2019 Graduate Student Handbook

Article 1 To regulate the student management of the university, to maintain the regular order of educational activities and campus life, to regulate the management of graduate training process, and to protect the legal rights and interests of the graduate students, so as to nurture all-round development of socialist builders and successors with moral, intellectual, physical and aesthetic excellences, these regulations are hereby formulated in accordance with the “Education Law of the People’s Republic of China”, “Higher Education Law of the People’s Republic of China”, “Provisions on the Administration of Students in Regular Institutions of Higher Education” and other relevant laws and regulations, and with reference to the actual conditions of the University.

 Article 2 These regulations are applicable to graduate students pursuing degree and diploma educations at Shanghai Jiao Tong University. Graduate students of Sino-foreign joint institutes, School of Medicine, and Shanghai Advanced Institute of Finance, those from Hong Kong, Macao and Taiwan, overseas Chinese graduate students, as well as international graduate students, unless otherwise specified, shall all adhere to these regulations.

 Article 3 The University adheres to the socialism orientation and the guiding status of Marxism in running the University, and comprehensively implements the educational policies of the nation. The University takes cultivating talented people with high moral standards as its fundamental task and ideals and beliefs education at its core task, cultivating and practicing the core socialist values, carrying forward the essential traditional Chinese culture, revolutionary culture and advanced socialist culture, in an effort to enhance the students’ sense of social responsibility, spirit of innovation and ability to practice. The University runs under the laws, and administrates with scientific measures, endeavoring to improve the administration system, regulate management practices, and integrate the administration with the education of people, so as to continuously improve the administration and services capabilities.

 Article 4 The students shall support the leadership of the Communist Party of China, vigorously study the Marxism-Leninism, the Mao Zedong Thought, the theory system of socialism with Chinese characteristics, as well as the spirit of a series of important speeches and the new concepts and strategies in governance of China by General Secretary Xi Jinping. The students shall strengthen their confidence in the path, theory, system, and culture of socialism with Chinese characteristics, and foster the common ideal of socialism with Chinese characteristics. The students shall build up patriotism and bear the spirit of unity and solidarity, loving peace, being industrious and brave, and unremitting self-improvement. The students shall strengthen the consciousness of law, abide by the Constitution, laws and regulations, citizen ethics, and conform to the university regulations, having good moral characters, behaviors and habits. The students shall also study assiduously, and engage bravely and actively in exploration and practice, so as to master the knowledge of modern sciences and professional skills. The students shall exercise regularly to improve their physical and mental health, cultivate aesthetic tastes, and strive for self-improvement.

 Article 5 The University respects and protects the legal rights of the students, educates and guides the students to undertake their obligations and responsibilities, as well as encourages and supports the self-administration, self-service, self-education and self-supervision of the students.

Article 6 The students have the following legal rights during their study at the University:

(1) To participate in various activities arranged under the University’s education plans, and use the educational resources provided by the University;

(2) To take part in social practice, voluntary services, work-study programs, entertainment and sports activities, as well as technological and cultural innovation, and receive guidance and service regarding employment and self-employment;

(3) To apply for scholarships, grants and student loans in accordance with regulations of the nation and the University;

(4) To receive a fair and scientific evaluation in terms of ideology, morality, academic achievements, etc., and to receive the corresponding diploma and degree certificates upon successful completion of required studies at the University.

(5) To organize and join student organizations within the University, to engage in the administration of the University in an appropriate manner, and to enjoy the rights to know, to participate, to be heard and to supervise for matters relating to the rights and interests of the students;

(6) To appeal to the University and the educational administrative departments against decisions or punishments made by the University, and to lodge appeals or lawsuits against behaviors of the University or its faculty and staff that violate the legal rights and interests of the students, including personal rights, property rights, etc.

(7) Other rights as stipulated in laws and regulations of the nation as well as regulations of the University.

 Article 7 The students shall perform the following obligations according to the law:

(1) To abide by the Constitution, laws and regulations of China;

(2) To comply with the statutes, rules and regulations of the University;

(3) To stick to the academic ethics and complete all required school work;

(4) To pay tuition and fees according to the regulations, and fulfill the corresponding obligations associated with the student loans and grants received;

(5) To observe the student code of conduct, respect the faculty, and develop good moral characters, behaviors and habits;

(6) Other obligations as stipulated by the laws and regulations of the nation, as well as regulations of the University.

Section 1: Admission

Article 8 Newly admitted graduate students must present the Admission Notice, a valid ID card, the diploma and/or degree certificates of previous studies, and go through the enrollment procedures in person within the prescribed time limit. Those who cannot register on time with cogent reasons shall ask for the permission to extend the registration deadline in written to the School (Department) before the prescribed time limit. Relevant proofs should be provided when asking for the permission. The School (Department) can grant an extension of no more than two weeks for cogent reasons. In cases of force majeure or out of other legitimate reasons, it can be further extended, but shall not exceed four weeks. The application for an extension of more than two weeks shall be reported to the head of the Graduate School for approval. Anyone exceeds the prescribed time limit without the permission or the approved extension deadline will be deemed to have given up the admission.

