Hong Kong University of Science and Technology Scholarships 2027/2028: Full Funding and Research Support

The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) offers a range of scholarships for the 2027/2028 academic year to support international students pursuing undergraduate, MPhil, and PhD degrees. These scholarships provide substantial financial assistance including full tuition waivers and living allowances, making HKUST a competitive destination for global students seeking quality education in Hong Kong. The university’s scholarship schemes are tailored to different academic levels and needs, offering both merit-based and need-based awards.

A key aspect to note is that HKUST employs varied application models for its scholarships. While most undergraduate academic scholarships are awarded automatically upon admission, the need-based Future Leaders Award requires a separate application. Similarly, applicants for the prestigious Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme must apply through both the Hong Kong Research Grants Council and HKUST.

• Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme
• Hong Kong Baptist University Scholarship
• Fully Funded PhD Scholarships
• Fully Funded Scholarships for International Students

Hong Kong University of Science and Technology Scholarships Summary

• Level of Study: Undergraduate, Master’s (MPhil), PhD
• Institution: Hong Kong University of Science and Technology
• Study Destination: Hong Kong
• Courses Offered: Eligible undergraduate and research postgraduate programmes
• Program Duration: Typically 4 years for undergraduate, 2 years for MPhil, 3-4 years for PhD
• Language of Instruction: English for doctoral programmes combining coursework and research

The three scholarships covered in this guide are:

1. HKUST Undergraduate Admission Scholarships
2. Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme at HKUST
3. HKUST Postgraduate Studentship and RedBird PhD Award

Hong Kong University of Science and Technology Scholarships Deadline

Deadlines for HKUST scholarships vary depending on the level of study and the specific scholarship scheme. While automatic academic scholarships for undergraduates are linked to the admission cycle, other awards require separate applications with individual deadlines.

Undergraduate Scholarship Deadline

The full international undergraduate admission calendar for 2027 is yet to be published. Generally, there is no separate deadline for standard academic scholarships as all eligible applicants are considered automatically upon submitting their admission applications. The admission period typically runs from October to January. Applicants should regularly check the international qualifications admission page for updates.

Future Leaders Award Deadline

This need-based award requires a distinct application in addition to undergraduate admission. The 2027 deadline has not been announced but usually falls in November. Prospective applicants should prepare early and consult the official Future Leaders Award page for the latest dates.

Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme Deadline

Applications for the 2027–2028 HKPFS cycle are currently open from September 1, 2026, and will close on December 1, 2026. Applicants must submit applications through both the Hong Kong Research Grants Council and HKUST by this deadline. Fellowship results are typically announced by May. Applicants must complete both stages to be considered. Updates will be available from HKUST and the Research Grants Council.

Postgraduate Studentship Deadline

No separate deadline exists for the Postgraduate Studentship. Funding consideration occurs automatically through the MPhil or PhD admission process. Applications for the 2027–2028 intake opened in September 2026, with some departments closing applications from November onward. Early submission is advised, especially for those seeking additional awards like the RedBird PhD Award.

Hong Kong University of Science and Technology Scholarship Coverage

HKUST Undergraduate Admission Scholarships

These merit-based scholarships are available to international students with qualifications such as IB, GCE A-Level, SAT/AP, and others. The awards vary in value and duration, ranging from partial tuition fee reductions to full tuition coverage plus a living allowance.

• One-off tuition fee reductions or half tuition for one year
• Renewable half or full tuition scholarships
• Full tuition plus living allowance up to HK$60,000 per academic year
• Automatic consideration upon undergraduate admission application

Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme at HKUST

The HKPFS is the most comprehensive doctoral funding option for international students. It provides a generous stipend, tuition waiver, and additional university awards.

• Annual stipend of HK$344,400 (HK$28,700 per month)
• Conference and research travel allowance of HK$14,400 per year
• Tuition fee waiver for up to four years
• Additional HKUST awards such as RedBird Recruitment and Academic Excellence Awards
• Guaranteed university accommodation for the first year

HKUST Postgraduate Studentship and RedBird PhD Award

For research students not obtaining HKPFS, the Postgraduate Studentship offers significant financial support tied to admission.

• Annual stipend of HK$229,620 (approx. HK$19,135 per month)
• Funding duration: up to 2 years for MPhil, up to 4 years for PhD
• Automatic consideration with admission application
• May be supplemented by RedBird PhD Award and departmental scholarships
• Tuition fees for PhD students are approximately HK$49,500 per year (2027–2028)

Tuition Fees for International Students at HKUST (2027/28)

Living Costs and Allowances at HKUST

The estimated living costs for students at HKUST are approximately HK$60,000 per academic year. Certain scholarships, such as the undergraduate full tuition awards and doctoral fellowships, include a living allowance or stipend to help cover these expenses.

Funding Options to Bridge the Gap

• Postgraduate Studentship: Provides an annual stipend of HK$229,620 for up to 2 years for MPhil students and up to 4 years for PhD students. Consideration is automatic with admission.
• RedBird PhD Award: A supplementary scholarship for PhD students, details provided upon admission.
• Future Leaders Award: Need-based scholarship for undergraduates requiring a separate application.
• Employer Sponsorship and Education Loans: While not directly provided by HKUST, international students may explore external education loans and employer sponsorships to fund their studies.

