Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme 2027-28 | 400 Fully Funded Fellowships

The Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme (HKPFS) is a fully funded opportunity established by the Research Grants Council (RGC) of Hong Kong in 2009. It aims to attract the best and brightest students from around the world to pursue PhD studies at leading universities in Hong Kong. Approximately 400 PhD Fellowships are awarded annually for the 2027/28 academic year.

Awardees receive an annual stipend of HK$344,400 (approximately US$44,150) for up to three years. Additionally, an annual conference and research-related travel allowance of HK$14,400 (approximately US$1,840) is provided. For awardees who require more than three years to complete their PhD degree, additional support may be provided by their chosen universities.

This fellowship is open to candidates of all nationalities, irrespective of their country of origin, prior work experience, or ethnic background. Applicants must be seeking admission as new full-time PhD students at one of the eight participating universities in Hong Kong. Candidates should demonstrate outstanding qualities in academic performance, research ability/potential, communication and interpersonal skills, and leadership abilities. If the candidate's prior medium of education was not English, they must provide an English Proficiency Certificate.

Applicants must demonstrate academic excellence, strong research ability and potential, good communication and interpersonal skills, and leadership abilities. Proof of English proficiency is required (either through prior university education conducted in English or an English proficiency certificate). Candidates must be admitted as new full-time PhD students at a participating university.

1. Initial Application: Candidates must first submit an Initial Application online through the Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme Electronic System (HKPFSES) to obtain an HKPFS Reference Number. This initial application opens on September 1, 2026, and the deadline is December 1, 2026 (11:59 pm Hong Kong Time). 2. University Application: After successfully submitting the initial application and receiving the reference number, applicants must then submit full applications for their selected PhD programmes directly to their chosen universities. Applicants may choose up to two programmes/departments at one or two universities. It is crucial to quote the HKPFS Reference Number in the university application form. 3. Deadlines: While the initial application deadline is December 1, 2026, university application deadlines may vary but generally align with this date. It is advised to submit the initial application as early as possible to ensure sufficient time to complete university applications before their respective deadlines.

The academic year in Hong Kong typically begins in September. The scheme has been attracting top global talent since its inception in 2009.