Applications are now open for the Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme (HKPFS) 2027, welcoming international students from around the world to pursue doctoral studies in Hong Kong’s prestigious universities. This fully-funded fellowship covers all expenses and offers one of the most generous financial packages for PhD students globally, making it an exceptional opportunity for ambitious researchers.
Table of Contents
- Scholarship Overview
- Quick Facts & Summary
- Financial Benefits
- Participating Universities
- Eligible Fields of Study
- Selection Criteria
- How to Apply
1. Scholarship Overview
The Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme (HKPFS) is a prestigious, fully-funded doctoral program designed to attract outstanding research talents from across the globe. Administered by the Research Grants Council (RGC), the scheme provides substantial financial support to enable international students to conduct cutting-edge research at Hong Kong’s leading universities.
Whether you hold a Bachelor’s degree (for direct PhD entry) or have completed your Master’s degree, you are eligible to apply. With approximately 500 awards available annually and opportunities across eight top-tier universities, this fellowship represents a golden opportunity for serious PhD researchers.
2. Quick Facts & Summary
| Criteria | Details |
|---|---|
| Study Location | Hong Kong (8 Universities) |
| Study Level | PhD / Doctoral Degree |
| Total Awards Available | Approximately 500 annually |
| Eligible Applicants | All nationalities – International and domestic students |
| Funding Type | Fully Funded Fellowship |
| Application Deadline | December 1, 2026 (12:00:00 Hong Kong Time) |
| Application Fee | No Application Fee |
| Language Requirement | Check individual university requirements |
3. Financial Benefits
The Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme offers one of the most competitive financial packages for doctoral students worldwide:
Annual Stipend & Allowances:
- Annual Stipend: US $43,690 per year
- Conference & Research Travel Allowance: US $1,820 per year
- Support Duration: Up to 3 years of full support
- Extended Support: Additional funding may be available if PhD completion requires more than 3 years
- Tuition Coverage: Full payment of all university tuition fees
4. Participating Universities
Eight of Hong Kong’s leading universities participate in the HKPFS program, offering students access to world-class research facilities and faculty:
- City University of Hong Kong
- Hong Kong Baptist University
- Lingnan University
- The Chinese University of Hong Kong
- The Education University of Hong Kong
- The Hong Kong Polytechnic University
- The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology
- The University of Hong Kong
Read More: France South Africa Scholarship Program 2027 | Fully Funded
5. Eligible Fields of Study
The HKPFS welcomes applications across a diverse range of academic disciplines, organized into two main categories:
Science, Medicine, Engineering & Technology:
- All scientific research areas
- Medical and health sciences
- Engineering disciplines
- Technology and innovation
Humanities, Social Sciences & Business Studies:
- Philosophy and languages
- History and cultural studies
- Economics and management
- Business administration
- Social sciences and policy studies
6. Selection Criteria
Applicants are evaluated based on comprehensive criteria that assess their potential as research scholars:
- Academic Excellence: Outstanding academic performance in undergraduate and/or postgraduate studies
- Research Ability & Potential: Demonstrated capacity to conduct independent, innovative research
- Communication & Interpersonal Skills: Strong ability to communicate research findings and collaborate with others
- Leadership Abilities: Evidence of leadership qualities and contribution to the academic community
7. How to Apply
The application process consists of two main stages: an initial application to the Research Grants Council and then applications to your selected universities.
Stage 1: Submit Initial Application to RGC
- Complete the initial application through the Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme Electronic System (HKPFSES)
- Obtain your unique HKPFS Reference Number
- You must submit the initial application by December 1, 2026 at 12:00:00 Hong Kong Time
- Access the online application portal: https://cerg1.ugc.edu.hk/hkpfs/InitApplication.jsp
- Review the guidance notes (PDF format) before completing your application
Stage 2: Submit University Applications
- Apply to your selected PhD programs at the universities of your choice
- Quote your HKPFS Reference Number in all university applications
- You may choose up to two programs/departments at one or two universities
- Comply with each university’s specific PhD admission requirements
- Note that university application deadlines follow immediately after the RGC deadline, so apply early
University Application Deadlines (All 2026):
- City University of Hong Kong: December 1, 2026 (11:59 pm Hong Kong Time)
- Hong Kong Baptist University: December 1, 2026 (11:59 pm Hong Kong Time)
- Lingnan University: December 1, 2026 (11:59 pm Hong Kong Time)
- The Chinese University of Hong Kong: December 1, 2026 (5:00 pm Hong Kong Time)
- The Education University of Hong Kong: December 1, 2026
- The Hong Kong Polytechnic University: December 1, 2026 (11:59 pm Hong Kong Time)
- The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology: December 1, 2026 (11:59 pm Hong Kong Time)
- The University of Hong Kong: December 1, 2026 (11:59 pm Hong Kong Time)
Critical Deadline
Initial Application Deadline: December 1, 2026 (12:00:00 Hong Kong Time)
Submit early to allow sufficient time for university applications!
The Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme represents an unparalleled opportunity for international students to pursue advanced research degrees in one of Asia’s most dynamic research environments. With generous financial support, access to world-class universities, and the chance to contribute to cutting-edge research, the HKPFS is an excellent pathway for ambitious doctoral candidates seeking to advance their academic careers globally.