 Article 9 During the on-site registration, the University conducts preliminary confirmation of the qualifications of the newly admitted graduate students. Those qualified can proceed with their enrollment procedures and will be granted the student status. Materials to be examined include the Admission Notice, a valid ID card, the diploma (or academic certificate), and the degree certificate (original documents). The University Hospital will reexamine the health state of the new graduate students. The preliminary confirmation shall be carried out by the Schools (Departments), and the Graduate School is responsible for the further confirmation.

 If it is found that the documents provided by the student, such as the Admission Notice or personal information, are not consistent with the student, or there are other violations to the regulations of the national graduate entrance examinations, the admission of the student will be abolished.

 Article 10 The admitted graduate students who meet one of the following conditions may apply for retention of the admission qualification for a future enrollment:

(1) Required by the degree program admitted;

(2) Enlisted in the Chinese People’s Liberation Army or the Chinese People’s Armed Police Force;

(3) Starting a business;

(4) Suffering from an illness;

(5) Other valid reasons.

 The graduate students who would like to apply for retention of admission qualification shall submit an application within the prescribed registration time limit by filling the “Application Form for Retention of Admission Qualification of Newly Admitted Graduate Students, SJTU”. Those who apply for retention of admission qualification due to illness shall submit a letter issued by a Grade II Level A hospital or above, proving that the applicant is not suitable for on-campus study. The letter shall also be endorsed by the Shanghai Jiao Tong University Hospital. For students who apply for retention of admission qualification due to starting a business, the School of Entrepreneurship & Innovation shall organize committee to evaluate the actual situation of the applicant’s business, and provide their recommendation after a thorough review. With the consent of the School (Department), those who apply for retention of admission qualification shall submit the application form and necessary documents to the Graduate School (students of the School of Medicine shall submit the materials to the Graduate School of the Medical School) for approval. Once the application is approved, the student’s admission qualification will be retained.

 The duration of retention is generally one year. For those who are enlisted in the People’s Liberation Army or the Chinese People’s Armed Police Force shall be granted the retention of up to 2 years after their retirement from the army. In case the regulations of the Ministry of Education provide other provisions, such provisions shall prevail.

 Students who have been granted the admission qualification retentions are not entitled to the student status during the time of retention, and shall not be treated as such. Those whose admission qualifications have been retained due to illness shall go back home for recuperation. The University does not accept applications for going abroad or to Hong Kong, Macao and Taiwan from students whose admission qualifications have been retained. Nor will the University issue any certificates/proofs for them. Students’ personnel files been transferred to the University can be kept temporarily by the SJTU Archives during the duration of retention.

 Article 11 Students whose admission qualifications have been retained shall apply for enrollment three months before the retention expires. After the review of the University, qualified students can be reissued an Admission Notice and shall go through the enrollment procedures. Those unqualified will be denied admission. If the student fails to apply for enrollment within the prescribed time limit without cogent reasons such as force majeure factors, he/she will be deemed to have given up the admission.

 When applying for enrollment, students whose admission qualifications have been retained due to illness shall submit a proof of recovery, issued by a Grade II Level A hospital or above, which then shall be endorsed by the Shanghai Jiao Tong University Hospital. The students will be subject to a re-examination made by a University-designated hospital. If the student passes the re-examination, satisfies the physical requirements of the University, and have got the approval from the Graduate School, he/she can initiate the enrollment procedure.

 After the enrollment, the students whose admission qualifications have been retained shall follow the program curriculum of the current grade, and the counting of their study duration begins from the academic year of the formal enrollment.

 Article 12 Within 3 months after the enrollment, the University verifies the information of the new students in accordance with national and university regulations on graduate admission. The information to verify includes:

(1) Whether the admission process and procedures meet the national admission regulations;

(2) Whether the admission qualifications are authentic and meet the related regulations;

(3) Whether the student and his/her ID are consistent with the information on the Admission Notice, the examinee’s personnel records, etc.;

(4) Whether the student’s physical and mental health status meets the health examination requirements specified by his/her major or specialty category, whether the student can conform to normal on-campus study and life;

(5) Whether the professional level of the students admitted to special majors like arts and physical education meets the admission requirements.

 When an affirmation or evaluation is required during the verification process, the professional organizations or committees recognized by the University shall be consulted to provide a decisive opinion.

 The student shall be deemed unqualified and his/her student status will be revoked, should the verification finds that there is fraud and/or malpractice during the admission process. Serious offenses shall be transferred to relevant departments for further investigation.

