Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme 2027 | 400 Scholarships

Established in 2009 by the Research Grants Council, the Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme aims to attract academically outstanding students from around the world to pursue doctoral research at universities in Hong Kong.

The programme recognises academic excellence, research potential, communication skills and leadership abilities. It supports a wide range of disciplines, including science, medicine, engineering, technology, humanities, social sciences and business studies.

Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme 2027 Overview

The HKPFS provides international students with an opportunity to pursue full-time doctoral studies with substantial financial assistance.

• Study level: Full-time PhD

• Location: Hong Kong

• Participating universities: Eight

• Available fellowships: 400

• Annual stipend: HK$344,400

• Research travel allowance: HK$14,400 per year

• Duration: Up to three years

• Initial application deadline: 1 December 2026

Funding figures are based on the published 2026/27 rates and may be updated for 2027/28.

Applicants may need the following documents for their university PhD admission applications:

• Academic transcripts and degree certificates

• Updated curriculum vitae

• Research proposal or statement of research interests

• Personal statement

• Academic recommendation letters

• English-language proficiency evidence

• Passport or identification information

• Other university-specific documents

Note: Document requirements vary by university. The initial RGC application is a separate stage that collects personal and programme information.

The fellowship welcomes talented applicants with excellent academic backgrounds and strong research potential.

• Nationality: Open to all countries

• Study level: New full-time PhD applicants

• Academic performance: Excellent academic record

• Research potential: Strong research ability or potential

• Other qualities: Good communication and leadership skills

• University admission: Must meet the selected programme's requirements

The Research Grants Council does not specify a universal age limit or GPA cutoff. Individual universities may impose additional admission requirements.

Can African Students Apply for HKPFS 2027?

Yes. The Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme welcomes qualified applicants from African countries, including Ethiopia, Kenya, Nigeria, Ghana, Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, South Africa, Zambia, Zimbabwe and other nations.

African candidates must satisfy the same academic and research requirements as applicants from other regions. They should also review the English-language and admission requirements of their selected PhD programmes.

The fellowship offers financial support and opportunities for academic development at participating universities.

1. Annual Stipend

Successful fellows receive an annual stipend of HK$344,400, equivalent to approximately HK$28,700 per month. This funding helps students meet living expenses while undertaking full-time doctoral research.

2. Conference and Research Travel Allowance

Recipients receive HK$14,400 annually for eligible conference participation and research-related travel. The allowance supports academic activities and opportunities to engage with the wider research community.

3. Funding for Up to Three Years

The fellowship provides funding for up to three years. Based on the published rates, the combined stipend and travel allowance could total HK$1,076,400 over three years, assuming the annual amounts remain unchanged.

4. Additional University Support

Students whose doctoral programmes extend beyond three years may receive additional support from their host universities. Some institutions also provide tuition-fee waivers, supplementary scholarships or accommodation-related benefits.

These additional benefits vary by university and are not guaranteed under the central fellowship package.

5. Research and Academic Opportunities

Fellows can pursue doctoral research under academic supervision, use university research facilities and participate in academic activities relevant to their disciplines.

For official details, visit the Research Grants Council fellowship overview.

Related: Discover more fully funded scholarship opportunities on OHUB.

The HKPFS application process involves two mandatory stages: an initial application to the Research Grants Council and a separate PhD admission application to the selected university or universities.

Step 1: Visit the Official Website

Visit the official Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme website and review the eligibility requirements and participating universities.

Step 2: Choose Your Preferred Programmes

Select up to two PhD programmes at one or two participating universities. Check the academic requirements and available research areas.

Step 3: Prepare Your Documents

Gather the academic transcripts, degree certificates, research materials and other documents required by your selected university.

Step 4: Complete the Initial RGC Application

Open the HKPFS Initial Application Portal, enter the required information and submit your application.

Only one initial application is permitted per applicant. Multiple initial applications can lead to disqualification.

Step 5: Obtain Your HKPFS Reference Number

After successful submission, the system generates an HKPFS Reference Number. Keep this number because it must be included in your university admission applications.

Step 6: Submit Your University PhD Application

Apply through the official postgraduate admission portal of your selected university. Include your HKPFS Reference Number and upload the required documents.

Step 7: Complete Both Applications Before the Deadlines

The initial RGC application and the separate university admission application have different cut-off times. Applicants must complete both stages.

Step 8: Prepare for Possible Interviews

Participating universities may invite shortlisted applicants to interviews to assess their academic backgrounds and research interests.

Step 9: Wait for the Fellowship Results

The Research Grants Council expects to announce the 2027/28 fellowship results in May 2027.

Important: The official 2027/28 guidance also requires applicants to disclose relevant use of AI tools in preparing their university applications and to comply with institutional AI policies.

Read the official HKPFS application guidance for complete instructions.

Related: Browse more fully funded fellowships and postgraduate opportunities on OHUB.