The Government of Hong Kong created the esteemed, fully financed Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme (HKPFS) 2026–2027, which is run by the Research Grants Council (RGC). It gives outstanding foreign students the chance to enroll in one of Hong Kong’s eight top universities and earn a doctorate. The program was designed to draw exceptional talent from around the globe and to strengthen Hong Kong’s prominence as a major hub for research innovation and academic achievement worldwide.
The number of fellowships has increased from 300 to 400 for the academic year 2026–2027, giving applicants from all around the world more options. The fellowship ensures that students can fully concentrate on their research and study by paying for all costs, including tuition, a monthly stipend, and additional allowances.
Crucially, there is no application cost, and individuals of all nations are accepted into the program without regard to their gender, nationality, religion, or political history. The program is open to recent graduates who exhibit good academic records, research potential, and leadership abilities because prior employment experience is not necessary.
Students who participate in this fellowship program have the opportunity to attend prestigious universities in Hong Kong, make use of cutting-edge research facilities, and interact with a dynamic international community that promotes cooperation, cross-cultural learning, and international networking.
Host Country: Hong Kong
University: The University of Hong Kong, City University of Hong Kong
Opportunity Type: PhD
Eligibility Country: International Students
Financial Coverage: Fully Funded
Eligibility Criteria:
- All nationalities are welcome to apply.
- Applicants must be brand-new, enrolled PhD students.
- If a person does not want to submit their IELTS results, they will need to show that they attended an English-medium school for their prior schooling.
- Candidates must provide official documentation of their English competence if their previous schooling was not in the language.
- Candidates must submit an application to one of the eight participating Hong Kong universities’ PhD programs.
Benefits:
- An HK$340,800 (about US$43,690) stipend will be given to chosen fellows each year to help with living expenses during their PhD studies.
- Additionally, a HK$14,200 (about US$1,820) annual conference and research-related travel stipend will be given to encourage academic growth and involvement in global research initiatives.
- Since prior work experience is not required, young graduates with good academic potential can apply for the fellowship.
- Typically, the fellowship lasts for three years. The host university might, however, provide extra funding to cover the remaining study year if a student’s PhD program lasts longer than this.
Deadline: December 01, 2025