 If the verification finds that a student is not physically or mentally ready for on-campus study, and is confirmed by a Grade II Level A hospital or above after diagnosis that he/she needs to go home for a rest, the student shall suspend from schooling, or apply for a retention of his/her admission qualification in accord to Article 10.

 Article 13 Before abolishing a student’s admission or revoking his/her student status, the University shall confirm the legality of such actions, and submit the case to a special meeting authorized by the University president. The meeting shall discuss the case and issue a written decision.

 Article 14 For students who have been denied admission or whose student status has been revoked, their Hukou (registered permanent residence) and personnel files, if having been transferred to the University, shall be sent back to their hometown or the original unit that kept their records.

 Article 15 The graduate student ID card is a valid identification for the graduate students, and comes into effect upon registration in each semester. The graduate student ID card shall not be altered without authorization or lent to others. Violations of the regulations shall be dealt with in accordance with “SJTU Discipline Policies”.

 Graduate student ID card can be reissued upon application in case of lost. The applicant shall fill out the “Application Form for Reissuing of Graduate Student ID Card”, and go through the relevant procedures specified in the form.

 Section 2: Registration and Temporary Leave

Article 16 At the beginning of each semester, the graduate students shall register according to the regulations of the University. If for some reason the student cannot register within the prescribed time limit, he/she shall apply to the School for postpone, which only comes into effect upon approval. The duration of such postpone is generally no more than 2 weeks. If, without cogent reason, the student has not registered two weeks beyond the time limit, he/she is seen to withdraw from the university voluntarily.

 The graduate students shall pay tuition and fees prior to the semester registration, if any. If the tuition and fees are not paid in accordance with the regulations of the University, or any other registration requirements are not met, the registration shall not be processed.

 Graduate students facing financial difficulties may apply for student loans or other forms of financial aids in accordance with the national regulations, and shall register after completing the relevant procedures.

 Article 17 The graduate students shall participate in the educational activities arranged according to the program curriculum on time. Those who cannot participate on time under special circumstances shall ask for leave and get approval in advance.

 Article 18 The graduate students are subject to the consent of their supervisors for temporary leaves. If the duration of such leave is less than 2 weeks (included), the application shall be approved and recorded by the School or Department; if the duration of such leave is more than 2 weeks but less than 3 months (included), the Graduate School shall be notified. Students who leave for longer than 3 months shall apply for suspension of schooling in accord to Chapter 3, Section 6.

 The graduate students shall report back after leave of absence. Otherwise, they will be deemed as taking extra leave without permission.

 Students who leave the University without approval shall be criticized according to relevant regulations of the University. Serious offences shall be dealt with in accordance with “SJTU Discipline Policies”.

 Article 19 Graduate students who apply for temporary leave shall fill out the “Application Form for Taking Leave for Graduate Students of Shanghai Jiao Tong University”, and go through the procedures as specified in the Form to get approved. Upon approval, the students shall inform the relevant course instructors of the leave.

 Section 3: Study Duration

Article 20 A flexible study duration is adopted for the postgraduate studies.

The basic study duration for Master students is 2~3 years, and can be extended by one year, generally. For part-time Master students, students suspend schooling for starting a business, or direct PhD students (starting with a bachelor degree) transferred to the Master programs, the study duration can be extended appropriately, but shall not exceed 5 years (including the period of suspension).

 The basic study duration for regular PhD students (starting with a master degree) is 4 years (3 years for the Medical School PhD students); for direct PhD students, the basic study duration is 5 years. For regular PhD candidates receiving non-directional training, the longest study during (including the period of suspension) shall not exceed 6 years, while for students in direct Doctoral Programs or regular PhD students receiving directional training, the study duration shall not exceed 7 years (including the period of suspension).

 Generally, the shortest study duration for Master students shall be no less than 2 years. For regular PhD students, the shortest study duration shall not be less than 3 years, and that for students in direct Doctoral Programs shall not be less than 4 years.

 Article 21 Graduate students who cannot graduate within the prescribed basic study duration are obliged to apply for extension of schooling 3 months before the end of expected graduation date. The application shall be submitted by the graduate student in person, firstly approved by the supervisor (or supervising group), then reviewed and approved by the School (Department), and thereafter submitted to the Graduate School for archive. The extended graduation date shall not exceed the corresponding longest study duration (including the period of suspension).

 Students who are enlisted in the People’s Liberation Army of China or the People’s Armed Police Force of China during the period of schooling shall be granted retention of student status up to two years after their retirements from the army.

 Article 22 Graduate students who complete the coursework and thesis as specified in the training plan ahead of schedule, and meet the requirements for degree application, can apply for an early graduation. The student shall fill in the “Early Graduation Approval Form”, which shall then be approved by the supervisor (or the supervising group), reviewed by the School (Department), and thereafter submitted to the Graduate School for final approval.

