Applications are now open for the prestigious Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme (HKPFS) 2026/27 for exceptional international students seeking to pursue doctoral studies in Hong Kong.
This fully funded opportunity, administered by the Research Grants Council (RGC), includes a generous annual stipend and travel allowance for up to three years, supporting outstanding scholars from across the globe to pursue cutting-edge research at top universities in Hong Kong.
Scholarship Summary
- Host Country: Hong Kong
- Category: Postgraduate Scholarships | PhD Scholarships
- Eligible Countries: All Countries
- Reward: Full Scholarship | US$45,510 Annual Stipend | Research & Travel Allowance
- Deadline: December 1, 2025
Scholarship Details
The Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme was launched in 2009 by the Research Grants Council to attract the world’s brightest minds to pursue PhD studies in Hong Kong. Known for its academic excellence and vibrant research environment, Hong Kong has positioned itself as a major international education hub.
With a strong emphasis on innovation, academic freedom, and interdisciplinary research, universities in Hong Kong offer a wide range of doctoral programs designed to nurture globally competent scholars. The HKPFS is open to high-achieving students from all academic backgrounds and nationalities.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme 2026/27, applicants must:
- Be applying for admission as a new full-time PhD student at one of the eight participating universities
- Hold a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree from a recognized institution
- Meet the admission requirements of the chosen university and program
- Demonstrate outstanding academic achievements, research potential, communication and interpersonal skills, and leadership abilities
- Be of any nationality, ethnic background, or work experience level
Scholarship Benefits
Successful candidates for the Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme 2026/27 will receive:
- Annual stipend of HK$340,800 (approximately US$43,690)
- Annual conference and research-related travel allowance of HK$14,200 (approximately US$1,820)
- Up to 3 years of funding, with potential additional support from the admitting university if the PhD exceeds three years
- A total of 400 Fellowships to be awarded for the 2026/27 academic year
Required Documents
To complete the application, candidates must be ready to submit:
- Completed Application Form
- Academic transcripts
- Research outputs such as published papers, certificates, or awards
- A Study Plan or Research Proposal
- Two Recommendation Letters
- Photocopy of Passport Photo Page
How to Apply
To apply for the Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme 2026/27:
- Visit the official HKPFS website
- Submit an Initial Application through the HKPFS Electronic System (HKPFSES) by 12:00 PM (Hong Kong Time) on December 1, 2025, to obtain an HKPFS Reference Number
- Apply separately to your selected one or two PhD programs at one or two participating universities using the HKPFS Reference Number
- Ensure that your university applications are submitted in line with the respective institutional deadlines, which may be shortly after the HKPFS deadline
- Early submission is strongly advised to allow time for completing the full university application process
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