Hong Kong is looking for you if you’re a driven academic who wants to do innovative research in a dynamic, internationally connected academic setting. The Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme (HKPFS) 2025–2026 is currently accepting applications from overseas candidates. This prestigious fellowship was established in 2009 by the Research Grants Council (RGC) of Hong Kong with the goal of luring the best students from around the globe to pursue full-time PhD studies at eight (8) prestigious universities in Hong Kong.
When is the Application Deadline:
Deadline varies by university, but applications typically open around September 2025, with deadlines between November–December 2025 for the 2026/27 academic year.
Tip: Check each university’s PhD admissions page for the exact deadline.
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Tell Me About The Award:
The Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme (HKPFS) was established in 2009 by the Research Grants Council (RGC) to attract the best and brightest students worldwide to pursue full-time PhD studies in Hong Kong. The scheme offers prestigious, fully funded opportunities at eight top-ranked universities in a vibrant, globally connected research environment.
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Which Fields are Eligible?
All academic fields offered by the participating universities, including but not limited to:
- Sciences
- Engineering
- Technology
- Medicine
- Business Studies
- Humanities
- Social Sciences
- Education
- Creative Arts
Type:
Fully Funded PhD Fellowship
Who can Apply?
Candidates who:
- Are applying for admission as new full-time PhD students in 2025/26
- Come from any nationality, background, or work experience
- Demonstrate academic excellence, research potential, strong communication, and leadership abilities
How are Applicants Selected?
Selection is based on:
- Academic excellence (primary criterion)
- Research ability and future potential
- Communication and interpersonal skills
- Leadership abilities
Applications are reviewed by disciplinary selection panels in:
- Sciences, Medicine, Engineering & Technology
- Humanities, Social Sciences & Business Studies
Which Countries Are Eligible?
All countries — there are no nationality restrictions.
Where will the Award be Taken?
Any of the following eight universities in Hong Kong:
- The University of Hong Kong (HKU)
- The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST)
- The Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK)
- The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU)
- City University of Hong Kong (CityU)
- Hong Kong Baptist University (HKBU)
- The Education University of Hong Kong (EdUHK)
- Lingnan University (LU)
How Many Awards?
400 Fellowships will be awarded for the 2025/26 academic year
What is the Benefit of the Award?
Each awardee receives:
- Annual Stipend: HK$337,200 (≈ USD $43,230)
- Conference & Research Travel Allowance: HK$14,000/year (≈ USD $1,790)
- Additional funding may be available if the PhD exceeds 3 years (check with your university)
How Long Will the Award Last?
Up to 3 years (with possible university funding extension beyond 3 years)
How to Apply:
- Choose a university and PhD program from the 8 participating institutions
- Submit an initial application via the HKPFS Portal: https://cerg1.ugc.edu.hk/hkpfs/index.html
- Then apply directly to the chosen university’s PhD program by its deadline
You will receive an HKPFS Reference Number during the initial application to use in your university application.
Visit the Award Webpage for Details:
https://cerg1.ugc.edu.hk/hkpfs/index.html