 Section 4: Assessment and Academic Records

Article 23 Under the guidance of the supervisor and/or the supervising group, the graduate student shall establish a training plan in accordance with the program curriculum. The graduate students shall take the courses and other training activities as specified in the training plan and pass the corresponding assessments, the result of which shall be recorded in the transcript and kept in the student’s files.

 Article 24 The academic requirements for different types of graduate students are specified in the corresponding discipline or major program curricula, which has been formulated with reference to the “SJTU Regulations on the Training of Doctoral Degree Students”, and “SJTU Regulations on the Training of Master Degree Students”. For Master students and direct Doctoral Program students enrolled since the fall semester of 2016, their GPA score shall be no less than 2.70 based on the new GPA grading system (the maximum GPA score is 4.0). The minimum requirement for GPA score is 2.00 for students following the original GPA grading system (the maximum GPA score is 3.3).

 Article 25 The assessment and performance evaluation for courses and the training processes, as well as the procedures of assessment, re-examination and course retake, shall be performed according to the relevant regulations of the University.

 For students whose total amount of unexcused absent hours from a course exceeds one third of the total teaching hours of the course, he/she shall not be allowed to attend the course examination or assessment, and have to retake the course.

 In case a graduate student fails to attend an examination, or severely violates the assessment discipline, or commits fraudulent behavior during the examination, his/her grade for the course shall be marked as “failed”, and corresponding disciplinary measures shall be applied by the University based on the severity of circumstances.

 Article 26 With the consent of the University, the graduate students can attend courses in other universities under bilateral agreements. The course credits and grades under such circumstances could be transferred and recognized in accordance with the regulations of the University.

 Article 27 The University shall, in a truthful and complete manner, record and issue the academic records for the students. For grades received through course retake or re-examination, special indication should be made on the transcript and the students’ files accordingly.

 In case the graduate students discontinue their studies due to withdrawal from the university or other circumstances, the courses taken and the credits obtained shall be recorded by the University. In case the student retakes the entrance examination, complies with the terms of enrollment and re-enters the University, he/she can apply to recognize the previously taken courses. The school (department) should review the application, if approved, the previously obtained credits can be recognized.

 Section 5: Change of Supervisor, Major or Institution

Article 28 The graduate student who fulfills one of the following conditions can apply to change his/her supervisor:

(1)     The supervisor goes abroad on business and is unable to perform his/her duties, or the supervisor has resigned from the University;

(2)     Other situations related to the supervisor.

 Article 29 The graduate student who fulfills one of the following conditions can apply to change his/her major:

(1) The major is discontinued;

(2) It is necessary for the development of the University and the discipline;

(3) Other cogent reasons.

 Article 30 The application to change one’s supervisor or major shall be proceeded according to the following regulations:

(1) If the change of supervisor is within the same academic discipline (for School of Medicine, within the second-level discipline), the student shall apply in person and get approved by both the original and the targeted supervisors. Upon confirmation of the fulfillment of the training requirements and ratification from the head of the School in charge, the application should be reported to the Graduate School for archive.

(2) To change one’s major within the University, the student shall apply in person and get approved by the original supervisor and the heads in charge of both the original and the targeted schools. If a new supervisor is determined and the training requirements are fulfilled, the application should be submitted to the Graduate School for approval.

(3) The changes of major shall, in principle, be completed within the first academic year. For students applying to change major beyond the original first-level academic discipline, an evaluation on their academic performance during the prior studies should be carried out. The evaluation shall be organized and implemented by the relevant committee of the targeted School, the results of which shall be open to the public.

(4) In the event that the original supervisor has resigned while a new supervisor has yet to be determined, the head of the School (Department) in charge shall take on the responsibility for supervising the student.

 In case of situations described in sub-article (a) and (b), if no response is provided by the original supervisor within the appropriate time limit, the School can, if necessary, urge the supervisor to reply. If still no response is provided, the Academic Degree Evaluation Subcommittee of the School shall make the final decision.

 Article 31 The graduate students shall, under general circumstances, complete their studies at Shanghai Jiao Tong University. In case the students cannot continue their studies at the University due to illness or other special difficulties or needs, or the students fail to adapt themselves to the University’s requirements, they can apply to transfer to other institutions. A graduate student who meets any of the following conditions shall not be permitted to transfer to other institutions:

(1) The student has not yet completed the first semester or is in the last academic year of study before graduation;

(2) The student is enrolled in the directional training program;

(3) The enrolment criteria of the targeted institution or major are higher than those of the original institution or major;

(4) There is no justification for the transfer.

 Article 32 To transfer to another institution, the student shall apply in person and get approved by the supervisor (or the supervising group) and the original School (Department). Upon the review of the Graduate School, the application shall be reported to the head of the University for ratification.

