Applications are now open for the Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme (HKPFS) 2027/28, a fully funded opportunity for outstanding students from around the world who wish to pursue a full-time PhD degree in Hong Kong. The fellowship provides generous financial support, including an annual stipend and funding for conference and research-related travel.JOIN OUR Coaching class for ALU ENGLISH TEST

The fellowship is established and funded by the Research Grants Council (RGC) of Hong Kong and is offered through eight participating universities in Hong Kong. The scheme was established in 2009 to attract high-achieving international students and strengthen Hong Kong's position as a regional and international hub for higher education, research, and talent development.

SCHOLARSHIP BENEFITS

Successful Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme awardees will receive:

·       Annual stipend: HK$344,800 (approximately US$44,150) per year.

·       Conference and research-related travel allowance: HK$14,400 (approximately US$1,840) per year.

·       Funding duration: Up to three years.

·       Number of fellowships: 400 PhD fellowships are expected to be awarded for the 2027/28 academic year.

·       Additional support: Awardees who require more than three years to complete their PhD may receive additional support from their chosen university.

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA

To be considered for the Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme 2027/28, applicants should:

·       Be seeking admission as a new full-time PhD student at one of the eight participating HKPFS universities.

·       Be eligible regardless of nationality, country of origin, previous work experience, or ethnic background.

·       Hold a bachelor's degree from a recognized university.

·       Meet the admission requirements of the selected PhD programme and university.

·       Demonstrate outstanding academic performance.

·       Demonstrate strong research ability or research potential.

·       Possess strong communication and interpersonal skills.

·       Demonstrate leadership abilities.

AVAILABLE PROGRAMS

The Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme supports PhD study across a wide range of disciplines offered by the participating universities.

Applicants can select up to two programmes/departments at one or two participating universities when applying for the HKPFS 2027/28.

Candidates must ensure that they meet the specific academic and admission requirements of their selected programme and university.

REQUIRED DOCUMENTS

Applicants should prepare the following documents:

·       Completed HKPFS application form.

·       Academic transcripts.

·       Evidence of academic and research achievements, such as published theses, research publications, award certificates, or other relevant results.

·       Study plan or research proposal.

·       Recommendation letters.

·       Copy of the passport photo page.

·       Any additional documents required by the selected university or PhD programme.

APPLICATION PROCEDURES

Interested and eligible applicants should follow these steps:

Step 1: Make an Initial Application online through the Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme Electronic System (HKPFSES).

Step 2: Submit the initial application before 1 December 2026 at 12:00 noon Hong Kong Time to obtain an HKPFS Reference Number.

Step 3: After obtaining the reference number, submit applications for PhD admission directly to the selected universities and programmes.

Step 4: Applicants may choose up to two programmes/departments at one or two participating universities.

Step 5: Ensure that all university-specific admission requirements and deadlines are fulfilled.

Applicants are strongly encouraged to submit their initial applications as early as possible, because some participating universities may have application deadlines shortly after the HKPFS initial application deadline.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

The Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme was established by the Research Grants Council of Hong Kong in 2009 with the goal of attracting outstanding students from around the world to undertake PhD studies in Hong Kong.

Hong Kong's universities offer a broad range of disciplines and emphasize independent research, innovation, and talent development. The participating universities provide opportunities for international students to undertake advanced research in a globally connected academic environment.

Applicants should carefully review the admission requirements of their preferred university and PhD programme before submitting their applications.

APPLICATION DEADLINE

1 December 2026 at 12:00





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