Established by the Research Grants Council (RGC), this fellowship scheme is designed to attract exceptional scholars from around the world to conduct innovative research across diverse academic fields.

Hong Kong PhD Fellowship 2026-27 – Fully Funded (400 Awards)

The Hong Kong PhD Fellowship is a prestigious funding scheme that supports outstanding doctoral candidates by providing a generous financial package, world-class research facilities, and exposure to a vibrant international academic community. It was launched in 2009 to enhance Hong Kong’s position as a global research hub.

For the 2026–27 academic session, 400 fellowships will be awarded. Each fellowship ensures that scholars can pursue their research with financial freedom, professional mentorship, and access to advanced resources. With its multicultural learning environment, Hong Kong provides a platform where research excellence meets global collaboration.

Hong Kong PhD Fellowship 2026-27 Summary

What Is the Hong Kong PhD Fellowship All About?

The Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme was established to attract highly talented scholars from different parts of the world to pursue doctoral studies in Hong Kong. It is not only a financial award but also a recognition of academic excellence, research capability, and leadership potential.

Through this scheme, fellows gain access to Hong Kong’s leading universities, state-of-the-art laboratories, and expert supervisors. They also benefit from opportunities to attend international conferences, collaborate with global researchers, and build academic careers that extend beyond national boundaries.

The program is particularly notable for its strong emphasis on multidisciplinary research. Candidates from science, engineering, medicine, humanities, business, and social sciences are encouraged to apply. By creating a diverse community of researchers, the fellowship contributes to innovation and solutions that address pressing global issues.

Who Can Apply? (Eligibility Criteria)

Applicants must meet the following requirements to be considered for the Hong Kong PhD Fellowship 2026-27:

• Open to candidates of all nationalities.
• Applicants must be applying for full-time PhD studies at one of the participating universities.
• A strong academic background and evidence of research ability are required.
• English proficiency is mandatory if previous education was not conducted in English.
• Applicants must demonstrate commitment to research, innovation, and leadership.

Scholarship Benefits

Recipients of the fellowship enjoy a comprehensive financial and academic package, including:

• Annual Stipend: HK$340,800 (43,690) for up to three years.
• Travel Allowance: HK$14,200 (US$1,820) per year for academic conferences and relocation.
• Research grants for project-related expenses.
• Possible accommodation and housing support depending on the university.
• Access to advanced libraries, laboratories, and research centers.
• Opportunities for professional development, networking, and international collaborations.
• Enhanced career prospects due to the global recognition of the award.

Participating Universities

Candidates can apply to any of the following eight universities in Hong Kong:

• 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 University of Hong Kong
• The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology

Available Study Fields

The fellowship covers a wide range of disciplines, including:

• Science
• Medicine
• Engineering & Technology
• Humanities
• Social Sciences
• Business Studies

This broad coverage allows applicants from diverse academic backgrounds to apply.

Required Documents

Applicants must prepare the following documents for submission:

• Completed online application form.
• Academic transcripts and degree certificates.
• Research proposal outlining academic goals.
• Curriculum Vitae (CV).
• Letters of recommendation from referees.
• Proof of English proficiency (if applicable).
• Copy of passport or official identification document.

Step-by-Step Procedure to Apply

• Choose a University: Select one or more of the participating universities offering your preferred PhD program.
• Register on OAS: Create an account on the Online Application System (OAS) of the Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme.
• Submit Fellowship Application: Complete the fellowship application and obtain a reference number.
• Apply to Universities: Apply directly to the chosen universities’ PhD programs and include your fellowship reference number.
• Upload Documents: Provide supporting documents such as research proposals, references, and transcripts.
• Review and Submit: Ensure that all details are correct before submission.
• Wait for Results: Shortlisted candidates will be contacted by the universities for further processing.

Why Pursue a PhD in Hong Kong?

• World-Class Education: Hong Kong universities consistently rank among the best in Asia and the world.
• Global Recognition: A PhD from Hong Kong provides a strong academic reputation worldwide.
• Research Opportunities: Access to innovative laboratories, advanced facilities, and collaborative projects.
• Cultural Diversity: Experience a multicultural environment that enhances personal and professional growth.
• Strategic Location: Hong Kong serves as a bridge between East and West, making it ideal for international networking.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many awards are available for 2026-27?

A total of 400 fully funded fellowships will be offered.

What is the value of the fellowship?

Each fellow receives an annual stipend of HK$340,800 and a travel allowance of HK$14,200, along with other academic benefits.

Can I apply to more than one university?

Yes, candidates may apply to multiple universities, but each application must include the fellowship reference number.

Do I need to have a Master’s degree before applying?

A Master’s degree is not mandatory if you can demonstrate strong academic and research potential at the undergraduate level.

Is English proficiency required?

Yes, proof of English proficiency (such as IELTS or TOEFL) is required if your prior studies were not in English.

For more details, visit the official Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme website.

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With the Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme for International Students, you can get fully funded on acquiring more knowledge and excellence.

Fellowship Award

For a maximum of three years, the Fellowship offers each recipient an annual stipend of HK$337,200 (about US$43,230) as well as a HK$14,000 (around US$1,790) travel allowance for conferences and research-related expenses.

The academic year 2025/2026 will see the awarding of 400 PhD Fellowships. The selected universities may offer extra assistance to recipients who require more than three years to finish the PhD program.

Moreover, you should please get in touch with the relevant universities directly for more information.

Selection Panel

One of the following two Selection Panels, which are made up of professionals in the pertinent board areas, will assess the shortlisted applicants, contingent on their fields of study;

• Engineering, technology, medicine, and the sciences
• Business studies, social sciences, and humanities

Criteria for Selection

Although the selection panels will prioritize candidates’ academic performance, they will also consider the following factors:

• Academic prowess
• Research aptitude and promise
• Interpersonal and communication skills,
• Leadership qualities.

Eligibility

Applications should be accepted from candidates who are applying to the following eight universities as new full-time PhD students, regardless of their national origin, previous employment history, or ethnic background.

• Hong Kong City University
• Linganan University and Hong Kong Baptist University
• Hong Kong’s Chinese University
• Hong Kong’s Education University
• The Polytechnic University of Hong Kong
• The University of Science and Technology in Hong Kong
• Hong Kong University

However, candidates should have exceptional academic performance, research potential and ability, interpersonal and communication skills, and leadership talents.

How to Apply

Before applying for PhD admission to the universities of their choice, eligible candidates must first complete an Initial Application online via the Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme Electronic System (HKPFSES) in order to receive a HKPFS Reference Number by December 1, 2024, at 12:00 Hong Kong Time.

Going further, under HKPFS 2025/26, candidates may select up to two PhD programs or departments at one or two universities. They must adhere to the entrance standards of the programs and universities they have chosen.

In essence, candidates should submit initial applications as soon as possible to guarantee they have enough time to submit applications to institutions, since the deadlines for applications to some universities may be promptly following the original application deadline.

Also, in order for you to get more information on the application process you should visit the official website scholarship (Link is below as you read on).

Deadline

1 December 2024 (Yearly). Moreover, the course begins in September 2025.

Website

Official Website Link; https://cerg1.ugc.edu.hk/hkpfs/index.html.

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