 Article 33 Students who intend to transfer to Shanghai Jiao Tong University from other institutions shall apply in person and explain the reasons. The student shall hold a proof of transfer ratification issued by the original institute, as well as the transcripts of all the examinations taken during his/her study at the original institution. After filing an application to the Graduate School, and passing the professional assessment or academic performance evaluation organized by Shanghai Jiao Tong University, the applicant shall be reviewed to confirm if he/she fulfills the enrollment requirements and the training requirements of SJTU. Those qualified shall then seek the approval of the targeted school and have the supervisor determined. After approved by the special meeting held by the University, the application will be reported to the university president in charge for ratification. Upon approval, the student can be transferred to the University.

 Article 34 The University shall make the proposed transfer open to the public, and report to the provincial education administrative department within 3 months after completion of the transfer.

 For inter-provincial transfer, the provincial education administrative department in the province of the original institution shall consult to with the provincial education administrative department of the targeted institution, and confirm if the student satisfies the requirements for transfer. If confirmed, the transfer procedures can be processed. For students whose Hukou is to be transferred, the provincial education administrative department in the province of the targeted institution shall forward copies of relevant documents to the local public security authority.

 Article 35 Any discrepancies during the process of changing supervisor, major or institution shall be coordinated by the Graduate School and relevant departments. The Academic Degree Evaluation Committee may hold a meeting to discuss the matter when necessary, and report the decision to the president of the University in charge for approval.

 Section 6: Suspension and Resumption of Study

Article 36 Graduate students who meet one of the following conditions shall suspend from schooling:

(1) Cannot continue their studies due to illness, and are suggested by a University-designated hospital to be suspended;

(2) Students need to go abroad or go to Hong Kong, Macao, and Taiwan for more than three months.

 Article 37 Graduate students who meet one of the following conditions can apply for suspension from schooling:

(1) Starting a startup;

(2) Taking part in a program to support education in underdeveloped areas;

(3) Enlisted in the army;

(4) Admitted in the contractual programs and need to suspend schooling due to demands of the employer;

(5) Married graduate student who complies with the national family planning policy, and is in the third or later month of pregnancy;

(6) Forced to suspend his/her studies under special circumstances.

 Article 38 The graduate students applying for suspension of schooling shall fill in “Application Form for Suspension of Schooling”, which shall then be approved by the supervisor (or the supervising group) and the head of School (Department) in charge of graduate education. The application form shall then be submitted to the Graduate School for final review and approval.

 Students applying for suspension due to illness must submit relevant proof. The application is only deemed valid with the endorsement of the University Hospital.

 Pregnant students can only apply for suspension of schooling after the approval of the University Family Planning Office.

 Students applying for suspension due to going abroad should provide an invitation letter or agreement.

 Students applying for suspension due to starting a startup should be evaluated and approved by an expert committee organized by the School of Entrepreneurship and Innovation.

 The cumulative suspension of schooling cannot exceed two years. For graduate students who are enlisted in the army, start a business or participating SJTU-foreign cooperative training programs, the duration of suspension can be appropriately extended based on the national policy or SJTU-foreign cooperation agreement. The study duration for graduate students (including the period of suspension) cannot exceed the allowed upper limit as stipulated by the University.

 Article 39 The University preserves the student status for the graduate students under suspension, but they will not be treated as regular students, and shall check out the university dormitory and leave the University. Medical expenses of students during suspension due to illness shall be treated with reference to relevant regulations of the University.

 Article 40 When the suspension expires, the student must apply to resume schooling. To resume their studies, the graduate students are required to apply by written application before the start of a new semester.

 Graduate students who wish to resume their studies from suspension of schooling shall fill in “Application Form for Reinstatement of Schooling”, which shall be reviewed and approved by the head of School (Department) in charge of graduate education. After being approved by the Graduate School, the student can complete the resumption procedures.

 Before resuming their studies, the students under suspension due to illness shall submit a medical report issued by a SJTU-designated hospital to the University Hospital. The student can apply to resume his/her study only with the confirmation from the University Hospital that his/her health condition is good enough for on-campus study and life.

 Application for the resumption of study shall be submitted in advance if students intend to resume their studies before the suspension expires.

 Section 7: Quality Assurance of Graduate Training Process

Article 41 The quality assurance of the graduate training process consists of four main parts, namely, the qualification examination, thesis/dissertation proposal, annual assessment and thesis/dissertation defense. It shall be carried out in accordance with the program curriculum of each discipline or major, and comply with the following general guidance: 

1. Qualification examination
2. a) For graduate students in Combined Master-Doctoral Programs

The qualification examination is generally held in the second semester of the second academic year (students who fail the examination may retake it in the first semester of the third academic year). Those who pass the examination enter the PhD candidacy, while those who fail for the second time shall be advised by the School (Department) Assessment Committee, based on the academic assessment, to “transfer to Master degree program” or “withdraw from the University”.

