Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme (HKPFS) 2027 (Fully Funded)

The Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme (HKPFS) is a prestigious program established by the Research Grants Council (RGC) of Hong Kong in 2009. Its primary goal is to attract the best and brightest international students from around the world to pursue their PhD studies at eight leading universities in Hong Kong. Approximately 400 PhD Fellowships will be awarded in the 2027/28 academic year.

This is a fully-funded fellowship designed to cover all expenses for successful candidates. It provides an annual stipend of HK$344,400 (approximately US$44,150) and a conference and research-related travel allowance of HK$14,400 (approximately US$1,840) per year. This support is provided for a period of up to three years. For awardees who require more than three years to complete their PhD degree, additional financial support may be provided directly by their chosen universities.

This fellowship is open to all international students from any country, including Ethiopian students, who are seeking admission as new full-time PhD students. Applicants should hold a Bachelor's degree (equivalent to 16 years of education) to apply for direct PhD admission, or an MPhil degree. Candidates are expected to demonstrate outstanding qualities in academic performance, strong research ability and potential, effective communication and interpersonal skills, and leadership abilities.

Applicants must meet the specific admission requirements of their selected universities and the particular PhD programs they wish to join. While not explicitly stated as a scheme requirement, universities may require an English proficiency certificate. There is no application fee for the fellowship itself.

The application process involves two main steps: 1. **Initial Application**: Candidates must first complete an online Initial Application through the Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme Electronic System (HKPFSES) to obtain an HKPFS Reference Number. This initial application must be submitted by December 1, 2026, at Hong Kong Time 12:00:00. 2. **Full Application to Universities**: After securing an HKPFS Reference Number, applicants must then submit full applications for their chosen PhD programs directly to their desired universities. It is crucial to quote the HKPFS Reference Number in these applications. This must be done before the respective deadlines set by the individual universities. Applicants may choose up to two programs/departments at one or two universities. It is highly recommended to submit the initial application as early as possible to ensure sufficient time for the subsequent university applications.

The academic year in Hong Kong typically commences in September. The fellowship supports PhD studies in a wide range of fields, including Science, Medicine, Engineering, Technology, Humanities, Social Science, and Business Studies. Selection panels will evaluate candidates based on academic excellence, research ability and potential, communication and interpersonal skills, and leadership abilities.