Hong Kong Chine PhD Fellowship Scheme 2026/27 | Fully Funded: (Deadline Ongoing)

Established in 2009 by the Research Grants Council (RGC), the Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme aims to attract exceptional international talent to pursue fully-funded PhD studies at top-tier Hong Kong institutions. In the 2026/27 academic year, 400 fellowships will be awarded.

These fellowships offer:

• A generous annual stipend of HK$340,800 (approx. USD 43,700)
• A yearly conference & research travel allowance of HK$14,200 (approx. USD 1,820)
• Funding for up to three years, with additional university-level support possible for longer programs

Who Can Apply?

The fellowship is open to all nationalities, regardless of ethnic background, prior work experience, or country of origin. Eligible applicants must:

• Be new full-time PhD candidates at one of the eight participating universities:
  • CityU • HKBU • Lingnan U • CUHK • EdUHK • PolyU • HKUST • HKU
• Demonstrate exceptional academic excellence, research potential, strong interpersonal and communication skills, and leadership ability

Selection Process & Criteria

Applicants are evaluated by subject-specific panels grouped into two domains:

• Sciences, Medicine, Engineering & Technology
• Humanities, Social Sciences & Business Studies

Criteria for evaluation include:

1. Academic excellence (primary criterion)
2. Research ability and potential
3. Communication and interpersonal skills
4. Leadership qualities

How to Apply

Step 1: RGC Electronic Application

• Apply via the RGC’s HKPFS Electronic System by 1 December 2025 (12:00 noon, HKT) to receive your HKPFS Reference Number.

Step 2: University Application

• Submit a full PhD application to each chosen university (up to two programs/universities), including the HKPFS Reference Number, via the university’s own admissions portal by 1 December 2025 (11:59 PM, HKT).

After Application

• Shortlisted candidates will undergo university assessments and interviews. Final fellowship results are typically announced in May 2026. Non-awarded applicants may still receive consideration for regular admission or postgraduate studentships.

Why HKPFS Stands Out

• Full financial support: stipend, travel allowance, and potential additional funding for longer programs
• World-class academic and research environment at globally renowned universities
• Competitive cohort: Top 400 researchers selected each year
• Gateway to global research networks and academic excellence in one of Asia’s leading innovation hubs