Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme: Study Hong Kong

Doctoral Programs, Hong Kong, PhD Fellowships / / By / 6 minutes of reading
International students applying for fully funded PhD programs through the Hong Kong Fellowship Scheme.

Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme 2025–2026: Fully Funded Doctoral Study in Hong Kong

The Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme (HKPFS) 2025–2026, established by the Research Grants Council in 2009, offers a fully funded opportunity for international students to pursue doctoral studies in Hong Kong, providing an annual stipend of HK$337,200 and a conference and research–related travel allowance of HK$14,000 per year for up to three years [1][2]. Applications are accepted from September 1 to December 1, 2025 (12:00 noon Hong Kong Time), and selections are conducted by two dedicated panels—one covering Sciences, Medicine, Engineering and Technology, and the other covering Humanities, Social Sciences and Business Studies—evaluating candidates on academic excellence, research potential, communication skills, and leadership [1].

Introduction

The Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme (HKPFS) 2025–2026 offers a prestigious, fully funded opportunity for outstanding international students to undertake full‑time doctoral studies at eight UGC‑funded universities in Hong Kong. Since its inception by the Research Grants Council (RGC) in 2009, the scheme has attracted top talent worldwide to engage in cutting‑edge research across diverse disciplines [1].

About the Fellowship Program

Program Details

    • Program Name: Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme (HKPFS)
    • Current Status: Ongoing
    • Scope & Objectives: To attract the best and brightest students globally to pursue PhD studies in Hong Kong’s universities, fostering academic excellence and research innovation [1].
    • Program Duration: Up
      to 3 years [2].
    • Study Mode: Full‑time .
    • Focus Areas: All academic disciplines, including but not limited to Sciences, Engineering, Humanities, Social Sciences, and Business Studies.

Eligibility Criteria

    • Academic Requirements: Applicants must be seeking admission as new full‑time PhD students in Hong Kong’s universities.
    • Work Experience: Not mandatory; however, prior research experience may be advantageous.
    • Age Limit: No specific age limit.
    • Nationality: Open to all nationalities [2].
    • Language Proficiency: Applicants must meet the English language requirements of their chosen university [8].
    • Additional Requirements: Applicants should demonstrate outstanding academic performance, research ability/potential, communication and interpersonal skills, and leadership abilities [1].

Application Process

Initial Application

Submit an initial application through the HKPFS Electronic System to obtain an HKPFS Reference Number.

    • Application Period: September 1, 2025 – December 1, 2025 (12:00 noon Hong Kong Time) [2].
    • Portal: https://cerg1.ugc.edu.hk/hkpfs/InitApplication.jsp

Full Application

After obtaining the reference number, apply directly to your chosen university(ies), quoting your HKPFS Reference Number.

    • Applicants may apply
      to up to two programmes/departments at one or two universities and must comply fully with each institution’s admission requirements.

Required Documents

    • Curriculum Vitae (CV)/Resume: Detailed academic and professional history.
    • Statement of Purpose: Outlining research interests and career goals.
    • Recommendation Letters: Typically two, from academic referees familiar with the applicant’s work.
    • Academic Transcripts: Official records from all post‑secondary institutions attended.
    • Language Test Scores: TOEFL, IELTS, or equivalent, as required.
    • Passport Copy: For international applicants, a copy of a valid passport.

Note: All documents not in English must be accompanied by certified English translations.

Focus Areas / Fields of Study

The HKPFS supports PhD studies in all academic disciplines. Interdisciplinary research projects are encouraged, allowing applicants to engage in innovative studies that cross traditional academic boundaries.

Financial Benefits

    • Annual Stipend: HK$337,200 (approx. US$43,230) [2].
    • Conference and Research‑Related Travel Allowance: HK$14,000 (approx. US$1,790) per year [2].
    • Duration: Up to 3 years; additional support may be provided by universities for those needing more time [2].

