Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme Expands to 400 Awards

The Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme will offer 400 fully-funded awards for the 2027 academic year. According to the scheme's official information, the application deadline for the 2026-27 intake is December 1, 2026.

The initiative is run by the Hong Kong Research Grants Council (RGC) and aims to attract top international talent to the region's universities. The number of available fellowships has been raised from 300 to 400 for this cycle. There is no fee to apply.

Participating Universities and Fields

Eight universities in Hong Kong are participating in the scheme. Applicants must choose their program from this list.

Eligible fields of study include Sciences, Medicine, Engineering and Technology, Humanities, Social Sciences, and Business Studies. The fellowship supports full-time PhD studies for a normal duration of three years, with the academic year typically starting in September.

Financial Benefits

The fellowship provides comprehensive financial support. The award includes an annual stipend of HK$344,400, which is approximately US$44,150. Fellows also receive a conference and research-related travel allowance of HK$14,400, or about US$1,840.

No prior work experience is required for applicants. The source notes that universities may provide additional support to students who require more than three years to complete their PhD.

Eligibility and Application Process

Candidates of any nationality are eligible to apply. They must be new, full-time PhD students. For English language requirements, applicants can either provide proof of proficiency or demonstrate that their previous education was conducted entirely in English.

The application is a two-step process. First, candidates must submit an initial application through the Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme Electronic System (HKPFSES) to obtain an HKPFS Reference Number. This initial step must be completed by December 1, 2026, at 12:00 noon Hong Kong Time.

After receiving the reference number, applicants must then submit full admission applications to their chosen universities, quoting this number. Applicants may select up to two programs or departments across one or two of the participating universities. All relevant links and guidance notes are available on the official RGC website for the scheme.

The source encourages prospective applicants to visit the official portal for detailed application instructions and university links.