Hong Kong University of Science and Technology Undergraduate Research Opportunities Program
The Undergraduate Research Opportunities Program (UROP) at HKUST enables undergraduate students to engage in hands-on research projects under the supervision of faculty members. The program is structured around course offerings divided into tasting and series streams. The tasting stream introduces newcomers via the 0-credit UROP 1000 course offered only in summer, providing a pass/fail grade and potential stipends of HK$3,000–6,000 at the supervisor's discretion. The series stream (UROP 1100, 2100, 3100, 4100) requires sequential enrollment under the same supervisor for committed students developing deeper research skills.
Additionally, UROP 3200 (1-credit, available Fall/Spring/Summer since 2022-23) offers advanced participants a mini-conference experience with poster sessions, contributing to 3 credits under the UxOP Common Core framework when combined with prior courses. Students commit at least 3 hours weekly, complete mandatory Responsible Conduct of Research (RCR) training, and submit detailed final reports in conference/journal format. Applications are submitted per semester via an online system after consulting supervisors and browsing project listings, with results announced on a rolling basis.
Eligibility Requirements
- Enrolled in a full-time degree-bearing program at HKUST and completed at least two semesters (Fall + Spring)
- For UROP 1000: Cumulative Grade Average (CGA) of 3.00 or above (^non-local students need No Objection Letter from HKSAR Immigration)
- For UROP 1100: CGA of 3.30 or above (waived if previously completed UROP 1000 with same supervisor)
- For UROP 3200: Two passing UROP 1100 grades (same/different supervisors) or one each of UROP 1100/2100 (same supervisor); Year 2 summer or above only
- Exceptions possible under strong supervisor justification (1-page letter + study plan + CV) for research potential despite lower CGA (from Summer 2023-24)
- Excludes visiting students, leave status, exchange-out (case-by-case Summer); max 50% overlap with FYP/thesis if same supervisor
For thorough eligibility and selection information, visit the official website or contact the organizers directly.