Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme 2027 (400 Fully Funded Scholarships)

The Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme 2027 is a fully funded initiative by the Government of Hong Kong, managed by the Research Grants Council (RGC). It aims to attract top international students to pursue PhD studies at one of the eight leading universities in Hong Kong. Approximately 400 fellowships are awarded annually, with the program duration typically being 3 years.

This is a fully funded scholarship. Recipients will receive an annual stipend of HK$344,400 (approximately US$44,150). Additionally, a conference and research-related travel allowance of HK$14,400 (approximately US$1,840) per year is provided. There is no application fee for this scheme. If a student requires more than 3 years to complete their PhD, additional support may be provided by the host university.

This fellowship is open to nationals from all countries, regardless of their gender, ethnicity, religious, or political affiliations. Candidates must be new full-time PhD students. Ethiopian students are eligible to apply.

Applicants are not required to have prior work experience. Candidates must demonstrate English proficiency; if their previous education was not conducted in English, they must provide proof (e.g., an IELTS report). Alternatively, proof that previous education was completed at an English-medium institution may suffice. Applicants must choose from the list of eight participating universities in Hong Kong.

The application process involves two main steps: 1. **Initial Application to the Research Grants Council (RGC):** Eligible candidates must first submit an Initial Application online through the Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme Electronic System (HKPFSES) to obtain an HKPFS Reference Number. The deadline for this initial application is December 1, 2026, at Hong Kong Time 12:00:00. 2. **Full Applications to Proposed Universities:** After obtaining the HKPFS Reference Number, applicants must submit full applications for their selected PhD programs directly to their chosen universities. Applicants may choose up to two programs/departments at one or two universities. These applications must quote the HKPFS Reference Number. The deadlines for university applications are also December 1, 2026, at 11:59pm Hong Kong Time for all participating universities.

Universities in Hong Kong typically commence their academic year in September. It is advisable to submit the initial application as early as possible to ensure sufficient time for submitting full applications to the universities before their respective deadlines.