Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme 2025/2026

The Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme (HKPFS) 2025/2026 is a fully funded scholarship for international students, allowing them to pursue PhD-level studies across various disciplines in Hong Kong’s prestigious universities. Sponsored by the Research Grants Council (RGC) of Hong Kong, this esteemed program has been in operation since 2009 and aims to attract top talent from around the world.

Fully Funded PhD Scholarships for International Students in China

• Host Country: Hong Kong, China
• Degree Level: PhD
• Eligible Nationalities: International Students
• Fields of Study: All Subjects

Degree Level

The Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme supports PhD programs in various fields at leading universities in Hong Kong, China.

Eligible Subjects

This fellowship offers funding for PhD studies in the following subjects:

• Sciences
• Medicine
• Engineering and Technology
• Humanities
• Social Sciences
• Business Studies

Benefits

This fully funded fellowship provides exceptional financial and academic support to PhD students in Hong Kong.

Financial Benefits

• Annual Stipend: HK$337,200 (approximately US$43,230) per year
• Travel Allowance: HK$14,000 (approximately US$1,790) per year for conference and research travel
• Duration of Award: Up to three years
• Number of Fellowships: 400 awards available for the 2025/26 academic year
• Extended Support: Additional funding may be available for students who require more than three years to complete their PhD studies. Contact your chosen university for further details.

Eligibility for the Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme

Eligible Nationalities

This fellowship is open to international students from all nationalities.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Program Admission: Must be applying as new, full-time PhD students.
• Participating Universities: Candidates must seek admission to one of the following Hong Kong universities:
  • 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
• Demonstrated Qualities: Applicants should show excellence in:
  • Academic performance
  • Research ability and potential
  • Communication and interpersonal skills
  • Leadership abilities

Selection Criteria

The selection process considers multiple factors, with a primary emphasis on academic excellence. Additional considerations include:

1. Research Ability and Potential
2. Communication and Interpersonal Skills
3. Leadership Abilities

Application Procedure

Follow these steps to apply for the Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme and join a world-class research community in Hong Kong.

Step 1: Submit Initial Application

• Application Opens: September 1, 2024, at 12:00 noon (Hong Kong Time)
• Application Deadline: December 1, 2024, at 12:00 noon (Hong Kong Time)
• Apply Online: Use the Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme Electronic System (HKPFSES)
• Receive: HKPFS Reference Number upon submission

Step 2: Submit Full Applications to Universities

• Program Selection: Apply to up to two programs or departments at one or two participating universities.
• Meet Admission Requirements: Ensure you fulfill the admission criteria of the selected universities and programs.
• Include HKPFS Reference Number: Use your reference number in each university application.

Important Notes

• University Deadlines: Each university may have different application deadlines. Check the specific dates on each university’s website.
• Early Submission Encouraged: Submit your initial application as soon as possible to allow time for completing university applications.

Apply Now 

The Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme offers a unique opportunity for outstanding students to engage in advanced research in one of the world’s most dynamic cities. We encourage eligible students to apply and become part of a global network of scholars and innovators!