Enrollment Office at Shanghai Jiao Tong University told Jiu Pai News on November 10 that the “one term” duration usually ranges from 4 to 6 years, with the specific duration determined by the college and mentors. Most of the 780,000 yuan is for tuition, but detailed breakdowns need to be consulted with the relevant colleges.
Regarding the question of whether companies can reimburse the tuition fees that netizens are concerned about, the staff member mentioned that if it is a joint training project, the related expenses can be reimbursed.