Are you dreaming of pursuing a PhD in one of Asia’s most dynamic education hubs? The Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme (HKPFS) 2026/27 offers an incredible opportunity for international students. With 400 fully funded fellowships available, this program—funded by the Research Grants Council (RGC) of Hong Kong—aims to attract brilliant minds from around the globe to study at the top 8 universities in Hong Kong.
Unlike many other fellowships, this scheme requires no application fee and welcomes candidates of all nationalities, genders, and academic backgrounds. Whether you are from Pakistan, Europe, Africa, or anywhere else, you can apply for this prestigious PhD fellowship in Hong Kong.
Key Details About the Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme
- Host Country: Hong Kong
- Number of Fellowships: 400
- Program Name: Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme (HKPFS)
- Program Duration: 3 years (with possible university support for longer programs)
- Application Deadline: 1 December 2025
Participating Universities
Students can apply to one or two programs at the following 8 world-class universities in Hong Kong:
- 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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Available Fields of Study
The fellowship supports research across diverse disciplines, including:
- Sciences
- Medicine
- Engineering and Technology
- Humanities
- Social Sciences
- Business Studies
Fellowship Benefits
The Hong Kong PhD Fellowship 2026/27 provides outstanding financial support:
- Annual Stipend: HK$340,800 (≈ US$43,690)
- Conference & Research Allowance: HK$14,200/year (≈ US$1,820)
- Additional Funding: Universities may offer extra support for programs longer than 3 years
- No prior work experience required
This makes the HKPFS one of the most attractive fully funded scholarships in Asia.
Eligibility Criteria
To apply for the HKPFS 2026/27, candidates must meet the following requirements:
- Open to applicants from all nationalities
- Must be applying as a new, full-time PhD student
- Proof of English proficiency required (IELTS/TOEFL or medium of instruction in English)
- Must apply to one of the 8 participating universities
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Application Timeline
- Initial Application: Submit online through the HKPFS Electronic System before 1 December 2025 (12:00 noon, Hong Kong time)
- Full Application: After receiving an HKPFS Reference Number, submit full applications to your chosen universities before their respective deadlines
How to Apply
- Step 1 – Initial Application:
Register on the HKPFS Online System to obtain your HKPFS Reference Number. - Step 2 – University Applications:
Apply directly to the participating university/universities and submit your reference number along with the required documents.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the stipend for the Hong Kong PhD Fellowship?
A: Approximately US$43,690 per year, plus a US$1,820 research allowance.
Q: Do I need work experience to apply?
A: No, prior work experience is not required.
Q: Who can apply for the HKPFS?
A: Candidates from any nationality with strong academic and research potential.
For more scholarship opportunities, please visit International Scholarships.