1. b) Direct PhD students

The qualification examination is generally held in the second semester of the second academic year (students who fail the examination may retake it in the first semester of the third academic year). Those who pass the examination can proceed to dissertation proposal, while those who fail for the second time shall be advised by the School (Department) Assessment Committee, based on the academic assessment, to “transfer to Master degree program” or “withdraw from the University”.
c) Regular PhD students (All PhD students excluding direct PhD students)

The qualification examination is generally held in the first semester of the second academic year (students who fail the examination may retake it in the second semester of the second academic year). Those who pass the examination can proceed to dissertation proposal, while those who fail twice shall be advised by the School (Department) Assessment Committee, based on the academic assessment, to “transfer to Master degree program” or “withdraw from the University”.

2. Thesis/Dissertation proposal
   a) Master students

The thesis proposal is generally scheduled at the first semester of the second academic year. Based on the academic progress of the student, the School (Department) Assessment Committee may determine whether the thesis work can be initiated or not. In case the proposal is not accepted, the student will be advised by the School (Department) Assessment Committee to present the thesis proposal for a second time, or, based on the academic assessment, to “withdraw from the University”.
b) Direct PhD students

Direct PhD students who passed the qualification examination shall proceed to the PhD dissertation proposal by the end of the third academic year. Those whose proposal is not accepted may have a second chance in the following semester. If fails again, the student shall be transferred to a Master degree program by the end of the fourth academic year. In case the dissertation proposal is not completed within the fourth academic year under special circumstances, the student shall submit an application and finish writing the proposal in the fifth academic year upon approval. Students whose proposals are not accepted shall be advised by the School (Department) Assessment Committee, based on the academic assessment, to “transfer to Master degree program” or “withdraw from the University”.
c) Regular PhD students

Regular PhD students who passed the qualification examination shall proceed to the PhD dissertation proposal by the end of the second academic year. Those whose proposals are not accepted may have a second chance in the following semester. If fails again, the student shall be transferred to a Master degree program by the end of the third academic year. Supposing that the thesis proposal is not completed within the third academic year under special circumstances, the student shall submit an application and finish writing the proposal in the fourth academic year upon approval. Students whose proposals are not accepted shall be advised by the School (Department) Assessment Committee, based on the academic assessment, to “transfer to Master degree program” or “withdraw from the University”.

3. Annual assessment

All PhD students shall participate in the annual assessment organized by the discipline. Those who fail the assessment shall be advised by the School (Department) Assessment Committee, based on the academic assessment, to “transfer to Master degree program”, “complete the study”, or “withdraw from the University”.

4. PhD dissertation defense

For students who fail the dissertation defense for the Doctoral Degree, if the Defense Committee concludes that the dissertation, though does not meet the standards for the Doctoral Degree, has reached the level of a Master thesis, the student can be advised to apply for a Master’s degree. He or she will also receive a certificate of completion for his/her PhD study.

 Article 42 Post-Screening Management

For PhD students transferred to Master degree programs, an application shall be submitted in person and approved by the supervisor (or the supervising group), the School (Department), the Student Affairs Office, as well as the Graduate school, and shall be reviewed and accepted by the vice president in charge of education of the University.

 For PhD students transferred to Master degree programs, their study duration (including the period of suspension) calculated from the date of enrollment shall not exceed the longest allowed limit for full-time Master students.

After being approved to transfer to the Master degree program, the student shall complete the relevant training processes for the Master degree in time, and pay the tuition and fees for the major attended. In case the study duration has already reached the longest allowed upper limit (including the period of suspension), the student shall complete the necessary paperwork and leave the University in time as specified for the Master students.

 During the qualification assurance process as described in this Section, if the students satisfy the conditions of withdrawal shall be ordered to quit the University.

Section 8: Withdrawal from the University

Article 43 Graduate students who meet one of the following conditions shall be requested to withdraw from the University:
(1) The academic performance does not meet the requirements of the University, or the student fails to complete his/her studies within the prescribed study duration (including the period of suspension and approved extension);
(2) When the suspension expires, the student fails to apply for reinstatement of study within the prescribed period, or the student files an application but is deemed disqualified during the reassessment;
(3) The student is diagnosed by a SJTU-designated hospital as being unable to continue his/her studies in the University due to illness or accidental injury;
(4) The student has been absent from educational activities as stipulated by the University for more than two consecutive weeks (inclusive) without approval;
(5) The student has neither registered within the prescribed time limit nor applied for deferred registration;
(6) The student is deemed unsuitable for further education for a degree upon assessment.

After an application for withdrawal is submitted in person and approved by the University, the student shall go through relevant procedures and leave the University.