Selection Process

justify;">Applications are reviewed by two Selection Panels:

    • Sciences, Medicine, Engineering, and Technology
    • Humanities, Social Sciences, and Business Studies
      Evaluation is based primarily on academic excellence, with additional consideration of research ability and potential, communication and interpersonal skills, and leadership abilities.

Key Application Deadlines

    • Application Open Date: September 1, 2025, at 12:00 noon (HKT).
    • Application Deadline: December 1, 2025, at 12:00 noon (HKT).
    • Document Submission Deadline: Varies by university; applicants should check with individual institutions.
    • Interview Dates (if applicable): Varies by university; check with each institution.
    • Admission Results Announcement: May 2026.
    • Program Start Date: September 2026.

Tips to Strengthen Your Application

    • Statement of Purpose (SOP):
      • Clearly articulate research interests and how they align with the chosen programme.
      • Highlight academic achievements and research experiences.
      • Demonstrate motivation and long‑term goals.
    • Curriculum Vitae (CV):
      • Include academic qualifications, research projects, publications, and relevant work experience.
      • Emphasize leadership roles and extracurricular activities.
    • Recommendation Letters:
      • Choose referees who can provide detailed insights into academic and research capabilities.
      • Ensure letters are specific and tailored.
    • Research Proposal:
      • Present a well‑structured and feasible research plan.
      • Demonstrate awareness of current research trends and methodologies.

Contact Information

Conclusion

The Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme 2025–2026 represents an exceptional opportunity for outstanding students worldwide to pursue fully funded doctoral studies at Hong Kong’s top‑ranked universities. With generous financial support, world‑class research facilities, and a vibrant academic community, the HKPFS provides a strong foundation for future research leaders. Due to its competitive nature, applicants are strongly encouraged to prepare thoroughly and submit their applications well before the deadline.

Quick Summary Table

FeatureDetails
Program NameHong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme (HKPFS)
Host Country/RegionHong Kong
Funded ByResearch Grants Council (RGC) of Hong Kong
EligibilityInternational students seeking full‑time PhD studies in Hong Kong
Financial SupportAnnual stipend, travel allowance, and additional university support
Fields of StudyAll academic disciplines
Application DeadlineNew date to be announce soon | December 1, 2025 (12:00 noon Hong Kong Time)
Official WebsiteClick Here

Citations

  1. Research Grants Council – Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme overview: Established in 2009 and scheme objectives UGC Hong Kong
  2. HKU Graduate School: Eligibility criteria and fellowship award details in monthly terms gradsch.hku.hk

FAQs

Who is eligible for the Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme?

Applicants must be new, full‑time PhD candidates at one of Hong Kong’s UGC‑funded universities, regardless of nationality, prior work experience, or ethnic background. They must also demonstrate outstanding academic performance, research potential, communication skills, and leadership qualities

What stipend and allowances does the HKPFS provide?

The fellowship awards an annual stipend of HK$337,200 and a yearly conference and research travel allowance of HK$14,000 for up to three years

What is the application deadline for the HKPFS?

Initial applications open on September 1 and close at 12:00 noon (HKT) on December 1. Applicants should apply early to meet both RGC and university deadlines

How do I apply for the Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme?

First, submit an initial application via the HKPFSES to obtain a reference number. Then, apply directly to up to two PhD programmes at one or two universities, quoting your HKPFS reference number

Can I apply to more than one programme or university under HKPFS?

Yes. You may apply to up to two programmes or departments at one or two different UGC‑funded universities, provided you meet each institution’s admission requirements

Which universities participate in the HKPFS?

The scheme covers eight UGC‑funded universities: CityU, CUHK, HKBU, HKUST, HKU, EdUHK, Lingnan and PolyU

Do I need to demonstrate English language proficiency for HKPFS?

Yes. You must satisfy the English proficiency requirements (e.g., TOEFL or IELTS) set by your chosen university as part of your full application.

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