The Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme (HKPFS) 2027/28 is open for applications. The Research Grants Council will award 400 fellowships to outstanding new full-time PhD students, with an annual stipend of HK$344,400 and a conference/research travel allowance of HK$14,400 for up to three years.
Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme 2027/28 at a Glance
Established by the Research Grants Council in 2009, HKPFS is designed to attract outstanding students from around the world to undertake full-time PhD study at Hong Kong’s eight UGC-funded universities.
| Programme | Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme (HKPFS) |
|---|---|
| Administrator | Research Grants Council of Hong Kong |
| Current cycle | 2027/28 |
| Status | Open |
| Number of awards | 400 |
| Study mode | New full-time PhD admission |
Eligibility
Applicants are eligible if they are seeking admission as a new full-time PhD student at one of the participating UGC-funded universities in Hong Kong.
The scheme is open regardless of:
- country of origin;
- ethnic background; or
- prior work experience.
RGC expects applicants to demonstrate:
- outstanding academic performance;
- research ability and potential;
- communication and interpersonal skills; and
- leadership abilities.
Eight Participating Universities
- 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
Applicants may select a maximum of two programmes or departments across one or two participating universities.
Stipend and Research Travel Support
| Annual stipend | HK$344,400 (about US$44,150) |
|---|---|
| Annual conference / research travel allowance | HK$14,400 (about US$1,840) |
| RGC funding duration | Up to 3 years |
| PhD extending beyond 3 years | Additional support may be provided by the selected university |
Selection Criteria
Shortlisted applicants are assessed by one of two expert panels:
- Sciences, Medicine, Engineering and Technology; or
- Humanities, Social Sciences and Business Studies.
Academic excellence is the primary consideration, together with research ability/potential, communication and interpersonal skills, and leadership abilities.
Participating universities may also interview applicants as part of the nomination and assessment process.
How to Apply for HKPFS 2027/28
- Submit the RGC initial application. Complete the HKPFS Electronic System form before 1 December 2026 at 12:00 noon HKT.
- Obtain the HKPFS Reference Number. Keep this number for your university applications.
- Select up to two programmes. These may be at one university or split across two participating universities.
- Submit full PhD applications directly to the university or universities. Quote your HKPFS Reference Number.
- Meet each university’s admission requirements. This may include transcripts, research proposal, English-language evidence, references and other programme-specific materials.
- Complete any interviews or additional assessment. Universities conduct their own admission and nomination processes.
2027/28 Deadlines
| Stage | Deadline |
|---|---|
| RGC initial application opens | 1 September 2026, 12:00 noon HKT |
| RGC initial application closes | 1 December 2026, 12:00 noon HKT |
| University full PhD applications | For the current HKPFS table, participating universities list 1 December 2026 at 11:59 p.m. HKT; applicants should recheck their chosen university |
| Expected registration period for successful candidates | Normally July–September 2027 |
CareerAidHub Applicant Guidance
Choose programmes strategically
You only have two programme choices, so select departments where your research interests and academic background fit clearly.
Separate the fellowship application from the university application
The RGC initial application is only the first step. A valid HKPFS reference number does not replace the university’s full PhD admission application.
Build evidence around the actual selection criteria
Academic grades matter, but the scheme also explicitly evaluates research potential, communication and leadership. Use your university application materials to demonstrate all four dimensions.
Applicants can also review CareerAidHub’s PhD opportunities, scholarships, and Fully Funded PhD Positions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is HKPFS 2027/28 open?
Yes. Applications opened on 1 September 2026 and the RGC initial application closes on 1 December 2026 at 12:00 noon Hong Kong Time.
How many fellowships will be awarded?
RGC states that 400 HKPFS awards will be offered for the 2027/28 academic year.
What is the current stipend?
The current award level is HK$344,400 per year, plus HK$14,400 per year for conference and research-related travel, for up to three years.
Can international students apply?
Yes. Eligibility is open regardless of country of origin, work experience or ethnic background, provided the applicant is seeking new full-time PhD admission at a participating university.
How many programmes can I choose?
Applicants may select up to two programmes or departments at one or two participating universities.
Do I apply only to RGC?
No. You must first submit the RGC initial application and then submit full PhD admission applications directly to the selected university or universities using your HKPFS reference number.
Official Sources and Application Links
| Programme status | Open |
|---|---|
| Current cycle | 2027/28 |
| Fellowships | 400 |
| RGC initial deadline | 1 December 2026, 12:00 noon HKT |
| Last verified | 15 September 2026 |
