Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme (HKPFS) 2026/27 – Fully Funded PhD in Hong Kong

Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme (HKPFS) 2026/27 – Fully Funded PhD Opportunities

The Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme (HKPFS) 2026/27 is now officially open for applications! Established by the Research Grants Council (RGC) of Hong Kong in 2009, the fellowship attracts top international talent, offering generous funding and the chance to study at some of the world’s leading universities.

With a stipend of HK$340,800 per year (approx. US$43,600) plus a travel allowance of HK$14,200 annually, this is one of the most prestigious and well-funded PhD opportunities available globally.

Applications close on December 1, 2025, and best of all—there is no application fee.

Table of Contents

• Overview of the Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme
• Why Choose Hong Kong for Your PhD?
• Fellowship Benefits
• Participating Universities
• Fields of Study
• Eligibility Criteria
• Application Timeline
• Step-by-Step Application Process
• Required Documents
• Selection Process
• Tips for a Successful Application
• Life as a PhD Student in Hong Kong
• Career Opportunities After HKPFS
• Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
• How to Apply
• Conclusion

Overview of the Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme

The HKPFS was launched to attract the best and brightest students worldwide to pursue their PhD studies in Hong Kong. Since its inception, thousands of scholars from over 100 countries have benefited from this prestigious program.

The fellowship is awarded on the basis of:

• Academic excellence
• Research ability and potential
• Communication and interpersonal skills
• Leadership abilities

Every year, around 300 awards are granted, making it one of the largest government-funded international PhD schemes in Asia.

Why Choose Hong Kong for Your PhD?

Hong Kong is a global research hub, offering a unique mix of East and West. Here’s why it’s the perfect destination for your PhD:

• World-class universities consistently ranked among the top globally.
• Strong research infrastructure with modern labs and funding opportunities.
• Cultural diversity—students from across the world.
• Gateway to Asia with close connections to China and beyond.
• English-medium instruction in most PhD programs.
• Vibrant academic and professional networks enhancing career opportunities.

Fellowship Benefits

The HKPFS 2026/27 package is highly competitive:

• Annual stipend: HK$340,800 (approx. US$43,600).
• Annual travel allowance: HK$14,200 for conferences/research-related travel.
• Tuition fee waiver (depending on university).
• No application fee for fellowship applicants.
• Prestige and recognition of being an HKPFS scholar.

Participating Universities

Eight universities in Hong Kong participate in HKPFS:

1. City University of Hong Kong (CityU)
2. Hong Kong Baptist University (HKBU)
3. Lingnan University (LU)
4. The Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK)
5. The Education University of Hong Kong (EdUHK)
6. The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU)
7. The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST)
8. The University of Hong Kong (HKU)

Each institution offers unique research strengths, so applicants should carefully select the university aligned with their research interests.

Fields of Study

The fellowship covers almost all disciplines, including:

• Sciences & Technology (Engineering, Computer Science, Physics, Chemistry, Biology)
• Medicine & Health Sciences
• Humanities (Philosophy, History, Languages, Literature)
• Social Sciences (Economics, Sociology, Political Science, Psychology)
• Business & Management

Applicants should check the specific university’s website for available research fields.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Be applying for full-time PhD studies in Hong Kong.
• Open to all nationalities.
• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree holders with strong academic backgrounds.
• Outstanding research potential demonstrated through publications, projects, or experience.
• Proficiency in English (TOEFL/IELTS may be required depending on university).

Application Timeline

• Opening of Applications: September 2025
• Deadline for HKPFS Application: December 1, 2025
• University Admission Deadlines: Vary by institution (usually Dec 2025–Jan 2026).
• Results Notification: April/May 2026
• PhD Program Start: September 2026

Step-by-Step Application Process

1. Submit HKPFS Initial Application via RGC’s online portal.
   • Receive an HKPFS Reference Number.
2. Apply to Chosen Universities with the reference number.
   • Indicate you are applying under HKPFS.
3. University Evaluation of your application.
4. Shortlisting & Interview (if required).
5. Final Selection by the HKPFS Selection Committee.

Required Documents

Applicants must prepare:

• Academic CV.
• Academic transcripts.
• Research proposal.
• Personal statement.
• Proof of English proficiency (if required).
• Two to three reference letters.
• HKPFS reference number.

Selection Process

The selection panel assesses candidates on:

1. Academic Excellence (grades, awards, prior research).
2. Research Ability and Potential.
3. Leadership and Interpersonal Skills.
4. Commitment to Research in Hong Kong.

Tips for a Successful Application

• Start early and research universities and supervisors.
• Write a clear, innovative research proposal.
• Highlight publications, conferences, or awards.
• Secure strong recommendation letters.
• Showcase international outlook and leadership potential.

Life as a PhD Student in Hong Kong

PhD students in Hong Kong enjoy a dynamic academic and cultural experience:

• Access to state-of-the-art labs and libraries.
• Opportunities to publish and present internationally.
• Networking with global researchers and industries.
• Living in a safe, multicultural city.
• Vibrant student communities and career fairs.

Career Opportunities After HKPFS

Graduates of HKPFS often pursue:

• Academic careers in global universities.
• Industry R&D positions in technology, finance, and healthcare.
• Roles in international organizations and NGOs.
• Entrepreneurship in innovation-driven sectors.

The HKPFS opens doors to careers worldwide while building strong networks in Asia.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Do I need to pay an application fee?
No, there is no fee for HKPFS applications.

2. Can I apply to more than one university?
Yes, but you must submit separate applications to each.

3. How competitive is the fellowship?
Highly competitive—about 300 fellowships are awarded globally each year.

4. Is proficiency in Chinese required?
No, programs are offered in English.

5. Can Master’s students apply?
Yes, if applying for direct PhD admission.

How to Apply

Apply online via the official Research Grants Council portal:
Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme – Official Website

Remember: Deadline is December 1, 2025.

Conclusion

The Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme (HKPFS) 2026/27 is a golden opportunity for ambitious researchers worldwide. With a generous stipend, travel allowance, and world-class research facilities, it positions scholars for successful academic and professional careers.

If you aspire to be part of an internationally competitive research environment, this fellowship is for you. Don’t miss the chance—apply before December 1, 2025.