Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme 2026/27 (Fully Funded)

The Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme (HKPFS) 2026/27 is a prestigious, fully funded opportunity for outstanding students worldwide aiming to pursue full-time PhD studies at one of Hong Kong’s eight UGC-funded universities. The scheme offers 400 fellowships for the 2026/27 academic year, providing generous financial support and access to world-class research environments.

Eligibility

• Open to applicants worldwide, regardless of nationality or ethnic background.
• Must be seeking admission as a new full-time PhD student at a UGC-funded university in Hong Kong.
• Applicants should demonstrate:
  • Academic excellence
  • Research ability and potential
  • Communication and interpersonal skills
  • Leadership abilities

Program Dates/Location

• Application Deadline: 1 December 2025, 12:00 noon Hong Kong Time.
  • This also applies for the University's deadline
• Program Start Date: September 2026 (aligned with the academic year of Hong Kong universities).
• Duration: Up to 3 years; additional support may be provided by the chosen university for those requiring more time to complete their PhD.

Program Benefits

• Annual Stipend: HK$340,800 (~US$43,690).
• Conference and Research-Related Travel Allowance: HK$14,200 per year.

Research Fields

Available across various disciplines, including:

• Sciences
• Medicine
• Engineering and Technology
• Humanities
• Social Sciences
• Business Studies

Participating Universities

• City University of Hong Kong (CityU)
• Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK)
• Education University of Hong Kong (EdUHK)
• Hong Kong Baptist University (HKBU)
• Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU)
• Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST)
• Lingnan University (LU)
• The University of Hong Kong (HKU)

Required Documents

• Completed online application via the HKPFS Electronic System
• Personal details and academic background information
• Academic transcripts and certificates
• Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• Research proposal or statement of purpose
• Letters of recommendation
• Proof of English language proficiency (if applicable)

Application Process

1. Submit Initial Application: Complete the online application via the HKPFS Electronic System by 1 December 2025.
2. Obtain HKPFS Reference Number: Receive a reference number after submission.
3. Apply to Chosen Universities: Submit full applications to your selected PhD programs at participating universities, quoting your HKPFS reference number.
4. Selection Process: Applications are reviewed by selection panels based on academic excellence, research potential, and other criteria.
5. Notification of Results: Successful candidates are notified by the respective universities and the Research Grants Council.

For more details, visit the official page of PhD Fellowship Scheme.