 Article 44 Under conditions listed in Article 43, where students shall be ordered to quit school, the graduate student administration department of School (Department) shall propose a decision, and notify the student concerned in written form on the facts, reasons and basis of the decision. The student shall be informed of the rights to make a statement and defend himself, and be notified of the time and place of the statement. The aforementioned department is also required to organize an Assessment Panel for hearing the student’s statement and plea. In case the student has already left the University, the notice can be delivered by post. In case the student cannot be reached, a public announcement shall be published on the School (Department) website for ten days, and shall be viewed as having notified the student concerned with no objection. Based on the appraisal proposed by the Assessment Panel upon the student’s statement, the aforementioned department shall propose a decision, which then shall be signed by the supervisor and head of the School (Department) in charge of graduate education, and submitted to the Graduate School to initiate the procedures of the withdrawal.

 In case the student applies to withdraw from the University, a written application shall be submitted in person, together with the completed “SJTU Application Form for Quitting School”, which shall then be approved by the supervisor and signed by the head of the School (Department) in charge of graduate education. The Student Affairs Office shall provide their opinion on the application, and then forward to the Graduate School for review and approval. The student status management department of the Graduate School shall then issue a written consent for the withdrawal and inform the student to start the withdrawing process.

 Article 45 For students who are ordered to withdraw from the University, after legality review, decisions shall be made by a Special Meeting authorized by the University president. The University shall issue a written decision, which then shall be delivered to the student concerned. For students who refuse to sign after receiving the decision, the decision shall be left at a designated place. For those who have already left the University, the decision can be delivered by post. For those who cannot be reached, a public announcement shall be published on the School (Department) website for ten days, and shall be viewed as the decision having been delivered. The decision shall also be reported to the Shanghai Municipal Education Commission for archive purpose.

 Article 46 The Graduate School shall, according to relevant regulations, issue a Withdrawal Certificate for the student concerned, who shall complete all the withdrawal process within two weeks from the date of the final approval. If he/she fails to complete the process within the prescribed time limit, the relevant departments of the University will sever all the connections that the student has with the University.

 Article 47 If students who withdraw from the University meet relevant requirements under the employment policy, the University shall report them to the graduate employment department of Shanghai Municipality for relevant formalities. For students who fail to find an employer in the time period prescribed by the University, their personnel files shall be transferred by the University to their hometown, and their Hukou shall be transferred, in accordance with relevant national regulations, to the original place of his/her registered residence or the place of registered family residence.

 Article 48 Students who have objections with the decision of withdrawal from the University, can file complaints according to the “SJTU Regulations on Student Appeal”.

 Section 9: Graduation and Completion of Studies

Article 49 For graduate students who, within the study duration as prescribed by the University, complete the requirement as specified in the training plan, have passed all the examinations, and successfully defend their thesis/dissertation, the University shall grant them permission to graduate, and issue the Graduation Certificate.

 Article 50 Graduate students who reach or exceed the basic study duration as prescribed by the University, have completed all the courses as specified in the training plan, have passed all the examinations and the thesis/dissertation proposal, while is yet to fulfill the requirements for graduation, can apply for completion of study. The University shall issue the Certificate of Completion. The application for completion of study shall be submitted within the longest allowed study duration as prescribed by the University.

 Master students of full-time programs who completed their studies can apply for and complete the Master degree thesis defense within the longest allowed study duration as prescribed by the University. Master students of part-time programs who completed their studies can apply for and complete the Master degree thesis defense within two years after the end of the longest allowed study duration as prescribed by the University. PhD students of full-time programs who completed their studies can apply for and complete the PhD dissertation defense within two years after the end of the longest allowed study duration as prescribed by the University. For students who satisfy the standards of graduation, a Certificate of Graduation shall be issued while the Certificate of Completion should be recalled. For students who meet the requirements of degree conferral, a degree certificate shall be awarded.

 Article 51 For graduate students who withdraw from the University after enrolled for more than one full academic year, the University shall issue the Certificate of Incompletion. If enrolled for less than a full academic year, the University will issue a letter confirming their learning experience. The University will not issue the Certificate of Incompletion for graduate students who are expelled due to violation of discipline, but can issue a letter confirming their learning experience.

Section 10: Certificate Management

Article 52 The University issues the graduation certificates and other education certificates in strict accordance with the classification and mode of education as specified when admitting the students.

 Article 53 The University implements Electronic Registration Management System for academic certificates of higher education, consummates the measures for managing student status and academic information, and completes the electronic registration of the student status and academic information in accordance with relevant regulations.

 Article 54 For students who violate the national admission regulations in obtaining the admission qualification or student status, the University shall cancel their student status and refuse to issue them any academic certificate. In case the academic certificate has already been issued, the University shall annul the certificate according to the laws. For students who are discovered to have obtained the academic certificates with academic misconduct (such as cheating, copying or plagiarizing, etc.) or other improper behaviors, the University shall annul the certificate according to the laws.

 In case the annulled academic certificates and/or degree certificates have been registered, the University shall deregister the certificates and notify the education administrative department to announce its invalidity.

