HKPFS PhD Fellowship 2026 is now open for international students from around the world to pursue their doctoral studies in Hong Kong. This prestigious fellowship program welcomes candidates who have completed either a Bachelor’s degree (16 years of education) or an MPhil degree, making it accessible for both fresh graduates and experienced researchers. With its fully funded support, the fellowship provides outstanding students the opportunity to study at the top 8 universities in Hong Kong.
One of the key advantages of the Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme is that there is no application fee required, allowing applicants from all backgrounds to apply without financial barriers. The HKPFS 2026 program not only covers tuition and living expenses but also offers international exposure, high-quality research opportunities, and access to world-class academic resources. This makes it an ideal choice for talented individuals who want to advance their academic careers through a fully funded PhD in Hong Kong.
Fellowship Summary
- Country: Hong Kong
- Host: Research Grants Council (RGC) of Hong Kong
- Study Level: PhD
- Benefits: Fully Funded
- Deadline: 1 December 2025
Financial benefits of HKPFS PhD Fellowship 2026
Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme (HKPFS) 2026/27 for International Students is a Full Free Scholarship. Here is the detail:
- Stipend: US $43,690/year
- A conference and research-related Travel Allowance of US $$1,820/year for each selected candidate for a period up to three years.
- For awardees who need more than three years to complete the PhD degree, additional support may be provided by the chosen universities. For details, please contact the universities concerned directly.
Eligibility Criteria for HKPFS PhD Fellowship 2026
- Academic excellence
- Research ability and potential
- Communication and interpersonal skills
- Leadership abilities.
Available Degree programs
Candidates can apply in one of the following academic field and major for PhD Course:
- Science, Medicine, Engineering, and Technology
- Humanities, Social Science and Business Studies
List of Universities for Hong Kong PhD Fellowship (HKPFS)
The Following Eight Universities are offering PhD Fellowship Program. The List of Universities is given below.
- 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
How to Apply for Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme 2026
- Step 1: Initial Application
- Apply online via the HKPFS Electronic System (HKPFSES) before 1 December 2025, 12:00 noon (HK Time).
- Obtain your HKPFS Reference Number after submission.
- Official portal: Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme
- Step 2: Apply to Universities
- Choose up to 2 PhD programs/departments at one or two universities.
- Submit full PhD applications directly to selected universities using your HKPFS Reference Number.
- Follow each university’s specific admission requirements, deadlines, and procedures.
- Important Tip: Submit the Initial Application early to have enough time for university applications, as deadlines may follow closely.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
HKPFS PhD Fellowship 2026 offers 400 fully-funded PhD awards in Hong Kong. Open to new PhD applicants worldwide, it provides stipend and travel allowances. Apply online between 1 Sept and 1 Dec 2025, select up to two programmes, and await decisions by May 2026.
What is the HKPFS PhD Fellowship 2026?
The HKPFS PhD Fellowship 2026 (Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme) is a global initiative by the Research Grants Council (RGC) to attract top PhD talent. It grants up to 400 fully-funded fellowships in the 2026/27 academic year.
Who is eligible to apply for HKPFS PhD Fellowship 2026?
Applicants from anywhere seeking admission as new full-time PhD students at one of eight Hong Kong universities are eligible. They must show outstanding academic performance, research potential, communication skills, and leadership.
What does the HKPFS PhD Fellowship 2026 award include?
Awardees receive an annual stipend of HK$340,800 (~US$43,690) and a conference & research travel allowance of HK$14,200 (~US$1,820) per year for up to three years.
When can I apply for the HKPFS PhD Fellowship 2026?
Applications open 1 September 2025 at 12:00 noon (Hong Kong Time) and close 1 December 2025 at 12:00 noon (Hong Kong Time) via the HKPFS Electronic System.
How many university/programme choices can I list in the HKPFS application?
You may choose up to two PhD programmes in one or two universities in your initial application. If nominated by two, RGC will process only the one with the highest priority indicated.
Do I need to submit separate applications to universities?
Yes. After submitting the HKPFS initial application and obtaining a reference number, you must submit full PhD applications to selected universities quoting that number by their deadlines.
When will the HKPFS PhD Fellowship 2026 results be announced?
Results for the HKPFS 2026/27 cycle will be announced by May 2026, and successful applicants will be notified via email.
What are the selection criteria for HKPFS?
Selection is based on academic excellence, research ability/potential, communication and interpersonal skills, and leadership. Applications are reviewed by two disciplinary panels.
What universities participate in HKPFS PhD Fellowship 2026?
Eight Hong Kong universities participate: CityU, HKBU, Lingnan, CUHK, EdUHK, PolyU, HKUST, and HKU, all offering diverse PhD fields.
What happens if I am not awarded the HKPFS PhD Fellowship?
If not selected, universities may still admit you as a regular PhD candidate and offer postgraduate studentships or other funding support.
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