Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme (HKPFS) 2026/27 – Fully Funded Global PhD Opportunity -

What Is HKPFS & Why It Matters

The Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme (HKPFS) is a top-tier global scholarship launched by the Research Grants Council (RGC) of Hong Kong designed to attract outstanding international students into full-time PhD programs in Hong Kong’s leading universities. With hundreds of fellowships available, it offers financial freedom so scholars can deeply focus on their research and innovation.

HKPFS is offered to promote excellence in research, enhance Hong Kong’s global competitiveness, and foster leadership qualities among PhD candidates. If you win this, you’ll get not only world-class training but also a chance to grow personally and academically in a diverse, international environment.

Details About the Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme

Organizer: The Hong Kong Research Grants Council↗
Eligibility Level: Full-time PhD programs in universities funded by the RGC in Hong Kong
Number of Awards: ~400 for the 2026/27 academic year

Available Fields of Research Under HKPFS

HKPFS supports many disciplines. You may apply in up to two PhD programs or departments (in one or two universities) in subject areas such as:

Engineering, Sciences, & Technology
Medicine & Health Sciences
Humanities, Social Sciences, Business Studies
Other interdisciplinary research areas

Eligibility Criteria (in Detail)

To apply for HKPFS, you should fulfill the following:

Be a new applicant for a full-time PhD program in a Hong Kong university.
Demonstrate excellent academic performance and records.
Show strong research ability or potential.
Prove leadership qualities, communication and interpersonal skills.
Meet the English proficiency and academic requirements set by your chosen university.
Submit initial application through the HKPFS system by the stated deadline.

Financial Benefits of HKPFS

When awarded HKPFS, you receive:

A monthly stipend of HK$28,400 (≈ USD 3,600) for up to 3 years (and a 4th year in 4-year PhD programs)
Conference & research travel allowance about HK$14,200 per year
Tuition fee waiver for the normative period of your degree
University accommodation (often guaranteed in Year 1) subject to availability

Required Documents (Checklist)

Make sure you have:

Completed Initial Application Form via the HKPFS electronic system to get your Reference Number
Academic transcripts (all past degrees) + degree certificates
CV / Resume with research experience, publications, or projects if any
Statement of Purpose / research proposal (to show what you want to study and why)
Two or more academic referee letters
Proof of English proficiency (IELTS, TOEFL, etc.) if required by the university
Passport copy or national ID
Any additional documents required by your chosen universities (department-specific proposal, test score etc.)

How to Apply (Step-by-Step Guide)

Mark the Important Dates – Applications for HKPFS open 1 September 2025 at 12:00 noon Hong Kong Time. The deadline is 1 December 2025 at 12:00 noon for the initial application through the RGC’s system. All full-program applications to universities must be submitted by 1 December 2025 before 11:59 pm (Hong Kong Time).↗
Submit Initial Application – Go to the HKPFS Initial Application online system↗ to obtain a Reference Number. You may choose up to two programs/universities.↗
Submit Full University Application – After getting the Reference Number, apply to your selected PhD programs at the universities you picked, quoting the Reference Number. Ensure you meet each university’s admission requirements.↗
Upload All Required Documents – Include transcripts, CV, proposal, referees’ details, English test proof, etc.
Check Application Deadlines for Each University – Even though 1 December 2025 is for the HKPFS system, some individual universities may have additional internal deadlines.↗
Wait for Shortlisting and Interviews – Shortlisted candidates may be invited for interviews. Decisions are then announced.
Acceptance and Enrollment – If selected, follow university offering instructions for visa, accommodation, and registration for the September 2026 PhD intake.

Why You Should Apply

The HKPFS scholarship gives you full support (tuition + stipend) in some of Asia’s best research universities.
It enhances your profile globally with strong mentorship, modern research facilities, and networking.
You get financial freedom to focus fully on your PhD without worrying about funding for essentials like housing, travel, and research costs.