Joint PhD Degree (Cotutelle) Program.

Joint PhD Degree (Cotutelle) Program

The Joint PhD Degree Program, offered in the Cotutelle mode, is a flagship academic initiative of AcSIR that promotes international research collaboration and academic mobility. This unique arrangement allows AcSIR doctoral students to pursue a PhD jointly with a partner university abroad, leveraging the strengths of both institutions to deliver an enriched, globally relevant research experience.

Under the program, a student is jointly enrolled at AcSIR and the partner university, conducts research under dual supervision, and upon fulfilling the academic requirements of both institutions, receives a Doctor of Philosophy degree from each. These degrees clearly state the joint nature of the program and reflect the collaborative academic effort.

Program Highlights

• Joint supervision by faculty from both AcSIR and the partner university.
• Dual enrollment and award of two PhD degrees — one from each institution.
• 12-month research stay abroad, fully funded by the host institution.
• Monthly stipend, tuition waiver, relocation allowance, health insurance, and international return airfare during the research stay.
• Access to cutting-edge research infrastructure at both institutions.
• Opportunity to work in interdisciplinary research areas of mutual interest.

How to Apply for AcSIR Joint PhD (Cotutelle) Programs

Admissions to AcSIR’s Joint PhD (Cotutelle) Programs are conducted annually. Notifications regarding available positions, eligibility criteria, and application processes are published on the AcSIR website and circulated via official communication channels.

Eligibility Criteria

• Students enrolled in the AcSIR PhD program are eligible to apply after successfully completing
• 2 to 4 semesters of doctoral coursework,
• All prescribed academic course work, and
• The Comprehensive Examination.

Selection Process

• A formal call for applications is issued by AcSIR once a partner university confirms its participation.
• Applicants must identify potential supervisors at the partner institution whose research aligns with their interests and obtain consent for joint supervision.
• Applications are screened internally by AcSIR, and shortlisted candidates are forwarded to the partner university.
• The partner university conducts its own evaluation and selection process based on academic merit and research compatibility.
• Final selection is subject to approval by both institutions.
• Successful candidates receive an official admission offer from the partner university.

Supervision Framework

Each student will be guided by Joint Senior Supervisors — one from AcSIR and one from the partner university. These supervisors

• Provide academic mentorship and jointly monitor progress.
• Coordinate research planning and ensure compliance with both institutions’ academic standards.

Both supervisors must be formally recognized by the partner institution and AcSIR respectively, and included in each institution’s official supervisory records.

Program Structure and Timeline

1. Application Call & Screening

• AcSIR issues a call for applications and conducts an internal screening. Shortlisted candidates’ applications are forwarded to the partner university for further evaluation.

2. Supervisor Identification

• Candidates identify and connect with potential supervisors at the partner university to seek their consent for joint supervision.

3. Final Matching & Admission

• Final selection is based on mutual academic interest and institutional approvals. Candidates submit an Expression of Interest along with a formal application to the partner university.

4. Research Stay Planning

• A 12-month research stay is arranged at the host university, scheduled in coordination with supervisors from both institutions.

5. Progress Monitoring

• Candidates undergo mandatory progress reviews and assessments involving both institutions, with proper documentation maintained.

6. Thesis Submission & Examination

• Identical theses are submitted to both universities and independently examined according to their respective academic policies.

7. Oral Defence

• Candidates must successfully defend their thesis at AcSIR.

8. Award of Degrees

• Upon satisfying all requirements, each institution awards a PhD degree highlighting the Cotutelle joint supervision framework.

Financial Support Structure

During the 12-month research stay at the host university, the following financial support is typically provided by the host institution

• Full tuition fee waiver for the entire duration.
• Monthly stipend for up to 12 months.
• Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC).
• Relocation grant, including international airfare and visa fee reimbursement.

This robust financial model is approved by AcSIR’s Board of Governors and ensures a well-supported research experience abroad.

Assessment and Thesis Examination

• Each institution independently examines the thesis as per its internal processes.
• Candidates must comply with both institutions’ policies on thesis submission, examination, and plagiarism.
• At least one thesis must be submitted to both institutions.
• Each university confers its PhD degree upon successful completion and defence, with official documents and transcripts clearly indicating the joint supervision and Cotutelle arrangement.