Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme 2027/28: 400 Fully Funded Scholarships

The Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme 2027/28 is a prestigious fully funded program designed to attract talented international students to pursue their doctoral studies in Hong Kong. Supported by the Research Grants Council (RGC) of Hong Kong, this initiative allows you to undertake a PhD at one of eight leading universities in Hong Kong without application fees. With 400 scholarships available for the 2027/28 academic year, the scheme welcomes candidates worldwide, regardless of nationality, gender, ethnicity, or political and religious beliefs. If you aspire to join a vibrant academic environment and advance your research career, this fellowship offers an excellent opportunity to do so.

Details About Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme 2027/28 (400 Fully Funded Scholarships)

• Host Country: Hong Kong
• Number of Fellowships: 400
• Organiser: Research Grants Council (RGC) of Hong Kong
• Funding Type: Fully Funded
• Duration: 3 years (with possible extension support)
• Application Deadline: 1 December 2026 (Hong Kong Time, 12:00 noon)
• Application Fee: None
• Eligibility: Open to all nationalities; full-time new PhD students

About Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme 2027/28 (400 Fully Funded Scholarships)

This fellowship scheme is an initiative by the Government of Hong Kong through the Research Grants Council. It aims to attract outstanding students worldwide to pursue doctoral degrees in Hong Kong’s top universities. The program provides comprehensive financial support and fosters a competitive research environment to nurture future academic and professional leaders.

Degree Programs And Duration

• PhD degrees in Sciences
• PhD degrees in Medicine
• PhD degrees in Engineering and Technology
• PhD degrees in Humanities
• PhD degrees in Social Sciences
• PhD degrees in Business Studies
• Program Duration: Standard length is 3 years, with universities potentially extending support beyond this period if needed

Financial Benefits

• Annual stipend of HK$344,400 (approximately US$44,150)
• Conference and research travel allowance of HK$14,400 (approximately US$1,840) per year
• No requirement for prior work experience

Exemption From English Language Test Proficiency

If your previous education was conducted in English-medium institutions, you are not required to submit an IELTS or other English proficiency test result. However, if your prior studies were not in English, you must provide proof of English language proficiency to meet admission requirements.

Eligible Universities

• 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

Eligibility Criteria

• Applicants of any nationality, including African nationals, are eligible to apply.
• You must be a full-time new PhD student starting your doctoral studies in Hong Kong.
• Applicants must choose their PhD programs from the eight participating universities.
• If you do not provide an English proficiency test score, you need to prove your previous education was conducted in English.
• No restrictions based on gender, ethnicity, religion, or political affiliations.

How To Apply For The Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme 2027/28 (400 Fully Funded Scholarships)?

To apply, follow these steps carefully:

1. Initial Application: Submit an initial application through the Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme Electronic System (HKPFSES) to obtain an HKPFS Reference Number. The deadline is 1 December 2026, 12:00 noon Hong Kong Time.
2. Full University Applications: After receiving your HKPFS Reference Number, apply directly to your chosen PhD programs at the participating universities, quoting the reference number in your applications.
3. You may select up to two programs or departments at one or two universities.

Detailed guidance for the initial application can be found in the Guidance Note for Completing the Initial Application.

Start your initial application at the HKPFS Electronic System – Initial Application.

For comprehensive information and links to participating universities, visit the official site: Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme.

Tuition Fees for PhD Programs in Hong Kong

While the Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme provides a generous stipend and travel allowance, tuition fees for PhD programs at Hong Kong universities vary by institution and program. Many universities offer tuition waivers or reductions for fellowship recipients, but prospective students should verify specific tuition costs directly with their chosen university.

Living Costs for International PhD Students in Hong Kong

Hong Kong is known for its vibrant city life and high living standards, but also for relatively high living costs. Expenses such as accommodation, food, transportation, and health insurance should be carefully budgeted. The fellowship’s annual stipend of HK$344,400 is designed to cover living expenses, but students should plan accordingly based on their lifestyle and university location.

Funding Options Beyond the Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme

In addition to the Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme, international students may explore other funding sources such as university scholarships, research assistantships, teaching assistantships, and external education loans. Some employers may also sponsor doctoral studies. It is advisable to consult the financial aid offices of the participating universities for detailed information on additional funding opportunities.

How to Manage the Financial Gap

If your total expenses exceed the fellowship stipend and allowances, consider applying for education loans specifically designed for international students. Many banks and financial institutions offer competitive loan products that cover tuition and living costs. Additionally, some universities provide part-time work opportunities or assistantships that can supplement your income during your PhD studies.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• What is the deadline to apply for the Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme 2027/28? The application deadline is 1 December 2026, 12:00 noon Hong Kong Time.
• How much is the annual stipend provided by the fellowship? The fellowship provides an annual stipend of HK$344,400.
• Is there a travel allowance included? Yes, a travel allowance of HK$14,400 per year is provided for up to three years.
• Are tuition fees covered by the fellowship? The fellowship primarily covers stipend and travel allowance; tuition fee waivers or reductions depend on the university and should be confirmed with the institution.
• Can I apply if I am not from Hong Kong? Yes, the fellowship is open to all nationalities for full-time new PhD students.
• Where can I apply for the fellowship? Applications must be submitted through the official Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme application portal.