Hong Kong PhD Fellowship is a Research Grants Council (RGC) scheme established to attract outstanding students worldwide to pursue full-time PhD studies at participating Hong Kong universities. The fellowship offers a multi-year stipend and conference/research travel allowance to successful awardees.
The scheme is administered by the Research Grants Council of Hong Kong and covers PhD studies at eight participating universities, with selection based on academic excellence, research potential, communication and interpersonal skills, and leadership abilities.
Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Benefits
- In the 2026/27 academic year, the Fellowship provides an annual stipend of HK$344,400 (approximately US$44,150) per year for each awardee for a period up to three years.
- The Fellowship provides a conference and research-related travel allowance of HK$14,400 (approximately US$1,840) per year for each awardee.
- 400 PhD Fellowships will be awarded in the 2027/28 academic year.
- For awardees who need more than three years to complete the PhD degree, additional support may be provided by the chosen universities.
Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Eligibility Criteria
- Candidates seeking admission as new full time PhD students in the eight participating universities, irrespective of country of origin, prior work experience and ethnic background, should be eligible to apply.
- Applicants should demonstrate outstanding qualities of academic performance, research ability / potential, communication and interpersonal skills, and leadership abilities.
- Participating 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.
How to Apply for Hong Kong PhD Fellowship?
- Visit the HKPFS Electronic System.
- Complete and submit the initial application before December 1, 2026, at 12:00 noon Hong Kong Time (GMT+8).
- Obtain your HKPFS Reference Number upon submission.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are the most frequently asked questions about the Hong Kong PhD Fellowship. These answers cover eligibility, benefits, selection criteria, participating institutions, and where to find more information on the official site.
What is the Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme?
The Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme, established by the Research Grants Council (RGC) in 2009, aims to attract outstanding students worldwide to pursue full-time PhD studies at participating Hong Kong universities. The scheme provides a multi-year stipend and a conference and research-related travel allowance to awardees.
Who administers the fellowship?
The fellowship is administered by the Research Grants Council (RGC) of Hong Kong. The RGC oversees the scheme and its objectives to attract talented PhD candidates to Hong Kong universities, and provides details and official documents on the HKPFS website.
Which universities participate in the scheme?
Eight universities participate: 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; and The University of Hong Kong.
What financial support does the fellowship provide?
In the 2026/27 academic year the fellowship provides an annual stipend of HK$344,400 and a conference and research-related travel allowance of HK$14,400 per awardee each year for up to three years. Additional university support may be available for longer studies.
How long is the fellowship awarded for?
The fellowship is awarded for a period of up to three years, providing the advertised annual stipend and travel allowance during that period. For awardees requiring more than three years, the chosen universities may provide additional support.
How are applicants selected?
Shortlisted applications are reviewed by one of two Selection Panels based on the applicant’s area of study: (1) Sciences, Medicine, Engineering and Technology; and (2) Humanities, Social Sciences and Business Studies. Selection factors include academic excellence, research ability and potential, communication and interpersonal skills, and leadership.
What are the main selection criteria?
The Selection Panels place primary consideration on academic excellence and also take into account research ability and potential, communication and interpersonal skills, and leadership abilities. These criteria guide assessment of shortlisted candidates.
How many fellowships are awarded each year?
The site states that 400 PhD Fellowships will be awarded in the 2027/28 academic year. The number of awards may vary by academic year and is specified on the official site.
Is additional support available if my PhD takes longer than three years?
Yes. For awardees who need more than three years to complete the PhD degree, additional support may be provided by the chosen universities. Applicants are advised to contact the universities directly for details on extended support.
Where can I find official information and downloads for the scheme?
Official information, including a downloadable leaflet and poster, is available on the HKPFS website. The main program page contains links to Leaflet_HKPFS.pdf and Poster_HKPFS.pdf and other resources for applicants.
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