The Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme (HKPFS) is one of Asia’s most competitive fully-funded PhD initiatives, created to attract outstanding students from around the world to conduct PhD research at Hong Kong’s top universities. If you want world-class supervision, a generous stipend and a strong research environment, the Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme (HKPFS) should be on your radar. cerg1.ugc.edu.hk+1
Who can apply?
- Who can apply: New applicants seeking admission as full-time PhD students at any of the eight participating Hong Kong universities are eligible to apply for the Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme (HKPFS). Prior work experience is not required and applicants of any nationality may apply. cerg1.ugc.edu.hk+1
Participating universities (for the Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme (HKPFS))
- 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 (HKUST)
- The University of Hong Kong (HKU) cerg1.ugc.edu.hk
Requirements (what you need to apply for the Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme (HKPFS))
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Academic record | Excellent undergraduate and/or postgraduate academic results — academic excellence is the primary consideration for the Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme (HKPFS). cerg1.ugc.edu.hk |
| Research potential | Demonstrated research ability / potential (publications, projects, research statements recommended). cerg1.ugc.edu.hk |
| References | Strong academic reference letters (usually 2–3 referees). |
| Programme choice | You may choose up to two programmes/departments (at one or two universities) in the Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme (HKPFS) initial application. cerg1.ugc.edu.hk |
| University admission | You must meet the admission requirements of the selected university/programme and submit a full application to the university after obtaining the HKPFS reference number. cerg1.ugc.edu.hk |
Deadline & timeline for the Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme (HKPFS) 2026/27 round
- HKPFS initial application (RGC online system) opens: 1 September 2025.
- HKPFS initial application deadline: 1 December 2025, 12:00 noon Hong Kong Time (GMT+8) (applicants must obtain an HKPFS Reference Number by this deadline). ugc.edu.hk+1
Note: After you submit the initial HKPFS application, you must also submit full applications to the chosen university(ies) quoting the HKPFS Reference Number — university deadlines may differ and are usually shortly after the RGC deadline. Always check each university’s graduate admissions page for precise deadlines. cerg1.ugc.edu.hk
What the Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme (HKPFS) offers
- Annual stipend: HK$340,800 per year (approx. US$43,690). cerg1.ugc.edu.hk
- Conference & research travel allowance: HK$14,200 per year (approx. US$1,820). cerg1.ugc.edu.hk
- Duration: Support for up to three years (universities may provide additional support if more time is needed). cerg1.ugc.edu.hk
- Number of awards (2026/27): 400 PhD Fellowships will be awarded in the 2026/27 round. cerg1.ugc.edu.hk
Selection & evaluation (how winners are chosen)
The Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme (HKPFS) selection panels assess candidates primarily on academic excellence and research potential. Communication, interpersonal skills and leadership abilities are also considered. Shortlisted candidates are reviewed by panels grouped into two broad areas: (1) Sciences, Medicine, Engineering & Technology and (2) Humanities, Social Sciences & Business Studies. cerg1.ugc.edu.hk
Quick checklist apply to the Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme (HKPFS)
- Prepare transcripts, CV, research proposal / statement and referee contacts.
- Submit initial online application via the HKPFS Electronic System and get your HKPFS Reference Number by 1 Dec 2025, 12:00 noon HKT. cerg1.ugc.edu.hk
- Submit full applications to chosen university(ies), quoting the HKPFS reference number, before each university’s deadline. cerg1.ugc.edu.hk
At-a-glance (Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme (HKPFS))
| Item | Summary |
|---|---|
| Program | Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme (HKPFS) |
| Who can apply | New full-time PhD applicants to the 8 participating HK universities. cerg1.ugc.edu.hk |
| Deadline (Initial application) | 1 December 2025, 12:00 noon HKT. cerg1.ugc.edu.hk |
| Stipend | HK$340,800/year + HK$14,200/year travel allowance. cerg1.ugc.edu.hk |
| Awards (2026/27) | 400 fellowships. cerg1.ugc.edu.hk |