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- Scholarship Details
- Scholarship Benefits
- Participating Universities
- Eligibility Criteria
- How to Apply for HKPFS 2026
- FAQs
The Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme (HKPFS) 2026 is a fully funded Hong Kong Government scholarship program established by the Research Grants Council (RGC) to attract the world’s best and brightest minds to pursue their Doctoral degrees at top universities in Hong Kong. Since its launch in 2009, HKPFS has become one of the most competitive PhD scholarship applications in Asia, offering generous funding and access to world-class research facilities.
For the 2026/27 academic year, the scheme will award 400 PhD scholarships (expanded from the original 300) across diverse fields of study, making it one of the largest international doctoral fellowship programs in the region.
Scholarship Details
- Host Country & Platform: Hong Kong, through the Research Grants Council (RGC)
- Degree Level: PhD (full-time, 3 years)
- Number of Fellowships: 400 (for 2026/27 intake)
- Application Deadline: 1 December 2025 (12:00 noon, Hong Kong Time)
- Program Start: September 2026
Scholarship Benefits
- Annual stipend: HK$340,800 (≈ USD $43,700) for up to 3 years
- Conference & research-related travel allowance: HK$14,200 (≈ USD $1,820) per year
- Additional support may be provided by universities if PhD studies extend beyond 3 years
- No application fee for HKPFS
Participating Universities
Eight leading Hong Kong universities host HKPFS awardees:
- City University of Hong Kong (CityU)
- Hong Kong Baptist University (HKBU)
- Lingnan University (LU)
- The Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK)
- The Education University of Hong Kong (EdUHK)
- The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU)
- The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST)
- The University of Hong Kong (HKU)
Eligibility Criteria
- Open to all nationalities
- Must be seeking admission as a new full-time PhD student in Hong Kong
- Must demonstrate:
- Outstanding academic performance
- Research ability and potential
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills
- Leadership abilities
- English proficiency required (IELTS/TOEFL or equivalent), unless exempted
How to Apply for HKPFS 2026
- Step 1 – Submit Initial Application to RGC:
- Apply online via the HKPFS portal between 1 September – 1 December 2025
- Receive an HKPFS Reference Number
- Step 2 – Apply to Universities:
- Apply directly to up to two PhD programs at one or two of the participating universities
- Provide your HKPFS Reference Number in your university applications
- Step 3 – Selection & Interviews:
- Applications are reviewed by selection panels in two broad areas:
- Sciences, Medicine, Engineering, and Technology
- Humanities, Social Sciences, and Business Studies
- Shortlisted candidates may be interviewed by universities
- Applications are reviewed by selection panels in two broad areas:
FAQs
Is HKPFS 2026 fully funded?
Yes, it covers stipend, travel allowance, and additional support from universities if needed.
Can Pakistani students apply?
Yes, HKPFS is open to all international students, including Pakistan.
Do I need prior work experience?
No, prior work experience is not required. Recent graduates are welcome.
Can I apply to more than one university?
Yes, you can apply to up to two programs at one or two universities.
What if I am not selected for HKPFS?
You may still be considered for regular PhD admission with university-funded studentships.
When does the program start?
Most Hong Kong universities begin their academic year in September 2026.
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