Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme 2027/28: HK$344,400 Annual Stipend for International PhD Students in Hong Kong

Overview

Established by Hong Kong's Research Grants Council (RGC) in 2009, the Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme (HKPFS) for the 2027/28 academic year aims to attract high-achieving researchers and talented doctoral students globally. The programme is open to applicants regardless of their country of origin, prior work experience, or ethnic background.

For the 2027/28 intake, 400 fellowships will be awarded. Participating institutions 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

Benefits

• An annual fellowship stipend of HK$344,400.
• An annual conference and research-related travel allowance of HK$14,400.
• Support provided for up to three years (with potential additional university support if needed).

Eligibility

Applicants must seek admission as new full-time PhD students at one of the participating Hong Kong universities.
Candidates are assessed based on four main criteria: academic excellence, research ability and potential, communication and interpersonal skills, and leadership abilities.
Applicants must meet the specific admission requirements of their chosen university and PhD programme.

How to Apply

Applying for the HKPFS requires a two-step process:

• Step 1: Submit an initial application online to obtain an HKPFS Reference Number.
• Step 2: Submit full PhD admission applications to your selected university or universities before their respective deadlines using your reference number.

Applicants may choose a maximum of two programmes within one or two participating universities. Note that failing to submit the required university application renders the initial fellowship application void.

Deadline

The initial application window for the 2027/28 academic year runs from 1 September 2026 until 1 December 2026 at 12:00 noon Hong Kong Time. Late submissions will not be considered.