Eligibility Criteria for Hong Kong University of Science and Technology Scholarships

Applicants must meet both the academic admission requirements of HKUST and the specific criteria of each scholarship. Eligibility differs between undergraduate and postgraduate awards, with some scholarships also considering financial need or nationality representation.

HKUST Undergraduate Admission Scholarships Eligibility

• Hold recognised international qualifications such as IB Diploma, GCE A-Level, SAT/AP, or equivalent
• Demonstrate strong academic performance based on qualification-specific thresholds
• Automatic scholarship consideration upon admission application
• Global Learners Scholarship targets students from underrepresented nationalities

Future Leaders Award Eligibility

• Non-local student status
• Academic excellence combined with demonstrated financial need
• Exhibit resilience and potential for positive community contribution
• Must submit separate application with supporting financial and personal documents

Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme Eligibility

• Applicants must apply through both the Research Grants Council and HKUST
• Strong academic and research background suitable for doctoral study
• Open to international research postgraduate applicants

HKUST Postgraduate Studentship Eligibility

• Admission as a full-time MPhil or PhD student at HKUST
• Subject to satisfactory academic progress and research performance
• Funding depends on availability and may require fulfilling teaching or research duties

How to Apply for Hong Kong University of Science and Technology Scholarships?

Application procedures vary by scholarship type. Some undergraduate scholarships are awarded automatically during admission, while others require separate applications. Doctoral scholarships involve coordinated applications with external bodies and HKUST.

How to Apply for the HKUST Undergraduate Admission Scholarships?

1. Submit your undergraduate admission application through the
   HKUST undergraduate application system

   .

2. All eligible applicants are automatically considered for academic scholarships; no additional forms are needed.

How to Apply for the Future Leaders Award?

1. Complete the undergraduate admission application.
2. Submit a separate scholarship application form available on the official Future Leaders Award page.
3. Provide supporting financial and personal documents as instructed.

How to Apply for the Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme?

1. Submit an initial application through the Hong Kong Research Grants Council’s HKPFS Electronic System between September 1 and December 1, 2026.
2. Complete a separate PhD application through HKUST’s Online Admission System.
3. Ensure both applications and references are submitted by the deadlines.

How to Apply for the HKUST Postgraduate Studentship?

1. Apply for admission to your chosen full-time MPhil or PhD programme through the HKUST Online Admission System.
2. Funding consideration is automatic and linked to admission; no separate studentship application is required.
3. Contact prospective supervisors and departments early to explore additional funding or research opportunities.

Documents Required for Hong Kong University of Science and Technology Scholarships

Required documents vary by scholarship and application type, but typically include academic transcripts, recommendation letters, proof of qualifications, and financial information for need-based awards.

HKUST Undergraduate Admission Scholarships Documents

1. Official transcripts and certificates of academic qualifications (e.g., IB, GCE A-Level, SAT/AP)
2. English proficiency test scores if applicable
3. Personal statement or admission essays if required

Future Leaders Award Documents

1. All documents required for undergraduate admission
2. Additional financial documents demonstrating need
3. Personal statements addressing resilience and community contribution

Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme Documents

1. Academic transcripts and degree certificates
2. Research proposal or statement of purpose
3. Recommendation letters submitted via the HKPFS system
4. Proof of English proficiency if needed

HKUST Postgraduate Studentship Documents

1. Academic transcripts and certificates
2. Research proposal
3. Reference letters
4. Any department-specific documents

Website

For detailed information and application updates, prospective students should visit the official HKUST scholarship and admission pages.

• HKUST Undergraduate Fees and Scholarships
• International Qualifications Admission
• Future Leaders Award Details
• HKPFS Electronic Application System

Frequently Asked Questions

Are international students eligible for HKUST scholarships?

Yes, HKUST offers scholarships specifically targeting international students at undergraduate and postgraduate levels.

Do I need to submit a separate application for undergraduate academic scholarships?

No, most undergraduate academic scholarships are awarded automatically based on your admission application.

What is the maximum living allowance for undergraduate scholarships?

The highest undergraduate awards may include a living allowance up to HK$60,000 per academic year, in addition to full tuition coverage.

Is there financial support for PhD students besides the HKPFS?

Yes, the Postgraduate Studentship and RedBird PhD Award provide funding for full-time research students who do not receive the HKPFS.

How long does the Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme provide funding?

HKPFS central support covers up to three years, with additional university funding potentially extending support to four years.

Can I apply for HKPFS without applying to HKUST?

No, you must apply through both the Hong Kong Research Grants Council and HKUST to be considered for the fellowship.

Are tuition fees covered for MPhil students under the Postgraduate Studentship?

Postgraduate Studentships provide a stipend but typically do not cover tuition fees unless additional waivers are granted.

Software Engineer & Scholarship Consultant at Travel Travegisa.

Software Engineer and Scholarship Consultant at Scholarship Roar, focusing on international student mobility, higher education funding, and empowering students worldwide to access global opportunities.

Reviewed by Muhammad Faizan, PhD Researcher · Last verified June 2024 to ensure up-to-date and accurate scholarship information.