Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme 2026/27

About the Scholarship

The Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme (HKPFS) 2026/27, offered by the Research Grants Council (RGC), provides outstanding international and local students the opportunity to pursue full-time doctoral studies at top universities in Hong Kong. Established to attract world-class talent, this highly competitive fellowship supports excellence in research across all academic disciplines, from science and engineering to social sciences and the humanities. The scheme offers not only full tuition coverage but also a generous annual stipend, ensuring scholars can focus entirely on their academic and research development. With an emphasis on international mobility, innovation, and global collaboration, the fellowship contributes to Hong Kong’s role as a vibrant hub for research and higher education, while advancing participants’ careers on the global stage.

Scholarship Details

Scholarship Name: Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme (HKPFS) 2026/27
Institution/Provider: Research Grants Council (RGC)
Administering Organisation: University Grants Committee (UGC), Hong Kong
Location: Hong Kong, China
Level of Study: PhD (Doctoral Studies)
Field of Study: All disciplines (STEM, Social Sciences, Humanities, Education, Business, etc.)
Mode of Study: Full-time
Duration: Up to 3 years
Start Date (Expected): September 2026
Application Mode: Online via HKPFSES
Scholarship Type: Fully funded, government-funded, merit-based

Supported Fields of Study

Science and Technology
Engineering and Innovation
Medicine and Health Sciences
Social Sciences
Business and Economics
Education
Arts and Humanities

Eligibility Criteria

Minimum Requirements

Academic Qualifications: Bachelor’s or Master’s degree with a strong academic record
Nationality/Residency: Open to all nationalities, including local Hong Kong students
Language Proficiency: English language proficiency required (TOEFL, IELTS, or equivalent, subject to university requirements)
Age Limit: No specific age restriction, but applicants should demonstrate strong research potential
Enrolment Status: Incoming PhD applicants only

Preferred Qualifications

Previous academic awards, scholarships, or honours
Demonstrated leadership qualities and community engagement
Proven research ability or publications in relevant fields
Participation in international conferences, seminars, or academic competitions

Not Eligible

Applicants who submit more than one Initial Application to the HKPFSES (will result in disqualification)
Candidates who fail to follow up their Initial Application with full applications to universities
Students already enrolled in a PhD programme in Hong Kong without applying through the scheme

Financial Coverage / Funding Benefits

Tuition Fees: Fully covered for up to 3 years
Monthly Stipend/Allowance: Approximately HK$27,600 (about US$3,500) per month
Travel Grant: Annual conference and research-related travel allowance of HK$13,800 (about US$1,760)
Accommodation Support: Access to university housing (subsidised where available)
Health Insurance: Covered as per university policy
Books & Materials: Allowance included in overall research support
Additional Perks: Visa sponsorship, international collaboration opportunities, academic development workshops

Scholarship Benefits

Tuition Coverage for the full duration
Generous Living/Monthly Stipend for personal expenses
Health and Accident Insurance during the study period
Conference and Research Travel Assistance
Accommodation Subsidy or access to student housing
Academic Materials Support
Networking and Career Development Opportunities through seminars, workshops, and global collaborations

Key Responsibilities

Maintain excellent academic standing and satisfactory research progress
Actively participate in research activities, seminars, and university initiatives
Adhere to the regulations of the host university and the Research Grants Council
Represent the fellowship programme positively in academic and professional engagements

Application Process

How to Apply

Application Mode: Online through the HKPFS Electronic System (HKPFSES)
Step 1: Submit an Initial Application via HKPFSES to obtain the HKPFS Reference Number
Step 2: Apply to up to two PhD programmes/departments at one or two participating universities, quoting the Reference Number

Required Documents

Completed Online Application Form
Curriculum Vitae (CV) or Resume
Academic Transcripts (Bachelor’s/Master’s degrees)
Personal Statement or Motivation Letter
Letters of Recommendation (usually two to three)
Proof of English Language Proficiency (TOEFL, IELTS, or equivalent)
Passport Copy or National ID
Research Proposal or Portfolio (if applicable)

Important Dates

Application Opens: 1 September 2025 (12:00 noon, Hong Kong Time)
Deadlines: 1 December 2025 (11:59pm, Hong Kong Time) – varies by institution
Result Announcement: May 2026
Programme Start Date: September 2026