Article 55 In case the academic certificate is lost or damaged, an application shall be submitted in person and verified by the University. The University shall then issue a corresponding certificate, which is equally authentic.

 Section 11: Supplementary Terms for Students in Contractual Programs , Students from Hong Kong, Macao and Taiwan, and International Graduate Students

Article 56 For the graduate students who have been admitted into the contractual programs and have signed the trilateral agreement, the application for change of student status must be firstly approved by the former organization. The Personnel Department of the former organization shall issue a written notice to the University, and then the standard procedures can be proceeded.

 Article 57 For the graduate students who have been admitted into the contractual programs and have signed the trilateral agreement, upon their graduation (completion or incompletion of studies), the University shall issue the academic certificates according to the agreement as signed at the time of admission.

 Article 58 For the graduate students from Hong Kong, Macao and Taiwan, the students status during their study at the University shall be managed according to these regulations. For the international graduate students, the student status during their study at the University shall be managed according to relevant regulations of the nation and the University.

Article 59 The graduate students shall preserve the order of the campus and ensure safety and stability of the University.

 Article 60 The graduate students can actively participate in the university management in accordance with “Guidelines on Student Participation in Management of Shanghai Jiao Tong University”.

 Article 61 Graduate students shall conform to the moral norms and university management regulations conscientiously, create and preserve a civilized, clean, fine and safe study and living environment, establish the awareness of security risk prevention and self-protection, and ensure their legitimate rights and interests.

 Graduate students shall not indulge in illegal acts such as alcohol and drug abuse, fighting, gambling, as well as propagating, copying and trafficking illegal publications and audiovisual materials. They shall not partake in illegal pyramid schemes and cults or superstitious activities, or engage in activities that may be harmful to the image of university students or act contrary to social conventions.

 In case the graduate students are found to have acted illegally on campus or suffered from a serious mental disease that may bring harm to others, the University can take actions or assist the relevant authorities to take necessary measures according to the laws.

 Article 62 The University upholds the principle of separating education from religion. Any organizations or individuals shall not engage in religious activities within the campus.

 Article 63 The graduate students can establish and join student organizations within the University. To establish a student organization, the students shall submit a written application according to relevant regulations, report to the University for ratification, and go through the registration and annual examination.

 The student organizations shall abide by the Constitution, laws and regulations, accept the leadership and management of the University, and act under the management system of the University. Before inviting organizations or persons from outside the University to give lectures or other activities at SJTU, the student organization shall apply for approval from the University.

 Article 64 The University encourages and supports the graduate students and the student organizations to conduct academic, scientific, art, cultural and recreational as well as sports activities which are not only beneficial to students’ physical and mental health but also are helpful to their personal development.

 The graduate students shall not let their extracurricular activities get in the way of the academic and living order within the University.

 Article 65 The graduate students who engage in work-study programs shall abide by the laws and regulations, adhere to the management system of the University and their employers, and fulfill the relevant agreements of the work-study program.

 Article 66 If the graduate students need to organize large-scale rallies, marches, demonstrations and/or other activities, they shall obtain the approval through legal procedures in accordance with relevant regulations. For those who fail to obtain the approval, the University has the authority to dissuade or halt the activity.

 Article 67 The graduate students shall abide by relevant national and university regulations regarding the use of internet. They shall not access illegal websites, propagate illegal texts or audio-visual materials, and fabricate or spread false and harmful information. Attacking or invading other people’s computers or mobile communication networks is strictly prohibited.

 Article 68 The graduate students shall abide by the regulations of the University regarding accommodation management. Students are encouraged to establish conventions and implement self-management.

Article 69 Graduate students who exhibit all-round development in moral, intellectual, physical and aesthetic aspects, or show outstanding performance in morality, studies, scientific invention, athletic competition, cultural and recreational activities, volunteer work and social practice, can receive a ‘Merit Student’ title or other honorary titles and scholarships, coupled with mental encouragement or material rewards. Forms of praise and reward include verbal praise, written praise, certificate, medal, prize, scholarship, etc.

 Article 70 Graduate students can apply for scholarships and participate in the selection process according to relevant regulations of the University. Students who are unqualified for scholarship application as prescribed in “SJTU Regulations on Scholarship Recipient Selection” cannot take part in the selection process for that academic year. For the students who received disciplinary sanctions or written warnings to withdraw from the University during the period of such scholarship, the scholarship shall be terminated.

 The scholarship selection process must follow the principles of fairness, justice and openness. The selection rules and results shall be published openly within the University. The students have the right to present objection and receive an answer from the University or School (Department).

 Article 71 The University shall give criticism or disciplinary sanctions to students who violate the laws, the regulations and/or the disciplines. Any violations shall be dealt with according to “SJTU Discipline Policies”.

 Article 72 Documents regarding the awards and/or disciplinary sanctions of the graduate students shall be truthfully and completely recorded in the students’ files and archived in the University Archives.