Applications are now open for the Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme 2027-28, a comprehensive funding initiative by the Government of Hong Kong. This prestigious program enables international students to pursue their doctoral degrees at one of eight leading Hong Kong universities. The Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme (HKPFS) receives support from the Research Grants Council (RGC) of Hong Kong, with the primary goal of attracting exceptional talent from across the globe.
The fellowship program has expanded significantly, increasing the number of available HKPFS awards 400 for the 2027-28 academic year. Prospective doctoral candidates can apply without any application fees, making this opportunity accessible to students worldwide.
Citizens from all countries are welcome to submit applications for the Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme, regardless of their gender, ethnic background, religious beliefs, or political affiliations. Previous professional experience is not a prerequisite for eligibility, allowing recent graduates to pursue advanced research opportunities directly.
Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme 2027 Overview
- Host Location: Hong Kong
- Available PhD Fellowships: 400
- Scholarship Program: Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme
- Application Deadline: December 1st, 2026
Academic Disciplines and Research Areas
The fellowship program supports doctoral research across diverse academic fields, ensuring comprehensive coverage of contemporary research priorities:
- Sciences: Including natural sciences, life sciences, and interdisciplinary scientific research
- Medicine: Covering clinical medicine, biomedical research, and public health studies
- Engineering and Technology: Encompassing all engineering disciplines and emerging technologies
- Humanities: Supporting research in literature, philosophy, history, and cultural studies
- Social Sciences: Including psychology, sociology, anthropology, and policy studies
- Business Studies: Covering management, finance, economics, and entrepreneurship research
Participating Universities
The Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme 2027-28 includes eight distinguished institutions, each offering unique research opportunities and academic excellence:
- 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
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Benefits and Perks of the Fellowship
The Fellowship Award:
- Annual stipend of HK$344,400 (approximately US$44,150)
- Conference and research-related travel allowance of HK$14,400 (approximately US$1,840)
- No prior work experience is required.
- If you require more than 3 years to complete the fellowship, additional support may be provided by the University.
Eligibility Criteria for the Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme
- Candidate must be a full-time new PhD student
- Candidates can be from any nationality around the globe.
- If you don’t want to submit an IELTS report, then you must be able to prove that you have completed your previous education at an English Medium Institute.
- Candidates whose previous education was not conducted in English must provide proof of English proficiency.
- The candidate must choose from the given list of 8 universities.
How to Apply (Application Process)
Step 1: Complete the Initial Application submission to the Research Grants Council by December 1st, 2025
- Access the Guidance Note for completing the Initial Application (available in PDF format)
- Use the HKPFS Electronic System for Initial Application submission
Step 2: Submit comprehensive applications to selected universities
- Include your HKPFS Reference Number in all university applications
- Review specific admission requirements for each chosen program
- Complete all university-specific application components
VISIT HERE TO APPLY FOR THE HONG KONG PHD FELLOWSHIP
Frequently Asked Questions About Hong Kong PhD Fellowships
How can I secure a PhD fellowship in Hong Kong?
Apply through the Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme established by the Research Grants Council (RGC) to obtain fully funded doctoral education in Hong Kong.
What financial support does the PhD fellowship provide in Hong Kong?
The Hong Kong PhD Fellowship scheme provides:
- Annual stipend of approximately US$43,230
- Research and travel allowance of US$1,790 for conference attendance and academic activities
What defines the Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme?
The Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme (HKPFS) attracts outstanding students worldwide to pursue doctoral studies at Hong Kong’s premier universities, fostering international research collaboration and academic excellence.
What advantages does a PhD fellowship in Hong Kong offer?
Fellowship recipients receive:
- Complete funding coverage for doctoral studies
- Selection from 400 available fellowship positions
- Open access for all international students
- Educational opportunities in Asia’s dynamic hub
- Access to world-class research facilities and international networks
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