Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme (HKPFS) 2026/2027 | Fully Funded
The Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme (HKPFS) is one of the most competitive PhD scholarships in the world and the 2026/2027 is here. Established by the Research Grants Council of Hong Kong in 2009, the scheme attracts exceptional students globally to pursue doctoral studies at Hong Kong’s leading universities. With generous funding, world-class facilities, and a multicultural research environment, the fellowship is an outstanding opportunity for ambitious scholars. Let’s break it down in simple terms so you can understand and apply with confidence.
Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme (HKPFS) 2026/2027 Summary
- Host Country: Hong Kong
- Study Abroad: Study in Asia
- Category: Postgraduate Scholarships | PhD Scholarships
- Eligible Countries: All Countries
- Reward: Full funding ($43,690 stipend + $1,820 travel allowance)
- Deadline: December 1, 2025
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Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme (HKPFS) 2026/2027 Details
The Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme (HKPFS) was created to bring the brightest global talents into Hong Kong’s research environment. Applicants from any country and academic background are welcome, as long as they are seeking admission as new full-time PhD students.
Applications are assessed by selection panels in two broad areas:
- Sciences, Medicine, Engineering, and Technology
- Humanities, Social Sciences, and Business Studies
Candidates are judged not only on academic excellence but also on research potential, communication skills, and leadership qualities.
Participating universities include:
- 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
Interested in a fully funded BSc to Phd scholarship in Singapore? Watch our step-by-step guide on how to apply—now available on our YouTube channel:
Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme (HKPFS) 2026/2027 Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for HKPFS, applicants must:
- Apply for admission as a new full-time PhD student in one of the eight participating universities.
- Show strong academic achievements in previous studies.
- Demonstrate research ability and potential through publications, projects, or proposals.
- Possess good communication and interpersonal skills.
- Exhibit leadership abilities.
- Applicants of all nationalities, ethnicities, and academic backgrounds are welcome.
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Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme (HKPFS) 2026/2027 Benefits
Successful fellows will receive:
- Annual Stipend: HK$340,800 (approx. US$43,690)
- Conference & Research-related Travel Allowance: HK$14,200 (approx. US$1,820) per year
- Duration: Up to 3 years of full funding
- Additional Support: Possible funding extensions offered by individual universities if studies go beyond 3 years
Watch the Malaysian Government scholarship and how to apply on our YouTube Channel:
Required Documents for the 2026/2027 Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme (HKPFS)
Applicants should prepare the following:
- Completed university PhD application form
- Academic transcripts (undergraduate and postgraduate, if applicable)
- Curriculum Vitae (CV/Resume)
- Research proposal or personal statement
- Letters of recommendation (usually 2–3 academic referees)
- Proof of English proficiency (e.g., IELTS/TOEFL), if required by the university
- Any additional supporting documents requested by the chosen university
How to Apply for the Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme (HKPFS) 2026/2027 (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Submit Initial Application to the Research Grants Council
- Open for applications: 1 September 2025 at 12:00 noon Hong Kong Time
- Deadline: 1 December 2025 at 12:00 noon Hong Kong Time
- Complete the Initial Application online through the HKPFS Electronic System (HKPFSES).
- Once submitted, applicants will receive an HKPFS Reference Number.
Step 2: Submit Full Applications to Chosen Universities
- With the reference number, applicants must then submit full PhD applications to their chosen universities.
- Each applicant may select up to two programmes/departments at one or two universities.
- Applicants must follow the specific requirements of their selected universities, including admission rules, programme details, and deadlines.
- Applications submitted without quoting the HKPFS Reference Number will not be considered under the scheme.
Important: Since some universities have deadlines immediately after the HKPFS initial application deadline, candidates are strongly advised to apply as early as possible to avoid delays.
Confused About How to Apply and Start Securing Scholarships Abroad? Book a Free Consultation today with us:
Deadline
December 1, 2025.
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