Fully Funded Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme (Graduate Scholarship) 2025

The Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme (HKPFS) aims to attract the best and brightest students in the world to pursue their PhD studies in Hong Kong’s universities.

When is the Application Deadline:

• The application deadline is typically in early December each year. Please refer to the official HKPFS website for the specific deadline for the 2025/26 academic year.

Tell Me About The Award:

• The Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme (HKPFS) was established by the Research Grants Council (RGC) of Hong Kong in 2009 to attract top students from around the world to pursue their PhD studies in Hong Kong’s universities.

Which Fields are Eligible?

• All fields of study offered by the eight participating universities in Hong Kong are eligible.

Type:

• PhD Fellowship

Who can Apply?

• Candidates seeking admission as new full-time PhD students at one of the eight participating universities in Hong Kong, regardless of their country of origin, prior work experience, or ethnic background.

How are Applicants Selected?

• Applicants are selected based on academic excellence, research ability/potential, communication and interpersonal skills, and leadership abilities. Shortlisted applications are reviewed by selection panels specializing in Sciences, Medicine, Engineering, and Technology, or Humanities, Social Sciences, and Business Studies.

Read Also: Hong Kong scholarships

Which Countries Are Eligible?

• Applicants from all countries are eligible.

Where will the Award be Taken?

• The award will be taken at one of the following universities in Hong Kong:
  • 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

How Many Awards?

• Approximately 400 PhD Fellowships will be awarded for the 2025/26 academic year.

What is the Benefit of the Award?

• The Fellowship provides:
  • An annual stipend of HK$337,200 (approximately US$43,230)
  • A conference and research-related travel allowance of HK$14,000 (approximately US$1,790) per year
  • The award is for up to three years. For those needing more time to complete their PhD, additional support may be available from the university.

How Long Will the Award Last?

• Up to three years, with possible additional support for longer PhD programs.

How to Apply:

• Applications should be submitted online through the HKPFS system. Candidates must also apply directly to their chosen university’s PhD program.
• \Visit the HKPFS official webpage for more details on the application process.