One of the greatest options available to you if you’re hoping to pursue a top-notch PhD in one of Asia’s most vibrant research centers with a comprehensive financial package is the Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme (HKPFS). The program, which was started by Hong Kong’s Research Grants Council (RGC), provides funding to exceptional local and foreign academics in all major fields, including business, medicine, the humanities, social sciences, and artificial intelligence (AI). Applications for the 2026–2027 intake are accepted from September 1, 2025, to December 1, 2025, at 12:00 PM Hong Kong Time.
Benefits, eligibility, schedule, papers, selection criteria, and official apply links are all covered in this succinct, SEO-friendly guidance, which will help you submit a strong application on time.
What is the PhD Fellowship Scheme in Hong Kong?
A distinguished, merit-based fellowship, the HKPFS was created to draw the top students to Hong Kong’s research universities. The program intends to grant 400 PhD fellowships to participating institutions in 2026–2027. Each scholarship offers a salary of HK$340,800 (about HK$28,400 per month) plus HK$14,200 annually for travel linked to conferences and research, usually for a maximum of three years. Your admitting university may set up extra support if your program takes longer than three years.
Important participating universities consist of:
The Hong Kong University (HKU)
Hong Kong’s Chinese University (CUHK)
The University of Science and Technology in Hong Kong (HKUST)
Polytechnic University of Hong Kong (PolyU)
Hong Kong’s City University (CityU)
HKBU, or Hong Kong Baptist University
University of Lingnan (LU)
Hong Kong’s Education University (EdUHK)
Who is eligible to apply?
HKPFS accepts applications in any field of study that member departments cover, regardless of nationality. Selection highlights:
Academic distinction
Research aptitude or potential (references, proposals, and published work)
Interpersonal and communication abilities
Characteristics of a leader:-
The entry standards (such as GPA thresholds, English language proficiency, and research project specifications) are specific to each university or department. After obtaining a reference number from HKPFS, you will apply to the university or universities of your choice, fulfilling the requirements particular to each program.
Schedule & Due Dates (2026–27)
Opening date of call: September 1, 2025
The deadline for the first application (HKPFSES) is December 1, 2025, at 12:00 PM (Hong Kong Time).
Deadlines for university applications: Although they differ by program and institution, many coincide with the HKPFS deadline (some are scheduled on the same day; always check the university’s website).
Results notification: RGC and institutions usually notify successful candidates in May 2026.
Applying (Step-by-Step)
First Step—First Application (HKPFSES):
To acquire your HKPFS Reference Number, create your profile and submit an Initial Application via the Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme Electronic System (HKPFSES). Up until the first deadline, you can change your program and university selections; only those saved at that point are processed further.
Step 2: University Applications: Provide your HKPFS Reference Number when submitting an application directly to the university or programs of your choice. Every university has its own refereeing procedure, application portal, document list, and deadlines (some close on the same day as HKPFS).
Documents Required (usually)
Although exact listings differ, the majority of applications will contain:
A one to three-page research proposal that includes the problem, methodologies, and expected contributions
CV (including projects, publications, and honors)
Degree certificates and academic transcripts
Results of English language tests (such as the TOEFL or IELTS), if mandated by the program
Two or three letters of recommendation (referees receive emails from university portals)
Writing portfolio or sample (where applicable, such as in the humanities or design)
ID/passport and other forms appropriate to the program
Observe the university portal checklist at all times; departmental requirements may vary.
Selection Standards & How to Make an Impression
Because the HKPFS is so competitive, make sure your application meets the following requirements:
Academic achievement is demonstrated by a high GPA, class standing, challenging curriculum, and any honors or scholarships received.
Research opportunities include conference posters, lab work, open-source contributions, publications (including preprints), and industrial R&D expertise.
Complement the department and supervisor: Demonstrate how your research goals align with those of certain labs or faculty members as well as Hong Kong’s research priorities (e.g., fintech, AI/robotics, climate resilience, biomedical innovation, creative industries).
Communication and leadership: Proof of outreach, education, community service, entrepreneurship, or interdisciplinary teamwork.
Focused research issue, good technique, reasonable timeline, and possible impact are all components of a clear, workable proposal.
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